In a strategic move, the Edmonton Oilers have reassigned goaltender Connor Ungar back to the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL. This decision highlights the Oilers' focus on balancing their roster and ensuring their goaltenders are in the best positions to develop and succeed.
Ungar, at 24, has been making waves this season. He's played in 12 games across the ECHL with the Orlando Solar Bears, Fort Wayne Komets, and Greensboro Gargoyles, boasting an impressive 5-1-4 record, a 1.54 Goals Against Average, and a stellar .944 save percentage. These numbers aren't just good; they're a testament to his potential and skill between the pipes.
So, why send him back to Orlando? The Oilers are managing a crowded goalie situation.
With three goalies in the mix and Calvin Pickard now in the AHL with the Bakersfield Condors, something had to give. The Olympic break saw the Oilers streamline their NHL goaltending lineup by placing Pickard on waivers, allowing Tristan Jarry and Connor Ingram to take the reins at the NHL level.
Jarry, acquired in a December trade, has solidified his spot as the starter with a .905 save percentage in 21 games, while Ingram has been a reliable partner with a .897 save percentage over 13 games.
Pickard's move to the AHL, alongside regular Matt Tomkins, created a three-goalie situation that left Ungar without the consistent starts he needs. As a waiver-exempt rookie in his first professional season, Ungar's development is crucial, and consistent ice time is key. By sending him back to Orlando, the Oilers ensure he gets those valuable minutes, faces plenty of shots, and continues honing his skills.
With the trade deadline looming on March 6, the Oilers' goaltending landscape might shift again. But for now, Jarry and Ingram are the NHL duo, while Tomkins and Pickard hold down the fort in the AHL.
Ungar is not just another name on the roster; he's a vital part of Edmonton's future plans. With Jarry and Ingram's contracts coming up-Jarry's after the 2027-28 season and Ingram's at the end of this season-Ungar's development is even more crucial. The Oilers are playing the long game, ensuring their future between the pipes is in capable hands.