Devils Face Another Stretch Without Jacob Markstrom
The New Jersey Devils are entering a season full of promise — but they’ll have to do so without their top goaltender, Jacob Markstrom, who is set to miss a few weeks due to a lower-body injury.
Markstrom’s early-season form had already raised some concerns. In two starts and one relief outing, he posted a disappointing .845 save percentage and a 3.89 goals-against average. While his play wasn’t sharp, the Devils might at least take some relief in knowing his injury isn’t more serious or related to past upper-body concerns.
Familiar Territory in Net
This isn’t the first time the Devils have had to rely on their depth between the pipes. Jake Allen and Nico Daws are expected to step in again — just like they did last season when Markstrom missed time with an MCL sprain. That injury not only impacted the Devils’ playoff push but also cost Markstrom the chance to represent Sweden at the Four Nations tournament. With the 2026 Winter Olympics on the horizon, Markstrom will be hoping this latest setback doesn’t derail another international opportunity.
Long-Term Questions Loom
Markstrom’s durability has become a growing concern — and it’s complicating his future. The 35-year-old is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, and this may be his final shot at landing a significant contract. Whether that’s with New Jersey remains unclear. He was acquired in a trade from Calgary in 2024 with the hope of stabilizing the crease, but while he was serviceable last year, he wasn’t the difference-maker the Devils had hoped for — particularly in their quiet playoff exit against the Hurricanes.
Meanwhile, Jake Allen is a dependable backup but no longer the type of goalie who can carry a contender for long stretches. If Markstrom’s absence is truly just a couple of weeks, the Devils should manage. But if Allen is pressed into extended starting duty again, things could get dicey. He hasn’t posted starter-level numbers in years, settling comfortably into a backup role in Montreal and now in New Jersey.
Stakes Are High
The Devils are at a critical point. After bursting onto the scene two seasons ago, they missed the playoffs last year due to a mix of inconsistency and injuries — most notably to Jack Hughes, who was sidelined for the final two months. This year, the Metro Division is more open than usual. With the Capitals likely regressing and Carolina leading the pack, the Devils have a clear path to a playoff spot — but only if their goaltending holds up.
Unfortunately, Markstrom isn’t the only injury concern. Defenseman Jonathan Kovacevic has yet to play and is expected to be out for months. Forward Stefan Noesen is also dealing with a long-term issue. Add in the late contract resolution with Luke Hughes, and it’s clear the Devils haven’t had a smooth start to the season.
Time to Step Up
New Jersey has spent the past couple of years being labeled as “the next big thing.” With a talented core and a prime window open, it’s time for them to prove they belong among the NHL’s elite. That journey will have to continue — at least for now — without their starting goalie.
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