The Edmonton Oilers' lineup received a significant and cost-free upgrade this week, as two key players are set to return from extended injury absences. Goaltender Tristan Jarry and defenseman Jake Walman have both been medically cleared, fortifying the team just as it embarks on a demanding segment of its schedule.
Critical Reinforcements for a Busy Stretch
Their return is perfectly timed for a grueling pre-Olympic period. The Oilers are facing a compacted schedule of 10 games within the next 19 days, making depth and health paramount. Jarry, acquired earlier this season from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Stuart Skinner, has been limited in his time with Edmonton. A lower-body injury sidelined him after just two and a half games, marking his second significant injury this season. His absence spanned 11 games, during which Connor Ingram and Calvin Pickard managed the crease.
Navigating the Goaltending Logjam
The return of Jarry, the anticipated starter, creates a decision for the Oilers' management regarding their three-goalie situation. During Jarry's recovery, Connor Ingram posted a record of 4-2-1, including a standout 29-save performance in a recent 4-1 victory in Chicago, boosting his season save percentage to .904. Calvin Pickard also provided reliable service, going 2-2-0.
This presents a tactical challenge. Ingram can be assigned to the minor leagues without needing waivers, while Pickard, viewed as valuable and cost-effective insurance, would likely be claimed by another team if the Oilers attempted to send him down. Losing Pickard could prove risky if Jarry, who already missed three weeks earlier in the year with Pittsburgh, encounters another setback. The team may carry all three netminders briefly, but a more permanent solution will be necessary.
Walman Bolsters the Blue Line
On defense, the return of Jake Walman provides a major lift to the top-four unit. Walman has been out for nearly two months with a fractured bone in his leg, limiting him to just 17 of Edmonton's 46 games this season due to various health issues. His presence solidifies a defensive core alongside Mattias Ekholm, Evan Bouchard, and Darnell Nurse. His return reshuffles the depth chart, leaving Ty Emberson, Alex Regula, and Spencer Stastney to compete for the remaining two spots on the third pairing.
In related roster news, forward Adam Henrique has been placed on long-term injury reserve due to an undisclosed issue. The returns of Jarry and Walman, however, inject much-needed stability and skill into the Oilers' lineup as they navigate a pivotal point in their season.
