Nico Daws finds himself in a precarious position within the New Jersey Devils organization as the 2025-26 season approaches. Once viewed as a promising prospect, the 24-year-old goaltender now faces an uncertain future, caught in a numbers game after key acquisitions solidified the Devils' goaltending tandem.

Daws' journey with the Devils has been marked by both promise and adversity. Drafted in the third round of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Daws made his NHL debut in October 2021 amidst an injury crisis, stepping up when the team needed him most. He showcased potential during his rookie season, playing 25 games with a .893 save percentage. However, his development was hampered by a hip injury that required surgery in the summer of 2023. Despite the setback, Daws continued to battle, splitting time between the NHL and the AHL's Utica Comets.

In the 2024-25 season, Daws again found himself in the NHL spotlight due to injuries to other goaltenders. In a limited six-game stint, he posted impressive statistics, including a .939 save percentage and a 1.60 goals-against average. A memorable moment came during the Stadium Series game against the Philadelphia Flyers, where Daws set an NHL record for the most saves in an outdoor game, stopping 45 of 48 shots.

Despite these flashes of brilliance, the Devils' goaltending picture has changed dramatically. The acquisition of veteran Jacob Markstrom and the re-signing of Jake Allen have seemingly solidified the team's goaltending duo for the foreseeable future. Allen inked a five-year, $9 million deal, signaling the team's long-term commitment to him. Markstrom, is in the final year of his contract.

This leaves Daws as the odd man out. While he expressed his desire to be on the NHL roster full-time, the reality is that he may not see much, if any, NHL ice time this season. He is on a one-way contract for the 2025-26 season, carrying a cap hit of $812,500.

Several options lie ahead for the Devils and Daws. One possibility is keeping him as a third-string goalie. However, this scenario may not be ideal for Daws' development, as he needs consistent playing time. Another option is to trade him to a team in need of goaltending depth. Several teams, including the Edmonton Oilers and the Vegas Golden Knights, have been identified as potential landing spots. The Oilers, in particular, are looking for goaltending stability, while the Golden Knights may seek a more reliable backup than Akira Schmid.

A third option would be to waive Daws and assign him to Utica, but he is no longer waiver-exempt.

Ultimately, the Devils' decision will depend on their assessment of Daws' potential, their organizational depth, and the needs of other teams. While his place on the Devils' roster is uncertain, Daws has proven his ability to step up when called upon. Whether he remains in New Jersey or finds a new opportunity elsewhere, his career is one to watch.