Throughout some parts of his career with the Edmonton Oilers, Stuart Skinner has looked to be an above-average goalie. However, for the most part, Skinner hasn’t been what the Oilers are looking for, and that was evident during the 2024-25 season.
Last year, Skinner finished 26-18-4 with a 2.81 goals against average, and saved just 89.6% of shots. His goal against average ranked 31st in the NHL, while his save percentage ranked 35th.
Some believe that not only do the Oilers need to replace him soon, but they need to find a younger option to do so with. That includes NHL Trade Rumors’ Rob Couch, who recently linked the Oilers to an intriguing trade idea with the Boston Bruins for Michael DiPietro.
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“A goalie who is absolutely ready for the NHL is Michael DiPietro. The Boston Bruins have Jeremy Swayman and Joonas Korpisalo under contract for at least the next three seasons, even though Korpisalo appears to be on the trade block and could be moved.
“DiPietro is 26 years old and has only played in three NHL games, but after spending all of 2022-23 in the ECHL, he found his way back to the AHL and has dominated for the Providence Bruins, finishing last season with a 2.05 GAA and .927 SV% in 40 games. He is eligible for waivers and I have a good feeling a team is going to grab him if he becomes available. He could be an immediate option in the NHL for Edmonton and even potentially play 30-35 games,” he wrote.
As he mentioned, DiPietro isn’t in the best spot to get a starting job in the NHL for the Bruins.
However, if he went to the Oilers and had a decent preseason, proved during some starts during the regular season that he can be that player, and more, it’s possible he could be a suitable replacement for Skinner.
