That success has largely been fueled by the team’s strong goaltending tandem, which has been a key factor in each victory.
The Devils made several significant offseason additions to strengthen the roster that’s now hitting its stride. They brought in forwards Connor Brown and Evgenii Dadonov, while also locking up defenseman Luke Hughes with a seven-year, $63 million extension on October 1. In goal, New Jersey secured stability by re-signing backup netminder Jake Allen to a five-year, $9 million deal worth an average annual value of $1.8 million.
Allen has settled in nicely with the Devils, forming a dependable goaltending tandem alongside starter Jacob Markstrom — a duo that was effective last season and has continued to deliver early this year.
Recently, though, New Jersey has hit a snag. Markstrom suffered a lower-body injury during the team’s 3–2 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets. The 35-year-old stopped nine of ten shots after replacing Allen, who exited the game due to cramping. Markstrom finished with a .889 save percentage in that appearance, bringing his season mark to .845 through three games.
He hasn’t returned to action since leaving the ice that night, but reports indicate that the Devils still view him as a key long-term piece.
While Markstrom’s current deal expires at the end of the season, negotiations are reportedly underway. According to TSN and NHL Network insider Kevin Weekes, sources say New Jersey has already tabled an offer worth around $5 million.
Markstrom is now in the final season of his six-year, $36 million contract, which carries a $6 million annual cap hit. The Devils acquired him from the Calgary Flames on June 19, 2024, with Calgary retaining 31.25% of his salary.
With New Jersey off to a strong start, the front office faces a pivotal choice — whether to lock in Markstrom as their long-term solution in net. According to multiple reports, both the team and the veteran goaltender appear motivated to get a deal done.
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