Oilers Considered Sabres’ Goalie Lyon Prior to Jarry Trade
The Edmonton Oilers recently made headlines by trading for goaltender Tristan Jarry from the Pittsburgh Penguins. This significant move involved sending Stuart Skinner and Brett Kulak to Pittsburgh. However, reports indicate that the Oilers initially considered another option: Buffalo Sabres’ goalie, Alex Lyon.
Oilers’ Goalie Trade Insights
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Oilers had an interest in Lyon prior to finalizing the deal for Jarry. In his recent 32 Thoughts blog, Friedman revealed that the Oilers explored the possibility of a trade for Lyon, although their focus was predominantly on acquiring Jarry.
Goalie Considerations
- Jarry’s Acquisition: The Oilers viewed Jarry as their primary target and successfully secured him.
- Lyon’s Status: The Sabres currently hold three goalies, with Devon Levi playing in the AHL.
- Previous Trades: Last season saw the Colorado Avalanche alter their goaltending situation mid-season with trades for MacKenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood.
Despite the Oilers’ choice, Lyon’s potential as a goaltending solution remains intriguing. Should Jarry not meet expectations, questions may arise about the long-term viability of the Oilers’ goaltending strategy.
Future Considerations
After two games with the Oilers, Jarry has performed decently, but concerns linger about his reliability as a long-term starter. If the Oilers look for other options, Calvin Pickard has struggled significantly, holding one of the lowest save percentages in the league.
As the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline approaches, the Oilers might consider calling up Connor Ingram, acquired from the Utah Mammoth, or exploring backup options like Lyon or Laurent Brossoit from the Chicago Blackhawks. The situation will require careful management to ensure the team’s success in the coming seasons.
