The New Jersey Devils are sticking with head coach Sheldon Keefe, even as the organization makes dramatic changes to its coaching staff during the NHL offseason. General manager Sunny Mehta has fired assistant coach Dave Rogalski and reassigned long-time Devils figure Sergei Brylin to a new role within the franchise.
Keefe Remains at the Helm
Sheldon Keefe will be behind the bench for another important NHL season after the New Jersey Devils failed to meet expectations in the playoffs. The shake-up on the coaching staff is a sign that the organization still believes in Keefe’s ability to lead the franchise into the future, even as it makes changes around him.
The New Jersey Devils have made a number of adjustments to their coaching staff this offseason, but Sheldon Keefe remains the team’s head coach. General manager Sunny Mehta stood by Keefe through a disappointing season and an up-and-down NHL performance. The former Toronto Maple Leafs head coach wrapped up his second season behind the New Jersey Devils bench and remains a vital part of the organization’s long-term plans.
Key Coaching Moves
The biggest coaching move is the official firing of assistant coach Dave Rogalski. Rogalski had been in charge of the team’s goaltenders during a difficult defensive season for the Devils. His departure signals a need for improvement in that area.
Sergei Brylin, a well-regarded former Devils player and long-time employee, has been reassigned to another position within the organization. Brylin is still a part of the franchise; however, he will move to a new role following the offseason restructuring. This change allows the team to utilize his experience in a different capacity.
Commitment to Continuity
The organization, in spite of those setbacks, seems to be committed to continuity at the head coaching position. Keeping Sheldon Keefe means the Devils believe there are improvements to the roster and internal tweaks they can make to improve their NHL results next season. The coaching moves also suggest Sunny Mehta wants accountability without a total organizational reset.
The disappointing season brought on a momentary question of Sheldon Keefe’s future, but the latest decision confirms he’s still part of the franchise’s plans moving forward. The Devils are aiming for a stronger performance in the upcoming season under his guidance.
