Jacob Markstrom is set to miss 4-6 weeks due to a sprained MCL sustained during a collision with Justin Brazeau of the Boston Bruins. During the second period of a recent game, Markstrom fell and required assistance to leave the ice but was reported to be in good spirits afterward. This injury is particularly concerning as it will exclude him from the Devils' upcoming games and potentially affect his participation in the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, where he was named among Sweden's roster of goalies.
In Markstrom's absence, Jake Allen has stepped up, successfully blocking all 16 shots he faced in the game against the Bruins and expected to be the primary goaltender when the Devils face the Montreal Canadiens next. The team has also brought in Isaac Poulter from the AHL to provide additional support in goal. The Devils, currently performing well with Markstrom's impressive season stats, will need to adapt quickly to maintain their momentum without him.