Oilers goaltender in the Calder conversation?

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Ryan Hall
April 13, 2023 (8:31)

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With the NHL season about to conclude, any fans look towards the NHL awards alongside the NHL playoffs that are about to begin. It's a conversation that continues all season on who will take what award and who's the contenders.

One of the most hotly debated topics is the Calder which represents the rookies of the NHL. This season certainly has had many players that have shown that they will be future stars in this league. The one player who will most likely win will be Seattle Kraken rookie Matty Beniers.

The two-way forward has shown the impressive talent that he was advertised as. His dynamic play and point totals of 57 make him a lock.

The other part of the conversation is who should be considered for this trophy, and there is a case for Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner.

Skinner was thrust into the NHL due to the poor play of Jack Campbell. After a few games, Skinner signed a three-year contract extension worth $2.6 million per season. Since becoming a starter, Skinner has put up some great numbers.

He has played 49 games, has a record of 28-14-5 with a GAA of 2.76 and an SV percentage of .914 and has one shutout. He also was the main driver for the Oilers locking up their playoff spot this season as he continued to play well down the stretch.

Beniers will win the Calder, however, Skinner should be considered for his journey to the league and how he helped the Oilers.