Oilers Surprising Hero Earns Praise From Ryan Nugent-Hopkins

This Edmonton Oilers forward had high praise for the recently called-up goaltender after the team's 4-3 win over the Vegas Golden Knights.

Dec 21, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers goalie Connor Ingram (39) is seen out on the ice as the Edmonton Oilers take on the Vegas Golden Knights during the second period at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images | Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins scored twice in the Edmonton Oilers' 4-3 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights, but after the game, he made sure to give credit to Connor Ingram.

The goaltender was called up from the Bakersfield Condors on short notice and thrust into action with the Oilers dealing with uncertainty in net. Nugent-Hopkins was asked about Ingram's performance, given the quick turnaround from getting called up to suddenly playing with the team. His assessment was glowing.

Nugent-Hopkins said Ingram gave the Oilers exactly what they needed in the early going, making key saves and keeping Edmonton in the game while they found their legs.

"I thought he was outstanding early, just solid, got in front of everything, and was really good at handling the puck too. So that goes a long way," he continued.

Outstanding Early On

Ingram's puck-handling ability was particularly valuable. Modern NHL goaltenders need to be able to play the puck effectively to help their team break out of the defensive zone, and Ingram showed he could do that at the NHL level.

Nugent-Hopkins acknowledged the Oilers probably made things harder on Ingram than they needed to later in the game.

"He gave us a chance early, and we kind of fed off that. Obviously he probably gave up too many to make it pretty tough on him late, but he held in there," he explained.

Defensive Commitment

A reporter asked Nugent-Hopkins if the uncertainty with goaltenders coming and going and getting hurt has made the team more focused on tightening up defensively. His response showed the kind of team-first mentality the Oilers need to succeed.

"I think it's just the way the season's kind of ramping up at this point. You have to tighten up defensively, and I think we've been doing a great job as of late."

“We found a way.”

After scoring twice in tonight's 4-3 #Oilers victory over the Golden Knights, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins chats with the media. @Enterprise | #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/J09OIVobI1

— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) December 22, 2025

Nugent-Hopkins made it clear the Oilers aren't adjusting their defensive approach based on who's in net. They're committed to playing strong defense regardless of the goaltending situation.

"It doesn't really matter who's back there for us. We want to play our best in front of them and make things as easy as we possibly can for them."

The Right Mindset

That's the mentality championship teams need. The Oilers can't control injuries or unexpected roster moves, but they can control their effort and commitment to playing sound defensive hockey. Ingram gave them a chance early, and the team found a way to get two points despite the goaltending uncertainty.

With Tristan Jarry on injured reserve and the team navigating a difficult stretch, getting strong performances from whoever is between the pipes will be crucial for Edmonton's success going forward.

Make sure you bookmark Breakaway On SI for the latest news, exclusive interviews, recruiting coverage, and more!