Devils Extend Markström; Deal Starts After 2026

The New Jersey Devils signed veteran goaltender Jacob Markström to a two-year, $12 million extension, announced Friday, that will begin after his current contract (reported to kick in for the 2026–27 season). The deal keeps the 35-year-old—acquired from Calgary in June 2024 for Kevin Bahl and a first‑round pick—in New Jersey as the club pushes its championship window. Markström posted a strong 2024–25 campaign (about a 2.50 GAA and .900 save percentage) but has struggled to start 2025–26, with a 5.13 GAA and .830 SV% through four starts, including an eight‑goal outing following a lower‑body injury. The Devils retain depth behind him with Jake Allen as the long‑term No. 2, Nico Daws (set to be an RFA after this season), and prospect Mikhail Yegorov. Management is betting his experience will stabilize the position, though observers say the timing and cost of the extension are a gamble if his struggles continue.