Edmonton Oilers Down Another Goaltender

The Edmonton Oilers can't catch a break in their crease as it's been a revolving door to their net. The latest news has recent starter Stuart Skinner being deemed unavailable as he's entered the COVID protocol list for the Oilers.

#Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner has been placed in COVID protocol.
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) January 17, 2022

The Oilers are also out Mike Smith who remains sidelined with a thumb injury and isn't expected back for a couple of weeks. As it stands now, Edmonton turns to Mikko Koskinen for wins as they battle it out for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. He holds a .900 save % and hasn't won a hockey game since Dec.1.

It's brutal news for Skinner because he was basically given the #1 job for the Oilers and now isn't allowed to suit up. His first starter as 'the guy' didn't go over well, as he allowed five goals on 25 shots last Saturday against the Ottawa Senators. He's 4-6-0 on the season with a .907 save %.

The Oilers next matchup is Thursday night against the Florida Panthers. While general manager Ken Holland has been pretty clear he's not trading his first-round pick for a rental goaltender, perhaps they try and move out a prospect or two to land someone who can mix in a save.