To everyone suggesting Calvin Pickard should be traded, have you reconsidered? How effective do you think trading a backup goalie really is in fixing the Oilers’ goaltending issues? Sometimes a career backup is just that—not a star or a long-term solution, but a reliable option when a starter gets injured or things go off track.
Monday night’s 4-1 victory over the Jets was anything but dull, with Pickard delivering his best performance this season. In his hometown, he made a season-high 41 saves as Edmonton’s Max Jones, Jack Roslovic, and Zach Hyman scored, while Adam Lowry put one past the Jets. This was Pickard’s night.
“Calvin was our best player,” said Kris Knoblauch after the game. “Unfortunately, his stats haven’t looked great because we played poorly when he was in net, but it wasn’t his fault.” The Oilers’ struggles in front of Pickard most of the season made his numbers look worse than they really are, but on Monday, he received much-needed support.
Pickard himself acknowledged feeling ready and confident. He’s not trying to be the starter or take anyone’s spot—just fulfilling his role as a backup goalie without complaints or demands for more playing time.
Playing in Winnipeg, where he grew up and where family and friends watched, made the win and his 41 saves especially meaningful. “I’ve been feeling good recently,” Pickard said. “Tonight, the puck bounced my way, and I want to keep this momentum.” His teammates blocked shots and helped keep the Jets at bay, allowing Pickard to shine.
He made crucial saves, including during a penalty kill when the game was still scoreless, and stopped 15 shots in the third period when Winnipeg was pushing hard. “They played well, and I had to step up,” he said. This performance highlights why Pickard’s presence is valuable amid the Oilers’ goaltending chaos this season—Skinner was traded, Jarry is injured, and Ingram recently returned from the Player Assistance Program.
Throughout all this, Pickard stayed ready and didn’t complain. Monday was his moment—in front of fans in his hometown—proving how important a dependable backup goalie can be. “I want to keep playing like this,” he said.
The Oilers should appreciate what Pickard did Monday night. When starters need a rest and the backup faces 42 shots in the building they grew up in, you need a player who can take over and win the game. Calvin Pickard delivered on that demand, showing exactly why trading him would have been a mistake.
Fan Take: This story is a reminder of how crucial depth players are in hockey, especially at the goalie position where injuries and fatigue happen often. For fans, it underlines the importance of appreciating every player’s role and how a strong backup goalie like Pickard can be the difference between a tough loss and a crucial win.
