Post-Game Talk: Oilers get the high ground

SupremeTeam16

5-14-6-1
May 31, 2013
8,866
8,837
Baker’s Bay
My question is to Hfboards. Do you disagree with the below?


Can you go even deeper into his flaws?

ChatGPT said:​


Certainly, let’s go deeper into a breakdown of Stuart Skinner's significant flaws, pointing out why he might not even be NHL-caliber based on more detailed analysis.

1. Technical Shortcomings

Rebound Control: One of the most glaring weaknesses in Skinner's game is his poor rebound control. Far too often, he deflects shots into high-danger areas directly in front of the net instead of steering them into the corners or absorbing them. This flaw leads to countless second and third scoring opportunities for opponents, making it difficult for his defense to maintain control and compounding team issues. NHL-caliber goaltenders need to be adept at controlling rebounds, especially when facing elite shooters who capitalize on every mistake.
Positioning and Angles: Skinner has demonstrated inconsistency in maintaining proper positioning. Whether it’s overcommitting on a shooter or failing to square up on rush chances, these positional lapses often leave him vulnerable to routine shots that shouldn’t be finding the back of the net. His tendency to get caught out of position makes him a liability, especially against teams that excel in creating high-danger scoring chances.
Lateral Movement and Recovery: Skinner's lateral movement is subpar when compared to NHL standards. Quick, lateral passes, especially those creating cross-crease plays, expose him time and again. Elite goaltenders are capable of reading these plays and making dynamic lateral shifts to stay ahead of the puck movement. Skinner's slower reaction time in these situations results in late movements that often lead to goals. Additionally, his recovery speed after making initial saves is not quick enough, allowing teams to capitalize on loose pucks in the crease.

2. Mental Toughness and Game Composure

Weak Under Pressure: One of the core attributes of any NHL goaltender is the ability to maintain composure during high-pressure moments, especially in playoff scenarios or close games. Skinner’s performances under pressure have been notably poor. During the 2023 playoff run, his inability to keep the Oilers competitive in critical games spoke volumes. The decision by coaching staff to pull him in favor of backup goaltenders during pivotal moments shows that even within his own organization, there is doubt about his ability to handle the psychological demands of being a starter.
Confidence Issues: Goaltenders need to exude confidence not just for themselves but for the team in front of them. When Skinner plays, there is a noticeable hesitancy in the Oilers' defensive structure, as if the team doesn't trust him to bail them out when needed. This lack of trust is often rooted in his tendency to let in soft goals—shots that shouldn’t trouble an NHL goalie but find their way in due to lapses in concentration or technique.

3. Comparative League Metrics

Below League Average Metrics: When comparing Skinner to his peers, his metrics fall below the threshold that defines an NHL-caliber goaltender. The league average for SV% among starters is generally around .910-.915, while backups are expected to be close to or above .905. Skinner’s inability to maintain even a .900 SV% for a consistent period places him statistically in the lower echelon of NHL goalies, comparable to fringe or AHL-level netminders.
Expected Goals Against (xGA): Advanced analytics highlight how Skinner’s expected goals against (xGA) often surpasses what would be considered acceptable for a starting goaltender. This means that even accounting for the quality of shots faced, he underperforms relative to the expected outcome. The ability to “steal” games or even maintain composure when facing difficult chances is what separates NHL goalies from their lesser counterparts. Skinner, however, frequently struggles to keep his team in the game when they face significant pressure.

4. Scouting Reports and Expert Opinions

Development Stagnation: Scouts and analysts who have followed Skinner’s career have noted that while he possesses raw physical traits such as size (6’4”, 206 lbs), he has not developed the refined skills necessary for consistent NHL play. His reliance on size to cover the net without complementing it with precise footwork or improved puck-tracking abilities suggests that his development has plateaued.
Limited Adaptability: One of the telltale signs of elite goaltenders is their adaptability to different play styles and their ability to adjust mid-game or over the course of a season. Skinner has shown limited ability to adapt when faced with different offensive strategies or when opponents exploit his weaknesses. Whether it’s adjusting positioning for shots from the point or managing breakaways, his lack of adjustments further exposes him to the league’s best shooters.

5. Intangibles Lacking

Leadership and Presence: An often-overlooked aspect of goaltending is the leadership and calming presence an NHL-caliber goalie provides. Elite goaltenders bring stability to their teams, communicating effectively with their defensemen and managing game tempo when needed. Skinner’s lack of assertiveness and vocal presence in the crease can contribute to defensive disorganization and ultimately undermines team confidence during tight games.
Durability and Physical Concerns: While this may not be as apparent, long-term concerns about Skinner’s ability to handle a full NHL workload have surfaced. Fatigue often correlates with dips in performance, and for Skinner, stretches of extended play have showcased an increase in soft goals and overall decreased performance. This raises questions about his long-term viability as even a backup goaltender who can handle substantial ice time.

