Time to get out of this slump

One snag in your plan here - no one wants Ceci

Ceci is still a good 2-way top 4 defender. Just doesn’t work in Edmonton. Grab a replacement for now, and see how they do with an upgraded defence. We can make more moves later if necessary, but I think Skinner has the abilities to bounce back and preform the way he did last year.

Peake is not better defensively than Ceci. Need a good defensive D, a G and at least 2 good bottom Fs. All while having to shed cap, creating more holes. Same yearly story as the Leafs

The problem right now is that they aren't getting the changes they actually need.

The players know the coaching wasn't the problem, so that change isn't having the desired effect.
It doesn't matter who is coaching when every coach faces the same issues. A top heavy offensive roster with questionable defense and inconsistent goaltending.

If you want the players to come around, you need to show them changes they can believe in.
Bring in a new defenseman with a good reputation and/or a fresh goaltender.
Make a significant change (or more) to the bottom 6.

Right now there is no faith in the goaltending among players or fans for this season. Nobody is suggesting Skinner can't be the guy eventually, but he needs real support right now and Pickard isn't it.
Do everyone a favor, bite the bullet, and make a move for a goaltender.
Swapping Ceci for Peeke doesn't resolve that mental hurdle. They are top 10 in shots for and against, but last (or close to it) in save percentage. That's more direct of an issue.
You need to remove that excuse before the players are going to take a real look anywhere else for answers.

Your insight is needed more than two or three times per day.