New Jersey Devils: 3 Reasons to be Optimistic About 2024-25 Season

2. New coach bump

There were too many issues to count in 2023-24, so the blame can’t squarely be placed on coaching, but coaching was definitely a factor. Lindy Ruff was not the coach to take the Devils to the next level. His system of accountability wasn't consistent, he refused to make necessary changes to the lineup, and the team rarely came out looking ready to play. By the time he was fired, it was too late. 

Considering the Devils have not looked much better under Travis Green as interim head coach, it’s clear that he is not the answer, either. However, some players, such as Timo Meier, have looked much better under the guidance of a different coach. This is a good sign for what’s to come.

The Devils’ next head coach will be hired in the offseason. A new coach will spark the team. We can take a look at other teams that have gotten a bump from new head coaches recently. We don’t have to look too far… just across the Hudson River. Last offseason, after being knocked out of the playoffs by the Devils, the New York Rangers parted ways with Gerard Gallant and found the right coach in Peter Laviolette. Now, they have the best record in the NHL.

The Edmonton Oilers made a head coaching change very early in the 2023-24 season after starting off 3-9-1. Jay Woodcroft was fired, and Kris Knoblauch got the job. They were way down near the bottom of the NHL standings. With their new coach, the Oilers made a huge turnaround. They’re now second in the Pacific Division and have qualified for the playoffs. Looking forward to next season, the Devils will be armed with a new head coach. It will be their turn to see a spike in their play.