Conclusion

Stuart Skinner may have the size and flashes of potential, but the comprehensive analysis reveals significant flaws that undermine his ability to even be considered a reliable NHL backup, let alone a starter. Technical inconsistencies, poor rebound control, shaky mental toughness, below-average league metrics, and stagnant development all support the argument that Skinner, as of now, is not at the caliber expected in the NHL. His continued presence as a starting option is more reflective of organizational depth issues than of his own merit as a goaltender at this level.

4o







ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check import
The quality of posting on this board really has become absolutely garbage.
 

Soundwave

Registered User
Mar 1, 2007
74,037
30,201
Oilers goaltending was fine. Canucks goaltending covered both ends of the spectrum...great to brutal.

This game was a bit of a mirage IMO due to the abosolutey putird goals the Canucks goalie let in towards the last part of the game.
That said this game had some very good moments for sure but overall (due to at least 3 pucks that absolutely should not have gone in) its tough to gauge the team from this performance.

Lankinen also probably made the save of the year earlier in the period on RNH and stopped Derek Ryan on a breakaway ... so I dunno, you can say he let in two poor goals, but he also made some 5 bell saves.

It would still be a 5-2 decisive Oilers win even without the Kulak and Brown (2nd) goals. No mirage there.

Not so easy to beat the Oilers when the shooting percentage isn't f***ing 5% and the PP converts.

I think we do a good job of limiting Vancouver 5 on 5, they have gotten very little done 5 on 5 in the last 3 games (going back to the playoff series). If our PK ever wants to wake up this season that'd be swell.
 
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brentashton

Registered User
Jan 21, 2018
15,458
22,404
Don’t shit yourself on the bus next time.



It’s the future. Bow down and accept it.
Last night we were paying an old time card game (MillesBourne) with my daughter and her BF. Not sure why but we got to a topic that I talked about pay toilets. Neither one had ever heard of the concept.

My daughter in particular was appalled that people would have to pay money to do a basic human function. I told her it was only 10cents at the time. She still can’t believe it.

Then I started to sing the ditty

“Here I sit broken hearted…paid a dime and only farted. Next time I’ll take a chance, save my dime and …”.

Generations sure can be separated by a lack of understanding. Ha ha.
 
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Drivesaitl

Finding Hemingway
Oct 8, 2017
49,672
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Islands in the stream.
Lankinen also probably made the save of the year earlier in the period on RNH and stopped Derek Ryan on a breakaway ... so I dunno, you can say he let in two poor goals, but he also made some 5 bell saves.

It would still be a 5-2 decisive Oilers win even without the Kulak and Brown (2nd) goals. No mirage there.
The RNH save was huge. Stopped Ryan and Brown on breakaways, ran out of saves. Lankinen was dealing with a lot of Oilers ozone pressure and chance generation. This game was so one sided. By the 3rd period the Lankinen line broke, and the nucks had no business even being in this game at any point.

That said there were as many Oilers chances that should have gone in then weak goals. In anycase Lankinen kept the Nucks in this for over 2 periods. Skinner would have been pulled if he faced the Oilers barrage. Does anybody think he makes that stop on Nuge?
 

Drivesaitl

Finding Hemingway
Oct 8, 2017
49,672
64,065
Islands in the stream.
Wanted to comment on the Perry goal. Doesn't occur without Perry reading the play and immediately setting up to the side with stick on ice. If he sets up in front of net, like so many players do instead then he has to deflect a puck through Lankinen. Instead he tips into an open net, but only because he parks in the right place. This is something that Hyman would do, or Drai, or Nuge or McD but so many forwards fail to do. So many will go to front of net instead of going to where the gold is.

Just the other night a superstar, Eichel, made the wrong positional move and cost his team a tying goal. He moved from side of net to front of net, inexplicably, and botched the pass to him that would've been an empty net tap in.

Story of the day is if your opponent allows you side of net with yawning empty net then wait to be fed. Perry doesn't have to do much to get the goal, but he has to have some scoring DNA. Even at the highest level of hockey in the world so many players go to the wrong areas.

Watch Perry on this. When Jan has the puck on right side Perry parks on left in case of a pass. Play moves across to the left and Perry simply positions to the right side. Simple as that.


