Connor Ingram Back and Dialed In Despite Loss to Kings

If there was any question about how effective goaltender Connor Ingram might be after leaving the last game with an apparent injury, the Edmonton Oilers netminder answered those questions on Saturday afternoon. In a loss to the Los Angeles Kings, the Oilers didn't have their best stuff, but Ingram certainly looked like he was in top form. Trending Stories: Does It Actually Matter Who the Oilers Play?

Max Jones Won’t Return for the Oilers Ingram delivered a timely, high-quality performance in his return, especially impressive given the uncertainty around his health coming into the game. It wasn’t even guaranteed he would start, but he looked sharp, confident, and physically sound throughout. He made several high-difficulty saves—including a standout blocker stop on Quinton Byfield.

This loss -- while a big one as the Oilers try to officially punch their ticket to the playoffs -- wasn't on him. Even on plays where rebounds popped out, he stayed composed and made second-effort stops, highlighting both his technique and athleticism. While he allowed a goal on a breakaway, it came against a skilled scorer in Artemi Panarin, who made a great shot that most goaltenders wouldn't have been able to handle.

The best part was that he showed no lingering effects from the apparent lower-body issue that raised questions just days and even hours before the game. He wasn't a given to start after leaving the last game when the Oilers beat the San Jose Sharks. That he was able to go was a plus.