NHL teams have found a way to expose Stuart Skinner
The Edmonton Oilers played host the the New York Islanders last night, edging them out 4-3 in a thrilling overtime victory.
With that being said, goaltending has become an increasingly bigger concern for the team. New York Islander forward Anders Lee tallied two late 3rd period goals to send the game to overtime, and it appears other NHL teams are starting to catch wind of Stuart Skinner's biggest weakness -- lateral movement.
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, goalie analyst Steve Valiquette revealed that Stuart Skinner ranks as the worst goalie in the NHL off of rush chances, because his side to side movement is so weak.
The first Islanders goal of last night's game was a perfect example of that weakness costing the Oilers. Skinner's side to side movement in the crease was visibly slow, and left him no chance to make the save. Most NHL goalies are able to at least get over and be competitive to make saves off the rush.
-Liam McCormick, Oilers Daily
-Liam McCormick, Oilers Daily
If the Oilers somehow manage to make it back to the Stanley Cup Finals, their opponents will undoubtedly have a strong rush offence -- drawing the biggest concern from Valiquette.
Since the 2022/2023 season Stu has faced 81 East/West chances off the rush. 38 Goals Against. Rank 118 out of 118 goalies that qualify.
-Steve Valiquette
It's crucial that Oilers goaltending coach Dustin Schwartz focuses on east/west movement during their already limited practice sessions. This alarming trend by Stuart Skinner cannot continue if the team wants any chance at Stanley Cup glory.
The Edmonton Oilers will look to keep the ball rolling when they take on the Nashville Predators tomorrow night.
-Steve Valiquette
It's crucial that Oilers goaltending coach Dustin Schwartz focuses on east/west movement during their already limited practice sessions. This alarming trend by Stuart Skinner cannot continue if the team wants any chance at Stanley Cup glory.
The Edmonton Oilers will look to keep the ball rolling when they take on the Nashville Predators tomorrow night.
| POLL | ||
Do you agree with Steve Valiquette? | ||
| Yes | 115 | 79.3 % |
| No | 30 | 20.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
MUST READ
TRENDING NOW
