Jake Allen is the New Jersey Devils' most notable pending unrestricted free agent (UFA). Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald has been open about being interested in re-signing him, but the clock is certainly ticking with July 1 being less than a week away.
If Allen does, in fact, hit the free-agent market, he is expected to be a hot commodity. According to The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun, there are seven to eight teams that have interest in Allen, with the start of free agency just about here. LeBrun also mentioned the Los Angeles Kings as a potential suitor, noting that they are on the hunt for goalie help.
Hearing that there is a good amount of interest in Allen is not too shocking. As LeBrun noted, the goalie UFA market this year is not the strongest, and Allen is clearly the best of the bunch. Thus, it makes sense that teams looking for help between the pipes would target him if he hits the market on July 1.
Allen is coming off a strong season with Devils. While he sported a 13-16-1 record, he also posted a .908 save percentage, a 2.66 goals-against average, and four shutouts. With numbers like these, he was a very solid backup for New Jersey in 2024-25.
It will now be interesting to see what happens between Allen and the Devils. It would be great if they find a way to keep him around, but if he tests the market, he should have plenty of options to consider.
Insider Thinks Devils 'Will Keep An Eye On' Star Trade Target
The <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils">New Jersey Devils </a>will be aiming to improve their forward group this off-season. When looking at their current roster, it is fair to say that they could use another top-six winger, especially.
Photo Credit: © David Kirouac-Imagn Images