Perry don't have much pace left but he still goes to the right areas. That was a HUGE goal in the game. That goal shaped the outcome.
 

5 Mins 4 Ftg

Life is better with no expectations.
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Apr 3, 2016
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Last night we were paying an old time card game (MillesBourne) with my daughter and her BF. Not sure why but we got to a topic that I talked about pay toilets. Neither one had ever heard of the concept.

My daughter in particular was appalled that people would have to pay money to do a basic human function. I told her it was only 10cents at the time. She still can’t believe it.

Then I started to sing the ditty

“Here I sit broken hearted…paid a dime and only farted. Next time I’ll take a chance, save my dime and …”.

Generations sure can be separated by a lack of understanding. Ha ha.

Your daughter has obviously never been to Europe. One euro to do your business - that’s like a buck and a half in our money.
 

AM

Registered User
Nov 22, 2004
8,692
2,733
Edmonton
My question is to Hfboards. Do you disagree with the below?


Can you go even deeper into his flaws?

ChatGPT said:​


Certainly, let’s go deeper into a breakdown of Stuart Skinner's significant flaws, pointing out why he might not even be NHL-caliber based on more detailed analysis.

1. Technical Shortcomings

Rebound Control: One of the most glaring weaknesses in Skinner's game is his poor rebound control. Far too often, he deflects shots into high-danger areas directly in front of the net instead of steering them into the corners or absorbing them. This flaw leads to countless second and third scoring opportunities for opponents, making it difficult for his defense to maintain control and compounding team issues. NHL-caliber goaltenders need to be adept at controlling rebounds, especially when facing elite shooters who capitalize on every mistake.
Positioning and Angles: Skinner has demonstrated inconsistency in maintaining proper positioning. Whether it’s overcommitting on a shooter or failing to square up on rush chances, these positional lapses often leave him vulnerable to routine shots that shouldn’t be finding the back of the net. His tendency to get caught out of position makes him a liability, especially against teams that excel in creating high-danger scoring chances.
Lateral Movement and Recovery: Skinner's lateral movement is subpar when compared to NHL standards. Quick, lateral passes, especially those creating cross-crease plays, expose him time and again. Elite goaltenders are capable of reading these plays and making dynamic lateral shifts to stay ahead of the puck movement. Skinner's slower reaction time in these situations results in late movements that often lead to goals. Additionally, his recovery speed after making initial saves is not quick enough, allowing teams to capitalize on loose pucks in the crease.

2. Mental Toughness and Game Composure

Weak Under Pressure: One of the core attributes of any NHL goaltender is the ability to maintain composure during high-pressure moments, especially in playoff scenarios or close games. Skinner’s performances under pressure have been notably poor. During the 2023 playoff run, his inability to keep the Oilers competitive in critical games spoke volumes. The decision by coaching staff to pull him in favor of backup goaltenders during pivotal moments shows that even within his own organization, there is doubt about his ability to handle the psychological demands of being a starter.
Confidence Issues: Goaltenders need to exude confidence not just for themselves but for the team in front of them. When Skinner plays, there is a noticeable hesitancy in the Oilers' defensive structure, as if the team doesn't trust him to bail them out when needed. This lack of trust is often rooted in his tendency to let in soft goals—shots that shouldn’t trouble an NHL goalie but find their way in due to lapses in concentration or technique.

3. Comparative League Metrics

Below League Average Metrics: When comparing Skinner to his peers, his metrics fall below the threshold that defines an NHL-caliber goaltender. The league average for SV% among starters is generally around .910-.915, while backups are expected to be close to or above .905. Skinner’s inability to maintain even a .900 SV% for a consistent period places him statistically in the lower echelon of NHL goalies, comparable to fringe or AHL-level netminders.
Expected Goals Against (xGA): Advanced analytics highlight how Skinner’s expected goals against (xGA) often surpasses what would be considered acceptable for a starting goaltender. This means that even accounting for the quality of shots faced, he underperforms relative to the expected outcome. The ability to “steal” games or even maintain composure when facing difficult chances is what separates NHL goalies from their lesser counterparts. Skinner, however, frequently struggles to keep his team in the game when they face significant pressure.

