Jacob in Jersey, Devils and Flames Trade

(Photo by New Jersey Devils, NHL)

Just like the coaching carousel, the NHL also has a goaltender carousel where experienced net-minders are traded faster than the puck goes. Recent trade rumors have surrounded New Jersey Devils, as they have been open about their quest for a new goaltender.

On Wednesday, the New Jersey Devils traded for former Flames goaltender Jacob Markstrom. Calgary retained 31.25% of his salary and received defenseman Kevin Bahl and a 2025 first-round draft pick (top 10 protected).

While New Jersey is brimming with young talent, the goaltender position has been leaky. This past season, Jersey used 5 different goaltenders and traded twice during the year involving a goaltender. Out of the 5 used, only two posted a save percentage of .900% or higher – Jake Allen in 13 games played, .900% and Kaapo Kahkonen in 6 games played, .923% – and both these players were involved in the midseason trades. New Jersey beat the New York Rangers in the first round of the playoffs in 2022-2023 but failed to make the postseason this season. While goaltending was not the only issue to blame, it certainly accounted for some of the change. 

As for the Flames, Markstrom will be missed but his predecessor is coming. Markstrom played 48 games, winning 23 contests and posting a .905% save percentage, in the 2023-24 season. Calgary has one of the best goaltending prospects in their AHL affiliate in Dustin Wolf. Though he is only 23, Wolf has played 19 NHL games and will likely see far more action this next season. 

Overall, it is safe to say that both teams got what they needed and are set up better than before for the next season. Devils have a proven and reliable goaltender, and the Flames made space for their rising star, as well as a draft pick and tested defenseman.