Report: NJ Devils Looking To Trade Jacob Markstrom
At the beginning of this past season, the New Jersey Devils signed veteran goalie Jacob Markstrom to a two-year, $6M AAV extension. That deal hasn't even kicked in yet, and they're already looking to move on from the 36-year-old netminder.
Per sources, although a deal isn’t imminent , I’m told the @NJDevils are
— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) June 13, 2026
gauging market interest from clubs on
G Markstrom . #HockeyX pic.twitter.com/spVTY3AWN9
According to insider Kevin Weekes, sources tell him that the Devils are "gauging market interest from clubs on Markstrom." Though he does note that a deal isn't imminent just yet.
There are certainly a few teams that are in the market for a goalie. But at 36, and coming off his worst stats in over 10 years, the Devils would have to work hard to move him at his $6M price tag. He posted an .883 save percentage and a 3.07 goals against average, both his lowest marks since the 2014-15 season.
But it's even worse than that: According to Gerard Lionetti in All About the Jersey, out of 59 goalies to appear in at least 25 games this past season, Markstrom was 50th in goals saved above expected.
Markstrom's expiring deal features a full no-movement clause, and his new one that kicks in July 1st has a 20-team no-trade list this coming season.
Some around Jersey have even speculated on a potential buyout.
But there is a hiccup in this potential plan: The first buyout window opens 48 hours after the conclusion of the Stanley Cup Finals and runs only until June 30th. But Markstrom's new contract doesn't start until July 1. You can't buy out something that doesn't officially exist yet.
The potential second opportunity for the Devils to activate a buyout is also slim. That would be during the Secondary Arbitration Window. This buyout window is only activated for a team, however, if they have at least one player who elected for arbitration. The list of potential Devils with arbitration rights doesn't feature too many who would be expected to file.
Which takes us back to: Looking for a trade partner for Markstrom.
The Edmonton Oilers and Philadelphia Flyers are two teams that are in the market for another goaltending option. Would the Devils be willing to retain some of that $6 mill if either of them are interested?
Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images
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