4. Scouting Reports and Expert Opinions

Development Stagnation: Scouts and analysts who have followed Skinner’s career have noted that while he possesses raw physical traits such as size (6’4”, 206 lbs), he has not developed the refined skills necessary for consistent NHL play. His reliance on size to cover the net without complementing it with precise footwork or improved puck-tracking abilities suggests that his development has plateaued.
Limited Adaptability: One of the telltale signs of elite goaltenders is their adaptability to different play styles and their ability to adjust mid-game or over the course of a season. Skinner has shown limited ability to adapt when faced with different offensive strategies or when opponents exploit his weaknesses. Whether it’s adjusting positioning for shots from the point or managing breakaways, his lack of adjustments further exposes him to the league’s best shooters.

5. Intangibles Lacking

Leadership and Presence: An often-overlooked aspect of goaltending is the leadership and calming presence an NHL-caliber goalie provides. Elite goaltenders bring stability to their teams, communicating effectively with their defensemen and managing game tempo when needed. Skinner’s lack of assertiveness and vocal presence in the crease can contribute to defensive disorganization and ultimately undermines team confidence during tight games.
Durability and Physical Concerns: While this may not be as apparent, long-term concerns about Skinner’s ability to handle a full NHL workload have surfaced. Fatigue often correlates with dips in performance, and for Skinner, stretches of extended play have showcased an increase in soft goals and overall decreased performance. This raises questions about his long-term viability as even a backup goaltender who can handle substantial ice time.

Conclusion

Stuart Skinner may have the size and flashes of potential, but the comprehensive analysis reveals significant flaws that undermine his ability to even be considered a reliable NHL backup, let alone a starter. Technical inconsistencies, poor rebound control, shaky mental toughness, below-average league metrics, and stagnant development all support the argument that Skinner, as of now, is not at the caliber expected in the NHL. His continued presence as a starting option is more reflective of organizational depth issues than of his own merit as a goaltender at this level.

4o







ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check import
Chat gpt sounds like know it alls on the internet posting from their parents basement.
Last night we were paying an old time card game (MillesBourne) with my daughter and her BF. Not sure why but we got to a topic that I talked about pay toilets. Neither one had ever heard of the concept.

My daughter in particular was appalled that people would have to pay money to do a basic human function. I told her it was only 10cents at the time. She still can’t believe it.

Then I started to sing the ditty

“Here I sit broken hearted…paid a dime and only farted. Next time I’ll take a chance, save my dime and …”.

Generations sure can be separated by a lack of understanding. Ha ha.
first pay toilet I used was in France after we got off the ferry from Dover. You had to pay a franc to get in and 10centimes for each square of toilet paper.
 

AM

Registered User
Nov 22, 2004
8,692
2,733
Edmonton
Wanted to comment on the Perry goal. Doesn't occur without Perry reading the play and immediately setting up to the side with stick on ice. If he sets up in front of net, like so many players do instead then he has to deflect a puck through Lankinen. Instead he tips into an open net, but only because he parks in the right place. This is something that Hyman would do, or Drai, or Nuge or McD but so many forwards fail to do. So many will go to front of net instead of going to where the gold is.

Just the other night a superstar, Eichel, made the wrong positional move and cost his team a tying goal. He moved from side of net to front of net, inexplicably, and botched the pass to him that would've been an empty net tap in.

Story of the day is if your opponent allows you side of net with yawning empty net then wait to be fed. Perry doesn't have to do much to get the goal, but he has to have some scoring DNA. Even at the highest level of hockey in the world so many players go to the wrong areas.

Watch Perry on this. When Jan has the puck on right side Perry parks on left in case of a pass. Play moves across to the left and Perry simply positions to the right side. Simple as that.


Perry don't have much pace left but he still goes to the right areas. That was a HUGE goal in the game. That goal shaped the outcome.
It also has an affect on the play afterwards when the goalie was looking for Perry behind him instead of stopping the shot from brown(or was it kulak?).
 
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Drivesaitl

Finding Hemingway
Oct 8, 2017
49,672
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Islands in the stream.
It also has an affect on the play afterwards when the goalie was looking for Perry behind him instead of stopping the shot from brown(or was it kulak?).
On the first two goals Lankinen is thrown to the wolves. Both goals emanating from players wide open, left wide open just to slot puck home. The pk coverage on the Oilers first goal is hilarious. McD allowed to walk right out in front of Lankinen, untouched, and get a scoring chance. Drai scores seconds later wide open with time to bring puck from behind net to stuff in net. Nobody even close to stopping it.

Nucks not even covering the two highest production players in the entire world.

Then the whole 3rd period where Nucks didn't even try to help.

I haven't watched Nucks much this season but that the worst coverage since the Pens. Any other club has played us better.
 

brentashton

Registered User
Jan 21, 2018
15,458
22,404
Your daughter has obviously never been to Europe. One euro to do your business - that’s like a buck and a half in our money.
No. I m allowing her to have something to dream about going forward into her further adult years. Plus I’m paying for “my” 5th college degree between all of 3 of them so there is that too.

