The unpredictable nature of NHL goaltending continues to baffle experts and fans alike, creating a complex puzzle for teams like the Edmonton Oilers who are desperately seeking stability between the pipes. This season's statistics reveal a startling pattern that underscores just how volatile the position can be.
The Goaltending Rollercoaster
When examining the top ten regular goalies in the NHL by save percentage this season, only three were starters in the league last year. The remaining seven were backups, highlighting the dramatic fluctuations in performance that characterize the position. Leading this year's list is Jesper Wallstedt, who posted an .879 save percentage in the AHL last year but now boasts a remarkable .935 in eight games for the Minnesota Wild.
Similarly, Devin Cooley has jumped from a .905 AHL save percentage to .930 in eight appearances for the Calgary Flames. This statistical volatility brings us to Tristan Jarry of Pittsburgh, who currently ranks eighth in the NHL with a .914 save percentage through eight games despite struggling significantly in recent seasons.
Pittsburgh's Willingness to Move Jarry
Jarry's inconsistent performance, which included a demotion to the AHL last season, has left many Pittsburgh fans eager to see him traded. The sentiment among Penguins supporters ranges from skeptical to outright dismissive, with some suggesting they would accept minimal return just to facilitate a move.
Several prominent NHL insiders have weighed in on the Oilers' potential interest in Jarry, with most expressing serious reservations about whether he would represent a meaningful upgrade for Edmonton. The consensus suggests that while Jarry shows flashes of competence, his overall track record makes him a questionable solution for a team needing reliable netminding.
The Binnington Alternative
TSN analyst Jeff O'Neill articulated the skepticism surrounding Jarry during his OverDrive radio show, stating, "I don't understand the Jarry interest. Jarry was in the minors not long ago. I think he would be as big a risk as Skinner would be." O'Neill questioned whether acquiring Jarry would provide the stability the Oilers desperately need.
John Shannon of the 100% Hockey podcast was even more direct in his assessment. "I like the player as a person, but I don't want to see Tristan Jarry in it," Shannon declared on Oilers Now. He emphasized that Jarry's availability stems from being "the third best goalie in the Pittsburgh system," which speaks volumes about his current standing.
Both analysts pointed to St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington as a potentially superior option for Edmonton. Despite Binnington's current .881 save percentage, which places him 43rd in the league just ahead of Oilers netminder Stuart Skinner at .878, insiders value his competitive fire and proven track record.
Shannon expressed particular enthusiasm for Binnington, noting, "I love Jordan Binnington's fight. I love Jordan Binnington's professionalism. If Jordan Binnington were available — and I'm not suggesting he is because I don't think we really know — but if Jordan Binnington were available, I would be trying to get Jordan Binnington."
The support for Binnington extends beyond media analysts. Former NHL goaltender Darren Pang also endorsed Binnington during the OverDrive show, suggesting the Blues netminder should be selected by Team Canada for the 2026 Olympics based on his competitive qualities and championship pedigree.
As the Oilers continue their search for goaltending solutions, the debate between pursuing a reclamation project like Jarry versus a proven competitor like Binnington highlights the challenging calculations NHL general managers must make when addressing hockey's most unpredictable position.
