Edmonton Oilers May Have Already Found A New Goaltender

According to the Oilers' official social media account, the purpose of this move is to assign Campbell to the AHL's Bakersfield Condors. Assuming he clears waivers and accepts the assignment, Campbell will be donning an AHL jersey for the first time since 2018. It's a surprising twist for a veteran goalie.

What's particularly noteworthy is that Campbell still has four seasons left on a contract that pays him $5 million annually. Given this financial commitment, the chances of another team claiming him off waivers appear slim. As a result, the Oilers are now facing the prospect of having a $20 million White Elephant on their AHL roster. A double whammy.

So, what's the Oilers' plan moving forward?

According to TSN insider Ryan Rishaug, the immediate plan is to recall AHL goaltender Calvin Pickard from the Bakersfield Condors once Campbell clears waivers. Rishaug also reports that there's no intention of making additional goaltending moves, which rules out any trade saviors.

It's worth noting that Pickard has been impressive this season for the Condors, with a 2.03 goals-against average and a .939 save percentage in four games. His last NHL appearance was during the 2021-22 season with the Detroit Red Wings.

In total, Pickard boasts 116 NHL games split among the Red Wings, Arizona Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Colorado Avalanche. While he might not be the star goalie Oilers fans are wishing for, he serves as a solid depth option while the team explores more permanent solutions.

One potential solution on the horizon could involve an Edmonton native, Carter Hart of the Philadelphia Flyers. Reports suggest a possible Campbell-for-Hart trade, contingent on the Oilers absorbing Campbell's contract. Regardless of the price, fixing the Oilers' glaring goaltending issue is becoming an urgent matter, and fans are hoping for swift action from GM Ken Holland.

Source: Hockeyfeed