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Oilers coach trusts goalie Connor Ingram’s form ahead of NHL playoffs
TL;DR
Edmonton Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch expresses confidence in goalie Connor Ingram ahead of the NHL playoffs, citing his impressive recent performances despite two narrow losses. Ingram's strong play has been pivotal as the team approaches the postseason.
The Edmonton Oilers are approaching the NHL playoffs with growing belief in goaltender Connor Ingram, whose recent form has impressed coach Kris Knoblauch. Despite back-to-back narrow losses, Ingram’s performances have provided a positive impact at a crucial stage of the season.
In a 1-0 loss to the Los Angeles Kings, Ingram allowed just one goal on 21 shots. He followed that with a strong effort in a 2-1 shootout defeat to the Colorado Avalanche, stopping 30 of 31 shots.
Across both games, Ingram showed calm positioning and sharp reflexes, keeping Edmonton in the game.
MORE: Oilers suffer another blow with $8.5M centre injury before NHL playoffs
Speaking to the media after the Avalanche game, Knoblauch praised his goaltender’s rise in recent weeks.
“Connor’s been obviously tonight was phenomenal, and I think pretty much since his time here, he’s given us a lot of quality starts, and we wanted solid goaltending, and obviously we got better than solid goaltending tonight,” Knoblauch said.
“But you know, last week or two, I think he’s even elevated his game. So, we’re very excited about that. We need good goaltending in the playoffs, and right now that was a phenomenal effort.”
The Oilers’ latest loss came when Nathan MacKinnon scored the shootout winner. Connor McDavid netted his 48th goal in regulation and continues to lead the league with 134 points.
So far, Edmonton has lost four of its last five games but remains second in the Pacific Division.
Oilers coach on Connor Ingram’s growing confidence
Colorado Avalanche forward Gabriel Landeskog (92) looks for a loose puck in front of Edmonton Oilers goaltender Connor Ingram (39) at Rogers Place
Knoblauch also talked about how Ingram looks comfortable with pressure and is enjoying the moment, helped by team support and fan backing.
“I think he’s enjoying it,” Knoblauch said. “I think the guys have made him feel very welcome. I know they appreciate his performances on the ice, and I think he’s feeling a lot of support from the fans. So, I believe he’s having a lot of fun.
“And, when you’re having fun, and you feel confident, that goes a long way with your game, you know, we need him continually playing like that, that gives us a great chance every night to win games.”
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For the season, Ingram holds a 15-10-3 record with a 2.65 goals-against average and a .899 save percentage. While not among the league’s elite numbers, his recent consistency has come at the right time.
As Edmonton prepares for the postseason, confidence in Ingram continues to grow, giving the team a stronger foundation in net.
Q&A
What recent performances have boosted Connor Ingram's confidence before the NHL playoffs?
Connor Ingram impressed with a strong showing in a 1-0 loss to the Los Angeles Kings and a 2-1 shootout defeat to the Colorado Avalanche, stopping 30 of 31 shots in the latter game.
How has coach Kris Knoblauch evaluated Connor Ingram's form recently?
Coach Kris Knoblauch praised Ingram's calm positioning and sharp reflexes, highlighting his positive impact during crucial games leading up to the playoffs.
What challenges are the Edmonton Oilers facing as they head into the NHL playoffs?
The Oilers are dealing with back-to-back narrow losses and an injury to an $8.5 million center, adding pressure as they prepare for the postseason.
