NHL analysts predict Stuart Skinner's exit, float Elvis Merzlikins & Jet Greaves as potential trade options to solve goaltending dilemma 

The Edmonton Oilers’ goaltending situation remains a significant concern heading into the 2025-26 season, with ongoing debates about whether their current tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard can lead the team to a Stanley Cup.

Skinner and Pickard have shown inconsistency, particularly in high-stakes playoff games, prompting analysts to argue that standing pat is not an option for Edmonton.

During a discussion on TSN, analyst Marty Biron suggested that the Oilers could explore trade options like Columbus’ Elvis Merzlikins. Biron believes a change of scenery could benefit Merzlikins and emphasized the need for creative solutions to bolster Edmonton’s goaltending.

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"I tossed a name like Elvis Merzlikins out earlier just because Columbus already traded Tarasov to Florida. They have Jet Greaves as an up-and-comer. Maybe they say, 'Okay, Elvis, change of scenery will do good,' and maybe they're looking to retain. I don't know. But that would be an upgrade for me. You've got to be creative if you're going to upgrade."

Brian Hayes stressed that the Oilers cannot accept the status quo after reaching the Stanley Cup Final two years in a row without winning. He pointed out that teams like Colorado completely overhauled their goaltending last season rather than settling for limited options, and Edmonton must follow suit.

"Standing pat is simply not a possibility. It can't be in Edmonton. Now, they don't play on July 1st. They don't play on July 2nd or July 3rd. You have a couple of months to figure it out. Look at what even Colorado did last year. They completely turned over their goaltending room," Hayes said.

With time remaining in the offseason, the Oilers are under pressure to make moves to strengthen their goaltending and support their championship aspirations.

Connor McDavid's contract extension drama with Edmonton Oilers could extend into next season

Connor McDavid, currently in the final year of his $100 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers, is eligible to sign an extension this summer.

However, no agreement has been finalized, and analyst Chris Johnston suggests that McDavid’s contract negotiations could extend into the next season.

"100% chance. Absolutely. Absolutely. Depending on what happens.” Because Connor McDavid still needs to see where the organization’s going and what he really wants to do, how long he wants to commit," he said.

According to reports, Connor McDavid may consider signing a short-term contract extension, potentially for three or four years, with the Edmonton Oilers instead of a long-term extension.