The Edmonton Oilers find themselves on the brink of elimination, trailing the Anaheim Ducks 3-1 in their first-round playoff series. With Game 5 looming, the biggest question is who will start in goal: Tristan Jarry or Connor Ingram?
Goaltending Dilemma
After a 5-2 loss in Game 4, Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch faces a tough decision. Jarry has started three games, posting a .892 save percentage, while Ingram appeared in Game 3, allowing four goals on 28 shots. “When it’s do or die, you have to go with the guy who you think is the best option,” said an Oilers insider. “It looked like Ingram was the guy there down the stretch run.”
Jarry, who signed a five-year, $26.75 million contract in 2023, has struggled with consistency. In Game 4, he allowed three goals on 14 shots before being pulled. Ingram, acquired from Arizona in 2024, has shown flashes of brilliance but lacks playoff experience.
Kasperi Kapanen Steps Up
Forward Kasperi Kapanen has been a bright spot for Edmonton, scoring two goals in the series. The 29-year-old winger, acquired from St. Louis at the trade deadline, brings speed and skill. “He’s a gamer,” said teammate Connor McDavid. “He shows up when it matters.”
Kapanen’s ability to create scoring chances could be crucial as the Oilers try to force a Game 6. He has three points in four games and is averaging over 16 minutes of ice time.
Ducks’ Young Guns Shine
Anaheim’s youth movement has been on full display. Defenseman Jackson LaCombe leads all playoff scorers with eight points (2 goals, 6 assists) in four games. The 25-year-old is averaging nearly 27 minutes per game and has been a shutdown defender against McDavid.
“They play fearless hockey,” said Oilers legend Grant Fuhr. “It reminds me of our young teams in the early 80s.”
The Ducks’ up-tempo style has overwhelmed Edmonton, who have played a league-high 79 playoff games over the past five springs. “We’re banged up, but no excuses,” said Oilers captain McDavid. “We have to win one game at a time.”
Injury Report
Edmonton is dealing with several injuries. Forward Zach Hyman is playing through a lower-body issue, while defenseman Mattias Ekholm missed Game 4 with an undisclosed injury. Their status for Game 5 is uncertain.
The Oilers will need a complete effort to extend the series. “We’ve been here before,” said McDavid, referencing the 2024 Stanley Cup Final where they rallied from a 3-0 deficit. “We believe in this room.”
Game 5 is Tuesday night at Rogers Place. Puck drop is at 7 p.m. MT.
