Edmonton Oilers Place Goaltender Calvin Pickard on Waivers

The Edmonton Oilers have placed goaltender Calvin Pickard on NHL waivers, a move announced on Sunday. This decision comes as the Oilers adjust their goaltending roster, opting to retain Tristan Jarry and Connor Ingram as their primary netminders. Pickard, 33, has struggled this season, recording a 5-6-2 record, a 3.68 goals-against average (GAA), and an .871 save percentage over 16 games.

Oilers' Calvin Pickard, Flames' Justin Kirkland placed on waiversEdmonton Oilers place veteran goalie on waivers after reports of discontentOilers place goaltender Calvin Pickard on NHL waiversTwo NHL players placed on waivers on Feb. 1Oilers place one of their goaltenders on waivers.Former Maple Leafs goaltender placed on waiversOilers place Calvin Pickard on waivers as Canadiens weigh their options

Calvin Pickard joined the Oilers as a free agent in July 2022, signing a two-year contract worth an average annual value of $762,500. He had a successful 2022-23 season with the AHL's Bakersfield Condors, posting a 23-12-2 record and a .912 save percentage. Pickard played a crucial role in the Oilers' playoff runs, stepping in as a starter during critical moments. However, his performance has declined this season, leading to his current placement on waivers.

Oilers place goaltender Calvin Pickard on NHL waivers

Pickard's recent statistics reflect a significant drop in performance compared to previous seasons. His last game was on January 8 against the Winnipeg Jets, where he contributed to a 4-3 victory. Despite his past successes, including a strong playoff presence, this season's numbers have raised concerns about his viability as a reliable goaltender.

Oilers' Calvin Pickard, Flames' Justin Kirkland placed on waivers

Reports indicate that the Oilers' decision to place Pickard on waivers was influenced by his lack of playing time and dissatisfaction with his role. Pickard himself expressed his struggles with being the third goaltender, stating, “It’s been tough... I’m not having fun with it.” The Oilers are likely seeking to create roster flexibility and manage salary cap constraints.

Edmonton Oilers place veteran goalie on waivers after reports of discontent

Critics of the Oilers' decision highlight the rapid decline of a player who was instrumental in their playoff success just months ago. Observers note the unpredictability of the goaltending market and the potential for Pickard to be claimed by another team in need of experienced netminding. Some fans and analysts have expressed disappointment at how quickly Pickard's situation has changed, emphasizing the volatility of NHL careers.

Oilers place Calvin Pickard on waivers as Canadiens weigh their options

If Pickard clears waivers, he may be assigned back to the Bakersfield Condors, marking his first appearance in the AHL since the 2023-24 season. Should another NHL team claim him, he will have the opportunity to continue his career elsewhere, potentially providing valuable experience to a team facing goaltending challenges.

Two NHL players placed on waivers on Feb. 1

• “The player who started a game in the Stanley Cup Final last June has now been placed on waivers.” — Renaud Lavoie, Sports Analyst

Oilers place Calvin Pickard on waivers as Canadiens weigh their options

This situation underscores the unpredictable nature of professional sports, particularly in the goaltending position, where performance can fluctuate dramatically from season to season.

Two NHL players placed on waivers on Feb. 1