NHL Trade Rumors: Flames & Devils Have "Renewed" Blockbuster Talks

The Calgary Flames and New Jersey Devils have reignited blockbuster trade talks centered around veteran goaltender Jacob Markstrom, months after a previous deal fell through. 

TSN's Pierre LeBrun reports that the two teams, who were close to an agreement before the trade deadline in February, have resumed discussions, with Markstrom willing to waive his no-movement clause to join the Devils. This willingness has added momentum to the ongoing negotiations.

LeBrun says the Flames and Devils have re-engaged in talks on Jacob Markstrom.

Notes that Markstrom is still willing to go to New Jersey, and that the Flames are getting calls from teams that were not involved in talks around the trade deadline. pic.twitter.com/5jPAk6byeS

— Mike Gould (@miketgould) June 6, 2024

A significant obstacle in the previous talks was the Flames' reluctance to retain a portion of Markstrom’s $6 million annual salary cap hit, which runs through the 2025-26 season. 

While New Jersey remains a primary suitor, the Flames are now receiving interest from multiple other teams, complicating the trade landscape. 

The main sticking point remains the return price, as Calgary is firm on their valuation and is prepared to wait for an acceptable offer.

Elliotte Friedman gives a little context on Jacob Markstrom's comments from yesterday and on the New Jersey Devils continued interest in the Flames goaltender.

📽️: Sportsnet | NHL pic.twitter.com/Odj8Ra1j4V

— Robert Munnich (@RingOfFireCGY) March 3, 2024

The Devils, led by general manager Tom Fitzgerald, are determined to secure a reliable starting goaltender and prefer Markstrom over other options like Boston's Linus Ullmark and Anaheim's John Gibson. 

The Flames initially sought a significant return, including a first-round pick, top prospect Seamus Casey, and a young NHL player like Alexander Holtz. 

While Fitzgerald is prepared to offer his 2024 first-rounder (10th overall) and potentially Holtz, he reportedly remains hesitant to part with a player like Dawson Mercer or Casey. 

Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports