Since acquiring Tristan Jarry on December 12 and calling up Connor Ingram following Jarry’s injury, the Edmonton Oilers’ goaltending results have sparked debate, especially when compared to the ongoing fan reaction to the Stuart Skinner trade. Oilers Now host and color analyst Bob Stauffer posted an update on the current numbers, suggesting things were looking good for Edmonton. Other fans jumped in and asked Stauffer to look at Skinner’s results in Pittsburgh as well.
At first glance, the numbers after Jarry seem encouraging. As of Dec. 12, Edmonton ranks seventh in the NHL in goals-against average (2.78). Jarry himself has gone 4-0-1 with a 2.58 GAA and .907 save percentage, while Connor Ingram has posted nearly identical efficiency. Calvin Pickard has improved a lot after a difficult start and has made a decision on which two goalkeepers to keep a bit more challenging.
That said, context is important.
Is Stauffer looking for certain goaltending results?
Some fans were quick to point out that Edmonton’s season-long GAA still ranks in the bottom third of the league, and critics weren’t shy about claiming that such a small sample size doesn’t mean the Oilers’ goaltending problems have been solved. Some fans have also noted that Skinner has been putting up stronger individual numbers of late, including an impressive run over his last five appearances.
Skinner has a .902 save percentage and 2.42 GAA since joining the Penguins.
This raises an important question: Is bragging about Edmonton’s new three-goalie system a flex that isn’t earned? Meanwhile, is the criticism of Skinner rooted in performance or perception?
The timing on both sides makes this an interesting debate. Yes, Edmonton seems to have had some success with their three goaltenders and they are all looking better. Skinner has played well even after a difficult start. Perhaps Stauffer is looking for the positives, while some Oilers fans defend Skinner and are pragmatic about the netminding situation, unwilling to say things are resolved until the duo is chosen or the playoffs prove there is a good tandem.
It may be that the new ‘new keeper effect’ paints an inaccurate picture of what is really going on. At the same time, the Oilers may have finally found their man(s).
Edmonton’s goaltending hasn’t suddenly become elite, but there are clear signs that it is no longer a huge responsibility.
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