*Photo from Sportsnet*
We have the first big trade of the offseason. The New Jersey Devils have acquired G Jacob Markstrom from the New Jersey Devils in exchange for a conditional 2025 first round draft pick and defenseman Kevin Bahl, according to TSN's Travis Yost. Both teams have confirmed.
The first round pick in the trade is top 10 protected. The Flames are retaining just over 30 percent of Markstrom's $6 million cap hit for 2024-2025 and 2025-2026, leaving the Devils on the hook for $4.125 million for the next two seasons. Markstrom completed the trade by waiving his no movement clause.
Calgary GM Craig Conroy said of the trade that "Today’s trade demonstrates our focus on the infusion of young talented players into our roster as well as acquiring important draft capital, while maintaining our commitment as a playoff competitive team. We thank Jacob for his professionalism and understanding of our decision to make this trade now and at this stage in his career."
Last season was Markstrom's 4th as a Flame after signing a 6 year deal prior to the shortened 2021 season. He ended the year with a 23-23-2 record to go with a 2.78 GAA and .905 save percentage, recording a pair of shutouts in 48 games for the Flames.
The Devils, who reportedly attempted to trade for Markstrom at the trade deadline this past season, get much needed goaltending help with the trade. With Devils goalies combining for a .886 save percentage last season, good for 3rd worst in the league, the addition of Markstrom is important.
It was also a revolving door in net for the Devils last season. Vitek Vanecek, Akira Schmid, Nico Daws, Kaapo Kahkonen, and Jake Allen all started games for them. Vanecek is now a member of the Sharks and Kahkonen is a pending UFA. Allen is under contract for next season while Daws and Schmid are pending RFA's.
Markstrom said of joining the Devils that "This is a big challenge. It's a big time with high expectations and as a goaltender, there's pressure, and I've been on teams where there was pressure on goaltending in the Canadian market. I know what's expected and me, as a person to, and people who know me that I just want to win hockey games. And when we don't win I'm my hardest critic, so I'm just super happy and stoked about going there."
Over 14 seasons, Markstrom has played for the Flames, Florida Panthers, and Vancouver Canucks. He has a 215-196-57 record with a .909 save percentage and 2.72 GAA, recording 20 shutouts in 468 starts and 485 games. He has a 13-13 record with a 2.85 GAA and .919 save percentage in 26 playoff games.
The one player the Flames are getting in return is Bahl, a left shot defenseman who isn't known for his offensive skills but is a strong defenseman in his own end, posting strong defensive metrics. He is under contract for $1.05 million in 2024-2025 and will be a RFA with arbitration rights next summer.
Conroy said of getting Bahl that "For quite some time, we had identified Kevin Bahl as a priority player. He is a strong defender with size who plays an assertive game with tremendous presence. While his 6’6, 230-pound frame is an imposing asset, he uses his body intelligently, has good mobility and makes smart puck decisions. Kevin fits our identity, and we are excited to acquire him now as he can continue to grow with our group."
Bahl completed his 4th season in the NHL this past year, all with the Devils. He ended the season with one goal and 10 assists for 11 points, averaging 17:24 of ice time per game while posting a +1 rating in 82 games. He has 4 goals and 21 assists in 148 games over his 4 seasons.
After the trade, the Flames now have 6 first round picks over the next 3 years as they continue to redefine their roster under Conroy. Dustin Wolf and Dan Vladar are the top two goalies in Calgary entering next season. Markstrom is expected to partner with Allen in goal for the Devils.
Comments
Post a Comment