To navigate his emotions, Skinner opened up to his wife and support network, utilizing journaling and conversations as tools for effective emotional processing.

Stuart Skinner, the goaltender for the Edmonton Oilers, faced immense pressure during Game 7 of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final, resulting in a disappointing loss to the Florida Panthers.

In preparation for the new season, he revisited footage of Game 7 to confront his past, using it as motivation to move forward with a positive mindset.

Heading into the current season, Skinner has adopted a positive outlook, bolstered by the Oilers' largely unchanged roster.

During the current playoffs, Skinner has regained his form, showcasing impressive statistics with a .938 save percentage and a 1.54 goals-against average since returning to the starter role.

Skinner believes that the pain from last season's loss has ultimately prepared him and the Oilers for a stronger playoff run this year, as they have already faced the worst-case scenario and emerged stronger.

Initially struggling to cope with the loss, Skinner found emotional support from his family, particularly his wife Chloe, which helped him process his feelings.

He felt a deep sense of disappointment after allowing the decisive shot from Sam Reinhart, believing he had let down not only himself but also a nation yearning for a Canadian team to win the Cup since 1993.

Teammates like Adam Henrique and Ty Emberson commend Skinner's mental fortitude and ability to remain calm under pressure, especially given the heightened scrutiny in the Canadian market.

Drafted by the Oilers in 2017, Skinner has always been a fan of the team, idolizing players like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who he now plays alongside.

Despite allowing only two goals in the pivotal game, Skinner's disappointment lingered due to the critical nature of the decisive shot he couldn't stop.

Skinner has also visualized both winning and losing scenarios, emphasizing the importance of mental preparation in the playoffs, which reflects his growth as a player.