NHL analyst names two teams best suited to trade for Calvin Pickard
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Daniel Lucente
Jan 15, 2026 (3:52 PM)
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Photo credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images
NHL analyst Zach Laing believes the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers could be two ideal trade partners for Oilers goalie Calvin Pickard.
The Edmonton Oilers are facing a salary cap crunch. They've managed to maneuver by activating Jake Walman and Tristan Jarry from Long-Term Injured Reserve while placing Adam Henrique on LTIR, but that flexibility won't last.
When Henrique returns, expected after the Olympic break, the Oilers will be over the NHL's cap. They'll need to make roster moves, possibly sending players to the AHL's Bakersfield Condors, or trading someone like Andrew Mangiapane to create space.
Goaltending decisions will also play a key role. Jarry is back and will serve as the team's number one, but the Oilers must decide between Connor Ingram and Calvin Pickard for the backup spot.
Pickard requires waivers immediately, while Ingram will need them on January 17. Ingram's recent play makes a strong case for keeping him, but there's a trade market emerging for Pickard if Edmonton chooses to move him.
Why the Flyers and Rangers make ideal trade partners for Calvin Pickard
Two teams stand out as potential trade partners, according to NHL analyst Zach Laing: the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers. Both are dealing with injuries to their starting goalies.
"The Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers are two teams that could make ideal trade partners if the Oilers do look to trade Pickard."
- Zach Laing
- Zach Laing
Rangers starter Igor Shesterkin has been on LTIR since leaving the January 5 game against the Utah Mammoth, and New York has struggled in his absence, going 0-4-1 and allowing 30 goals over that stretch.
Their backup, Jonathan Quick, is posting a 3-10-2 record with a .887 save percentage and a 3.13 goals-against average. With cap space available, the Rangers could absorb Pickard's $1 million hit and provide Edmonton with a workable solution.
Philadelphia's cap situation really benefits them
Philadelphia could also make an interesting trade partner, who have just over $15 million in cap space.
Their starting goaltender, Dan Vladar, went down during Wednesday's game, and while it's not believed to be serious, it's not unreasonable to think it could scare them into making a move.
A move like the two above could help the Oilers balance the roster, solidify their goaltending depth, and remain competitive while navigating the cap tightrope.
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| POLL | ||
JANVIER 15 | 120 ANSWERS NHL analyst names two teams best suited to trade for Calvin Pickard Will the Oilers trade Calvin Pickard to one of these two teams? | ||
| Yes | 79 | 65.8 % |
| No | 41 | 34.2 % |
| List of polls | ||