Edmonton Oilers Goaltending battle begins between Skinner and Pickard – Hockey Writer – Edmonton Oilers

Two games into the 2025-26 season, and we’re already asking the upcoming question for Edmonton Oilers fans: Who is the true net No. 1? In the first game, Stuart Skinner got off to a bad start and made a costly mistake, ultimately losing 4-3. It wasn’t a total collapse, but it was one of those moments that sticks with you – the kind that changes the energy of a building.

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Then, in the second game, Calvin Pickard got the nod and looked calm to get the win. Suddenly, what many had hoped would be a quiet early-season storyline became the talk of the town. Edmonton’s goaltending is never boring.

Oilers and Skinner situation

For several years now, Skinner’s story has been one that fans have wanted to get behind. The Edmonton-born goaltender carried high expectations from the moment he pulled on the Oilers sweater. His performances make him look every bit like the long-term answer – strong positioning, timely saves, the clinical presence needed behind a powerful attack.

But when Skinner struggled, it wasn’t subtle. Those off nights can impact games and shake confidence on the bench. His first-game mistake wasn’t just a bad decision — it was a mistake that reminded fans of the inconsistencies that have plagued the position for years. However, it is too early to dismiss him now. He’s proven before that he can rebound. The real question is whether the coaching staff and the players in front of him can maintain the confidence long enough for him to find his rhythm again.

Oilers and Pickard push

And then there’s Picard, the steady veteran who seems to thrive on chaos. He’s not flashy, but he’s reliable — and that’s probably what this team needs right now. You can feel the difference when he’s in front of the net: less panic, fewer rebounds, smarter decisions.

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He’s been through it all – trades, demotions, call-ups, playoff pressure – and every time he’s called up, he not only shows up, but competes. His early-season victory not only earned him two points; It reminds teams that stability can come from experience, not just potential. Sure, the sample size is small, but Pickard’s start gave head coach Chris Knoblauch something he couldn’t ignore: a goaltender quietly asking for another shot.

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch can’t wait

This won’t last until Christmas. Stanley Cup contenders need direction, and that starts at the crease. Knoblauch faced a tough decision, but avoiding it only made things more confusing. Will he double down on Skinner and bet on his starters rebounding and returning to form? As any No. 1 goaltender would expect, giving him back-to-back games? Or will he rely on Picard, a calm veteran who already excels under pressure?

Regardless, the team’s confidence depends on getting clear answers as soon as possible. Because when players trust their goalie, everything else becomes clearer. The defense tightened. Attacking takes greater risks. Only then did everyone relax a little. Edmonton plays its best hockey when the blue paint starts to believe.

The Oilers’ Bottom Line

For now, Skinner still wears the No. 1 label. He earned this title through his work and past performance. But Pickard’s early wins — and the consistency he’s shown in an Oilers uniform — have changed perceptions. It’s no longer a question of potential; It’s about production.

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Knoblauch had to look across the room and make a practical decision. There is too much talent on the roster and too much urgency in the locker room to allow uncertainty to fester. The window for Edmonton to win is open now, not later. Whether it’s Skinner reclaiming his spot with a strong run or Pickard maintaining a steady rotation at the crease, someone has to grab the net and run with it.

Fans have seen this story before. What they want now is not another “wait and see” chapter. They want faith. They want a No. 1 goalie who can score goals and make the team in front of him believe it too. Because in Edmonton, when the players between the pipes stabilize, the city starts to believe again.