Stan Bowman Zeroing in on Two Big Priorities During Second Half of Offseason

Oilers GM Stan Bowman appears to have two big priorities he will be dealing with over the next six weeks, and that is a Connor McDavid extension and a new goalie.

The Edmonton Oilers appear to be headed into the 2025-26 season with the same Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard goaltender tandem.

While that tandem may not precisely bring fans to complete confidence, the hope is that a change is still on tap, but just not immediately.

The Oilers will likely monitor the goalie market down the off-season and into training camp. Rosters will begin to trim, and other clubs will be forced to waive goaltenders.

And while Edmonton is 24th on the waiver claim list, there can be motivation for Stan Bowman to make a little deal to acquire a more sure-footed backup prior to the start of the season.

The Oilers will likely wait closer to the trade deadline if nothing happens soon

If nothing is made by October, the Oilers could look to revisit the position later in the season, near the trade deadline.

That does provide time for the front office to see what else happens and possibly make a more premium goalie pickup for the stretch run to the playoffs.

Players like Michael DiPietro have been cited, but he would essentially have to be traded.

Meanwhile, social media rumors suggest Bowman wants two things currently: re-signing Connor McDavid and finding a more consistent backup goalie to pair with Skinner, as stated above.