New Jersey Devils: 5 Players Who Need To Finish Season

Mackenzie Blackwood

The New Jersey Devils were playing much better hockey in the second half of the season, and it was 100% because of the upgraded play of Mackenzie Blackwood. It may sound like hyperbole to give one hockey player total credit for the team’s turnaround, but he’s the only one stepping up on every given night.

Blackwood posted a .967 save percentage in February. He’s still having trouble staying consistent, but since November he’s shown in more outings than not he can be a top-15 goalie in this league. Even when he has a “bad” outing, it’s usually not all his fault.

The Devils brought back Cory Schneider for the stretch run after he spent two different stints Binghamton. It’s likely so the Devils can make a final decision on him in the offseason. The Devils likely need to buy him out of the final two seasons on his contract, but for now it’s nice to have him in the room with Blackwood. From everything we’ve seen, he’s a selfless dude who would help Blackwood with everything along the way.

Right now, the Devils are looking at their future in net. Blackwood wanted to show he was that future, but despite stretches of greatness, he didn’t exactly do enough to make us forget just how bad the beginning of the season was. If he did this even for another two weeks, we’d be convinced. Now, if the season were to end now, the Devils might bring in some competition for Blackwood (which they probably should do anyway).

Then, there’s the contract. Blackwood is a restricted free agent after the season. The Devils have to sign him, likely buy out Cory Schneider, then sign an experienced backup. So, whatever Blackwood makes, the Devils will have another $2 million tied to the goalie position (Schneider’s buyout). Will the Devils look to pay for him long term now hoping it will be a deal in a few years, or will they negotiate as if they aren’t all in?