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Oilers will get chance to claim young promising goalie on waivers soon


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Liam McCormick
December 1, 2025  (9:59 PM)
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Akira Schmid
Photo credit: Imagn Images

The Edmonton Oilers will likely soon have a chance to claim promising young goalie Akira Schmid on waivers from the Vegas Golden Knights.

The Golden Knights have just called up Carter Hart from his AHL conditioning assignment, and will soon get starter Adin Hill back from his current injury. Vegas likely won't carry 3 goalies so Schmid looks to be the odd man out, and would be placed on waivers.

Vegas Golden Knights may be in position to waive goalie Akira Schmid, Oilers should claim him

As Carter Hart was called up, Oilers fans took note that could make Schmid available in the near future - and one Oilers fans took note analyst believes there is some talent there.
Now 25 years old, Schmid has played only 63 career NHL games between the Devils and Golden Knights. He's bounced between the NHL and AHL frequently since 2021, not establishing a long-term home quite yet.
His raw stats don't look fantastic with a .901 save percentage over his career and an .896 so far this season, but there are some analytics suggesting he's a quality goaltender and may deserve a longer look.
According to MoneyPuck, Schmid has a positive Goals Saved Above Expected this season, and actually ranks just behind Stuart Skinner. Some NHL goalie analysts also praise him for his strong fundamentals in the crease.
At 6'5 and 190 pounds, Schmid also fits the lanky and athletic profile of most successful modern goaltenders.
If there's one concern about Schmid so far, it's that his consistency has never quite dialled in. He's had highs and lows, but again, has never prevent got consistent playing time.
Schmid is only owed $875K for the remainder of this season before being an RFA. Having team control on a cheap contract is an asset as well.
At the very least, Schmid looks to be a sure upgrade on Calvin Pickard on a cheap contract with some potential to be better. The Oilers should take a look at him, and if Ingram isn't ready soon, should make a claim.
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Oilers will get chance to claim young promising goalie on waivers soon

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