The Edmonton Oilers Could Possibly Target an Elite Level Goaltender: Stuart Skinner's Best Friend

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Joshua Deeds
April 13, 2023 (9:09 PM)

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Ken Holland has tried to piece together the best squad after losing the 2nd round of the Western Conference playoffs last season.

Unfortunately, it looks like Jack Campbell wasn't the answer, as he has performed underwhelmingly this season. But there's an Edmonton local who would be a great pickup.

The Philadelphia Flyers are in the process of blowing it all up, afte interim GM Daniel Briere didn't shy away from the idea of rebuilding. In midst of all of this, this may look like goalie Carter Hart may be available.

After yet another disappointing season, the Philadelphia Flyers appear set to blow things up in the summer and are even reportedly willing to move goaltender Carter Hart for the right price, according to a recent report from Elliotte Friedman. The now 24-year-old was viewed as the league's most promising young netminder just a few short years ago but has struggled to develop into the star most had envisioned to this point. (from �Sam Carchidi: Rookie Carter Hart alters Philadelphia Flyers' goaltending outlook,' Toronto Star, 12/22/18).

Carter Hart would be a good value option for Edmonton as his cap hit is affordable at $3.9 million and at the end of 2024, the Oilers would retain his RFA rights.

Stuart Skinner is also great friends with Carter as they've played hockey together since they were 13/14 years of age.

While Hart's had his struggles tending the twine behind the Flyers, the team assembled in front of him hasn't been the best either, so a change of scenery wouldn't be the worst option for him, should he hit the trade block.

The riskiest thing Holland would have to do is move Campbell, which unfortunately the price of admission hasn't been as advertised. Campbell could bounce back in a different scenario, with a team who needs a goal-tender, like San Jose, or Chicago whose been a little bit unreliable recently.

Edmonton's cap situation is tenuous at best right now, as they have $0 available and Campbell has been stapled to the bench yet again. The time to plan the move is now.