Devils' Offer Injury Update on Jake Allen After Surprising Exit
Columbus, OH – The New Jersey Devils experienced a scare during Monday night's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets when veteran goaltender Jake Allen unexpectedly left the ice at the start of the third period. Allen, who was making his regular-season debut for the 2025-26 campaign, had played a strong game, stopping 23 of 24 shots through the first two periods.
The team announced that Allen would not return to the game due to cramping. The Devils went on to secure a 3-2 victory over the Blue Jackets.
Prior to his exit, Allen's performance was a key factor in the Devils maintaining their momentum. The nature of Allen's departure led to immediate speculation about a potential injury. However, the team quickly clarified the reason for his removal from the game.
Head coach Sheldon Keefe provided an update on Allen ahead of the Devils' Saturday matinee against the Chicago Blackhawks, stating, "He skated again today. He is progressing very well". The 34-year-old is currently listed as day-to-day. Allen's last game was December 8 against the Colorado Avalanche. He has not practiced with his team nor backed up his tandem partner, Jacob Markstrom.
In Allen's absence, the Devils have called up goaltending prospect Isaac Poulter from their AHL affiliate. Poulter served as the backup during the team's recent homestand at the Prudential Center.
Before Monday's game, Allen had a career regular-season record of 208-184-43 with a .908 save percentage and a 2.75 goals-against average in 460 games played across 12 NHL seasons with the Devils, Montreal Canadiens, and St. Louis Blues. He also boasts a 11-12 record with a .924 save percentage and a 2.06 goals-against average in 28 playoff games. Last season, Allen recorded a 13-16-1 record, a .908 save percentage and a 2.59 goals against average in 31 games with the Devils.
The Devils have a quick turnaround, as they face the St. Louis Blues and Columbus Blue Jackets on the road for their next two games. The team and its fans are hopeful that Allen's absence will be short-lived and that he will be back between the pipes soon.
