The Edmonton Oilers aren’t done tinkering with their roster.
Just days before the puck drops on the new season, the Oilers made a move that immediately had fans debating its purpose and potential.
Could the Edmonton Oilers’ Quiet Trade Prove Bigger Than It Looks?
That move was the acquisition of Connor Ingram from the Utah Mammoth, a deal finalized Wednesday. Utah agreed to retain $800,000 of his $1.95 million salary, while Edmonton sent back future considerations.
🚨 TRADE ALERT 🚨
The #Oilers have acquired Connor Ingram from the Utah Mammoth in exchange for future considerations. The goaltender will report to the @Condors & Utah is retaining $800,000 of his $1.95 million AAV. pic.twitter.com/N08J34WdBu
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) October 1, 2025
The 28-year-old goaltender won’t head straight to Rogers Place, though, as he’s been assigned to the Bakersfield Condors, where he’ll start the year in the AHL.
Elliotte Friedman first reported the details, highlighting salary retention as a central piece of the deal. The Oilers confirmed shortly after, stressing that Ingram’s immediate path begins in Bakersfield but could shift upward if circumstances demand it.
On social media, the reaction came fast and sharp.
“Stan Bowman masterclass! Why get a goalie for free when he’s on waivers when you can spend resources on him?!” analyst Greg Liodice joked, pointing out that Ingram had cleared waivers not long ago.
Stan Bowman masterclass! Why get a goalie for free when he’s on waivers when you can spend resources on him?! https://t.co/adAzcYc4Ox
— Greg Liodice (@Gregasus14) October 1, 2025
Friedman added another perspective, noting: “There is retention here. Ingram will start at AHL Bakersfield, at a number that does not affect the Oilers’ cap.”
There is retention here. Ingram will start at AHL Bakersfield, at a number that does not affect the Oilers’ cap https://t.co/TSZ98BMW7u
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 1, 2025
The combination of retained salary and added depth made the move easier to swallow for supporters, while it was an unnecessary gamble for the critics.
Either way, the Oilers had everyone talking.
The Mammoth sent Ingram off with praise. “He is a class act, great teammate, and we wish him nothing but the best,” said general manager Bill Armstrong [via NHL.com].
Ingram finished last year with a 9-8-4 record and also spent time in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
Why the Oilers Made the Move
The Edmonton Oilers have been exploring goalie options all summer. After back-to-back trips to the Stanley Cup Final, questions about the team’s goaltending depth haven’t gone away. Stuart Skinner still holds the starting job, while Calvin Pickard has backed him up.
Ingram adds competition without much financial risk. His career record sits at 39-44-15 with a .902 save percentage. While not a headline-grabbing addition, he gives Edmonton an extra layer of security should their current tandem falter.
Skeptics point to his 3.27 goals-against average from last season, wondering if he can truly push for NHL time. Supporters counter that at a reduced cap hit, the risk is low and the upside is worth exploring.
To some, this move looks minor. To the Edmonton Oilers, it’s another example of Bowman making small, calculated adjustments that could matter later. The team isn’t promising Ingram a role, but his presence ensures they won’t be caught short in net.
