Edmonton Oilers head coach Mike Babcock praised Devon Levi’s competitiveness after the goaltender helped secure a 4-3 overtime victory against the Minnesota Wild on Tuesday.
Levi stopped 27 shots as Edmonton improved to 7-1-1 this NHL season. Evan Bouchard scored the overtime winner at 3:32, converting a power play after Minnesota received a too-many-men penalty.
The victory also extended Edmonton’s strong run, with the team winning seven of its last eight games.
MORE: Connor McDavid reacts as injury-hit Oilers fall to Utah Mammoth
Babcock credited the Oilers’ penalty kill for its improved performance against Minnesota’s dangerous power play. However, he made sure to recognize Levi’s contribution between the pipes.
“Now, let’s not take anything away from Levi. He made some good saves,” Babcock told reporters. He highlighted a second-chance stop in the third period, describing Levi’s right-pad save as “an unreal save.”
Babcock then mentioned Wild goalie Jesper Wallstedt, who made 28 saves and said, “Now, their goaltender was spectacular. I mean, absolutely spectacular. So, good for him. And, they’re both good enough that if you don’t climb on them, you’re not going to score.”
Mike Babcock highlights Devon Levi’s competitive mindset
Babcock also praised Levi’s attitude and work ethic when asked what stood out about the young goaltender’s makeup.
“Well, I mean, he’s ultra-competitive,” Babcock said. “What I like about Levi, every day I walk in here, he’s got a smile on his face. He’s always working out. He’s always working.”
The Oilers coach also pointed to Levi’s confidence and family background when explaining his positive impression.
“He’s competitive as can be. Feels good about himself. When you meet his mom and dad, you see why,” Babcock added. “I mean, he just seems like a great kid.”
Levi has made the most of his opportunity in Edmonton after arriving from Buffalo on July 1. His record now stands at 5-1-0, giving the Oilers valuable stability in goal. Babcock recognised his stats, saying, “I mean, not a bad record. So, good for him.”
"It was a great win for our team, our specialty teams were outstanding. Coming in, we talked a ton about that, that it was gonna be a huge factor in the game & I thought they were fantastic."
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) October 21, 2026
Coach Babcock on the #Oilers victory over Minnesota. @Enterprise | #LetsGoOilerspic.twitter.com/S5T9vfgZUP
MORE: Blue Jackets’ reunion with Kirill Marchenko comes with ‘feelings still raw’
Edmonton overcame Minnesota’s third-period comeback, which included goals from Kirill Kaprizov and Ryan Hartman. Bouchard’s power-play finish ultimately secured two points.
Levi’s recent performances have strengthened his case for a larger role. Babcock’s comments suggest the goaltender’s preparation and competitive approach have impressed the coaching staff.
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —