Devils Make Big Move In Net

The New Jersey Devils have finally decided to send Akira Schmid back to the AHL for the time being to work on his game. He hasn't exactly been the player he was last season when he dominated after coming up to the NHL and taking over in the playoffs.

#NEWS: We have assigned G Akira Schmid to Utica (AHL).

📰: https://t.co/HsAlYQkhBX pic.twitter.com/FroXFPqqAz

— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) December 28, 2023

After going 9-5-2 during the regular season with a .922 SV%, 2.13 GAA, and a shutout last season, he has a 5-7-1 record with a .893 SV% and a 3.26 GAA so far this season. In his previous outing, he allowed two goals within the first six minutes of the game on six shots and was pulled.

Getting the call up is 23-year-old Nico Daws. He has proven he is a capable goaltender in the AHL, but has only gotten into three games this season. Regardless, he has only allowed seven goals in those games and has a .929 SV%. Daws is a fairly high pick for a goaltender and the Devils are hopeful he can turn into something for them. They haven't given up on Schmid though as he is only 23 years old himself and didn't have to pass through waivers.

The Devils had to make some sort of change as Vitek Vanecek isn't playing very well either, but would have had to pass through waivers. Maybe this is the wakeup call the Devils need to get their season back on track. It is likely the Devils will be looking to acquire a capable and consistent goaltender this season.

Photo credit: © Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports