In Wednesday’s NHL trade, the Calgary Flames traded experienced goalkeeper Jacob Markstrom to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for the first round draft pick in the 2025 NHL draft and defender Kevin Bahl. This transaction marks a new chapter in Maxtrom’s career, as he will work with Hockey Hall of Fame member Martin Brodeur in New Jersey to seek the opportunity to win the Stanley Cup.
Max Strom, a 34 year old goalkeeper, has performed well in Calgary this season, achieving a record of 23 wins, 23 losses, and 2 draws in 48 games. He has conceded an average of 2.78 goals per game, a save rate of. 905, and has two clean sheets against opponents. Despite his stable performance on the field, the Flame team did not make it to the playoffs this season, which may be one of the reasons driving him to seek new opportunities.
“This is a brand new challenge,” Maxtrom said after the trade, “I know New Jersey is a highly anticipated team, and as a goalkeeper, I feel pressure, but that’s also what I crave. I aspire to win games, I know my responsibility as a goalkeeper, and I will do my best.”
As part of the transaction, the Flame team obtained the first round draft rights for 2025, which is an important capital supplement that will help the team’s future reconstruction. At the same time, they also acquired young defender Kevin Bale, who played in all 82 games for the Devils this season and showed great potential.
Tom Fitzgerald, the general manager of the New Jersey Devils, welcomed Maxtrom’s joining and emphasized his importance for the team’s future. “Jacob is an experienced goalkeeper, and his arrival will provide us with stability and help the team achieve better results on the defensive end,” said Fitzgerald.
In addition, Maxtrom will work with Martin Brode, the legendary goalkeeper who is now the Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations for the Devils. Maxtrom stated that he has received Broder’s text message and looks forward to working with this legendary figure. “I believe we will achieve good results together,” he said.
This deal is a new beginning for both sides, as Maxtrom will seek a new peak in his career in New Jersey, while the Fire team has gained important capital for reconstruction. As the new season approaches, fans will closely monitor the performance of these two teams, hoping that they can create new brilliance on the ice.