The Oilers have had a rollercoaster start this season, evident in their strong win against the Winnipeg Jets, followed by a loss to the Buffalo Sabres. Momentum often shifts in an instant, leaving fans unsure of what to expect each night.
Goaltending remains a central concern for Edmonton, as the team searches for stability behind the net. The organization has shown patience, yet the need for a reliable option has grown clearer with each game.
Edmonton’s Plan for Connor Ingram in Goal
Edmonton’s goaltending depth is a mix of promise and inconsistency. Stuart Skinner has handled the bulk of the work with a 10-8-4 record, a 2.91 goals-against average, and a .887 save percentage. Calvin Pickard’s 3-3-2 record and .851 save percentage show he struggles to match Skinner’s level, leaving the Oilers to rely heavily on their starter.
Connor Ingram, 28, drafted 88th overall in 2016 by Tampa Bay, is under a three-year, $5.85 million contract with a $1.95 million cap hit, set to expire at the end of the 2025-26 season.
Though he has yet to see NHL action with Edmonton, his 102 career NHL games include 39 wins, 44 losses, and 15 overtime losses, with a 3.14 goals-against average and .902 save percentage. Ingram has shown flashes of strong play in Bakersfield, with a 3-4-2 record and 87.2 percent saves, but consistency remains a question mark.
NHL insider Allan Mitchell of The Athletic highlighted the Oilers’ plan to give Ingram meaningful NHL looks before exploring other options.
“The Oilers may have already acquired the goalie who will accompany Stuart Skinner during next spring’s playoffs. Connor Ingram hasn’t played for the Oilers yet, but that day should come between now and the deadline…Chances are that the Oilers will bring Ingram in for a significant look in the next couple of months,” Mitchell wrote.
Edmonton’s strategy involves assessing Ingram’s form in the AHL before making a bigger move, possibly for a veteran goalie with playoff experience.
READ MORE: Waived Oilers Blueliner Labelled ‘One of the Most Underappreciated D-Men’ in the NHL
As per insider Mitchell, the team has explored several veteran options, from Jordan Binnington to Tristan Jarry, but none fit the Oilers’ goals due to cap or contract concerns. He points out that the optimal approach could be waiting on Ingram to demonstrate he can handle NHL pressure. If he proves capable, Edmonton may rely on him down the stretch or consider him as a key piece for next season.
Edmonton’s goaltending puzzle remains complicated, but Ingram’s potential NHL opportunities offer a possible solution. His past performances suggest he can rise to the challenge, and the Oilers will likely use the next few months to determine if he can provide the stability they need.
