The Edmonton Oilers have reportedly acquired goaltender Alex Lyon from the Buffalo Sabres, addressing their need for a more reliable backup. The trade comes after Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman was already active in the goaltending market, acquiring Tristan Jarry last week. However, Bowman apparently felt the need to further solidify the team's goaltending depth, leading to the acquisition of Lyon.
Lyon, 33, signed with Buffalo this past summer for $1.5 million. With the Sabres carrying three goalies—Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Colten Ellis, and Lyon—the veteran netminder became the most logical candidate to be moved. The Sabres also have Devon Levi in the minors.
Jeff Marek of Oilersnation Everyday speculated that a trade between Lyon and the Oilers would make sense for both sides. Buffalo needed to resolve its crowded goaltending situation, and Edmonton was looking for another netminder. Marek suggested the situation was similar to when the Colorado Avalanche acquired a goalie to solidify their roster.
Lyon's NHL journey began in 2017, and he has played in 130 games since then. He gained prominence during the 2022-23 season with the Florida Panthers, leading them to a postseason berth and appearing in four playoff games during their Stanley Cup Final run. Since then, Lyon has maintained a 2.96 goals-against average and a .902 save percentage in 91 games between Detroit and Buffalo.
The Oilers' interest in Lyon was reported earlier in December, even before the trade for Jarry. Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet noted that the Oilers had inquired about Lyon's availability before acquiring Jarry from Pittsburgh.
The specifics of what the Sabres received in return for Lyon are not yet fully known but one potential deal could include forward prospect Roby Jarventie.
The acquisition of Lyon is seen as a move to provide stability to the Oilers' goaltending situation. Lyon is considered a capable backup who doesn't require development time and is known for his steady play. His contract, which runs through next season at a reasonable $1.5 million cap hit, adds to his appeal.
With the Oilers aiming to solidify their contender status, this trade reflects a practical approach to addressing a specific need. For the Sabres, now under the management of Jarmo Kekäläinen, the trade provides an opportunity to streamline their roster and address the long debated three-goalie system.
