Devils Explore Markstrom Trade Market After Disappointing Season

Jacob Markstrom posted a 23-19-1 record, 3.07 goals-against average ranked 40th and .883 save percentage ranked 49th among goalies with at least 25 games in 2025-26.

Markstrom Contract and Performance Metrics

Markstrom completes a six-year deal carrying a $6 million average annual value and begins a two-year extension at the same cap hit on July 1. His no-movement clause converts to a 20-team no-trade list for 2026-27, limiting destination options compared with the current season. The 36-year-old’s 3.07 GAA and .883 save percentage placed him near the bottom of qualified starters, creating a measurable gap versus league averages around 2.70 GAA. New GM Sunny Mehta inherited this production after a management change tied to the prior disappointing campaign. Trading Markstrom would immediately alter the Devils’ projected 2026-27 payroll structure by removing the $6 million hit. The extension terms lock in the same AAV, so any deal must account for the remaining four seasons of committed dollars.

Trade Market Dynamics and Free Agency Contrast

The absence of established starting goalies in the 2026 unrestricted free-agent pool pushes interested clubs toward the trade market. Markstrom’s age and recent results contrast with younger options like Jordan Kyrou, who carries an $8.125 million AAV on an eight-year deal with a full no-trade clause in St. Louis. Unlike Robert Thomas, whose trade speculation has cooled, Markstrom’s situation remains active because his underlying numbers invite teams to project rebound potential on stronger rosters. The Devils’ front office can leverage this interest without an imminent deadline, per Weekes’ reporting. A successful deal would contrast with retaining Markstrom and relying on internal development or minor free-agent additions that carry higher risk.

Roster and Strategic Implications

Moving Markstrom would allow Mehta to reallocate resources toward a top-six winger such as Jake DeBrusk, who carries a $5.5 million cap hit and full no-movement clause but has expressed reluctance to join rebuilding clubs. Ottawa’s reported need for a top-six forward alongside Tim Stutzle creates one plausible landing spot if DeBrusk waivers are satisfied. The Devils could simultaneously address center and defense depth previously linked to Nico Hischier, Dougie Hamilton and Simon Nemec. Retaining Markstrom would instead preserve continuity at the cost of another season of below-average goaltending metrics. Either path hinges on the 20-team list activation in 2026-27, which narrows future flexibility compared with the current window.

The Devils’ exploration therefore positions them to either upgrade the position this summer or enter 2026-27 with clearer long-term clarity at the position.