One issue that could pick up steam for the New Jersey Devils in the coming weeks is the possibility of a coaching change. The situation that is the 2025-26 season is dire, and another year without playoff hockey is almost a certainty.
Now, it’s evident that the Devils will be heading into a retool this offseason. While the club doesn’t need major surgery like other division rivals (stares directly at the New York Rangers), the Devils could use upgrades throughout the lineup.
That said, could a coaching change really be part of that retool?
The answer to that question depends on perspective. On the whole, there is no dire need for a coaching change at the moment. The fact is that Sheldon Keefe is a good coach for this Devils lineup. The team is constructed in a way that lines up with Keefe’s philosophy.
But then again, the Devils have been underachievers this season. As such, would a change behind the bench really solve things?
The short answer is no. There aren’t any structural issues that indicate a coaching change is necessary. By the same token, the team’s overall play has been largely inconsistent this season. And that’s something that could be pinned on Keefe.
Of course, there’s also the issue of injuries. The Devils have been hit hard by the injury bug all season. Just about every player on the squad has dealt with injuries at one point or another.
That reality is something that likely buys Keefe another season. But a longer answer might point towards the need for a change behind the bench.
Devils coaching change only makes sense if they get someone better behind the bench
There is one reason to justify a coaching change for the Devils next season. That reason depends on who Keefe’s replacement would be.
Making a change for the sake of making one just won’t cut it. Replacing Keefe with any other coach, just for the sake of getting that new coach bump, isn’t the type of savvy move the club needs.
If there were a legit high-end coach available, it would make sense to explore that possibility. Otherwise, what sense would there be in making such a move?
Unfortunately, there aren't many high-end coaches readily available to take over. And even if there were, it’s no guarantee that it will change things.
The best example of that is Mike Sullivan with the Rangers. There was no better candidate for the Blueshirts, but that situation hasn’t really led the team very far.
While it’s not fair to compare the Devils with the Rangers, the fact is that a coaching change on its own is no guarantee of success.
So, even if the discussion on a coaching change picks up in New Jersey, the Devils are better off giving Keefe one more season. If the club can stay healthy and remain productive, useful additions around the edges could make a world of difference in 2026-27.