‘When he’s locked in, he’s one of the best’: Fans discuss new goalie acquired by Oilers

It’s the news Oilers fans have been eagerly awaiting all off-season: a goalie trade. Perhaps it’s not the biggest announcement they’ve been hoping for; however, over the past few months, fans have been clamouring for the organization to bring in a new goaltender.

The moment it was announced, fans were quick to react on social media and give their take on the acquisition of Connor Ingram from the Utah Mammoth.

“WHAT how am I supposed to feel someone tell me how to feel I don’t know how to feel what’s going to happen now with Stu and Picks.” — shan_savvy on X

“Adding Ingram. For me it was either him or DiPietro. I like it, as it provides some internal competition and Stu seems to do best when challenged. We’ll see how it goes, but we’re deeper in net and (he’s) one of the two better options available without major pieces moving out.” — KGYEG on X

“For what they had to give up and his retained salary, Connor Ingram is a really good pickup for the Edmonton Oilers.” — Jeffery Ade on X

“Wow… did not see this coming. W move from Bowman.” — rbrodeur88 on X

“Utah literally paying $800,000 for Edmonton to take Ingram. Why not? Was trending very well until a down year last season.” — shawnmullin on X

“Hopefully they play him and keep Pickard. Pickard has really showed up when needed, unlike Skinner…” — Avard Dearman on Facebook

“He’ll have to prove he’s an upgrade over Pickard. Definitely not an upgrade over Skinner.” — Robert Verwindt on Facebook

“The kid is decent. His lateral movement is better than Skinner. I’d like to see him head to Bakersfield and go 10-0 to start with a 2.30 GAA, but it’s probably not happening. What I do hope happens is he goes there for a few months. First big losing streak he gets his call. If that call doesn’t come, he’s a feather in the cap until needed. We will roll three goalies come playoffs, I think, if he hasn’t made his step by then. I don’t think he will be a goalie that regresses though. He had a tough go losing his mom. He’s back and ready. Bakersfield just got a whole lot better.” — Trevor Schmidt on Facebook

“This is a good move. Him at $2M, not good… him retained and having already cleared waivers is huge.” — PracticeApparel on Instagram

“Mark this down. Ingram wins the Conn Smythe this year.” — 33somechefguy33 on Instagram

“A goalie? Did it really happen? Am I dreaming.” — Jahpulju on Instagram

From the other side, fans of the Mammoth also had their say on the trade and on Ingram. Though he was only with Utah for their inaugural season, those who followed the Coyotes when they were still in Arizona know just how good Ingram can be when he’s at his best.

“Just so it’s clear. The Mammoth front office did NOT have to do this. They could have cratered his career in the AHL. They didn’t need to thread a needle on cap space. They did this for Ingy ’cuz they knew it was best for him. This was all class, and I’m proud of it. #TuskUp” — Clubbers Till We Die on X

“I’ve been saying all along. This team is just one ‘future considerations’ from a Stanley Cup! This is our year.” — Tusks_Up on Instagram

“He’s one of the good ones. I wish him well.” — scottdalerealtorbrandon on Instagram

“Gonna miss him. When he’s locked in, he’s one of the best! Holds the record for a shutout with most shots against him. Super underrated.” — thrift_school on Instagram

It’ll be a while before Oilers fans get a look at him with the big club, as Ingram will start the season with the Bakersfield Condors. Until then, fans are pleased to see Stan Bowman & Co. make a move to improve the goaltending position and create more competition for Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard.