There have been more questions than answers surrounding the Edmonton Oilers early in the 2025-26 season. Some nights, they look like a powerhouse. On other nights, you’re left wondering what happened. The focus keeps shifting back to the same spot: the crease, where two goalies live very different stories. Stuart Skinner is trying to lock down the starting role with flashes of brilliance mixed with inconsistency.
At the same time, the potential arrival of Connor Ingram adds a new layer to the team’s depth and a possible push for playing time.
Will Connor Ingram’s Rise Add Pressure on Stuart Skinner in Edmonton?
Ingram, the new face trying to earn a real look with the organization, has been one of the few steady notes lately. In his first game for Bakersfield, the Oilers’ AHL affiliate, he stopped 22 of 23 shots in a calm 2-1 win over San Jose. There was nothing flashy, just solid, simple goaltending that coaches love because it settles everyone down.
However, his next start wasn’t as smooth. Ingram faced 34 shots in a 5-4 overtime loss to Colorado, giving up five goals, including the winner early in the extra period. Despite the final result, he showcased incredible saves that stood out as the match’s highlight.
WHAT A SAVE!?!😱#Condorstown pic.twitter.com/94d9UgThBU
— Bakersfield Condors (@Condors) October 29, 2025
At 28 years old, Ingram has been around. His journey has taken him through 11 teams, four leagues, and two continents, so he has seen enough bus rides and hotel lobbies to fill a book. His career numbers, including a .902 save percentage and seven NHL shutouts, don’t jump off the page, but they tell you one thing: he hangs in there.
He has also been open about his mental health struggles, which included a stint in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program in 2021. A year later, his perseverance and dedication to hockey earned him the Bill Masterton Trophy.
Can Skinner Find Consistency as the Oilers Chase a Rhythm?
While Ingram finds his footing in Bakersfield, Stuart Skinner still tries to steady things in Edmonton. It has been a grind for him. In some games, he looks sharp and in command. In others, his confidence seems to slip just enough to make fans uneasy.
The Oilers have been patient, but that patience has its limits. As TSN insider Ryan Rishaug put it simply: “They’re going to let it ride here with Skinner for a little bit.”
This situation is more complex because Calvin Pickard’s backup has filled in here and there but hasn’t grabbed the starting job. That’s why Ingram’s early play in the AHL matters so much. If he keeps trending up, the call from the big club could come faster than anyone expects.
The Oilers have talent everywhere, as that has never been the issue for the team. What they have lacked lately is rhythm. Sometimes, a team’s success isn’t about a highlight-reel save or a breakout goal. Sometimes, it’s just about finding some calm in the storm, which is exactly what Connor Ingram is trying to bring.
