New Jersey Devils Goalie Poised for Season Debut Against Columbus Blue Jackets
New Jersey Devils goaltender Jake Allen is set to make his season debut against the Columbus Blue Jackets. This matchup is crucial as both teams currently hold a record of 1-1-0. The game is part of a busy NHL day, with ten games scheduled for Canada’s Thanksgiving Day.
Jake Allen’s First Start of the Season
Allen will take over starting duties from Jacob Markstrom. This comes after Markstrom struggled in his previous outings, conceding nine goals in two games against the Carolina Hurricanes and Tampa Bay Lightning. The decision is expected to provide a fresh perspective for the Devils’ defense.
Allen’s Career and Performance
Jake Allen, 35, signed a five-year contract worth $9 million to remain with the Devils in July. In the 2024-25 season, he recorded a 13-16-1 record, four shutouts, and a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.66 with a .906 save percentage across 31 games. His playoff experience includes 29 games with a 2.06 GAA and a .924 save percentage.
- Games Played: 460
- Wins: 208
- Losses: 184
- Shutouts: 28
- GAA: 2.76
- Save Percentage: .908
Markstrom’s Career Highlights
Markstrom, the former starter, has played a total of 536 games in the NHL, securing 242 wins and 24 shutouts. His current GAA stands at 2.71, as he enters his 17th season in the league. Markstrom joined the Devils from Calgary in a trade that involved Kevin Bahl and a first-round pick for the 2025 NHL Draft.
Upcoming Matchup: Devils vs. Blue Jackets
The New Jersey Devils hope to build on their recent victory against the Lightning, which ended in a 5-3 win. On the other hand, the Blue Jackets are coming off a solid performance, defeating the Minnesota Wild 7-4. This game also marks Columbus’s home opener at Nationwide Arena, celebrating their 25th season in the NHL.
As fans eagerly anticipate this exciting matchup, all eyes will be on Jake Allen as he embarks on his season debut for the Devils against the Blue Jackets.
