Oilers decision on claiming goalie Connor Ingram off waivers revealed and explained

Ingram was the headliner for NHL waivers yesterday, and was heavily linked to the Edmonton Oilers who need to improve their goaltending. However, the Oilers have made the call that they don't need Ingram.

Now 28 years old, the Saskatchewan-native Ingram will be looking for another opportunity to get back into the NHL after a tough season in 2023-24.

Ingram entered the player assistance program in March of 2024, and dealt with the passing of his mother earlier in the season. His save percentage cratered to an .882 in 22 games with the Mammoth last season, but he's posted quality results earlier in his career.

At the end of the day, the Oilers decision simply came down to risk. Insider Jason Gregor explained that Edmonton wouldn't be comfortable adding Ingram's $1.95M salary and having to restructure their roster for a goaltender who hasn't had success recently.

Ingram will be headed to the AHL for now, but that doesn't close the door to him moving to another team soon. Now that he's cleared waivers, trading for him will be easier.

For the Oilers specifically, trading for him now with retained salary could be beneficial, and he could begin to work his way up from the AHL.

Although the Oilers are out on Ingram for now, they must still find a way to upgrade the goaltending position this year - and it still could potentially come on waivers.