Connor Ingram’s path back to the NHL spotlight hasn’t been easy, but right now, he’s making the most of his opportunity in Edmonton.
The Oilers are still sitting in a strong spot in the Pacific Division after winning three of their last four games, and a surprising source has helped steady things in goal: Connor Ingram, who has worked his way into Edmonton’s goaltending mix.
Connor Ingram Gets Candid About Oilers’ New Goalie Tandem
Last season was a difficult one for Ingram, who entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program in March following the loss of his mother to breast cancer. The offseason offered little stability, as Utah placed him on waivers before dealing him to Edmonton for future considerations while retaining part of his salary.
Because he missed training camp, the Oilers sent him to their AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors. The early results were rough. Ingram struggled mightily, posting a 4.04 goals-against average and an .856 save percentage, numbers that ranked near the bottom of the league.
Everything shifted in December when Edmonton traded Stuart Skinner for Tristan Jarry, who won his first three starts with the Oilers. That momentum stalled on Dec. 18 after Jarry suffered a lower-body injury, forcing Edmonton to turn to Ingram.
Since being recalled, Ingram has delivered steady results. In 12 NHL games, he’s posted a 2.55 GAA and a .901 save percentage, going 6-3-1. Those performances have earned him a regular role in a rotating tandem with Jarry.
For Ingram, the turnaround has been as mental as it has been physical. “It’s been pretty wild,” Ingram said. “For a long time there, I think people around me believed in me more than I did. Now it’s trying to get back to that.”
Ingram isn’t framing himself as a definitive long-term answer, but he’s fully bought into the opportunity in Edmonton. “I don’t know if it’s the answer,” Ingram said. “It’s awesome to be around, and you see a team with a history like this, a team that’s gone to back-to-back Cup Finals. We’re right there. If they want me to walk to Calgary tomorrow, if that’ll win hockey games, I’ll put my boots on the ground and get on the road.”
Saturday’s 7-3 loss to Minnesota highlighted the fluid nature of Edmonton’s new goalie setup. Jarry started the game but allowed five goals before being pulled. Ingram came on in relief and stopped seven of nine shots.
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With the Oilers set to face the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday and the goaltending duties rotating, Ingram appears to be the likely starter.
