Something very interesting is currently happening with the New Jersey Devils. As you know, Jake Allen gave a big helping hand to the Montreal Canadiens last night with an absolutely exceptional performance against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

He really helped the Canadiens in their race for an NHL playoff spot.

 

Thanks to an incredible 45-save game, Allen practically single-handedly defeated the Blue Jackets, imagine that, and in regulation time, no less.

Jake Allen causes a major shift in New Jersey

While the former Habs goaltender was clearly a backup behind Jacob Markstrom, he is now outright reversing the roles.

“Jacob Markstrom in his last four starts:

1-3-0, .806 save percentage

Jake Allen in his last three starts:

3-0-0, .961 save percentage”

 

The best goaltender for the Devils right now is Jake Allen!

More and more, we have to look at this trade between Montreal and New Jersey differently, as we are truly witnessing a shift in the value received by Tom Fitzgerald.

It’s a great turn of events for an athlete who truly deserves it!

Let’s recall the initial trade, finalized between the Canadiens and the Devils in March 2024.

“To New Jersey:

G Jake Allen (50% salary retained)

To Montreal:

Conditional 2025 3rd-round pick

The pick upgrades to a 2025 2nd-round pick if Allen plays 40 or more games in 2024-25 and if the team he is part of qualifies for the 2024-25 playoffs.”

 

Had this shift in performance happened a bit earlier, it would have been fascinating to follow from the Habs’ perspective.

Still, we are extremely happy for Allen.. At this point, we have to give the edge to the Devils in this trade.