“It Does Suck”: Calvin Pickard Talks Ugly Truth in Edmonton

Calvin Pickard didn’t hide his frustration when asked about his role with the Edmonton Oilers this season. A goaltender who was an ideal backup last season, won more than 20 games, and played in critical moments in the playoffs has become an afterthought this season. “I don’t like it. I’m not having fun with it,” Pickard said.

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The very popular netminder, who is a better goaltender than his record this season might indicate, has been tossed around while the Oilers try to solidify their goalie tandem. No one is really talking about him because they’re too busy talking about Tristan Jarry and Connor Ingram. “It does suck, for sure… I’m going to be 34 soon, and I’ve seen all these kinds of situations. But yeah, it’s been painful for me.”

Pickard Has Been Playing Second Fiddle His Whole Career

Few players in the league are as widely respected as Pickard is. Particularly in the Oilers’ locker room, to say he’s beloved would be a serious understatement. Ask around the NHL—and players from several franchises will tell you that Pickard is one of their favorite teammates. He’s friends with practically everyone. In Edmonton, he’s known as a consummate professional who understands his role.

That doesn’t mean he has to like it. And, for someone as competitive as Pickard, he shouldn’t.

Yet for much of this season, Pickard has been watching from the bench or the press box while Stuart Skinner (now in Pittsburgh), Tristan Jarry, and Connor Ingram rotated through the crease.

Despite doing everything asked of him, Pickard appears to be the odd man out in an awkward three-goalie situation. While the Oilers can technically carry three goaltenders for now, roster and cap realities suggest that won’t last. Eventually, a decision has to be made.

Jarry and Ingram Have Won the Two Goalie Spots

Jarry and Ingram have both taken advantage of their opportunities, posting strong performances and shutouts during the last few games they’ve both been healthy. Even in the Oilers’ losses, the two have remained solid, which is what the Oilers are looking for as they try to solve the final piece of their playoff puzzle: winning a Stanley Cup.

Pickard, meanwhile, has seen limited action, leaving little chance to change the narrative or win his spot back. As a result, all signs point toward him being the goalie sent down to Bakersfield when Edmonton needs roster flexibility. That is, assuming he clears waivers. He probably won’t.

The decision to move on from Pickard won’t be easy. It will have a lingering impact on the rest of the Oilers, who have reportedly stood firm on keeping Pickard despite past thoughts of moving on. Pickard is well-liked, and he’s been reliable when called upon, handling reduced usage with professionalism and class. At $1 million per season, his contract is also extremely team-friendly.

The ugly truth is that Jarry and Ingram are younger and playing better right now. These are two goaltenders the Oilers might be able to move forward with, all while what looks to be a stud in Connor Ungar develops in the AHL. For Pickard, it’s not a reflection of effort or character—it’s simply roster math. And in the NHL, that reality can be unforgiving.

Next: Winger Drops as Oilers Falling Down the Trade Urgency Chart