Ex-Devils Goaltender Weighs in on Markstrom Trade: ‘I’m Not in Love With It, I Don’t Hate It'

NEWARK, N.J. -- It's been over 24 hours since Jacob Markstom was introduced to the New Jersey Devils' media. General manager Tom Fitzgerald finally found the bona fide starter he had been looking for to share the net with 33-year-old Jake Allen for the 2024-25 season.

As expected, the news was met with mixed reviews from hockey fans in New Jersey.

On Thursday, former Devils goaltender Cory Schneider provided his own opinion of the trade on NHL Network.

"I think it's a good move. I'm not in love with it. I don't hate it," Schneider said.

Between the ages of Markstrom and his tandem partner, Allen, he raised the question of whether New Jersey would be restarting this entire search in two years.

Of course, the Devils currently have Nico Daws (23), Akira Schmid (24), and Isaac Poulter (22) within the organization. Having Markstrom and Allen holding down the fort in New Jersey will allow the three youngsters to properly develop and prepare themselves to one day take over the crease at Prudential Center.

Another point Schneider made was Markstrom's size - he is listed as 6-foot-6.

"Goalies who are 6-foot-6 don't tend to play into their late 30's very often," he said. "Just the wear and tear. We saw Ben Bishop (6′7″) break down a little bit at the end of an incredible career, Devan Dubnyk (6′6″), those big guys. It is hard to keep moving in the same way into your late 30's."

Below is the full clip containing Schneider's reaction and analysis.

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