Elite young goalie prospect on trade block, connected to Oilers

Analyst Jeff Marek believes Devon Levi of the Buffalo Sabres is under the spotlight, and perhaps for good reason, having started in only 9 games with the NHL club last season.

Though he was drafted by Buffalo in the 7th round of the 2020 draft, Levi has yet to find a foothold in the net, leaving the 23-year old netminder with questions about his future with the Sabres.

Though Ukko-Pekka Luukkannen was the established number one for Buffalo, this year it's been Colton Ellis to dress in the teams first five games, leaving Devon out in the cold.

The Edmonton Oilers could consider acquiring Devon Levi from the Buffalo Sabres for two main reasons: his elite potential and low contract cost. The move would provide a younger, high-upside alternative to their current goaltending duo, which has been deemed inconsistent.

Devon Levi is signed to a low-cost, two-year contract with an $812,500 AAV through the 2026-27 season, making him an affordable option.

Before joining the NHL, Levi had a dominant career at lower levels, including the NCAA and World Juniors, showcasing elite potential, while his AHL statistics demonstrate his ability to be a top-tier performer against professional competition.

Of course, acquiring Levi would require him playing in Bakersfield for a number of games, before he could be deemed ready for the Oilers' goal.

With both Skinner and Pickard becoming free agents in July, 2026, having a goalie ready to take over the Oilers net is the prudent move to make for Stan Bowman.