New Jersey Devils goaltender Jacob Markstrom recently appeared on the popular hockey podcast Spittin’ Chiclets, offering candid insights into his early NHL career and his time with the Vancouver Canucks.
Ahead of the 2014-15 NHL season, the Canucks had signed veteran goaltender Ryan Miller, adding depth to an already competitive goalie situation, which included fan-favourite Eddie Lack and a young Markstrom, who was eager to secure a permanent NHL role. However, despite his strong offseason preparation, Markstrom was placed on waivers instead of earning a spot on the Canucks’ roster.
“I played half a game in San Jose, played unbelievable. Saw it great, great shape, had a great summer,” the 6-foot-5 netminder recounted. Despite his impressive pre-season performance, he was surprised when Canucks management made the decision to send him to the AHL. “Jim Benning just told me, ‘we’re going to send you down, you’re too good if we keep you right now.’”
Markstrom admitted he was a bit perplexed by that explanation from the former Canucks GM.
“Too good? I was like, how am I too good for the NHL?” The reality hit hard when he was placed on waivers, expecting to be claimed by another team. “You get put on waivers and think somebody is going to pick you up for free, but that didn’t happen. That’s a big eye-opener,” he admitted, adding that the experience humbled him. “You’re like, I’m not as good as I think I am.”
Fortunately for the Canucks, Markstrom went unclaimed and spent that season with the Utica Comets in the AHL. It wasn’t until the following year that he finally earned a full-time NHL role, backing up Miller. Over the next several seasons, Markstrom continued to improve, establishing himself as one of the league’s top goaltenders.
Markstrom finished his tenure with the Canucks with a solid record of 99-93-27, a 2.73 goals-against average, and a .913 save percentage, further proving his growth. This summer, the Swedish goaltender was traded to the New Jersey Devils and is set to make his debut with the team in the upcoming season.
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