The Edmonton Oilers closed their regular season with a strong win, but the year still exposed defensive issues that often put pressure on their already unstable goaltending. Even with second place in the Pacific Division secured, the team has long struggled to find consistency in net.
As Connor McDavid and the group prepare for a first-round series against the Anaheim Ducks, the focus is no longer just on scoring. It now centers on how well their depth holds up under playoff pressure.
Oilers Finalize Backup Options in Net Ahead of NHL Playoffs
The Oilers’ offense is buzzing, with even forward Matt Savoie scoring a hat trick in a 6-1 win over the Vancouver Canucks. They are scoring 3.44 goals per game and have allowed fewer goals of late, even against tougher opponents like the Colorado Avalanche.
Captain Connor McDavid has led the group with 138 points, winning his 6th Art Ross Trophy, alongside forward Leon Draisaitl, who finished the regular season early due to an injury with 97 points.
Despite that attacking form, the Oilers have turned their focus toward stability in net, where a familiar face has returned. Connor Ingram has taken over as the starting goaltender and enters the playoffs as Plan A after assuming the role midway through the season. His recent form has earned him the trust of the coaching staff heading into his first major postseason test.
Behind him, Tristan Jarry will settle in as the primary backup, making him Plan B despite his questionable form since arriving from Pittsburgh. Jarry’s numbers have fluctuated since the move, and his consistency remains a concern, which has forced Edmonton to prepare beyond the traditional two-goalie setup.
That caution became clear when the organization confirmed a move on X, recalling Calvin Pickard from the Bakersfield Condors “on an emergency basis.” Pickard was greeted with a big-time cheer from his teammates on Friday afternoon.
That decision places Pickard firmly as Plan C, giving the Oilers a veteran fallback option if needed during the series. The recall signals that the front office is not willing to leave anything to chance, especially with the pressure of playoff hockey and the uncertainty that can arise in net. It also reflects how Edmonton has limited options despite dealing with inconsistency in net throughout the season.
The matchup against the Ducks brings a similar goaltending situation, with both teams’ overall save percentage at .883, separated by just one point in the standings. Edmonton holds home-ice advantage, but the series will be a close one given the offensive firepower on both sides and the defensive concerns that have followed each team. The Oilers also enter the series with lingering uncertainty around Leon Draisaitl’s return, which could impact their power play and overall balance in his absence.
However, Draisaitl was spotted on the ice on the second line, skating alongside Vasily Podkolzin and Kasperi Kapanen, which means we could very well see him suit up in Game 1 or Game 2 to start with.
Still, the outcome of this series may depend less on scoring and more on how well the Oilers manage situations in goal.
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