Devils need goaltender to improve playoff chances

The New Jersey Devils are at a critical juncture as they seek to improve their goaltending situation in hopes of becoming serious contenders in the NHL. According to The Hockey News, new Devils GM Sunny Mehta faces significant pressure to address the team's netminding woes.

Following the recent trade of veteran goaltender Jacob Markstrom to the Florida Panthers, the Devils currently rely on a trio consisting of Jake Allen, Nico Daws, and David Rittich, none of whom are considered elite.

With $3.8 million in salary cap space, Mehta is exploring potential trades for established netminders like Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets or Jordan Binnington of the St. Louis Blues. Both goalies could provide the caliber of performance needed to compete in a challenging Metropolitan Division.

The Devils finished the previous season with a record of 42-37-3, and their goaltending performance has been a point of concern, as Allen posted a .904 save percentage, Daws managed a .908 in limited appearances, and Rittich recorded an .894.

Mehta has a wealth of draft picks to offer in a potential trade, including five first-round selections over the next three drafts, which could facilitate acquiring a top-tier goalie. The urgency for change is palpable, as the Devils aim to avoid another season of frustration and disappointment without significant upgrades in net.