Insider reveals one goalie Oilers could claim on waivers in training camp

This is the time of year when NHL clubs go into training camp, many of them with an excess of goalies, and some of which must clear waivers before being sent to the minors, exposing them to teams that are in need of additional help at the goalie position.

Much has been reported about Edmonton's goalie struggles this offseason, in particular concerning Stuart Skinner's sub-par SV% and his poor performances in last year's post-season.

According to PuckPedia as of the 2025-26 season, Nico Daws is no longer waiver-exempt and must clear waivers to be assigned to the AHL. The Oilers could very well make such a move to acquire the young goalie.

The Devils have veteran goaltenders Jacob Markstrom and Jake Allen ahead of Daws on the depth chart, making it likely they'll try to send Daws to the AHL's Utica Comets.

Allen re-signed with New Jersey, and is in year-1 of a 5-year contract he signed in July, while Markstrom is expected to be the team's starter - they are firmly planted in New Jersey.

Daws is 24-years-old and has 52 NHL games of experience. Over his three seasons with the Devils he has demonstrated potential; in his four starts in 2024-25, Nico posted a 3-1 record with 1 shutout, a 1.60 GAA and a .939 SV%.

Oilers' prospect goaltender Samuel Jonsson struggled in his start at the Next Gen Rookie-Showcase, and may not be ready to play at the NHL level.

GM Stan Bowman has repeatedly stated that the Oilers will begin the year with Skinner and Pickard in goal. However, should one, or both falter early on, or at some point during the season, it would be prudent to have a replacement available, one that could be signed for a league minimum $775K AAV, and could get the team wins when called upon.