The Devils' Goaltending: Strong Past, Promising Present, and a Bright Future

The New Jersey Devils are in a strong position when it comes to goaltending, both now and looking ahead.

From seasoned NHL veterans to reliable AHL call-ups and rising prospects, the Devils' goaltending depth far surpasses that of teams like the Edmonton Oilers.

New Jersey also has a storied history in net. A recent stat from NHL PR highlighted the goaltenders with the most career wins in league history. Unsurprisingly, sitting atop the list is Martin Brodeur.

Brodeur’s legendary mark of 691 wins leads the group by a staggering 116 victories. The closest active goaltender is Marc-André Fleury, with 575 wins. While this list resurfaces every so often, no one has come close to Brodeur’s dominance.

The most recent update came when Sergei Bobrovsky passed Tony Esposito for 10th all-time. Esposito held the spot with 423 wins, while Bobrovsky now has 429. Still, both he and Fleury remain well short of Brodeur’s untouchable record.

But it’s not just about the past. The Devils have a strong goaltending setup in the present day, too.

Jacob Markstrom: The Starter

Currently, Jacob Markstrom leads the way as New Jersey’s starter. The 34-year-old veteran has one year remaining on his six-year, $36 million contract.

Last season, he appeared in 49 games, posting a 2.50 goals-against average and a .900 save percentage. Markstrom missed time with an MCL sprain in January but returned in March.

While the Devils have the option to extend him beyond this season, there’s no rush to make a move just yet.

Opinion: Why Haven’t the Devils Extended Jacob Markstrom?Opinion: Why Haven’t the Devils Extended Jacob Markstrom?Why Haven’t the Devils Extended Jacob Markstrom?

Jake Allen: The Reliable Backup

Backing up Markstrom is veteran Jake Allen, who re-signed with the Devils on July 1. Allen was expected to test free agency but surprised many by agreeing to a five-year deal worth $1.8 million annually.

The contract solidified New Jersey’s backup position at a bargain price. At under $2 million per year, Allen is among the most affordable veterans in the NHL.

“Two years ago at the deadline, I called him up before we traded for him to convince him to come here,” Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald shared. “I said, ‘You will be very surprised how happy you will be here. We’re building a good team.’ He reminded me of that conversation yesterday, so it was nice.” 

New Jersey on the Move: Devils Make Noise Early in Free AgencyNew Jersey on the Move: Devils Make Noise Early in Free AgencyThe NHL free agency period began just six days ago and the NJ Devils have made several moves to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season. 

Nico Daws: The Trusted Third Option

The Devils also have a dependable third-string option in Nico Daws.

Drafted 84th overall in 2020, Daws has stepped up when needed. While he’s spent most of his time with the AHL’s Utica Comets, he’s made appearances with the Devils in 2021, 2023, and 2024—playing in 52 NHL games across those seasons.

When injuries struck the Devils’ starter and backup, Daws was there. Still just 24, he’s considered a potential future starter—but with two veterans ahead of him and his contract set to expire, questions remain about his long-term place in New Jersey.

If the Devils want to recoup value, they may consider trading him before his contract ends. 

Opinion: Nico Daws Is a Part of the Devils' FutureOpinion: Nico Daws Is a Part of the Devils' FutureThe year was 2021. It was October, and both of the New Jersey Devils’ goaltenders were out with injuries. In need of an emergency starter, the team turned to 21-year-old Nico Daws, the 84th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft.

Mikhail Yegorov: The Future?

If Daws is moved, it's because the Devils have another highly promising goalie in the pipeline.

Mikhail Yegorov, selected 49th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, has already won over the fanbase. Standing 6'5" and currently playing at Boston University, Yegorov is a towering presence in net.

At just 19, he’s the youngest goaltending prospect in the system—five years younger than Daws—and is being coached by Devils legend Jay Pandolfo.

Yegorov is widely viewed as the future of Devils goaltending.

Mikhail Yegorov: Big Personality, Bigger Potential in the Devils’ PipelineMikhail Yegorov: Big Personality, Bigger Potential in the Devils’ PipelineThe New Jersey Devils’ 49th pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, goaltender Mikhail Yegorov, has quickly become a fan favorite. Whether he’s chirping teammates at development camp or giving heartfelt shoutouts to his mom, he hasn’t played a minute for the organization yet, but fans are already on board.

Final Thoughts

At a time when many NHL teams are still scrambling to find consistency in net, the Devils boast a rare combination: two proven veterans, a reliable AHL fill-in, and a promising NCAA standout.

With both depth and potential, New Jersey’s goaltending future looks as secure as its storied past.

Photo Credit: © Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images

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