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Oilers reportedly had trade talks with Buffalo for goalie, move may still happen
Photo credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images
With the recent acquisition of goalie Tristan Jarry from Pittsburgh, the Oilers may still be looking to trade for another back-up over Calvin Pickard.
Analyst says Oilers not done trading in goal position
In addition to Tristan Jarry, I believe the Oilers poked around Alex Lyon. Not as seriously as Jarry, but it was there.
- Elliotte Friedman, 32 Thoughts
- Elliotte Friedman, 32 Thoughts
Before the actual trade was completed for Tristan Jarry, reports had circulated from all fronts across the league, with all kinds of deals being suggested. Truth is, they may be right - another trade is more likely than not.
Several conversations with Buffalo were had by GM Stan Bowman about Alex Lyon as a back-up replacement to Pickard.
At this point, it only makes sense. The struggling netminder sports a 4.04 GAA and an .851 SV%, worst in the NHL.
Keeping Pickard as Jarry's back-up is counterproductive, as any benefit derived by the latter, could be undone by the former.
Detroit's Alex Lyon would be a solid and experienced backup for the Edmonton Oilers, with his proven ability to perform well when given consistent playing time, as he did in key stretches with the Florida Panthers and Detroit Red Wings.
On a team like the Oilers, his mental fortitude and ability to perform well under pressure would be definite assets in the playoffs.
Lyon was instrumental in helping the Panthers secure the final wild-card spot with a strong run at the end of the 2022-23 regular season.
One week remains before the December 19 trade freeze. We may still hear something yet.