Update on trade between Canadiens, Devils involving Jake Allen

New Jersey Devils goalie Jake Allen. David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Intriguing update on trade between Canadiens and Devils involving Jake Allen

Originally posted on Habs Fanatics | By Elias Adaime | Last updated Feb 20, 2025 4:06 PM ET

We have an update on the well-known trade between the Montreal Canadiens and the New Jersey Devils. This was mentioned a few weeks ago, but the trade involving Jake Allen could be altered in Kent Hughes' favor following an injury to the Devils' No. 1 goaltender, Jacob Markstrom.

This trade could still be modified in the Canadiens' favor due to the following condition.

"One thing to remember: If Jake Allen plays 40 games this season, the Canadiens will receive a second-round pick in the next draft," according to insider Elliotte Friedman. "Otherwise, it will be a third-round pick."

As the backup behind Markstrom, the chances of Allen playing 40 games were very slim — until the Devils' No. 1 goaltender suffered a serious injury.

However, on Wednesday, the Devils announced the following:

"Jacob Markstrom is on the ice with the Devils this morning for only the first part of practice.

"He will not participate in the full session but will be present for the initial drills.

"All part of his scheduled rehabilitation process."

We will have to keep a close watch on this, but it looks like Markstrom's return to play is imminent, and yes, this will inevitably have an impact on the Canadiens.

Jake Allen has currently played 21 games this season.

This article first appeared on Habs Fanatics and was syndicated with permission.

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