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Stuart Skinner speaks publicly ahead of first game against Oilers
Newly-acquired Penguins goalie Stuart Skinner spoke to the media prior to facing his former team, the Oilers, tonight, and he's going through a lot of emotions.
Stuart Skinner will make his Penguins debut tonight against the Edmonton Oilers in a game already charged with emotion.
Just four days after the blockbuster goalie swap that sent Skinner to Pittsburgh and Tristan Jarry to Edmonton, both netminders will take the ice in a matchup that could define their seasons.
What Stuart Skinner had to say prior to facing his former team
Skinner met with the media before the game and addressed facing his former team. He acknowledged the challenge of facing Edmonton but emphasized staying focused on helping the Penguins win.
"We're ripping off the Band-Aid right away, which is good. Thinking about it, I think I'd rather it be like this and just kind of get it over with, but also to enjoy it, too. I get to play my old teammates, and me and Brett get to do it together. I think that's nothing but exciting."
- Stuart Skinner
- Stuart Skinner
The 27-year-old is determined to channel the emotions of the moment into a strong debut. He also discussed topics surrounding the arrival of his new mask.
"I'm not too sure. It's going to be whenever the new mask comes in from CCM, which should be pretty quick. It'll be painted right away."
- Stuart Skinner
- Stuart Skinner
Jarry will start for the Oilers in his second game with the club, returning to the team he spent ten seasons with. Pittsburgh is focused on giving Skinner a strong start, while Edmonton will aim to support Jarry in his homecoming.
Why tonight won't be special just for Tristan Jarry and Stuart Skinner
Former Oilers defenseman Brett Kulak will also make his Penguins debut tonight, and top AHL rookie scorer Quinn Hutson joins the fourth line alongside Curtis Lazar and Trent Frederic.
After a rollercoaster few seasons in Edmonton, Skinner now has a fresh start in Pittsburgh. Oilers general manager Kris Knoblauch hopes Jarry provides the stability needed between the pipes for another playoff push.
This game is about more than goals; it offers closure and a statement for both goalies and their new teams.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 16 | 149 ANSWERS Stuart Skinner speaks publicly ahead of first game against Oilers Will Stuart Skinner stonewall the Oilers tonight, or will he get lit up? | ||
| Stonewall | 44 | 29.5 % |
| Lit up | 105 | 70.5 % |
| List of polls | ||