With NHL free agency just days away, the Edmonton Oilers are facing one of their biggest offseason decisions, and it’s happening in the crease. The latest rumors surrounding Connor Ingram’s future have fueled plenty of speculation, leaving fans split on whether he’ll remain in Edmonton or head elsewhere.
Oilers Fans React to Connor Ingram Update
Ingram wrapped up the 2025-26 season with a 16-10-3 record, a 2.60 goals-against average, a .899 save percentage, and two shutouts in 32 appearances.
He began the season in a rotation with Calvin Pickard and Tristan Jarry before emerging as Edmonton’s No. 1 goaltender. Although he put together a solid regular season, the Oilers’ playoff run ended early with a disappointing first-round exit.
Now a free agent after completing his three-year, $5.85 million contract, Ingram’s future remains one of Edmonton’s biggest offseason questions.
According to NHL insider Mark Spector, the goalie is optimistic about returning to the Oilers despite ongoing contract negotiations.
“Sounds like G Connor Ingram is bullish on re-signing with EDM, though negotiations are ongoing. Babcock doesn’t affect his decision. Loved his time there – not swayed by new coach. Bowman with goalie irons in a few fires. A lot of options between the pipes in EDM right now,” Spector reported.
The update immediately sparked debate across social media.
One Oilers writer captured the impatience surrounding the team’s goaltending situation, writing, “SOMEBODY MAKE A TRADE!”
NHL analyst DJ Bean wasn’t opposed to bringing Ingram back, but only if it leads to other changes in net. He wrote, “I’d be fine with this, assuming it means: Jarry is traded or buried, a Cossa or DiPietro type is paired with him.”
Meanwhile, NHL columnist Michael Menzies turned the discussion toward contract value, asking fans, “If the deal is 2 x $3M, are you re-signing Connor Ingram?” The New World Oilers channel questioned whether the pairing would work under the team’s new coach, posting, “Mike Babcock and Connor Ingram probably aren’t a good fit. Just saying…”
The mixed reactions reflect just how divided Oilers fans are, with some supporting a reunion with Ingram and others hoping the team takes a different direction in goal.
That decision won’t be easy.
The upcoming free-agent goalie market offers few proven alternatives. Aside from veterans such as Sergei Bobrovsky, who is reportedly seeking a long-term contract worth between $6 million and $7 million annually, and Cam Talbot, there aren’t many clear upgrades available.
At a projected cap hit of under $3 million per season, Ingram could be a cost-effective option, giving Stan Bowman more flexibility to strengthen Edmonton’s blue line.
Whether that ultimately leads to a new contract or a fresh start elsewhere remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Oilers’ crease is once again at the center of offseason speculation.
