NHL insider updates Oilers plans with Ingram amid tough year in AHL

When the Oilers traded for goaltender Connor Ingram from Utah on October 1st, it was with the intention that he'd be in goal for the Oilers, more than likely as a back-up to Stuart Skinner.

Of course, Skinner is no longer with Edmonton as of last Friday, and the current back-up goalie Calvin Pickard isn't exactly making a case to remain in that position.

In 9 starts, Pickard has a record of 3-4-2, with a 4.06 GAA and .851 SV% with Edmonton.

Connor Ingram, in his 11 starts with the Bakersfield Condors, is 3-5-2, with a 4.04 GAA and a .856 SV%.

Insider Pierre Lebrun reports that Connor Ingram will be with the Oilers by year's end.

In terms of development, 11 AHL games is probably enough to have an idea of Ingram's conditioning and technical skills.

At this point, the rationale behind a change in the Oilers' back-up position is one of confidence and mental preparation, rather than actual skill, which may tilt the argument in favour of Ingram, given how shaky Pickard has been this season.

The other consideration is whether the Oilers will be showcasing Ingram in preparation for a trade.

If Lebrun is correct in his timeline, seven games remain for the Oilers in 2026; the weakest of these is against the Winnipeg Jets on December 29, 2025.

Hopefully Ingram can find his way again, and make his way to the Oilers as a viable backup candidate this year.