Skinner talks about mental battle with high stress games

Stuart Skinner's Mental Mastery: The Secret Behind Oilers' Dominance in the Playoffs.

As the Edmonton Oilers skate through the first round of the NHL playoffs, a standout story is the exceptional play of goaltender Stuart Skinner, especially notable in their series against the Los Angeles Kings.

Skinner's journey from a rocky start to showcasing formidable skills in critical games illustrates not just his prowess on the ice but the mental resilience required to excel under playoff pressure.

Skinner's performance in the latter games of the series marks a stark contrast to his initial outings. "It's all about resetting and focusing on the next game," Skinner shared, highlighting his mental strategy to rebound from tough games.


His reflections on overcoming early struggles provide a candid look into the psychological battles athletes face. For further insights, his interview sheds light on his approach, available in full here:



The significance of mental health in sports, especially for a goaltender, cannot be overstated. Goaltenders, often seen as the last line of defense, carry a unique set of pressures that can be isolating.

This aspect of their role has earned them a reputation for being notably "weird" compared to their teammates—a label often worn as a badge of honor. Skinner attributes a substantial part of his mental fortitude to the sports psychologist he consulted during his draft year, a practice becoming more common among NHL goalies as they realize how much their game depends on mental strength.

Skinner's stats from the series are a testament to his impact on the ice. Boasting a .919 save percentage and a 2.48 goals against average (GAA) with one shutout, his contributions have been crucial. His stellar performance in Edmonton's 1-0 victory was particularly decisive, demonstrating how essential a goalie's role is in securing playoff wins.

The Oilers' playoff journey, buoyed by Skinner's resilience and skill, underscores the evolving understanding of the mental demands on professional athletes. As Skinner continues to harness his psychological skills, the Oilers' prospects look increasingly promising.

His ability to maintain peak performance could very well dictate their path toward contending for the Stanley Cup. If Skinner's current level of play continues, the Oilers are not just contenders; they are poised to be a formidable force in the NHL playoffs, all thanks to their goalie's mastery of the mental game.