The Edmonton Oilers’ goaltending has been a problem for years, but Calvin Pickard is proving that reliability can emerge from unexpected places. Overshadowed throughout his career, Pickard has quietly become one of the most trusted goaltenders in the organization — especially when the pressure is on.
As the Oilers await news of starting goaltender Tristan Jarry’s return from injury, and the recent call-up of Connor Ingram, who continues to impress, general manager Stan Bowman and head coach Kris Knoblauch face a choice that could impact both on-ice results and locker-room chemistry, given Pickard’s strong recent performances and a history of playoff heroics.
Pickard’s Proven Ability to Deliver Under Pressure
Pickard’s value to the Oilers extends far beyond wins and save percentages. In recent playoff runs, he repeatedly answered the call when former Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner struggled in high-pressure situations.
In the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Pickard rattled off seven wins in a row until he got injured. He finished the playoffs with a 7-1 record, carrying his team’s momentum. Who knows what could’ve happened had Pickard remained healthy? It’s the same question Oilers fans still ask about former goalie Dwayne Roloson, who came up big in the 2006 Stanley Cup Playoffs until he was injured in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Related: Oilers Backup Goalie Pickard Emerges as Unlikely Hero of NHL Playoffs
Pickard is the team’s unsung hero. Thrust into meaningful postseason games with little warning, he provided calm, composed goaltending when the Oilers most needed stability. Playoff hockey exposes weaknesses quickly, particularly in net. Yet, Pickard has consistently simplified his game and focused on fundamentals when the team needed poise.
His puck tracking, rebound control, and mental toughness have allowed him to step into intense situations without letting the moment overwhelm him. That quality alone makes him an asset — especially for a team with Stanley Cup aspirations.
The roster trusts Pickard, and that trust translates into confident play in front of him. When players believe their goaltender will make the save, they tend to play more aggressively and assertively.
Exceptional Play as of Late Elevates Pickard’s Role
While Pickard’s playoff history speaks volumes, his play this season has sparked conversation about his future with the team. In this most recent stretch, he has looked sharp, confident, and technically sound. His movements have been economical, his positioning strong, and his overall demeanour has been controlled and focused.
He gave his best performance of the season on Dec. 29, when the Oilers earned a 3–1 victory over the Winnipeg Jets. Against one of the NHL’s strongest offensive teams, Pickard was outstanding. He turned aside quality scoring chances, made timely saves at critical moments, and allowed the Oilers to dictate the pace of the game.
Related: Pickard Stands Tall as Oilers Down Jets 3-1
Games like that reinforce why Pickard continues to earn opportunities. Against elite competition, in a tight-checking environment, he gave Edmonton exactly what it needed — a chance to win.
Connor Ingram’s Emergence Complicates the Picture
Adding to the complexity of the situation is Ingram. In three appearances since being called up on Dec. 19, Ingram has played well, showing poise and consistency that suggest he belongs in the NHL. He has given Edmonton another capable option and has created an unexpected logjam in the crease. Ingram’s play has been encouraging, but it also raises an unavoidable question: what happens when Jarry returns from injury?
Tristan Jarry’s Return Forces a Difficult Decision
Jarry remains the Oilers’ starting goaltender when healthy, and his pending return will create roster challenges. Carrying three goaltenders for an extended period is unsustainable, meaning one netminder will likely be out.
That decision now falls squarely on Bowman and Knoblauch. Do they prioritize recent performance? Playoff reliability? Locker-room chemistry? Contract considerations? Pickard checks several critical boxes. He has delivered in the postseason, is playing excellent hockey right now, and is extremely popular in the dressing room. Teammates enjoy playing for him, and his professionalism and work ethic have earned widespread respect.
The Risk of Losing Pickard on Waivers
If Pickard is placed on waivers like former Troy Stecher was, there is little doubt he would be claimed quickly. Reliable goaltending depth is in demand across the league, and Pickard’s play this season has strengthened his case as a valuable NHL option.
The Hurricanes would likely jump at the chance to add him. With Pyotr Kochetkov lost for the remainder of the season, Carolina suddenly finds itself in need of dependable goaltending help. Pickard’s experience, consistency, and ability to handle pressure would make him an attractive addition for a playoff-bound team.
For the Oilers, losing Pickard would not simply be a matter of asset management — it could disrupt team chemistry at a critical point in the campaign.
Chemistry Matters for a Stanley Cup Contender
Championship teams are built on more than talent. Trust, belief, and internal cohesion play a significant role, particularly during the playoff grind. Pickard’s presence has contributed positively to that environment in two successful runs to the Stanley Cup Final.
His calm approach and willingness to step into difficult situations have earned him credibility in the room. Removing that presence could have unintended consequences, even if the decision makes sense on paper.
Goaltending Decision That Could Shape Oilers’ Season
The Oilers’ goaltending decision is not simply about who deserves to stay — it’s about what gives the team the best chance to win now and in the playoffs. Pickard’s recent excellence, combined with his proven ability to rise in crucial moments, makes this one of the toughest calls Bowman and Knoblauch will face this season.
Whatever direction the organization chooses, it will have ripple effects both on the ice and behind the scenes. Pickard has again proven his worth, and whether that future remains in Edmonton or elsewhere, his impact on the Oilers’ season should not be underestimated.
