The Devils' General Manager's Logic on Goalie Extension Raises Questions
The Devils' recent decision to extend Jacob Markstrom's contract has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike. While Tom Fitzgerald, the team's General Manager, insists that the move was well-considered, the underlying logic has raised eyebrows.
Fitzgerald's defense of the contract, which he claims was discussed with Markstrom's agents since the trade, highlights a potential issue: the team's reliance on a small sample size of playoff performance. Markstrom's impressive .911 save percentage, 2.88 goals-against average, and 6.1 saves above expected in a five-game sample size are certainly impressive. However, this narrow focus overlooks his overall sub-.900 save percentage (.893) and poor start to the season (.879).
When pressed on these metrics, Fitzgerald acknowledges the team's challenges, stating, 'He needs to be better.' Yet, he remains confident in Markstrom's ability to stabilize the team when he's playing well. This optimism is understandable, given Markstrom's recent turnaround, including a 2-0-0 record with a 1.95 GAA and 9.00 SV% since a poor performance on January 6th.
However, the team's commitment to Markstrom for the next two seasons is concerning, especially with his lengthy no-trade clause. This clause makes it nearly impossible to trade him, placing the responsibility squarely on Fitzgerald's shoulders. The question remains: can Markstrom's recent success be sustained, or will the team regret this decision in the long run?
