4 Potential Trade Destinations for Devils' Jacob Markstrom

Sunday, June 14, 2026

The New Jersey Devils will look much different next season, as general manager Sunny Mehta is looking to make some significant roster changes.

While there's been speculation brewing about Nico Hischier, that's not the case at all, and the Swiss forward is expected to sign a contract extension to stick around New Jersey. However, in goal, look for Mehta to make a move, and don't be surprised to see Jacob Markstrom traded before July 1.

Markstorm, 36, has two seasons left on his deal at $6 million AAV, and owns a 20-team no-trade list. The Swedish netminder has lots of say in the matter, but it will be interesting to see how many teams make trade offers. Markstrom appeared in 44 games last season, posting a 23-19-1 record, along with a 3.07 goals against average, and an .883 save percentage. 

As far as trade destinations go, there's already speculation that Mehta has his eyes set on Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, and could be offering Markstrom, Simon Nemec, Dawson Mercer and a draft pick to Winnipeg. We'll see how much traction this pulls between now and July 1, when free agency opens.

The Florida Panthers are another team to watch as Sergei Bobrovsky appears to be testing the free-agent market, and could be a fallback option for Mehta, who knows Goalie Bob very well from their days together in Florida.

The Edmonton Oilers and Pittsburgh Penguins are two other teams to keep eyes on, as both teams are looking to reshape their crease and could see Markstrom as a proven veteran to help stabilize their goaltending depth. It will be curious to see how much salary Mehta is open to retaining, which could open up a few more options including the Utah Mammoth.

Markstrom on the move, where does he end up? Let us know in the comments.

Photo credit: Bob Lee, Imagn Images 

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