They say the pay thing is also prevalent in Japan. Not been there so can’t confirm.
 
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yukoner88

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Dec 16, 2009
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Stoneman89

Registered User
Feb 8, 2008
28,417
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Should loop back to what I said before the game about an Edmonton Oilers victory being perfect to round out what's been a great week.

My divorce took 2 years to finalize n it's now done.

I asked a girl out to be my girlfriend after a month of chasing her (she said yes)

I played net in a beer league for the first time in 12 years and did not get lit up. Managed to help preserve a 3-3 tie.

And not only did the oilers win tonight, they destroyed in that third period
Good for you man, and congrats in all! In particular the divorce thing. Way back in the day, I thought I':Dd have to kill my ex to get rid of her, but eventually, it happened.
 

iCanada

Registered User
Feb 6, 2010
20,245
21,219
Edmonton
Wanted to comment on the Perry goal. Doesn't occur without Perry reading the play and immediately setting up to the side with stick on ice. If he sets up in front of net, like so many players do instead then he has to deflect a puck through Lankinen. Instead he tips into an open net, but only because he parks in the right place. This is something that Hyman would do, or Drai, or Nuge or McD but so many forwards fail to do. So many will go to front of net instead of going to where the gold is.

Just the other night a superstar, Eichel, made the wrong positional move and cost his team a tying goal. He moved from side of net to front of net, inexplicably, and botched the pass to him that would've been an empty net tap in.

Story of the day is if your opponent allows you side of net with yawning empty net then wait to be fed. Perry doesn't have to do much to get the goal, but he has to have some scoring DNA. Even at the highest level of hockey in the world so many players go to the wrong areas.

Watch Perry on this. When Jan has the puck on right side Perry parks on left in case of a pass. Play moves across to the left and Perry simply positions to the right side. Simple as that.


Perry don't have much pace left but he still goes to the right areas. That was a HUGE goal in the game. That goal shaped the outcome.

Yeah, idk, I find it hard not to appreciate the hell out of Perry to be honest.

You can tell he's not near the player he once was, but man - he knows the game, he loves the game, and good lord does he have that competitive fire.

I also just have to tip my hat because he's an effective player right now, like this, when he doesn't have the strength, the speed, or the hands he used to have... It's easy to see why you give him those attributes and he's a hart trophy winner.

And on top of that - he's unselfish and just a glue guy. Lots of guys with his resume would be fine fading in to the sun set and looking at their legacy and their trophy case, but instead he's the one pulling 19 guys a decade younger than him into the fire by taking fights against bigger guys who are 15 years younger.

Dudes a warrior.
 

guymez

The Seldom Seen Kid
Mar 3, 2004
34,582
15,163
Yeah, idk, I find it hard not to appreciate the hell out of Perry to be honest.

You can tell he's not near the player he once was, but man - he knows the game, he loves the game, and good lord does he have that competitive fire.

I also just have to tip my hat because he's an effective player right now, like this, when he doesn't have the strength, the speed, or the hands he used to have... It's easy to see why you give him those attributes and he's a hart trophy winner.

And on top of that - he's unselfish and just a glue guy. Lots of guys with his resume would be fine fading in to the sun set and looking at their legacy and their trophy case, but instead he's the one pulling 19 guys a decade younger than him into the fire by taking fights against bigger guys who are 15 years younger.

Dudes a warrior.
Good post and I couldnt agree more.

Perry is exacly the kind of player that teams win with and even with his diminished skillset he still has a positive impact. He is the epitome of a team player. He will do anything to help the team win.
I would however like to see the team save Perry for the playoffs. So as the season winds down I hope that Knoblauch is able to use some load management for him specifically.
 
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iCanada

Registered User
Feb 6, 2010
20,245
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Edmonton
Good post and I couldnt agree more.

Perry is exacly the kind of player that teams win with and even with his diminished skillset he still has a positive impact. He is the epitome of a team player. He will do anything to help the team win.
I would however like to see the team save Perry for the playoffs. So as the season winds down I hope that Knoblauch is able to use some load management for him specifically.

I also think that just like with his age and perspective, be probably is quite valuable - particularly with some of the characters we have in the room and their relative intensity.

I'd point to how well he disarmed the media with the thing between him and Kane. "Brothers fight." Suddenly this negative narrative is just dead in it's tracks.

You need that.
 
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