NHL Rumors: Sabres to Trade Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen
Growing speculation around the Buffalo Sabres suggests the team may seriously consider moving goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen this offseason.
As reported by David Pagnotta, Luukkonen’s no-trade protection begins in July, making the NHL Draft the natural window for trade discussions.
David Pagnotta: Re Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen: His no-trade protection kicks in in July; this may be something to look at around the draft; with who they've got right now, with Levi coming up, I think there's an appetite to seriously look at moving him - DFO Rundown (12/3)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) December 5, 2025
With Devon Levi pushing for a full-time NHL role and both Alex Lyon and Colten Ellis performing well, Buffalo finds itself with a crowded crease, and Luukkonen is the asset with the most trade value and long-term contract certainty.
For a Sabres team once again drifting out of playoff contention, capitalizing on that value may finally be on the table.
Sabres Could Explore Offseason Trade of Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen
Insiders have noted that Buffalo is open to listening but not rushing into a deal, preferring a return that helps the roster in other areas rather than swapping goalie for goalie.
Over his six-year NHL career, the former top prospect goalie has posted a .898 SV%, 3.03 GAA, seven shutouts, and a 75-69-16 record.
DFO Rundown (Dec 3): Pagnotta wonders what Buffalo will do with Ukko Pekka Luukkonen due to all their goalies. Says it might not be something that happens during the season. #sabrehood #NHL pic.twitter.com/FEG1XNKD7e
— NHL Trade Alert (@NHLTradeAlert) December 3, 2025
Several teams have been linked as logical suitors, including the Edmonton Oilers, Montreal Canadiens, and Philadelphia Flyers, all of whom have dealt with inconsistency in net this season. Luukkonen’s size, age, and cost-controlled term through 2029 makes him appealing to clubs looking for stable goaltending without diving into the overpriced free-agent goalie market.
Buffalo’s three-goalie rotation is unsustainable and Levi’s development timeline is accelerating. As a result, Luukkonen’s trade window is at its most flexible before protections lock in.
Photo Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images
