Edmonton Eyes Goalie Upgrade with Tristan Jarry’s Potential Return
The Edmonton Oilers find themselves at a crucial crossroads: the need for a goaltending upgrade has never been more pressing. With the prospect of rekindling glory, the team is eyeing the return of Tristan Jarry, a former All-Star who has local ties to Edmonton. However, this potential move hinges on Jarry overcoming recent struggles that have clouded his performance.
The Unique Pressure of Goaltending
Goaltenders are a unique breed, often characterized by a mindset that enables them to face the relentless barrage of pucks hurtling towards them at speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour. This high-pressure environment can take its toll, leading some netminders to battle debilitating mental hurdles. The careers of players like Jim Carey and Andrew Hammond serve as cautionary tales, illustrating how quickly a goalie can spiral from brilliance to obscurity.
Jarry’s recent experiences with the Pittsburgh Penguins provide insight into this volatile nature of the position. Once regarded as one of the league’s more reliable goalkeepers, Jarry’s trajectory has taken a tumultuous turn since signing a five-year, $26.875 million contract in July 2023. His performance during the 2024-25 season was notably challenging. Josh Yohe, a Penguins writer, described it as “tremendously trying” for Jarry on a mental level.
Reestablishing Confidence
Yohe noted that Jarry’s confidence can waver significantly. “It’s always between the ears with him,” he remarked. Throughout the season, Jarry found himself spending parts of it in the AHL with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, only to be recalled by the Penguins out of necessity rather than merit. Despite these challenges, he managed to finish the season on a positive note, winning eight of his last 14 starts for a team that was well out of playoff contention.
“He kind of reestablished himself,” Yohe shared during an appearance on a local sports show. “Playing behind a horrible defensive team, I think he put up a .903 save percentage, which might not sound like much, but behind that team, I was actually really impressed, and I give him a lot of credit.”
Talent in Need of a Fresh Start
The potential that Jarry possesses remains undeniable. “He has so much physical talent,” Yohe stated emphatically. “I always say just in terms of pure ability, he’s top 10 in the league. I really believe that.” Yet, Yohe also suggested that perhaps a change of scenery could be what Jarry needs to unlock his full potential.
This could pave the way for a return to Edmonton, where Jarry famously backstopped the WHL’s Edmonton Oil Kings to a championship in 2013-14. He posted an impressive 44-14-2 record that season, leading the team to the Memorial Cup — a feat that remains a high point for the franchise.
Navigating Trade Possibilities
Now at 30 years old and faced with a rebuilding Penguins squad, Jarry may soon be available, potentially at a price that the Oilers could manage. His $5 million cap hit over the next three seasons could be seen as steep, but if the Penguins are willing to retain some salary, the Oilers might find this gamble worthwhile.
As Yohe insightfully pointed out, “Boy, he has talent. And I think if he just had new surroundings, that might be the best thing for him.” For Edmonton, the opportunity to integrate a goalie of Jarry’s caliber into their lineup could be the spark needed to reignite their aspirations for success in the NHL.
