Oilers Share Final Goalie Decision for Flames Rematch

The Edmonton Oilers announced a key lineup decision ahead of Saturday’s game against the Calgary Flames.

Goaltender Connor Ingram will start for the third straight game. The matchup takes place in Calgary at 10 p.m. EST. It marks the third meeting between the teams this season.

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch explained the decision before the game.

“Just that he’s obviously playing really well,” Knoblauch said. “Played against Calgary last game and continuing with him, just rewarding him for getting the wins.”

Ingram has stopped 46 of 50 shots over his last two starts for a clean 2-0-0 record. That includes turning aside 18 of 19 shots in a 5-1 win over the Flames on Tuesday. Calgary ranks near the bottom of the league in scoring, averaging just 2.59 goals per game this season. That made the decision easier, according to the coaching staff.

Knoblauch also addressed the difficulty of changing the goaltending rotation. He said it was not an easy call with Calvin Pickard.

“It’s tough changing that up,” Knoblauch said. “I know [Pickard’s] numbers don’t say he’s playing well. Unfortunately, I think we’ve played some really bad hockey in front of him when he’s played. In the past, it’s been the opposite.

“The previous two years, we played some of our best hockey when he was in net. This year it’s been a little bit different, and that’s shown in the type of chances we’re giving up. It’s been really unfair for him.”

The coach added that the staff wanted to see how Ingram handled back-to-back starts.

“As for making that decision [to start Ingram], yeah, it was difficult,” Knoblauch said. “He’s a guy who has played well for us and come up with some big wins. We ultimately wanted to see what Connor had playing back-to-back games. His first game was good. His second game didn’t get tested much, but when needed, he came up with some big saves.”

With Tristan Jarry sidelined due to injury, Ingram has taken advantage of the opportunity.

The Oilers enter the game with a 19-13-6 record and are in a three-way tie atop the Pacific Division with the Anaheim Ducks and Vegas Golden Knights. Calgary holds a 15-18-4 record. Despite the last score, Knoblauch expects a tighter game.

“The last score was maybe a little lopsided, but I certainly don’t expect that again,” Knoblauch said.

Knolbauch made it clear that Battle of Alberta matchups are always intense.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Oilers Share Final Goalie Decision for Flames Rematch

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