Oilers Could Go 2 Very Different Directions With Pickard

The Edmonton Oilers have completely changed up their goaltending from the start of the season and from what they had on their back-to-back Stanley Cup Final runs. Stuart Skinner was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins as part of a deal that brought Tristan Jarry to Edmonton, and after playing some pro games again, Connor Ingram was brought up and has played very well.

The Oilers are going to continue running with Jarry and Ingram as they have played well and the team is hot. So where does that leave Calvin Pickard? David Pagnotta said, "Calvin Pickard's not overly happy with his new role. I think some teams may have inquired to say, hey, what's your plan with him? I could see Edmonton holding onto him as security."

Pickard is currently sitting in the press box as a healthy scratch while the Oilers go with the duo of Jarry and Ingram. But Jarry did get injured after coming over to Edmonton, which caused Ingram to get his chance. There isn't a big injury history with Jarry, but if one of the two main goalies were to get injured, having Pickard available to step in makes sense as he has been good at times and has plenty of NHL experience, in the league and with the Oilers over the past few years.

But, to be fair, his role was that of Ingram's a few years ago when Jack Campbell played so poorly that he was sent to the minors. Pickard has held onto the job Ingram has now earned since. But just like that situation, Pickard's numbers of 3.68 GAA and .871 SV% don't warrant more time in the NHL.

As a third string option, he may work, but the Oilers also have other options, albeit with much less NHL experience. But like with the young skaters being brought up and given opportunities, it's a chance to get a better look at the future in net if the Oilers are to bolster from within. Since getting the call up to Bakersfield, Connor Ungar has a 1.7 GAA and .946 SV%. He's still young, but I think that's more deserving of an emergency callup, as well as Matt Tomkins, than what Pickard has shown this season.

The Oilers are trying to win the Stanley Cup. That's the only place higher they can go from where they are. The Oilers won't get very much from dealing Pickard, but given the interest, might just lose him on waivers if he is moved. They can't waste a roster spot for the rest of the season, so something needs to be done. Trade or waive.