Former Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner is reportedly a possible destination for the Ottawa Senators ahead of NHL free agency. NHL insider Kevin Weekes recently talked about the connection, as Skinner’s future was back in the limelight after his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Skinner remains one of the more experienced goalies available on the market this summer. The 27-year-old has nearly 200 NHL starts and two Stanley Cup Final appearances and could draw a lot of interest as teams look to bolster their crease before the 2026-27 season.
Stuart Skinner and Ottawa Senators NHL trade rumors intensify
Kevin Weekes new report says the Ottawa Senators are looking at Stuart Skinner as they assess their goaltending situation leading up to the offseason.
The former Edmonton Oilers goalie will hit the unrestricted free agent market after spending the latter half of the 2025-26 season with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Ottawa’s interest adds another layer to what is expected to be a busy market for proven goaltenders.
Skinner started the season with the Edmonton Oilers but was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins in December in a deal that sent Tristan Jarry to Edmonton. Skinner was acquired, still productive and a source of stability for a Penguins team in transition.
And his past success with the Edmonton Oilers just makes him more valuable.
Skinner helped Edmonton to consecutive Stanley Cup Finals and solidified his place as one of the league’s most recognisable Canadian-born goaltenders. He earned more than 100 regular-season victories with the Oilers, as well as valuable postseason experience.
Reportedly, the Penguins are looking at younger goalies in their system, including Arturs Silovs, Joel Blomqvist and Sergei Murashov. Skinner is thus projected to be available to the open market when free agency opens July 1.
The Ottawa Senators could use a guy with Skinner’s experience to add depth and flexibility in net. The 27-year-old could be an interesting option for teams looking for reliable goaltending, either as a starter or in a tandem.
Kevin Weekes’ report has already got NHL news roundup buzz and NHL trade rumours going again across the league. As free agency nears, where Stuart Skinner winds up is expected to be one of the more closely-watched storylines of the offseason.