The Skinner Surge: Why Pittsburgh’s New Anchor May Become the Story of the Season
The "Skinner Watch" has moved to high alert, and the view from Pittsburgh looks spectacular.
A Change of Scenery
When the trade went down on December 12, the hockey world wasn't sure what to make of it. Was this a calculated gamble or a move made in a panic? Edmonton Oilers GM Stan Bowman didn't offer much clarity then, famously telling the media it wasn't an indictment of Skinner, but rather just “time for something different”.
In Pittsburgh, that "something different" has looked a lot like a brick wall.
On a Heater in the Steel City
Stuart Skinner isn't just settling into his new crease; he’s on a genuine tear. After a gritty 3-2 win over the Vancouver Canucks this past Sunday, Skinner locked in his fourth consecutive victory. Throughout this four-game stretch, he has served as the backbone of a surging Penguins squad, turning away 99 of the last 108 shots he’s faced. He is—arguably—playing some of the most composed hockey of his career right now; helping to pull the Penguins up the Metropolitan Division standings.
Silencing the Critics
The emotional weight of the trade must have been nothing short of significant. Leaving a Stanley Cup contender and his hometown for the uncertainty of Pittsburgh might have rattled a lesser player. Instead, Stuart Skinner has leaned into the change. While fans still debate whether Edmonton gave up on a finalist too soon, Skinner is busy stealing points. From his 31-save performance against Philadelphia to the 30-save effort that quieted the crowd in Vancouver, “Stu” looks like a goalie with plenty to prove.
Skinner Brilliant Against Vancouver (3-2 Win): “… Skinner continued his red-hot Penguins run. Skinner made a half-dozen saves as he stood on his head to keep Vancouver scoreless when they pushed hard early in the second period.”
The Debate is Still On
The "something different" GM Bowman wanted in Edmonton has certainly shown up in Pittsburgh, though likely not in the way the Oilers had hoped. The Penguins are climbing, and Skinner has won seven of his eight starts since the end of the holiday break on December 27.
As January 2026 winds down, the trade debate continues, but a couple things are certain: Stuart Skinner is on top of his game, and the Pittsburgh Penguins are reaping the rewards of “something different”.