Edmonton Oilers Sign University Goalie Tyler Palmer for Backup Role

EDMONTON, Alberta — The Edmonton Oilers made a surprising move Monday, signing University of Alberta goaltender Tyler Palmer to an amateur tryout contract. Palmer will serve as the backup for Calvin Pickard as the Oilers host the Seattle Kraken, filling in for Stuart Skinner, who is away following the birth of his son.

Palmer, a first-year player with the University of Alberta Golden Bears, boasts an impressive 11-4 record this season, with a .914 save percentage and a 2.14 goals-against average. The Fernie, B.C., native previously spent four seasons in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Victoria Royals and Everett Silvertips. The Golden Bears currently hold second place in the Canada West‘s East Division with an 18-6-0 record.

“It’s a special opportunity for Tyler,” said Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch. “He’s had a strong season with the Golden Bears, and we’re excited to see what he can bring to the team tonight.”

The Oilers are also dealing with other roster challenges. Defenseman John Klingberg missed practice due to an immigration issue, delaying his potential debut. Knoblauch noted that Klingberg could return later this week or during the team’s upcoming road trip. Meanwhile, Darnell Nurse was absent from practice due to illness but is expected to play against the Kraken.

Connor McDavid‘s return to the ice adds another layer of excitement to Monday’s game. The Oilers’ top line, featuring McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman, is expected to lead the charge. The game will be broadcast on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+, with puck drop scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET / 7:30 p.m. MT.

In other roster news, forward Derek Ryan has been assigned to the Bakersfield Condors to stay active and fresh, potentially positioning himself for a role in the Oilers’ playoff push. Meanwhile, Ty Emberson has emerged as a standout defenseman, showing significant improvement in his two-way play and earning consideration for a top-four role.

The Oilers’ lineup adjustments come at a critical juncture in the season as they aim to solidify their playoff positioning. Fans will be watching closely to see how Palmer performs in his NHL debut and how the team adapts to its shifting roster dynamics.