Detroit Red Wings Officially Lose Goalie to Eastern Conference Team

The Buffalo Sabres have made another goaltending depth move by signing Alex Lyon to a two-year, $3 million contract ($1.5M AAV).

Lyon was previously with the Red Wings, and departs after a $900,000 cap hit over two seasons, seeking a fresh start in Buffalo since Detroit acquired John Gibson from the Anaheim Ducks this past week.

Lyon's tenure in Detroit was a rollercoaster. After playing a solid role in the Florida Panthers' 2022-23 playoff push, he joined a crowded Red Wings crease alongside Ville Husso and James Reimer.

Starting the 2023-24 season third on the depth chart, Lyon took his opportunity due to injuries and inconsistent play from others. His late-season push nearly brought Detroit to their first playoff berth since 2016, but they fell just short.

The 2024-25 season was more of a rough path for Lyon.

In 30 games, the Minnesota native posted a 14-9-1 record, a 2.81 goals-against average (GAA), and a .896 save percentage with one shutout.

With Cam Talbot signed for another year and GM Steve Yzerman acquiring John Gibson from Anaheim, Lyon's time in Detroit ended.

In Buffalo, Lyon could serve as a backup or 1B option behind Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who aims for a rebound year.

The Sabres' goaltending system also includes Devon Levi, who spent most of last season with the AHL's Rochester Americans. Lyon's 113 career NHL games yield a 51-38-11 record, 2.99 GAA, .902 SV%, and four shutouts.

His playoff experience includes three starts for Florida in 2023, going 1-2 before their Stanley Cup Final run.

It'll be interesting to see if Lyon can make the Sabres roster, or if this all but confirms that his time in the NHL is over.