The Edmonton Oilers are building momentum at the right time, and goaltender Connor Ingram believes the group is finding its rhythm ahead of the playoffs. With one NHL regular-season game remaining, Edmonton sits second in the Pacific Division and has already secured another postseason berth.
Speaking to the media after Oilers’ 2-1 shootout loss to Avlanche, Ingram pointed to a recent run of form as an important sign of progress. The Oilers had put together a five-game winning streak before a couple of narrow losses, but the overall level has remained strong. The goaltender feels the timing of that improvement could be crucial.
“Yeah, I think this is when you want to hit your peak and I think we’re hitting our stride a little bit here,” Ingram said. “Just sticking with it now. You know, we went on a stretch there a couple games ago winning five in a row and that’s the kind of hockey we need to play. So, as long as we keep doing what we’re doing, we’re’ll be just fine.”
Ingram’s own performances have reflected that trend. He holds a 15-10-3 record with a 2.65 goals-against average and a .899 save percentage this season. While those numbers are good, his recent outings have been sharper, showing improved composure under pressure.
“I think it’s easier for me,” Ingram said. “I think the more you play the easier it gets. I’ve played 50 in this league before, so this isn’t new to me, and I mean, this is what you want, right? You want to play games, you want to be in there, you want to be in the mix. So it’s exactly as a goalie what you’d want.”
The Oilers have leaned on their high-powered offense, led by Connor McDavid, who continues to dominate the scoring race with 134 points. At the same time, the team has worked to tighten its defensive structure late in the season. That balance has helped Edmonton remain competitive in a tight division race.
Goaltending changes during the season also shaped the current setup. With multiple options in net, Ingram has emerged as a more reliable goalie, instead of Tristan Jarry. However, Jarry has also performed well recently.
Kris Knoblauch on Connor Ingram
Coach Kris Knoblauch also praised Ingram’s mindset and confidence as the playoffs approach.
“I think he’s I think he’s enjoying it,” Knoblauch said. “You know I think the guys have made him feel very welcome. I know they appreciate his performances on the ice and I think he’s feeling a lot of support from the fans.
“So, I believe he’s having a lot of fun and, when you’re having fun and you feel confident, that goes a long way with your game and, you know, we need him continually playing like that, that gives us a great chance every night to win games.”
Edmonton’s overall record of 40-30-11 highlights both its strengths and areas for improvement. The team’s scoring remains among the league’s best with a 3.41 goals for, but limiting goals against with 3.26 has been a focus heading into the playoffs.
Recent performances suggest that progress is being made. And with confidence growing in net and across the lineup, the Oilers appear to be peaking at the right moment.
