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Oilers 'Inquired' About $66 Million Goalie Before Trade Deadline

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jun 1, 2025 8:33 AM ET

The Edmonton Oilers are back in the Stanley Cup Final for the second straight year, earning their rematch with the Florida Panthers following a 6-3 Game 5 win over the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference finals.

The victory capped a dominant 12-2 stretch for the Oilers, who enter the rematch against Florida with momentum, the experience of last year's loss, and a goaltender playing the best hockey of his postseason career.

Stuart Skinner has steadied Edmonton’s net after early playoff struggles, taking over Calvin Pickard once the latter went down injured, and recording three shutouts with a .904 save percentage in 10 postseason appearances.

Skinner's rise, however, came after a season filled with scrutiny, one that nearly led the Oilers to make a major change in goal, according to NHL insider David Pagnotta.

Let's get nuts! Silly Szn has returned. Here's my latest on the chatter that is just about to pick up:
- Sabres activity
- VAN & Petey, Demko
- Boeser ready to move on
- Vegas shopping Hague?
- Marner hoopla
- 4th OV in play?
- NYI, NYR, BOS
+ lots more https://t.co/rLHiP23822
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) May 30, 2025

Pagnotta reported that Edmonton explored a potential trade for Boston Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman earlier this year, even after the netminder signed a long-term extension with Boston.

"Edmonton inquired about Jeremy Swayman this season, well after he signed his deal with Boston," Pagnotta wrote. "But with how much Stuart Skinner gets criticized, Stu seems to be doing fine in net for the Oilers."

Swayman signed an eight-year, $66 million contract right before the start of the season and finished the year with a .892 save percentage, allowing 3.11 goals-against on average in 58 games.

Despite a down year in Boston compared to his prior level of play, Swayman's resume and playoff experience drew league-wide interest, including from Edmonton.

The Oilers' decision to stick with Skinner ultimately paid off for the Canadian franchise, as Edmonton is positioned to challenge for its first Stanley Cup since 1990.

Game 1 of the finals is set for puck-drop at Rogers Place in Edmonton on Wednesday, June 4 at 8 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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