The Edmonton Oilers have reportedly been active in trade discussions with the Detroit Red Wings in search of a long-term net solution. According to NHL insider Cam Robinson, the first name Edmonton inquired about was 20-year-old Trey Augustine, fresh off winning gold with Team USA at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championships.
Oilers Eye Goalie Upgrade but Trey Augustine Stays Off-Limits
That conversation was brief. Sources indicate the Red Wings had no interest in moving Augustine, and general manager Steve Yzerman is said to be invested in the young goaltender’s future.
“I was told that they’ve contacted Detroit. I believe the first person they asked about was Trey Augustine, and I think that that was just a non-starter,” NHL insider Cam Robinson shared.
Cam Robinson: Re Oilers goalie search: They are looking a little more long term; I was told they’ve contacted Detroit; I believe the first person they asked about was Trey Augustine…that was a non starter; they have…Sebastian Cossa sitting there – Sekeres and Price (8/11)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) August 11, 2025
The Oilers’ interest in Augustine is part of a broader strategy to find a dependable starter to stabilize the crease for years. Goaltending has been a recurring concern in the Oilers despite deep playoff runs led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Robinson told the “Sekeres & Price” podcast that Yzerman “really loves that kid” and views him as a cornerstone for the Red Wings’ future. With veteran John Gibson and Cam Talbot currently holding the NHL spots, Detroit can afford to be patient with Augustine’s development.
While free agents like Carter Hart have been linked to the team, general manager Stan Bowman appears to be considering a bolder approach. After the Augustine talks went nowhere, the Oilers shifted their focus to another Detroit prospect, 6’6” Sebastian Cossa, drafted 15th overall in 2021.
Augustine’s stock has risen sharply over the past year. The Michigan State standout has impressed at both the NCAA and international levels, showing poise beyond his age. He’s now widely considered closer to NHL-ready than Cossa, which explains Detroit’s reluctance to part with him.
Sebastian Cossa as a Potential Fit for the Oilers
Cossa, meanwhile, may be the more attainable option. The former Edmonton Oil Kings netminder has been developing in the AHL with the Grand Rapids Griffins, posting steady numbers but still facing questions about his readiness for the NHL.
Think Bob is talking about Sebastian Cossa here. Detroit has Trey Augustine passing him in rankings now, Cossa is a former Oil King. pic.twitter.com/HRkQIX5r8C
— OilersDaily (@alloilersdaily) August 2, 2025
Detroit’s goal-keeping depth, bolstered by Augustine’s rise, could make Cossa available under the right circumstances. However, Yzerman is known for driving a hard bargain. Any deal would likely require the Oilers to part with valuable assets, possibly including top prospects or roster players.
The Oilers’ current tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard has been good enough to reach two straight Stanley Cup Finals. Still, management reportedly feels an upgrade could be the final piece to a championship puzzle.
If the Oilers want Cossa, they may need to move quickly. Another strong season in the AHL could increase his value and narrow the Oilers’ window to strike a deal.
