The mood around Edmonton has shifted from Stanley Cup optimism to uneasy concern. After a slow start, questions have surrounded the Oilers’ goaltending and overall consistency. Despite flashes of brilliance from Connor McDavid, the team’s form remains unstable through the early stretch of the season.

General manager Stan Bowman, in his 16th month at the helm, finds himself facing growing pressure. Goaltender Stuart Skinner has struggled, allowing 11 goals over his last three starts, while the Oilers’ record stands at 7-6-4 through 17 games.

Yet, Bowman’s response was measured when speaking after the NHL’s November GM meeting in Toronto—he refused to single out his goalies. “Our goalies have been average — haven’t been elite and they haven’t been bad,” Bowman told The Canadian Press. “Sor

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