Former Oilers Netminder Devan Dubnyk Shocks Fans With Take on Imminent Goalie Trade: ‘He's Only 26'

Both of his playoff appearances with the Oilers have been a rollercoaster ride, but they've also given him invaluable experience that most NHL goalies don't get so early.

Stuart Skinner has already carried the weight of two straight Stanley Cup Final appearances and learned lessons in resiliency most vets never get to learn.

Perhaps his most compelling trait is his bounce-back ability. After tough beginnings, he's shown a capacity to recover from them with solid performances, including playoff bursts punctuated by shutouts.

That mental toughness has impressed Devan Dubnyk, who emphasized how Skinner has picked things up in a short period of time.

'He's only 26 and already has more playoff experience than three-quarters of the league ever will. That's remarkable. And he's just hitting his prime.'

- Devan Dubnyk

For those clamoring for a quick trade, it's easy to overlook how much Skinner's already learned. He's learning what does and doesn't work, and how to carry himself as a starter under intense pressure.

To trade him now, with no discernible upgrade, would be to give up years of development and maturity, per Dubnyk.

As Hard as it is to Believe, Skinner is Just Entering his Prime at the age of 26

Skinner, who is just 26, is entering his prime. As long as he continues to maximize his learning, he has the ability to be an even more refined and consistent presence behind the net.

However, the Oilers have an issue. While Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl's window for a championship is open for business, Edmonton can't wait forever.

The question isn't whether Skinner is skilled enough; it's how much longer the team is going to risk playing him and hoping he gets it together.