Goalie Matt Tomkins stops 27 shots in rare NHL start

Matt Tomkins faced 28 shots on Sunday, stopping 27 of them as the Edmonton Oilers defeated the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. The 32-year-old goaltender recorded his first win since April 17, 2024, and marked just his seventh start in the NHL. His performance helped extend Edmonton's season start to 11 wins and four losses.

Tomkins’ path to the NHL was lengthy and varied. He began his career in Sherwood Park, Alberta, a suburb of Edmonton. He played college hockey at Ohio State University before joining minor league teams such as the Indy Fuel and Rockford IceHogs. He also spent time in Sweden with Frolunda and Farjestads BK. In 2022, he served as Canada’s starting goaltender at the Beijing Olympics after the NHL withdrew from the tournament.

“It’s been a long road, for sure,” Tomkins said. “It’s taken me a lot of different places.” He made his NHL debut in 2023, a few months after turning 29. He has since played 74 games in the American Hockey League for the Syracuse Crunch and Bakersfield Condors during the 928 days since his last NHL start with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The opportunity for Tomkins to play again arose due to injuries to fellow Oilers goalies Devon Levi and Frederik Andersen. The team also scheduled games on consecutive days this weekend, requiring additional goaltending depth. Captain Connor McDavid praised Tomkins’ effort in the box. “He was awesome for us,” McDavid said. “He just gave us a chance to win.. He was just solid, honestly: made the saves he needed to and gave us a chance.”

Tomkins acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with being a backup in a league with only 64 roster spots for goaltenders. “The human element, there’s maybe a little bit of doubt,” he said. “Not from your ability, but more so just the opportunity. There’s only 64 jobs at any given time and incredible goalies all over the world are fighting for them every single day.”

The victory was particularly meaningful for Tomkins because of his hometown connection. He grew up in Edmonton and is a lifelong fan of the Oilers. McDavid noted the emotional weight of the moment. “He’s a great dude, an unbelievable dude,” McDavid said. “He worked so hard this summer in Edmonton and just so happy for him. Obviously, it’s a cool place, a cool place to play, a special building. Really cool. I’m happy for him.”

With Tristan Jarry returning from back-to-back shutouts and Levi and Andersen recovering from injuries, this start may be Tomkins’ only opportunity during this call-up. He said he tried to savor the moment. “It’s been a couple of years since I’ve played in the league, so definitely excited to get the nod,” Tomkins said. “Just tried to enjoy the day and take it all in and do my part to contribute and help the team win.”

Tomkins reflected on his career journey, which has included stops in the ECHL, AHL, and international leagues. He described the experience as both difficult and rewarding. “It’s been tough, but it’s been enjoyable at the same time,” he said. “I love to play, and my career has taken me all over the world, and I’ve enjoyed every step. Obviously, to end up here today and growing up in Edmonton, being an Oilers fan, and to have this opportunity, it’s just been an incredible and really fun journey.”