You’ve seen the rumors on your feed, and now the insider confirmation is finally here: Former NHL goalie and ESPN’s Kevin Weekes reports that the New Jersey Devils are actively gauging the trade market for veteran goaltender Jacob Markstrom. While Weekes indicated that a deal isn’t imminent today, the writing is on the wall for a potential trade.
Why is this happening now? My take as an NHL insider is simple: the impending summer free-agent market is shaping up to be a barren wasteland for quality goaltending depth. Desperate general managers who need stability in the crease can’t rely on July 1st signings to save their seasons. This severe lack of free-agent inventory will inevitably push contending teams into the trade market for help, putting the New Jersey Devils in a prime position of leverage. If you are a team with Stanley Cup aspirations but a glaring hole between the pipes, Markstrom is suddenly your top target, and the Devils are waiting for your call.
Understanding the New Jersey Devils and Jacob Markstrom Trade Value
Let’s look at the reality of Markstrom’s current standing. He is admittedly coming off a difficult season, logging a 23-19-1 record, a 3.07 goals-against average, and an .883 save percentage. However, front offices know that form is temporary, and class is permanent. He is entering the final season of his six-year contract carrying a $6 million AAV and a full no-movement clause.
Crucially, Markstrom starts a two-year contract extension on July 1 with an average annual value of $6 million. This new deal includes a 20-team no-trade list in 2026-27 and a 5-team NTC in 2027-28. This means the New Jersey Devils need to act strategically alongside the player to navigate his trade protection, but the supply-and-demand market dynamics are heavily in their favor right now.
Why the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers Could Target Markstrom
When evaluating the NHL landscape, two intriguing destinations emerge: the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers. For Edmonton, the Connor McDavid championship window demands absolute certainty. Even with Tristan Jarry in the mix as the starter, the Oilers’ front office knows that an established veteran like Markstrom can provide the 1A/1B stability needed for a grueling playoff run in the loaded Western Conference.
Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers present a fascinating scenario. With current goalie Sergei Bobrovsky looking to be headed to free agency this summer, the Panthers suddenly have a massive vacancy in the crease. Florida fully expects to remain Stanley Cup contenders next season, meaning they are actively in the market for a high-end starting goalie, and Markstrom could be exactly their guy. Both teams have the urgency to make a splash, and trading for a proven starter rather than overpaying in a weak free-agent market is a calculated risk that could yield a championship return.
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