The Edmonton Oilers have made a pivotal decision ahead of a high-stakes Battle of Alberta, confirming that goaltender Connor Ingram will start against the Calgary Flames on December 23, 2025. The announcement, first reported by Tony Brar of Oilers TV, sets the stage for a critical divisional clash at Rogers Place.
Why This Game Carries Major Weight
This matchup is far more than just another regular-season game for the Oilers. With a record of 18 wins and 19 losses through their first 37 contests, a victory tonight would elevate Edmonton to a true .500 winning percentage. In the era before the NHL's loser point, reaching this benchmark was the first sign of a legitimate contender. Securing a win against their provincial rivals would mark a significant psychological and statistical milestone for the team's season.
Analyzing the Goaltending Decision
The choice to start Ingram comes during an absence due to injury for presumed starter Tristan Jarry. This created a debate among analysts and fans about who would assume the primary role in net. On a recent Cult of Hockey podcast, journalist Kurt Leavins and David Staples discussed the possibilities, weighing a clear starter against a 1A/1B tandem system.
Staples outlined several compelling reasons why starting Ingram is the correct strategic move for head coach Kris Knoblauch:
- Proven Starter: Ingram has established himself as a reliable NHL starter in two of the past three seasons.
- Pickard's Role: Backup Calvin Pickard has not been a full-time NHL starter since the 2016-17 season and has faced challenges this year, reinforcing his position as a backup.
- Playoff Preparedness: With Jarry's health history, the Oilers cannot assume he will be available for the playoffs. This stretch is an opportunity to test if Ingram can carry the load.
- Seizing the Moment: The team should use this time to evaluate Ingram's capability as a potential playoff starter.
Staples admitted he thought Knoblauch might lean toward the veteran Pickard due to the coach's noted preference for experienced players. The decision to go with Ingram is therefore seen as a forward-thinking, performance-based choice.
Oilers Lineup Configuration
The Oilers will also welcome forward Trent Frederic back into the lineup after he missed one game. The team's forward lines and defensive pairings for the game are set as follows:
Forwards:
RNH - McDavid - Hyman
Podkolzin - Draisaitl - Roslovic
Mangiapane - Henrique - Savoie
Jones - Frederic - Janmark
Lazar - Tomasek
Defence:
Ekholm - Bouchard
Nurse - Regula
Stastney - Emberson
Stillman
Goaltenders:
Ingram
Pickard
All eyes will now be on Connor Ingram as he takes the crease in one of the NHL's most intense rivalries. His performance could not only secure two crucial points but also solidify his role as the man in net while Jarry recovers and potentially beyond.
