“NHL Analyst Predicts Stuart Skinner Could Land $5–6 Million Per Year on His Next Oilers Deal — Edmonton’s Rising Star Goalie Poised for Major Payday if Hot Streak Continues”

Stuart Skinner’s rapid ascent within the Edmonton Oilers organization has been one of the more compelling storylines in the NHL over the past few seasons, and now an analyst’s prediction about his potential next contract has only heightened the intrigue. The goaltender, who has steadily evolved from a developing prospect to Edmonton’s undisputed number one option in the crease, could be in line for a substantial payday if his performance continues trending upward. According to a recent projection, Skinner’s next contract might realistically fall in the \$5–6 million annual range, a figure that would firmly place him among the NHL’s more respected starting goaltenders in terms of compensation. It’s not just a number pulled from thin air, but rather the product of evaluating his skill set, results, and how his trajectory aligns with the current market for top-tier netminders.

At just 25 years old, Skinner has already proven himself capable of handling the rigors of an NHL season while also showing flashes of brilliance in critical moments. His composure, especially under high-pressure situations, has been a defining trait since taking over the starting role. The Oilers have long needed stability between the pipes, and Skinner has brought that, even if his numbers at times have fluctuated. Critics might point to the stretches where his save percentage dipped or when the Oilers’ defensive lapses left him overworked, but the fact remains that Skinner’s growth curve points toward a long and productive career. The analyst’s prediction stems from both his on-ice progress and the reality that the market for reliable starting goaltenders is climbing.

For Edmonton, this presents an intriguing balance of opportunity and risk. Skinner’s current contract, which carries a modest \$2.6 million cap hit through the 2025–26 season, gives the team short-term flexibility. That deal, signed before Skinner had fully cemented himself as the starting goalie, now looks like a bargain given his performance. It has allowed the Oilers to allocate cap space elsewhere, strengthening their roster around stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. But with the end of that contract drawing closer each season, management will soon face a decision on whether to lock Skinner up long term before his price tag potentially increases even further. If Skinner delivers another strong season, as the analyst predicts, the Oilers could find themselves in a more competitive bidding scenario — even if Skinner has no intention of leaving Edmonton.

The \$5–6 million annual figure isn’t arbitrary; it’s anchored in current market realities. Looking around the league, quality starting goaltenders in their mid-20s who have shown the ability to handle high workloads and win in pressure games often command salaries in this range. Contracts for peers in similar positions suggest that this is the going rate for netminders who aren’t yet in the elite Vezina-caliber tier but are clearly above average and trending upward. The Oilers will be mindful of the long-term cap implications, especially with other key players eventually needing new deals, but in today’s NHL, \$5–6 million for a dependable starter is considered both fair and manageable.

The challenge for Edmonton lies in timing. Sign too early, and there’s always the risk that Skinner’s play could plateau or regress, making the investment less cost-effective. Wait too long, and a breakout season could see his asking price rise even higher. Given the Oilers’ competitive window, it’s a high-stakes decision. Skinner’s contract situation will be closely tied to Edmonton’s broader roster strategy. With McDavid and Draisaitl in their primes, the franchise is in win-now mode, and securing stability in goal is a cornerstone of that pursuit. While elite forwards can drive a team’s offense, a dependable goaltender can often be the difference between a playoff run ending in disappointment and a deep push toward the Stanley Cup.

Skinner’s skill set makes the analyst’s prediction even more plausible. At 6-foot-4, his size gives him the natural ability to cover large portions of the net, but it’s his technical growth that has been most noticeable. Early in his NHL career, rebound control was a point of concern, but in the past two seasons, he has made significant strides in limiting second-chance opportunities. His ability to track the puck through traffic, stay square to shooters, and recover quickly after initial saves has drawn praise from coaches and analysts alike. These improvements, combined with a calm demeanor that keeps him composed even during chaotic sequences, make him a goaltender who inspires confidence from both teammates and fans.

The analyst also noted that Skinner’s performances in key games have been particularly telling. When the stakes rise, whether in late-season playoff pushes or postseason matchups, Skinner has demonstrated that he can elevate his game. That ability to handle high-pressure situations is a trait not every goaltender possesses, and it’s one of the reasons why his value on the open market — or in negotiations with Edmonton — could be significant. Teams in need of goaltending stability are always willing to pay a premium for players who have proven they can handle big moments without cracking under the spotlight.

Another factor working in Skinner’s favor is the NHL’s shifting financial landscape. With the league’s salary cap expected to rise in the coming years following the pandemic-related stagnation, there will be more flexibility for teams to offer competitive contracts without jeopardizing roster depth. This means that a \$5–6 million deal for a starting goaltender could be even more palatable than it might seem today. In a few years, that figure could represent solid value for a goaltender in his prime, particularly one who has developed within a team’s system and has chemistry with the core group.

Of course, no projection is without its uncertainties. Goaltending remains one of the most unpredictable positions in hockey, with performance swings often occurring due to factors beyond a player’s control — defensive breakdowns, changes in coaching systems, or simply the mental demands of the role. The Oilers will need to assess whether Skinner’s current trajectory is sustainable over the long term. This is why the upcoming season will be so critical; it’s an opportunity for Skinner to reinforce the belief that he can be the backbone of the Oilers’ defense for years to come. If he does so convincingly, the conversation around his contract will shift from “if” to “when and how much.”

Skinner’s journey to this point has also shaped the perception of his value. Drafted by Edmonton in the third round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft, he spent several years developing in the WHL and AHL before getting his shot in the NHL. That patience has paid off, as he arrived ready to handle the physical and mental demands of the league. His rise hasn’t been meteoric, but rather the product of steady progress and resilience — traits that often translate into long-term success. The Oilers invested in his development, and now they are reaping the benefits of that commitment.

If Edmonton does decide to commit to Skinner in the \$5–6 million range, it would be a statement about their belief in him as a cornerstone of their future. It would also signal to the rest of the league that the Oilers are serious about building a championship-caliber roster from the net out. With the Western Conference boasting several elite offensive teams, having a goaltender capable of stealing games and stabilizing the defense is invaluable. Skinner’s track record suggests he can be that player, and locking him up before his price rises further could be one of the savviest moves the organization makes in this era.

For Skinner himself, the prospect of a major payday would be both a reward for his hard work and a new challenge. Big contracts bring higher expectations, and while he has shown the mental fortitude to handle pressure, the scrutiny would only intensify. Every goal allowed, every save percentage dip would be examined through the lens of his salary. But for players who aspire to greatness, that pressure often serves as fuel, pushing them to refine their game even further. If Skinner’s mindset remains focused on improvement, there’s every reason to believe he can thrive under those circumstances.

Ultimately, the analyst’s projection isn’t just about numbers — it’s about the intersection of talent, timing, and market dynamics. Skinner has positioned himself as one of the NHL’s promising young goaltenders, and if he continues on his current path, the \$5–6 million range could look like a bargain in hindsight. For the Oilers, the decision will come down to weighing the benefits of securing him now against the risks of waiting. Either way, Skinner’s contract situation will be one of the more closely watched storylines in Edmonton over the next couple of seasons.

If the past is any indication, the Oilers can expect their starting goaltender to meet the moment. And if the analyst’s prediction proves correct, Stuart Skinner’s journey from promising prospect to well-compensated franchise cornerstone will be yet another testament to the value of patience, development, and betting on a player’s ability to rise when it matters most.