The New Jersey Devils [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils] acquired goaltender Jacob Markstrom from the Calgary Flames this past off-season. The Devils bringing in Markstrom was extremely easy to understand, as their goaltending troubles were a major reason why they missed the playoffs in 2024. Thus, bringing in a star between the pipes like Markstrom was massive for New Jersey. Now, after Markstrom's first season with the Devils [https://news.google.com/publications/CAAqLQgKIidDQklTRndnTWFoTUtFWFJvWldodlkydGxlVzVsZDNNdVkyOXRLQUFQAQ/sections/CAQqEAgAKgcICjCvqtILMO7F6QMwpeDfCA?hl=en-CA&gl=CA&ceid=CA:en], it is fair to say that he lived up to expectations. The 35-year-old was certainly a difference maker for New Jersey, as he posted a 26-16-6 record, a 2.50 goals-against average, a .900 save percentage, and four shutouts in 49 games. With this, he was a significant reason why they got back into the playoffs this year. Markstrom will be entering the final year of his contract during the 2025-26 season. Due to this, he will be allowed to sign a contract extension with the Devils starting July 1. Given how well he played during his first season with the Devils, the Metropolitan Division club should work hard to sign him to an extension this summer. Markstrom has provided the Devils with stability between the pipes that they desperately needed before his arrival. He is also showing no signs of slowing down at 35 years old, so it would be fantastic for New Jersey to get him signed to an extension this off-season. The last thing New Jersey needs is questions between the pipes again, so it would be wise for them to work hard to extend Markstrom once they are permitted to. It will be fascinating to see if they do just that from here. Recent Devils News Devils Have 3 Clear Off-Season Roster Needs To Address [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils/latest-news/devils-have-3-clear-off-season-roster-needs-to-address] Devils Star Is Thriving At World Championship [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils/latest-news/devils-star-is-thriving-at-world-championship] Why Devils Fans Should Be Excited About Lenni Hameenaho [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils/latest-news/why-devils-fans-should-be-excited-about-lenni-hameenaho] Devils Have Clear Replacement If Jake Allen Walks [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils/latest-news/devils-have-clear-replacement-if-jake-allen-walks] Devils Should Upgrade Top-Six By Adding Jets Star [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils/latest-news/devils-should-upgrade-top-six-by-adding-jets-star] New Jersey Devils Star Hit New Level This Season [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils/latest-news/new-jersey-devils-star-hit-new-level-this-season] Devils Should Target Oilers Forward This Off-Season [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-jersey-devils/latest-news/devils-should-target-oilers-forward-this-off-season] Photo Credit: © Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images
