What's Happening?
The Edmonton Oilers have acquired goaltender Connor Ingram from Utah in exchange for future considerations. Utah will retain $800,000 of Ingram's $1.95 million cap hit. Ingram, who is in the final season of his three-year, $5.85 million contract, had a 9-8-4 record with a 3.27 GAA and an .882 save percentage in 22 appearances with Utah during the 2024-25 season. Despite these numbers, Ingram previously demonstrated a solid .907 save percentage over 77 games with Arizona in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons. After being cleared to return to on-ice activities following participation in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, Ingram is set to start in AHL Bakersfield, with potential opportunities to join the Oilers as the season progresses.
Why It's Important?
The acquisition of Connor Ingram by the Edmonton Oilers is a strategic move to bolster their goaltending depth. Ingram's past performance with Arizona suggests potential for improvement and contribution to the Oilers' defensive lineup. His experience and recovery from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program indicate resilience and readiness to compete at a high level. This move could provide the Oilers with a reliable backup option, enhancing their ability to manage goaltending duties throughout the season. The decision to start Ingram in AHL Bakersfield allows him to regain form and confidence, potentially leading to a call-up to the main roster.
What's Next?
Connor Ingram's immediate future involves starting in AHL Bakersfield, where he will have the opportunity to refine his skills and demonstrate his readiness for NHL play. The Oilers will monitor his progress closely, considering him for potential elevation to the main roster as the season unfolds. This acquisition may prompt other teams to evaluate their goaltending strategies, especially if Ingram's performance improves significantly. The Oilers' management will likely continue to assess their roster needs, potentially making further adjustments to optimize team performance.
