Should Penguins Extend Stuart Skinner?
As we’re about to turn the calendar into February, the Pittsburgh Penguins have been one of the hottest teams in the NHL; posting a .750 winning percentage over their last 16 games played.For Penguins president of hockey operations, Kyle Dubas, it’s been a flurry of solid moves - from the signings of Justin Brazeau, Anthony Mantha, and Parker Wotherspoon - to his most recent trade of Egor Chinakhov.
Despite giving out the Tristan Jarry extension, which was a heavily criticized decision, Dubas somehow managed to sell high on Jarry by trading him, along with forward Sam Poulin, to the Edmonton Oilers on December 12th in exchange for goalie Stuart Skinner, defenseman Brett Kulak, and a second round draft pick for 2029.
While Kulak has provided a shot in the arm, on Pittsburgh’s blue line, Skinner is a big reason why the Penguins have been such a red hot team post-Christmas break. As a matter of fact, since December 30th, Skinner is registering a .934 save percentage and a 1.63 goals against average in a span of eight starts.
There’s no doubt Skinner has arguably been the best in-between the pipes since the beginning of the new year. He’s quickly turned into a fan favorite, with Pens fans yelling out “Stuuuuu” anytime he makes a big, no rebound save.
Given the Penguins becoming legitimate playoff contenders, talks have now circulated regarding the 27-year-old netminder being a possible extension candidate.
Skinner, who is making $2.6 million this season, is set to become an unrestricted free agent. With the Olympic break just around the corner, it could be a perfect opportunity for Dubas to meet with Skinner about a new contract.
The Penguins are in a very favorable position cap space-wise, so they would be able to extend Skinner on a short-term deal; preferably two years - without having to break the bank.
However, there is the flip side - What if Skinner wants to wait it out until he hits the open market after the season? If that’s the case, then Dubas should make Skinner available at the trade deadline. Strong playoff contenders could look to upgrade themselves at goaltender. In terms of a possible bidding war, there might be a team willing to offer a 2026 third round pick, for a rental goalie in Skinner. At that point, the Penguins would really have to consider such a return.
Sergei Murashov, viewed by most as the Penguins’ goaltender of the future, appeared in five games with Pittsburgh earlier in the season, and held his own; recording a GAA of 2.56. If they do trade Skinner, then Murashov would be recalled and thrusted into a playoff push.