Oilers Rumors: 2 Big Name Goalies Targeted At This Point Last Season

Stuart Skinner & Calvin Pickard, Edmonton Oilers

While Stuart Skinner hasn't been as bad as last season and has held things together for the most part, the Edmonton Oilers need a goalie upgrade. The Oilers' starter has his moments, but also plenty of bad moments. Calvin Pickard has been worse than last season and if the team is finally going to get over the mountain and win the Stanley Cup, a goalie upgrade is needed.

That hasn't been something the Oilers have been quiet about as it appears as though GM Stan Bowman has checked in on many goalies. According to David Pagnotta, "I know going back to last season...they poked around on John Gibson. At this point last season, there were some calls made to Boston about Swayman, but that fizzled."

Now, it seems like both ships have fully sailed as the Boston Bruins have won seven games in a row and are in a better position than the Oilers, while the Detroit Red Wings, who acquired Gibson from the Ducks, have him serving as their starter. But that opens up another question for each team. Cam Talbot may be available from Detroit, and he's better than what the Oilers have. As a later solution, Michael DiPietro, who did pass through waivers this season, could break into the NHL at any moment.

Edmonton is likely going to see what they have in Connor Ingram before making a move for a goalie that isn't a clear upgrade. They acquired him at no cost and he has been better than both Skinner and Pickard at his peak, not too long ago. The Oilers can't just bring him up and keep him on the roster, though, as the team already has too many roster players once Zach Hyman and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins return to action.

There will have to be multiple moves before Ingram is called up, but there are also going to be goalies available this season. The last thing Edmonton can do this season, even if Skinner and Pickard are playing much better than they are right now, is upgrade for at least a short-term fix. The summer will likely be the place where a long-term solution is added.