NHL Goaltender Power Rankings: Stuart Skinner Wins Again, Continues Climb
July 16, 2025 – ESPN NHL Report.
Stuart Skinner of the Edmonton Oilers is swiftly rewriting his career story, as he continues to climb the NHL goaltender power rankings with another strong performance between the pipes. As the season progresses, Skinner’s name is no longer a footnote; it is becoming a headline.
On Tuesday night, Skinner led the Oilers to a 3-1 victory over the Colorado Avalanche, making 33 saves on 34 shots and improving his season record to 22-9-2. This is his fifth straight victory, and the fourth time in six games that he has allowed one goal or fewer. Skinner, who was previously chastised for inconsistency in high-pressure games, suddenly appears focused, radiating a calm, poised presence that is powering Edmonton’s ascent in the Western Conference standings.
The Rise in Rankings
Skinner started the season outside the top 15 in most major goalkeeper rankings. However, after a succession of outstanding performances, he is now securely ranked among the top seven—and growing. In ESPN’s most recent goaltender power rankings, Skinner has risen to fifth place, trailing only Igor Shesterkin (Rangers), Juuse Saros (Predators), Connor Hellebuyck (Jets), and Jake Oettinger.
Skinner’s resilience sets him apart from many other members of this privileged class. After a shaky start in October, when he had a save percentage of less than .890 through the first eight games, the 26-year-old produced an incredible comeback. Since mid-November, he has a .925 save percentage and a 2.32 goals-against average, ranking him among the league’s top goaltenders.
Mentally tough and technically sound.
One of the most notable features of Skinner’s recent success has been his mental attitude. Goaltending coach Dustin Schwartz attributes Skinner’s development to his emphasis on puck tracking and placement rather than simply reacting. “Stu’s confidence is at an all-time high,” Schwartz told the media after the game. “He’s trusting his technique, making the first save, and recovering quickly for second opportunities.”
Skinner’s lateral movement and rebound control have greatly improved, both of which were issues for him throughout last year’s playoffs. He now appears more active at the top of his crease, posing authoritative challenges to shooters.
Fueling the Oilers’ Playoff Push
While Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl continue to dominate offensively, Skinner has provided much-needed consistency to Edmonton’s defense. The Oilers have now won eight of their previous ten games, thanks in large part to Skinner’s dependable goaltending.
Teammates have seen the change as well. “He’s been unreal,” defenseman Darnell Nurse said. “It gives us so much confidence knowing we’ve got Stu back there making the big saves.”
What’s next?
If Skinner continues to play like this, he could be nominated for the Vezina Trophy. More importantly, his ascension might provide the Oilers with the top goaltender they have lacked for years.
Stuart Skinner is not just winning games but also making a statement, thanks to his consistency, poise, and increasing reputation as one of the league’s most trustworthy goaltenders.
The league is now officially on notice.