Veteran goaltender Calvin Pickard is back with the Bakersfield Condors, hitting the ice for practice after more than two years away. Pickard last suited up for the Condors in November 2023 before getting the call-up to the Edmonton Oilers.
Against all odds, Pickard carved out a significant role with the Oilers, becoming a reliable 1B option alongside Stuart Skinner. His contributions were pivotal in Edmonton's back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances over the past two seasons.
However, a mid-season shake-up in Edmonton's goaltending lineup left Pickard as the odd man out, with Connor Ingram and Tristan Jarry now in the mix. Earlier this month, Pickard was placed on waivers and reassigned to Bakersfield.
Despite clearing waivers, there's optimism that Pickard's stint in the AHL might be short-lived. His agent, Ritch Winter, shared insights on a recent Sports 1440 radio interview, expressing surprise at the Oilers' decision to move Pickard, hinting that the front office might still see him as a top option.
Winter revealed that Oilers GM Stan Bowman may not see Ingram and Jarry as clear upgrades over Pickard. Instead, it seems head coach Kris Knoblauch might be the one uncertain about Pickard's role.
Winter noted, “There’s not a lot of difference between Ingram, Jarry, and Pickard; their statistics are very similar.” Indeed, Ingram and Jarry have comparable records this season, while Pickard’s overall performance with the Oilers has been solid, boasting a 39-23-4 record with a 2.84 GAA and .986 SV% in regular-season play.
Pickard’s presence in the locker room is invaluable, with Oilers alternate captain Leon Draisaitl praising him as “one of the greatest teammates.” This camaraderie has translated into on-ice success, particularly during the playoffs where Pickard has been a game-changer, posting an 8-2 record with a 2.72 GAA and .896 SV%.
In contrast, Ingram and Jarry have struggled in postseason play, with only two combined Stanley Cup Playoff wins.
Winter acknowledged that staying with the Oilers organization was a strategic decision, even with Pickard heading to Bakersfield. He emphasized Pickard’s strong relationships within the team and the lack of significant differentiation between the Oilers' goaltending trio.
Pickard's determination remains unwavering. Winter shared, “Calvin’s pretty level-headed about it, and this is not something that’s unfamiliar to him. It might break another guy, but it will just motivate him.”
Looking ahead, Pickard might see action with the Condors soon, as they face the Calgary Wranglers. Meanwhile, the Oilers are set to return post-Olympic break against the Anaheim Ducks, and the door remains open for Pickard’s potential return to the NHL spotlight.