In an emotional and unexpected moment during today’s post-draft press conference, Edmonton Oilers owner Daryl Katz broke down in tears as he addressed the team’s highly controversial decision not to draft a goaltender in the 2025 NHL Draft — a move that has sparked outrage among fans and raised questions about the team’s long-term strategy in net.
The press conference, held at Rogers Place just hours after the conclusion of the draft, was expected to be a routine recap of the Oilers’ selections. But tension was in the air following the team’s apparent disregard for goaltending depth, despite the recent retirement of veteran goalie Stuart Skinner, who announced just last week he would be stepping away from the NHL due to recurring injuries.
“As an organization, we have always done what we believe is best for the team and for the city of Edmonton,” Katz began, his voice shaking. “But I know how this looks. I know how this feels — especially with Stu hanging up his skates.”
Katz paused to collect himself, visibly emotional. Reporters in the room fell silent as he wiped away tears.
“He gave everything to this team, and we didn’t do enough to prepare for life after him,” Katz admitted. “That’s on all of us.”
The Oilers, who instead focused their draft selections on forwards and defensemen, passed on several top-rated goaltending prospects, including Finnish standout Kalle Väisänen and American junior phenom Tyson Merrick, both of whom were projected to be potential franchise netminders.
General Manager Steve Staios attempted to defend the decision, stating the organization has “confidence in internal development options,” including 22-year-old Oliver Rodrigue and AHL standout Roman Basran. However, critics argue neither goalie has shown the consistency or elite-level upside needed to secure the Oilers’ net in the seasons ahead.
Fans have taken to social media in droves, with hashtags like #NoGoalieNoGlory and #KatzCried trending in Canada just hours after the presser.
While the emotional display from Katz underscores the pressure the Oilers are facing, it also raises bigger questions: Is Edmonton truly prepared for the post-Skinner era, or is a rocky rebuild in net about to derail what should be a Stanley Cup-contending window?
One thing is certain — the eyes of the hockey world will be watching closely as the Oilers enter the 2025-26 season.
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