Sabres' Goalie Off Trade Market

It appeared as though the Buffalo Sabres were going to cut it down to two NHL goalies before the trade deadline, and still could, but the situation has changed and it appears as though there won't be movement, for at least a couple of goalies, for the time being.

The trade deadline is quickly approaching, but the Olympic break will come first to give teams more time to make decisions on the future. The Sabres have Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Alex Lyon, Colten Ellis, and Devon Levi in their organization. Something has to give.

Levi is the only one who won't have to go through waivers this season, and that's why he's in the AHL. But Ellis was grabbed off of waivers, and both Luukkonen and Lyon have played well, especially lately, when healthy. Having three options with the constant health issues is probably the best way to go for now for a team needing to get into the playoffs and in a great spot to finally do so again.

Anthony Di Marco said, " The Flyers had interest in Alex Lyon, but it doesn't appear like he's available anymore." While he would be a great fit for the Philadelphia Flyers and what they're hoping to accomplish this season and beyond, the Sabres just got news that Luukkonen will be out at least a week, putting Lyon back into the starter role.

The Sabres are 19-3-1 in their past 23 games, and even though it's unrealistic that they'll keep up that kind of pace through to the playoffs, having experience and strong goaltending will certainly not hurt their chances. Why Buffalo isn't in any hurry to move Lyon is because he's signed at $1.5 million AAV through next season, is 12-6-3, has a 2.70 GAA and .911 SV%, and two shutouts, the only two shutouts this season for the Sabres. His quality start % is also extremely good this season.

There aren't any easy decisions in net for the Sabres, but they aren't about to trade someone just because.