Exploring Possibilities: Potential NHL Trades for Markstrom or Saros and the New Jersey Devils
The NHL trade deadline is always an exciting time for hockey fans, as it presents an opportunity for teams to bolster their rosters and make moves that could potentially impact their playoff hopes. One team that could be active in the trade market this year is the New Jersey Devils, who are in need of a reliable goaltender to solidify their crease. Two names that have been circulating in trade rumors are Jacob Markstrom of the Calgary Flames and Juuse Saros of the Nashville Predators. Let’s take a closer look at these potential trades and how they could benefit the Devils.
Jacob Markstrom, the 30-year-old netminder from Sweden, has been a standout performer for the Calgary Flames this season. With a save percentage of .918 and a goals-against average of 2.74, Markstrom has proven himself to be a reliable starting goaltender. However, with the Flames struggling to secure a playoff spot, they might be open to trading Markstrom for the right package.
For the New Jersey Devils, acquiring Markstrom would provide them with a much-needed upgrade in goal. Their current goaltending tandem of Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood has shown flashes of brilliance but lacks consistency. Markstrom’s experience and steady play could provide stability between the pipes and give the Devils a better chance at making a playoff push.
In terms of a potential trade package, the Devils could offer a combination of draft picks and prospects to entice the Flames. They have a deep prospect pool, headlined by the likes of Alexander Holtz and Dawson Mercer, who could be attractive assets for Calgary. Additionally, the Devils possess multiple draft picks in the upcoming NHL Entry Draft, which could sweeten the deal.
On the other hand, Juuse Saros has been a rising star for the Nashville Predators. The 26-year-old Finnish goaltender has been a key factor in the Predators’ recent success, boasting a .924 save percentage and a 2.18 goals-against average. However, with Pekka Rinne nearing the end of his career, the Predators might be open to moving Saros if the right offer comes along.
For the Devils, acquiring Saros would provide them with a long-term solution in goal. With Blackwood still relatively young and Saros entering his prime, the Devils would have a solid goaltending duo for years to come. Saros’ impressive statistics this season indicate that he has the potential to be a top-tier goaltender in the NHL, which would greatly benefit the Devils’ chances of success.
In terms of a potential trade package for Saros, the Devils could offer a similar combination of draft picks and prospects as they would for Markstrom. The Predators have shown interest in bolstering their prospect pool, and the Devils have the assets to make a compelling offer. Additionally, the Devils could potentially include a roster player to balance out the trade, depending on Nashville’s needs.
Ultimately, whether the New Jersey Devils pursue Jacob Markstrom or Juuse Saros will depend on their evaluation of each goaltender’s long-term potential and their willingness to part with valuable assets. Both goaltenders have proven themselves to be reliable starters in the NHL, and either one would significantly improve the Devils’ chances of success. As the trade deadline approaches, it will be interesting to see if the Devils make a move to solidify their goaltending situation and make a push for the playoffs.