The Edmonton Oilers are facing a significant roster decision as the play of goaltender Connor Ingram creates a potential three-man rotation in the crease. With the team approaching the Olympic break, management must weigh the risks of waivers against the benefits of depth.
The Three-Goalie Conundrum
Connor Ingram has firmly established himself ahead of Calvin Pickard in the Oilers' goaltending hierarchy after a series of six quality starts in his seven NHL appearances this season. His performance poses a strategic question: should the team carry three netminders, including starter Tristan Jarry, on the 23-man roster?
The immediate deadline looms. If the Oilers wish to send Ingram back to the AHL's Bakersfield Condors without exposing him to waivers, they must do so before their road game against the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday, January 16, 2026. However, this move is complicated by the strong play of farm goalies Connor Ungar and Matt Tomkins in Bakersfield.
Furthermore, placing the experienced Calvin Pickard on waivers carries its own risk. At a $1 million cap hit, Pickard is an attractive target for teams in need of goaltending depth, such as the Ottawa Senators or the struggling Anaheim Ducks. The Oilers must decide if the security of a third NHL-caliber goalie is worth the roster spot, especially with Jarry's durability being a perennial consideration.
Showcasing Andrew Mangiapane
On the forward front, the Oilers appear to be showcasing winger Andrew Mangiapane. He played in both games of the recent road trip through Chicago and Nashville, while younger players like Ike Howard and Curtis Lazar took turns sitting out.
Despite the increased ice time, Mangiapane's game lacks its former bite and offensive spark. With just 11 points and a $3.6 million cap hit for next season, his trade market appears limited. The Oilers' primary motivation is likely to clear his salary cap space, preferring a clean transaction over a one-for-one swap for another team's underperforming asset.
Roslovic's Role Remains Unclear
The experiment with Jack Roslovic at third-line centre continues to draw scrutiny. While he provides offensive potential to the bottom six, many observers believe his skills are better suited to a top-six winger role. The Oilers have utilized him as a centre partly to avoid moving Ryan Nugent-Hopkins off Connor McDavid's line. Roslovic appears more effective as a shooter than as a playmaking pivot, leaving his optimal position within the lineup an open question.
As the Oilers prepare to face rookie phenom Matthew Schaefer and the New York Islanders on Thursday, these roster decisions will be at the forefront of management's strategy heading into a critical stretch before the Olympic break.
