The worst-kept secret in the NHL has become official with the Utah Mammoth placing goaltender Connor Ingram on waivers. The 28-year-old veteran had entered and been released from the Player Assistance Program. His return to the team is a success story in itself, but Ingram was informed at the start of training camp that he was not in the team's plans.
The Saskatchewon native had been with the Arizona Coyotes for two seasons before last season's inaugural season in Utah. Having played just over 100 NHL games, Ingram was the starting goalie to begin the Utah campaign after posting phenomenal numbers in the final year in Arizona. Ingram had 23 victories with a 2.91 GAA and .907 save percentage.
Last season was a struggle in many ways for Ingram, but on the ice, he posted a dismal .882 save percentage with an equally troubling 3.27 GAA. Ingram now has an opportunity for a fresh start in a new organization, which may be a blessing in disguise.
General manager Bill Armstrong needed to solidify the crease this summer and signed Stanley Cup Champion Vitek Vanecek to back up fellow Czech Karel Vejmelka.
Every NHL team is looking for depth in the crease, and Ingram should be claimed, knowing he will have to earn his way up the ladder, whether that is at the NHL level or a start in the AHL. Either way, we wish Ingram all the best in the future, both on the ice and personally.