Oilers Place Goaltender Calvin Pickard on Waivers

The 33-year-old netminder has struggled as Edmonton's third-string goalie this season.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 1:47pm

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The Edmonton Oilers have placed goaltender Calvin Pickard on waivers. Pickard, 33, has appeared in 16 games this season, posting a 5-6-2 record with a .871 save percentage and 3.68 goals against average. He has found himself as the Oilers' third-string goaltender in recent weeks with the return of Tristan Jarry from injury.

Why it matters

Pickard's placement on waivers signals a shift in the Oilers' goaltending depth chart, as the team looks to address their netminding situation. As a veteran goaltender, Pickard's struggles this season have raised questions about his future with the organization.

The details

Pickard first joined the Oilers organization as a free agent in July 2022, signing a two-year contract. He spent the 2022-23 season with the AHL's Bakersfield Condors, before being called up to the NHL in 2023-24. Pickard had a strong 2024-25 campaign for the Oilers, but his performance has fallen off this season, with a 23.1% quality start percentage and a significant drop in his win-loss record.

  • Pickard was placed on waivers by the Oilers on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
  • Pickard's last game for the Oilers came on January 8, 2026, a 4-3 win over the Winnipeg Jets.

The players

Calvin Pickard

A 33-year-old goaltender who has been the Oilers' third-string goalie this season.

Tristan Jarry

The Oilers' starting goaltender who recently returned from injury, pushing Pickard down the depth chart.

Stuart Skinner

The Oilers' backup goaltender who has seen increased playing time this season.

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What they’re saying

“It's been tough. It's been painful, for sure. I don't like it. I'm not having fun with it, but I'm still coming to work every day, working hard... Because you never know what's going to happen. I have to be ready for my next opportunity.”

— Calvin Pickard

What’s next

The Oilers will now wait to see if Pickard is claimed off waivers by another NHL team. If he clears waivers, he will likely be assigned to the Oilers' AHL affiliate in Bakersfield.

The takeaway

Pickard's placement on waivers highlights the Oilers' ongoing goaltending situation and the challenges faced by veteran netminders trying to maintain a roster spot in the NHL. This move could open up opportunities for younger goalies within the organization to step up and earn more playing time.