Tristan Jarry's recent lower-body injury, sustained during a game against the Boston Bruins, has sidelined him for a few weeks, just shortly after being acquired by the Edmonton Oilers. While seemingly a setback, this situation presents a unique opportunity for the Oilers to address their goaltending concerns and evaluate internal options.

Jarry's injury occurred on December 18th when he attempted a save, and was subsequently placed on injured reserve. The Oilers brought in Connor Ingram from AHL's Bakersfield Condors to back up Calvin Pickard. Prior to the injury, Jarry had won all three of his starts with Edmonton, but his .887 save percentage and 3.08 goals-against average (GAA) indicated there was still room for improvement. In 17 games this season split between Pittsburgh and Edmonton, Jarry holds a 12-3-1 record with a .906 save percentage and a 2.76 GAA.

The injury provides a platform for Calvin Pickard and Connor Ingram to prove their worth. Pickard, already on the NHL roster, now has the chance to solidify his role. Ingram, recalled from the AHL, has a chance to showcase his abilities at the NHL level. Recently, Ingram has demonstrated strong performances, winning both of his starts and displaying save percentages above .900.

This situation allows the Oilers to assess their internal goaltending depth before considering external solutions. If either Pickard or Ingram steps up, it could negate the need for another trade, allowing the team to allocate resources to other areas, such as acquiring a veteran defenseman, a scoring winger, or a third-line center.

The Oilers have struggled with goaltending consistency, leading to speculation about potential acquisitions. One name frequently mentioned is Marc-Andre Fleury, a future Hall of Famer who recently retired. Despite his retirement, there are reports that Fleury may be open to a return, with the Oilers being a potential destination.

Ultimately, Tristan Jarry's injury could be a blessing in disguise for the Oilers. It allows them to evaluate their current goaltending options, potentially avoiding the need for a trade and enabling them to address other roster needs. Furthermore, the team can gain clarity on their goaltending situation and determine the best course of action moving forward. With the trade deadline approaching, the Oilers have time to assess their needs and make informed decisions to improve their chances of success.