Edmonton Oilers Secure Goaltender Connor Ingram
In a strategic move aimed at shoring up their goaltending situation, the Edmonton Oilers have secured Connor Ingram, previously a goalie for the Utah Mammoth, in exchange for future considerations. The transaction was formally announced by both teams on Wednesday.
Ingram’s Performance and Challenges
Ingram, who had recently been placed on waivers by Utah on September 17, was deemed surplus to requirements in their goaltending lineup after a challenging season. Despite being expected to claim the starting position during Utah’s first season, Ingram’s performance faltered, finishing with a record of 9 wins, 8 losses, and 4 overtime losses, alongside a 3.27 goals-against average and an .882 save percentage across 22 games.
His year was marred by injuries and personal struggles; the 28-year-old subsequently sought support through the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program after experiencing the loss of his mother to breast cancer. In 2021, while with the Nashville Predators, Ingram entered the program for treatment concerning depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Resilience and Recognition
Despite his past difficulties, Ingram showcased resilience in the previous season with the Arizona Coyotes, achieving a commendable 23-21-3 record over 50 games, a 2.91 GAA, a .907 save percentage, and notching six shutouts. His commitment to the sport was recognized when he was awarded the 2024 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, honoring his dedication and perseverance in hockey as voted by members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association.
Future with the Oilers
The Oilers, who have been attempting to solidify their goaltending situation to complement their star players, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, will initially assign Ingram to the AHL affiliate in Bakersfield. Edmonton’s current goalies, Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard, contributed to the team’s back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances, though they were unsuccessful against the Florida Panthers, who outperformed them behind goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky.
To facilitate the trade, Utah has agreed to retain a portion of Ingram’s salary, amounting to $800,000, which is more than 41% of his contract that runs through the current season with a $1.95 million cap hit.
