Jake Allen Reaches 500th NHL Start With Devils Against Canucks

New Jersey Devils goaltender Jake Allen reached his 500th NHL start on Saturday, October 10, 2026, against the Vancouver Canucks in New Jersey, becoming the 85th goaltender in league history to reach the milestone after a career built on consistency and preparation.

According to The Hockey News, Allen’s milestone reflects a career spanning multiple NHL roles, including starter, backup and mentor. He first recorded an NHL start and win with the St. Louis Blues against the Detroit Red Wings in February 2013.

Allen spent seven seasons with the Blues and won the Stanley Cup in 2019 before being traded to the Montreal Canadiens. He joined the Devils through a March 2024 trade and signed a five-year contract extension with New Jersey in 2025.

Devils defenseman Brett Pesce highlighted Allen’s reliability and professionalism when discussing the goaltender’s impact on the team.

"He is consistent in his play, his process, how he handles himself. He is a steady, cool, calm guy. He works so hard and is such a good pro," said Brett Pesce, Devils defenseman.

The Hockey News reported that Allen’s 500 starts represent years of preparation and the physical demands of maintaining a long NHL career. His teammates and coaches have emphasized his ability to remain ready through changing roles.

Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe described Allen’s career path as one shaped by adaptability and leadership. Keefe said Allen has contributed in different capacities throughout his NHL tenure.

"His path, his road, not the easiest, most traditional way. He has done a little bit of everything in terms of being a No. 1 guy, being a backup, being a mentor. Here he has been all of that at different times.

He is the ultimate pro, a tremendous leader and competitor. He takes every single day as serious in detail and structure, as his first day, which is pretty remarkable," said Sheldon Keefe, Devils head coach.

NHL.com reported on Allen’s milestone coverage before the game, including team media activities surrounding his 500th NHL appearance. The Devils entered the matchup with Allen recognized as a veteran presence in the organization.