The Ottawa Senators are reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring Buffalo Sabres goaltender Devon Levi to serve as a backup for starter Linus Ullmark during the upcoming season. According to Kevin Weekes, a former NHL goaltender and current ESPN analyst, the Senators have expressed interest in Levi as a reliable option behind Ullmark in 2026-27.
Levi's Background and Potential
Levi, 24, played junior hockey with the Carleton Place Canadians in the Central Canada Hockey League before enjoying a standout college career at Northeastern University in Boston. He was drafted by the Florida Panthers in the seventh round of the 2020 NHL Draft and later traded to the Sabres in 2021. Despite showing promise, Levi struggled to find consistency at the NHL level and spent last season with Buffalo's American Hockey League affiliate in Rochester.
Weekes praised Levi's talent, noting his athleticism, puck-reading ability, and patience on his feet. "When he's on his game, he's talented, he can move, he's athletic. He can read the puck and he holds his feet very well," Weekes said. However, he acknowledged that Levi's size leaves little margin for error.
Sabres' Goaltending Logjam
Levi's relationship with the Sabres has soured after being squeezed out of the goaltending picture by Ukko-Pekka Luukonen, Alex Lyon, and Colton Ellis. With Buffalo's depth in net, Levi may welcome a change of scenery. Sabres general manager Jarmo Kekalainen is reportedly gauging the trade market for Levi, who has one year left on his contract with a cap hit of $812,500. Levi will require waivers to be sent to the minors, which complicates Buffalo's situation.
Senators' Backup Plan
Senators president of hockey operations and general manager Steve Staios is prioritizing finding a reliable backup for Ullmark after last season's plan failed. Weekes believes Levi still has significant potential despite his struggles. "I think he is an NHL-calibre talent that has the potential to be a good goalie in this league for a long time," Kekalainen said at Buffalo's end-of-season press conference.
The Senators are looking to solidify their goaltending depth and see Levi as a cost-effective option who could develop into a dependable No. 2. With the trade market heating up, Ottawa may make a move to acquire the young netminder before the start of next season.
