The rumors were loud, but the reality is even louder. Elliotte Friedman has confirmed that the Edmonton Oilers have officially acquired goaltender Tristan Jarry from the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Here is the immediate breakdown of the deal that is shaking up the league:
- To Edmonton: Tristan Jarry, Samuel Poulin
- To Pittsburgh: Brett Kulak, Stuart Skinner, 2029 2nd Round Pick
If you are an Oilers fan, you are likely feeling a mix of relief and anxiety. The team sits in a wild-card spot, desperate to capitalize on their championship window, while the goaltending tandem of Skinner and Pickard (.879 SV% combined) was simply not getting the job done.
Analysis: Why Edmonton Made the Call on Jarry
Let’s be honest: loyalty in the NHL only extends as far as the save percentage. Stuart Skinner is a hometown kid who backstopped this team to two consecutive Stanley Cup Finals. That is no small feat. However, falling short against Florida twice and stumbling to an .891 save percentage this season forced management’s hand.
In Tristan Jarry, the Oilers are getting a goaltender who has seen the absolute bottom and clawed his way back. Remember, Jarry cleared waivers just last January. That humbles a player. Since returning from his AHL stint and into this season, he has looked like a legitimate starter again. With a 9-3-1 record and a .909 save percentage this year, he is arguably the hottest goalie available on the market.
From an “expert” perspective, this is a classic “change of scenery” trade for both sides. Pittsburgh gets a younger goalie in the 27-year-old Skinner (on an expiring deal) and draft capital to continue their retooling. Edmonton gets a veteran on a long-term ticket ($5.38M AAV) who is playing with a chip on his shoulder.
The risk for Edmonton is the term remaining on Jarry’s contract, but when you have McDavid and Draisaitl, you don’t worry about five years from now. You worry about winning tonight. Jarry stabilizes the crease immediately.
Finding the latest Edmonton Oilers news and updates
This trade changes the landscape of the Western Conference. For the latest analysis on how this impacts the lineup, finding the latest Edmonton Oilers news, and to join our Fantasy Hockey Pool for cash prizes, keep it locked here. Wondering how to watch the Oilers game on TV today to see if Jarry starts? Check our schedule page on the website. Be sure to add nhltraderumor.com to your bookmarks and sign up for our newsletter below.
