The New Jersey Devils acquired goaltender Jacob Markstrom from the Calgary Flames on Wednesday in exchange for defenseman Kevin Bahl and a first-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
The teams reportedly had discussions involving Markstrom prior to this season’s trade deadline.
Markstrom, 34, is entering the fifth season of a six-year, $30 million contract with an annual cap hit of $6 million. The Flames will retain 31.25 percent of Markstrom’s remaining deal, the Devils announced.
He is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2025-26 campaign.
Markstrom posted a 23-23-2 record with two shutouts, 2.78 goals-against average and .905 save percentage in 48 games (all starts) this season.
He is 215-196-57 with 20 shutouts, a 2.72 GAA and a .909 save percentage in 14 seasons with the Florida Panthers, Vancouver Canucks and Flames.
“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,” Flames general manager Craig Conroy said. “We thank Jacob for his professionalism and understanding of our decision to make this trade now and at this stage in his career.”
“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-foot-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, who turns 24 on June 27, had 11 points (one goal, 10 assists) in 82 games with New Jersey this season.
He totaled 25 points (four goals, 21 assists) in 148 career games with the Devils.
–Field Level Media
