The New Jersey Devils are navigating a complex early season, marked by promising starts, unexpected challenges, and intriguing questions surrounding their goaltending situation. As of October 31, 2025, the team holds a solid 8-3-0 record, positioning them second in the Metropolitan Division. However, recent back-to-back losses on their western road trip have tempered some of the initial excitement.
A significant topic of discussion revolves around a potential contract extension for veteran goaltender Jacob Markstrom. Markstrom, who arrived in New Jersey via a trade with the Calgary Flames in June 2024, is in the final year of a six-year, $36 million contract.
Markstrom's Extension and Performance
Negotiations for an extension appear to be ongoing. Insider Kevin Weekes reported an offer of around $5 million per year back in September. Darren Dreger noted mutual interest between Markstrom and the Devils in securing a deal. However, Markstrom's rocky start to the season, with a 5.13 goals-against average and an .830 save percentage in four games, coupled with a recent injury, has raised some concerns. Despite these concerns, general manager Tom Fitzgerald has expressed his desire to keep Markstrom with the team, citing his positive presence in the locker room.
The Rise of Jake Allen and Nico Daws
Adding another layer to the goaltending situation is the performance of Jake Allen and the emergence of Nico Daws. Allen has been stellar, posting a 5-0-0 record with a 1.93 goals-against average and a .923 save percentage. His strong play has led to questions about a more even workload split between him and Markstrom. Daws, meanwhile, has also shown promise, and there's speculation that he may be a long-term solution in goal for the Devils. However, with Markstrom and Allen already in the mix, Daws could be the odd man out. NHL insiders believe multiple teams are monitoring Daws' situation, and a mid-season trade is a realistic possibility.
Brodeur's Thoughts on Load Management
Hall of Famer Martin Brodeur, now an executive with the Devils, has weighed in on the topic of goaltender load management. Brodeur, who routinely played 70+ games a season during his career, believes that modern goaltenders are "babied" and that the trend of using goaltending tandems contributes to the volatility of the position. He suggests that goalies should be playing 65-70 games per season.
Maturity and Team Performance
Coach Sheldon Keefe downplayed the notion that the Devils had suddenly matured as a team during their early winning streak. Despite the recent losses, the Devils remain a strong contender in the Metropolitan Division. With a talented roster and solid goaltending, they are expected to be a playoff team. The challenge will be managing the goaltending situation effectively and ensuring that both Markstrom and Allen are fresh and ready for the challenges ahead.
The Devils' goaltending situation is a developing story with several potential outcomes. Whether Markstrom secures an extension, Allen continues his strong play, or Daws becomes a trade chip remains to be seen. The decisions made by the Devils' management in the coming weeks and months will have a significant impact on the team's success this season and beyond.
