The team’s rising star in goal has officially been placed on injured reserve, meaning that he will be out of the lineup for a minimum of seven days. There’s been no word on what the injury is, and coach Mike Babcock didn’t provide any clarity after Friday’s practice.

It’s a tough blow considering the start Levi was enjoying in Oilers’ silks. After an electric comeback win on Thursday against Carolina, Levi now has a 6-1 record on the season, with a 3.11 goals-against average and an .887 save percentage.

With Levi unavailable, the Oilers recalled Matt Tomkins on Friday afternoon from the Bakersfield Condors.

This will be Tristan Jarry’s opportunity, and he’s produced two good games after a shaky start in the home opener. He’s backstopped victories against the San Jose Sharks and Utah Mammoth, only allowing three goals on 48 shots.

“I just want to keep growing,” Jarry told the media on Friday. “I think every day getting better and better is my goal, and just using the practices wisely and working on the things I can when I have the opportunity. I think that’s it’s been good. Dev’s done a great job, and I think it’s allowed me to work on my game.” 

Jarry’s overall stats have improved to a 2.97 goals-against average and an .873 save percentage. With a Saturday night spotlight against Toronto, it’s not unlike Jarry’s first-ever start with the Oilers after being acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins back on Dec. 13, 2025.

“It’s always fun to play the Maple Leafs, no matter what team you’re on, it’s it’s they travel well. They always have a good following behind them, so it’s always a fun game.”

The 32-year-old pro in Tomkins has played just six NHL games dating back to the 2023-24 season with the Tampa Bay Lightning. He’s played three games with the Condors this season, supporting a 1-2 record, with a 2.40 goals-against average and a .909 save percentage. It depends on the length of Levi’s injury, but Tomkins will primarily be in a backup role.

Edmonton hosts Toronto on Saturday, Detroit on Monday, and Calgary on Wednesday. After a two-day break, the Oilers embark on a quick three-game road trip to the East Coast, playing the Islanders on Saturday, the Rangers on Sunday, then the Devils on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, for the Condors, they recalled Nathaniel Day to fill Tomkin’s spot in the Bakersfield crease. Connor Ungar has played two of the five games so far this season.

Tomkins’ recall may not be the only one we see in the coming days. Oilers defenceman Mattias Ekholm was helped off the ice Thursday, after hitting his head on the ice following a check from Hurricanes winger William Carrier. Babcock didn’t offer a firm timeline, but the blue liner is expected to miss at least a week.

Michael Menzies is an Oilersnation columnist and co-host of Pregaming and Postgaming. He’s also been the play-by-play voice of the Bonnyville Pontiacs in the AJHL since 2019. With seven years of news experience as the Editor-at-Large of Lakeland Connect in Bonnyville, Menzies collects vinyl, books, and stomach issues. Follow him on X at Menzies_4.PRESENTED BY DFO EDMONTON GEAR

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