The Edmonton Oilers continue to deal with a start marked by inconsistency in goal. Each game has shown a different version of the team, and the questions around their goaltending have become a significant talking point. As the season progresses, the team is still seeking a reliable option in the crease, which has opened up new possibilities within the organization.
This shift naturally brings attention to a name playing in Bakersfield, where a recent performance added more interest to the conversation.
Can Connor Ingram Become a Real Goaltending Option for the Oilers?
Connor Ingram’s progress with the Bakersfield Condors has quietly become one of the more encouraging developments for Edmonton. After joining the organization in October, he has focused on rebuilding his game and regaining his confidence.
His latest performance showed why the Oilers might consider him part of the solution. Ingram stood like a wall through regulation and kept Bakersfield in control despite long stretches of pressure. The Condors were shorthanded on a 6-on-3 late in the third period, which allowed the San Diego Gulls to score a buzzer-beater to tie the game. San Diego later won in overtime, but Ingram finished the night with 34 saves on 38 shots. The loss was tough, yet his effort stood out.
His situation becomes more interesting when compared with the challenges in Edmonton. Stuart Skinner has shown moments of good play, but they have been interrupted by nights where he struggles to handle routine chances or manage pressure. The team needs more reliable play in goal, especially with high expectations surrounding this season. Calvin Pickard has also struggled to find consistent form, which has added to the concerns.
Bowman had previously addressed the situation directly, saying: “Our goalies have been average, haven’t been elite and they haven’t been bad… That position gets more attention. I’m not sure it’s more of a problem.”
Ingram’s path offers something different from what the Oilers have seen so far. He is working his way back with patience, and his positioning and reads have already helped him deliver quality games in the AHL. Performances like this support the idea that he may become a real option if Edmonton decides it needs a change.
The Oilers have limited options in the trade market, making internal competition more crucial. If Skinner’s inconsistency continues, Ingram may give the team another choice to consider. For now, he is helping his case by delivering games like this one, where he handled pressure and kept his team competitive from start to finish.
