All-Star goalkeeper Jacob Markstrom is set to become a free agent following the 2019/20 NHL season, but it looks like he isn’t keen on changing teams. During a recent conference call, Markstrom told reporters that he would like to stay with Vancouver Canucks for years to come.
Markstrom and Canucks were engaged in contract negotiations earlier this year, but couldn’t come to an agreement before deciding to pause the talks due to ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Still, the 30-year-old hopes for a positive outcome when NHL resumes its activities.
“In my mind, I want to stay in Vancouver. In my mind, that’s my goal,” said Markstrom.
According to Markstrom, he has no plans to leave the Canucks and is focused on trying to lead the team to Stanley Cup glory.
“It’s going to be tough to get fans in the building, but to give the people and the city of Vancouver something to cheer for,” he added. “So that’s pretty much 100 percent of my mindset, that I’m still a Vancouver Canuck and am super proud to be that. I have no plans to leave.”
Jacob Markstrom has been with Canucks since 2014, serving primarily as a backup in his first three seasons with the organization. Markstrom took over the starting job full time in 2017 and proved to be more than a reliable goalkeeping option for the team.
Markstrom was especially praised for his performances this season, helping Vancouver to 23-16-4 record with 2.75 goals-against average and a .918 save percentage. This also helped him make his first All-Star appearance.
