The competition for the backup goaltender position with the Edmonton Oilers is intensifying, with the clock ticking on a crucial roster decision. With starting netminder Tristan Jarry sidelined, both Connor Ingram and Calvin Pickard are seizing their opportunities to prove they deserve to stay with the big club.
The Impending Roster Crunch
Tristan Jarry's return from injury has been delayed, now projected for mid to late January, but his eventual comeback will force the Oilers' hand. The team cannot carry three goaltenders indefinitely, meaning one of the current duo will likely be moved. Head coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledges the situation will resolve itself through performance. "Both goalies will have numerous starts before Jarry is back," Knoblauch stated. "He's going to be a little while yet, so I don't think we have to make a decision right now."
Analyzing the Contenders
The battle presents a complex decision for management, hinging on contract status and recent performance. Connor Ingram can be sent to the AHL in Bakersfield without waivers if he plays fewer than nine games or is with the team for less than 30 days. This flexibility contrasts with Calvin Pickard's situation, where sending him down would require him to clear waivers, risking losing him to another team.
Given Jarry's injury history—having already missed six weeks this season—the pragmatic choice appears to be keeping the waiver-eligible Pickard as the NHL backup and using Ingram as depth in the minors. However, outstanding play could override that logic. "It's not my job," Ingram said about the looming decision. "Why would I worry about it? I can't make that decision. I just go out and play."
Recent Performances Swing Momentum
The race has seen significant momentum shifts based on recent games. Ingram started strong after Jarry's injury on December 18th, posting a .903 save percentage in a win over Vegas, a stellar .947 against Calgary, and a .906 in a subsequent loss to the Flames.
Meanwhile, Calvin Pickard re-entered the conversation with a spectacular 41-save performance (.976 save percentage) in a win against the Winnipeg Jets on December 29th. Ingram then struggled, allowing six goals on 29 shots (.793) in a loss to Boston, further clouding the decision and ensuring the competition remains wide open.
As the Oilers continue their schedule, including a matchup against the Nashville Predators, each start for Ingram and Pickard carries immense weight. The organization must balance immediate performance, future roster flexibility, and insurance against further injuries to Jarry. For now, the crease in Edmonton remains a shared space, but the battle for permanent residency is fully underway.
