Blackwood hoping to re-sign with Devils long term

Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood sees himself suiting up for the New Jersey Devils for the foreseeable future.

"I don't really know exactly how it's all going to transpire but whatever it is, I like Jersey," Blackwood said, according to NHL.com's Mike Morreale. "I love playing here and I'd love to play here for a long time, so I'm sure we can figure something out and hopefully it can go smoothly."

Blackwood is set to hit restricted free agency at the conclusion of the 2019-20 season. He got his first taste as Devils No. 1 this season after being drafted 45th overall in 2015.

He hopes to be able to grow with the rest of New Jersey's young, talented core.

"I think it would be really exciting if we can all develop together," Blackwood said. "Guys like Jack (Hughes), Nico (Hischier), myself, (Jesper) Bratt, and (Pavel Zacha). If we all can stay together, stay in like a little group here and then as the years go on, we'll get better together and build that bond ... I think that's how you build a winning team.

"I want to be a part of that, and I see myself being a part of that. So it's definitely a place and a situation where I see myself being for a long time."

The 23-year-old netminder appeared in 47 games with the Devils this season, compiling a 22-14-8 record alongside a .915 save percentage and 2.77 goals-against average.