The New Jersey Devils made a significant move by acquiring goaltender Jacob Markstrom from the Calgary Flames. Markstrom waived his no-trade clause to make the deal happen. This acquisition came after the Devils had been pursuing Markstrom since the March trade deadline but were unable to reach a deal with Calgary at that time. Markstrom expressed his excitement about joining the Devils during a video call with reporters from his native Sweden, highlighting the team’s desire for him and their potential to win as key factors in his decision to move to New Jersey.
Markstrom’s addition to the Devils’ roster is expected to create a strong tandem in goal with veteran Jake Allen. Allen was acquired by New Jersey from the Montreal Canadiens earlier in the year. The Devils had previously traded their former No. 1 goalie, Vitek Vanecek, to the San Jose Sharks. With Markstrom and Allen leading the way, the Devils aim to solidify their goaltending situation, which has been a concern for the team in recent seasons. The addition of Markstrom is seen as a step towards making the Devils a consistent playoff contender.
With Markstrom departing for New Jersey, the Calgary Flames are likely to turn to a goaltending tandem of Dan Vladar and Dustin Wolf. Wolf, a seventh-round pick by Calgary in 2019, has been groomed by the organization for a more prominent role. Vladar, who backed up Markstrom last season, is also expected to play a significant role for the Flames in the upcoming season. The departure of Markstrom signifies a shift in Calgary’s goaltending strategy and will provide an opportunity for Vladar and Wolf to prove themselves in the NHL.
The acquisition of Jacob Markstrom marks the first significant personnel move for the New Jersey Devils since hiring coach Sheldon Keefe. The team’s goaltending carousel over the past seasons has been a major concern, and Markstrom’s arrival is expected to bring stability to the position. Markstrom expressed his eagerness to work with Jake Allen and help the Devils win as many games as possible. The Devils are hopeful that with Markstrom and Allen leading the way, they can make a push for a spot in the playoffs and establish themselves as a competitive team in the league.
The New Jersey Devils’ acquisition of Jacob Markstrom from the Calgary Flames is a significant move that is poised to impact both teams significantly. Markstrom’s arrival in New Jersey is expected to provide stability in goal and bolster the team’s chances of becoming a consistent playoff contender. Meanwhile, the Flames will look to Dan Vladar and Dustin Wolf to step up in the absence of Markstrom. The upcoming season will showcase how these changes play out for both franchises.