Stuart Skinner and Dan Muse might not stick around in Pittsburgh for long.
The word around town is simple: the Penguins are thinking about bringing Skinner back for next season, but it doesn’t seem like they want to give him a deal that lasts multiple years.
This changes everything regarding what’s next for him. A one-year deal doesn’t really show that they have faith in him for the long run. Instead, it comes off as a quick solution, not a plan to keep him with the team for a long time.
That’s why this seems to be happening faster than expected.
When a goalie comes to a team like Pittsburgh, the main question is whether he can earn a spot and be part of the team’s future. This rumor suggests the opposite. It implies that the Penguins might just be searching for a quick fix.
Josh Yohe: Regarding the Penguins: It looks like the Penguins want to re-sign Stuart Skinner for next season, but it’s probably not going to be a deal that lasts for several years.
This type of situation can create a lot of pressure fast. Skinner would need to not only compete for his playing time but also to keep his spot on the team when the season starts.
Pittsburgh may already be considering beyond him.
Dan Muse is coaching while Kyle Dubas continues to handle hockey decisions for the Penguins.
So if this report is true, it sends a clear message. The Penguins might be considering moving on before Skinner has even completed a full season with the team.
This is significant because depending on a goalie for just a short period can go downhill quickly. A rough month, a bad road trip, or a moment when the team gives up too many chances can change people’s opinions about a goalie really fast.
Josh Yohe: Re Penguins: The Penguins seem interested in bringing Stuart Skinner back next season; it would seem unlikely that the Penguins would offer Skinner a multi-year deal – The Athletic (3/17)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) March 21, 2026
For Skinner, agreeing to play for just one year would mean he has no safety net. He wouldn’t have a real job security. This wouldn’t ensure that Pittsburgh sees him as anything besides a short-term choice while they decide on their long-term plans for goalkeeping.
From the Penguins’ perspective, this is a safe choice. They can watch Skinner perform again without needing to offer him a longer deal. If he plays well, that’s great. If he doesn’t meet expectations, they can easily release him without any trouble.
That’s the reason why this gossip seems significant. It’s not just about Skinner being with the team. It’s about Pittsburgh possibly figuring out how he will go before the next season starts.
If the Penguins only plan to keep him for one year, Skinner might not have much time left in Pittsburgh.
Leave a Reply