Jacob Markstrom to Miss Several Weeks Due to Injury

New Jersey Devils goaltender Jacob Markstrom is expected to miss "a couple of weeks" due to a lower-body injury sustained during the final moments of the team's 3-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday. Head coach Sheldon Keefe confirmed the injury on Wednesday, stating, "I consider it good news considering what had happened. I don't consider it too serious at this point, but he's going to have to miss a little bit of time." Markstrom, who has a record of 2-1-0 this season with a 3.89 goals-against average and .845 save percentage, will be replaced by Nico Daws, who has been recalled from the American Hockey League (AHL).

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Markstrom's injury occurred after he came in relief of Jake Allen, who left the game due to cramping. Markstrom managed to make eight saves in his brief appearance but appeared to be laboring after a scramble in front of the net. The injury adds to the Devils' challenges, as forward Zack MacEwen has also been placed on injured reserve with an upper-body injury.

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With Markstrom sidelined, the Devils will rely on Jake Allen and Nico Daws to handle goaltending duties. Allen is expected to see the majority of starts, while Daws, who has a career record of 22-23-1 in the NHL, will serve as the backup. Daws has previously split time between the NHL and AHL, demonstrating potential with a 1.60 goals-against average and .939 save percentage in six games last season.

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Sheldon Keefe emphasized the team's need to adapt, stating, "We have to find a way to navigate through this period without him." The coaching staff is optimistic about Daws stepping up in Markstrom's absence, given his previous performances.

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Some analysts have raised concerns about the Devils' goaltending depth, particularly if Allen is called upon to take on a larger workload. Critics argue that while Allen is a solid backup, he may not be equipped to lead the team through a challenging stretch. The Devils' previous struggles with goaltending have led to skepticism about their ability to maintain playoff contention without Markstrom.

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The Devils are set to face the Florida Panthers in their home opener on Thursday. The team will need to quickly adjust to the absence of Markstrom and find a way to secure wins to stay competitive in the Metro Division.

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• “I consider it good news considering what had happened. I don't consider it too serious at this point, but he's going to have to miss a little bit of time.” — Sheldon Keefe, Head Coach, New Jersey Devils

Devils G Jacob Markstrom (lower body) out 'couple weeks'

Markstrom's injury comes at a critical juncture for the Devils, who are looking to solidify their position in the league early in the season. The team will need to rally and adapt to the challenges posed by his absence.

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