Like many prospects, Ingram attended the 2022 NHL Scouting Combine in Buffalo. Aside from all the fitness testing, it's a chance for NHL scouting departments to learn more about the prospects on a human level. Ingram was a busy man, interviewing with 27 NHL teams.
"The first couple I was a little bit nervous for but as they went along, I wasn't so nervous. I knew what to say after those first couple and I got quite into it, they were exciting and fun, so it was really good," said Ingram.
If Ingram's Youngstown Phantoms rings a bell for Jets fans - it's because it should. Reigning Lady Byng Memorial Trophy winner, Kyle Connor, spent three seasons with the USHL club from 2012-15, leading the team in scoring in his final two years.
"They do love him (in Younstown)," said Ingram.
"They have him up on the wall in the locker room - there's a few pictures of him. Our coach would always mention him, the fans - they all love him as well. He is definitely a legend there."
Aside from their junior hockey connection, growing up near Winnipeg gave Ingram a front row seat to witness Connor's rise to NHL fame. For an aspiring NHL forward - the inspiration Connor provides is obvious.
"I do like to model my game after Kyle Connor - obviously he had 47 goals in the NHL, and I had 26 in the USHL, but I like the way he shoots the puck and I want to shoot it like that. I kind of see some similarities between our games," said Ingram.
"I think I have a really good shot; I think I have good hockey sense; I think I pass the puck well, but I think out of all of those though, my shot is probably my best asset. I try to use that to my advantage."
Heading into next weekend's NHL Draft in Montreal Ingram will be joined by his parents, brother, and grandma in the stands at the Bell Centre. The family hoping to share a moment they will never forget.
"They've seen me play since I was super young, and I couldn't have done it without them, so it'll be good to have them beside me when I hopefully get my name called. It's super special to me."
