Stuart Skinner Rejects $93.54M Offer from Toronto Maple Leafs, Declares Loyalty to Oilers: “Oilers is My Forever Team
Stuart Skinner Rejects $93.54M Offer from Toronto Maple Leafs, Declares Loyalty to Oilers: “Oilers is My Forever Team”
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NHL and beyond, Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner has turned down a monumental $93.54 million contract offer from the Toronto Maple Leafs, choosing instead to remain with the franchise that drafted him and nurtured his development. The bold decision, one that speaks volumes about loyalty, identity, and legacy, comes as Skinner rises to prominence as one of the league’s most valuable netminders.
According to reports close to both franchises, the Toronto Maple Leafs—desperate for a long-term solution in goal—extended an eight-year deal worth approximately $93.54 million to Skinner, which would have made him one of the highest-paid goaltenders in NHL history. The offer was structured to include a hefty signing bonus, performance incentives, and a full no-move clause. It was seen as the Leafs’ latest attempt to stabilize their crease following years of inconsistent goaltending and playoff disappointments.
Yet, Skinner declined the offer in a heartfelt decision that immediately endeared him even more to the Oilers fanbase.
> “It wasn’t about the money. It never has been,” Skinner said during a press conference in Edmonton. “This city raised me. This organization believed in me when a lot of people didn’t. I grew up dreaming of wearing this jersey. Edmonton is home. Oilers is my forever team.”
These words resonated deeply with both Oilers fans and the broader hockey community. In an age where professional athletes are increasingly swayed by lucrative free-agent contracts and the appeal of major-market teams, Skinner’s choice to stay loyal to Edmonton—even in the face of overwhelming financial temptation—stands as a rare testament to his character.
The Rise of Stuart Skinner
Skinner, 26, was selected by the Oilers in the third round (78th overall) of the 2017 NHL Draft. Born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, he had always been considered a homegrown talent. After years of development in the AHL and a series of impressive performances backing up former starter Mike Smith, Skinner broke through as the Oilers’ starting goaltender during the 2022–23 season. His poise, athleticism, and hockey IQ quickly made him a fan favorite and a critical piece of Edmonton’s playoff aspirations.
Over the past two seasons, Skinner has posted remarkable numbers, including a save percentage consistently above .915 and several highlight-reel performances during deep playoff runs. His calming presence between the pipes has given the Oilers a level of stability they haven’t enjoyed in goal since the days of Grant Fuhr.
A Statement of Loyalty in the Modern NHL
The NHL, like most professional sports leagues, is increasingly driven by analytics, business interests, and the salary cap. While loyalty and tradition still hold symbolic value, the cold realities of contracts, endorsements, and cap hits often take precedence. That’s what makes Skinner’s decision so remarkable.
Turning down nearly $100 million—especially from a storied franchise like the Toronto Maple Leafs—is no small matter. Toronto, with its massive media market, passionate fan base, and a core of superstars like Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, offers both fame and fortune. But for Skinner, it wasn’t enough to outweigh the emotional connection to his roots in Edmonton.
> “My heart belongs here,” Skinner added. “This isn’t just about playing hockey. It’s about being part of a community, a culture, a family. I want to win a Cup with the Oilers. That’s the dream I’ve chased since I was a kid playing pond hockey just minutes from Rogers Place.”
Reactions Around the League
The response to Skinner’s decision has been immediate and passionate. Oilers fans took to social media with hashtags like #ForeverOiler and #SkinnerLoyalty, praising him for choosing legacy over money. Former Oilers greats, including Ryan Smyth and Kevin Lowe, publicly applauded his decision, with Smyth stating:
> “You don’t see that kind of loyalty much anymore. Stuart reminds me of what hockey used to be about. Grit. Heart. Family.”
Even some Leafs fans, while disappointed, couldn’t help but admire Skinner’s integrity. Sports analysts across TSN, ESPN, and Sportsnet have hailed the moment as a “generational statement” on the value of personal conviction in sports.
What’s Next for Skinner and the Oilers?
With Skinner reaffirming his commitment to Edmonton, speculation now turns to what kind of contract extension the Oilers may offer in return. Although his current deal still has two years remaining, insiders suggest the team is working to secure a long-term agreement that would reward Skinner’s loyalty and solidify his place as the face of the franchise moving forward.
The Oilers, meanwhile, continue to build around their core of Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl (who recently signed a historic extension), and now Stuart Skinner. With a blend of elite offensive talent and a reliable presence in net, Edmonton is positioning itself as a Stanley Cup contender for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Stuart Skinner’s rejection of the $93.54 million offer from the Maple Leafs is more than just a financial decision—it’s a cultural moment for hockey. It’s a story of staying true to one’s roots, valuing purpose over profit, and honoring the team that helped shape his journey.
In an era often dominated by headlines of betrayal and big-money moves, Skinner’s stand will be remembered as a powerful reminder that in hockey—just as in life—sometimes heart matters more than the highest bidder.
“Oilers is my forever team,” he said. And for fans in Edmonton, that one sentence might mean more than any championship.