The Edmonton Oilers are wrestling with a familiar playoff nightmare after a gut-wrenching Game 3 loss to the Anaheim Ducks, sliding backwards in the first-round series, with Connor Ingram in the spotlight. While they controlled large stretches, that composure faded once the game tightened, especially during a disastrous final frame.
With Game 4 approaching, the pressure is rising, and every coaching decision is now under close watch.
Calls Grow Louder as Jason Demers Urges Oilers to Bench Connor Ingram
Ingram remains the Oilers’ current starter, but his position has come under scrutiny following the Game 3 loss. Former NHL defenseman Jason Demers sparked an interesting conversation, and he did not hesitate to share his stance publicly.
Posting on X, Demers wrote, “It’s Calvin Pickard time,” pointing directly to a potential change in goal.
The suggestion comes after a game where Edmonton allowed 4 goals in the third period, turning a competitive game into a loss that now has larger consequences in the series. While Ingram faced heavy pressure and a high volume of chances, the outcome has still fueled debate about whether a shift is needed.
Edmonton’s defensive structure struggled to contain Anaheim’s speed, leaving open lanes and second chances around the net.
At the same time, the situation is not as simple as placing blame on one player. Breakdowns in coverage and careless puck decisions shaped the outcome, especially as Anaheim took advantage of quick transitions and open space.
Pickard, who was promoted to the playoffs roster, remains a familiar presence within the organization. He earned trust after his performance in the 2025 NHL playoffs and is viewed as an option who can handle pressure situations when needed. A number of veterans, including Connor McDavid, publicly made their support known for Pickard earlier this season, making it clear that he’s well loved in the locker room.
If we look at Edmonton’s goaltending situation, though, it has drastically shifted this season. Stuart Skinner, who handled the role in past playoff runs, was moved, opening the door for Ingram to take over. While Ingram delivered early, including a win in Game 1, recent performances have brought fresh uncertainty.
Beyond the crease, the Oilers are also managing injuries to their top players, which has affected lineup balance and consistency. Leon Draisaitl is dealing with a lower-body issue, while Connor McDavid also doesn’t look 100 percent. It has put the group under pressure, and they have looked in disarray.
Despite everything, the depth has kept the offense buoyant, but it has not been enough to offset defensive lapses.
As Game 4 approaches, the decision in net becomes one of the biggest storylines. Whether the Oilers stay with Ingram or consider a change, the focus will be on finding stability in a series that is now slipping away.
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