“The worst in the NHL”: Jacob Markstrom’s pricey 2-year extension with the Devils sparks outrage as fans question timing and value

The New Jersey Devils finally locked in Jacob Markstrom on a two-year, $12 million contract extension and instantly ignited one of the most polarizing reactions of this early NHL season. On paper, locking in a proven veteran goaltender should reinforce stability for a team that is still pushing for consistency and reliability in the crease. But the timing, recent performance context, and the cap hit have all collided at once, creating an emotional storm among fans who expected the franchise to be more cautious. This isn’t just a transaction. This extension pokes directly at bigger questions: age curve, performance regression, asset risk and GM Tom Fitzgerald’s long-term vision.The biggest sticking point for fans wasn’t simply that the Devils kept Markstrom, it was the number. The fan meltdown online wasn’t subtle. “holy overpay,” one fan wrote. Others didn’t ignore the context that Markstrom recently gave up eight goals.Another fan posted, “Did bro play like Brodeur in the preseason?” One even added: “He just came off of a game where he conceded 8 goals and is regressing but sure let's keep him for longer.” And in typical New Jersey fashion, frustration quickly shifted toward management. “Nobody wanted this. Fire Fitz,” a fan chimed in. “Fitz is BY FAR the worst GM in the NHL,” another fan remarked.Insider Pierre LeBrun also confirmed that the talks dragged out for quite a while, noting: “On Markstrom extension with Devils, it was a pretty extensive negotiation…” The core compromise? The Devils refused to go longer term and Markstrom’s camp wanted more years.The age factor is unavoidable here, Markstrom turns 36 in January. From a cap-management standpoint, this is a calculated short-term bet. Now, it’s on Markstrom to flip the narrative on the ice. Saturday vs. the Kings might become a “prove it” performance in real-time.Also Read: “It’s unfair”: Connor McDavid sparks debate after dismissing Kirill Kaprizov contract comparisons and taking less money to stay with Oilers