The Edmonton Oilers are planning to keep struggling goaltender Tristan Jarry for the upcoming season, but they will also look to acquire outside help in net, according to Oilers insider Bob Stauffer. Speaking on the 100% Hockey show, Stauffer reiterated his belief that Jarry has a higher ceiling than Connor Ingram, though he acknowledged Ingram's improvement as the season progressed.
Jarry's Contract and Performance
Jarry has two years remaining on a contract that pays him $5.375 million per season. Despite his struggles, Stauffer noted that Jarry is a superior puck handler with a great glove hand. However, he needs to improve his puck tracking, an issue highlighted by NHL goalie expert Steve Valiquette. Jarry appeared slow following the play, leaving him slightly out of position on shots.
Ingram's Role and Future
Connor Ingram provided solid goaltending for the Oilers but did not steal a game in the playoffs, according to Stauffer. While Ingram's future in Edmonton remains uncertain, Stauffer suggested the team may look outside the organization to address their goaltending depth. He hinted at targeting a younger goaltender from a team with deep prospect pools.
“They got a lot of goaltending prospects themselves. But they’re years away, you know, three to four years away,” Stauffer said.
Potential Trade Target
Stauffer mentioned one Eastern Conference club with four strong goaltenders in its system but declined to name the team. Speculation points to the Detroit Red Wings, who have several top prospect goalies, including Michal Postava, Carter Gylander, Sebastian Cossa, and Trey Augustine. Detroit failed to make the playoffs and may need to move goalies to avoid losing them on waivers.
Analysis and Takeaways
- Ceiling Debate: It is uncertain whether Jarry truly has a higher ceiling than Ingram. Ingram outperformed Jarry this season and was once ranked in the top 10 of NHL goalies by Valiquette. The Oilers might be better off keeping Ingram at a lower cost, but trading Jarry's contract could prove difficult.
- Work Ethic Concerns: A narrative has emerged that Jarry does not work hard enough. If accurate, this raises questions about whether he can elevate his practice habits and game. Jarry did play well in his one playoff start, making his benching for Game 5 surprising.
- Trade Possibilities: The Oilers could move a top forward prospect for a goalie from Detroit, which has a surplus of netminders. The Red Wings are desperate to improve and may be willing to trade one of their prospects rather than lose them for nothing.
