NHL Rumors: Top insider reports Flames open to trading $36,000,000 star Jacob Markstrom to Maple Leafs, Devils

By ARJUN B

Modified Jun 12, 2024 20:33 GMT

There are rumors swirling that the Calgary Flames may be open to trading their starting goaltender Jacob Markstrom. The veteran netminder signed a 6-year, $36 million contract with the Flames in 2020.

Markstrom has two years left on his contract at a $6 million cap hit, as well as a full no-movement clause. Elliotte Friedman shared his views regarding the intention of the Flames to trade Markstrom on "The Jeff Marek Show" on Wednesday.

“I believe the Flames are prepared to trade Markstrom, but I also think that they have made it very clear that they’re not going to do it for the sake of doing it. They’re going to do it to make a deal that they think makes them better,” Friedman said.

Friedman added that the asking price for Markstrom depends on the team interested in acquiring him.

“I mentioned Toronto on the podcast because I think it makes a lot of sense. So, I would say I like New Jersey, I think LA, I've mentioned Ottawa Senators too."

This season, Jacob Markstrom has a 23-23-2 record with a 2.78 goals against average and a .905 save percentage.

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Jacob Markstrom's future with the Calgary Flames

Jacob Markstrom hinted that he might not be coming back to the Calgary Flames for the next season in his season-ending interview. When asked if he could see himself back with the Flames next season, Markstrom responded vaguely, saying:

"I don’t know."

He went on to emphasize his competitive nature and desire to win hockey games, stating,

"What I do know is I love winning hockey games. That’s the competitive side of me. Every time I lace up my skates that’s what I want to accomplish."

Markstrom's uncertain comments come after he was the subject of intense trade speculation leading up to the deadline. The Flames reportedly came close to dealing him to the New Jersey Devils before ultimately retaining him.

Jacob Markstrom voiced displeasure with how management handled the situation, saying:

"All the rambling could've been not happening. All the talks and stuff going on throughout the season, starting early in the season till the [trade] deadline day, they pretty much could've been not happening and me just focusing on hockey. That's what I would have appreciated because, obviously, I'm still here."

When later asked about Markstrom's future in Calgary, Flames GM Craig Conroy gave a vague response, stating:

"Time will tell." As per TSN.

With two years left on his lucrative contract, Markstrom remains a valuable asset that could fetch a solid return if Calgary opts to deal with him.