“My Head and Heart Are With the Edmonton Oilers,” Says Stuart Skinner, Rejecting Massive Offers From Rival Teams
Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner has reaffirmed his commitment to the city and team that gave him his shot at NHL stardom, sending a heartfelt and powerful message to fans and management alike: “My head and heart are with the Edmonton Oilers.”
The 25-year-old goaltender, who played a pivotal role in the Oilers’ recent playoff runs, has reportedly turned down substantial offers from rival NHL teams — most notably the Buffalo Sabres and the Florida Panthers. According to sources close to the situation, both teams were willing to offer Skinner significantly larger contracts in hopes of luring him away from Alberta. However, the Edmonton native made it abundantly clear that his loyalty lies with the Oilers.
“I’ve had conversations, and yes, there were some very generous offers,” Skinner said during a recent media appearance. “But at the end of the day, this is home. This is the team I grew up dreaming about playing for. Edmonton gave me my chance, and I want to win here.”
Skinner, who was drafted 78th overall by the Oilers in the 2017 NHL Draft, has developed into one of the most promising young goaltenders in the league. Over the past two seasons, he has established himself as a reliable and often spectacular presence between the pipes. His breakout performance during the Oilers’ 2023–24 campaign solidified his reputation and drew attention from across the league.
Despite the attention and the temptation to pursue greater financial rewards or a warmer climate, Skinner says the decision wasn’t difficult. “It’s not just about hockey,” he explained. “It’s about the people, the community, the passion of the fans. Edmonton means everything to me, and I want to be part of what we’re building here.”
His message has been met with widespread praise from Oilers fans, who view Skinner not just as a talented player, but as a symbol of dedication and local pride. Born and raised in Edmonton, Skinner has long been seen as a hometown hero — and his decision to remain with the team despite external pressures only reinforces that image.
Skinner’s statement also comes at a critical moment for the Oilers organization, which is looking to maintain its momentum and build a championship-caliber team around stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Keeping a strong, homegrown goaltender in the fold is a key part of that puzzle.
“I believe in this team, and I believe in our future,” Skinner said. “We’ve got something special going here, and I want to be a part of bringing a Stanley Cup back to Edmonton.”
With those words, Skinner not only reassured the fan base but also sent a message to the rest of the league: the Edmonton Oilers are building a culture of loyalty, belief, and unfinished business — and Stuart Skinner is all in.