Stuart Skinner’s significant change at camp has the NHL buzzing

The Edmonton Oilers are entering the 2025–26 season with unfinished business. After losing two straight Stanley Cup Finals to the Florida Panthers, the team is determined to finally push through and capture the Cup, and at the same time, convince captain Connor McDavid that this is the place where winners can sign long-term extensions and stay put.

Goaltender Stuart Skinner is leading that charge with a dramatic offseason transformation.

According to the Oilers’ official website, Skinner reported to training camp 25 pounds lighter than last season. The 26-year-old dropped from 240 to 215 pounds over the summer, a change that has fans and analysts buzzing about what it might mean for his game.

I mean, a lighter Skinner could mean improved mobility, quicker reaction time, and sharper positioning in net, all crucial areas for a goaltender looking to bounce back after tough playoff runs.

After trimming down, Skinner himself says he feels “lighter and faster” as he prepares for what the Oilers hope will finally be their year.

With McDavid and Leon Draisaitl still in their prime and the team hungry for redemption, the Oilers may just have the right mix to flip the script. The big question is whether a leaner Skinner can be the difference-maker come spring.

How much difference will 25 fewer pounds make?