Evaluating Sheldon Keefe’s First Year Behind the Devils’ Bench
With the New Jersey Devils eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs following a first-round loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, head coach Sheldon Keefe has officially completed his first full season with the team. Though Keefe took over the team following a rocky season under former coach Lindy Ruff, he’s expressed optimism from the start. Upon his hiring, Keefe stated, “To have the chance to lead this young, dynamic team and to see the potential that can still be unlocked is all very attractive for me.” Since then, it’s clear that he has made strides in tapping into the Devils’ strengths and helping the team develop a newfound identity.
Before working with the Devils, Keefe spent five consecutive seasons coaching the Toronto Maple Leafs, leading the team to the playoffs in each of those years. Keefe led Toronto to a regular season record of 212-97-40, with his 212 wins being the fifth most in club history. He’s won several awards during his career, including the OHL’s Matt Leyden Trophy as Coach of the Year as a junior coach and the Brian Kilrea Award as CHL Coach of the Year. Keefe’s many accolades made him a promising hire for the Devils.
Keefe’s new record as head coach of the Devils is 42-33-7. While there is room for improvement, several players have flourished under Keefe’s leadership, further contributing to a more collaborative effort. Luke Hughes took major strides as a rookie defenseman, showing growing confidence in high-pressure situations. Keefe also elevated the role of Dawson Mercer, who stepped into a top-six position and has since delivered more consistent production and clutch scoring.
More importantly, after parting ways with Ruff, whose record with the Devils ended at 128 wins, 125 losses, and 28 overtime losses, the team was in desperate need of a new direction. GM Tom Fitzgerald was confident in his choice for the next coach, stating that Keefe would “make this team a Stanley Cup contender.” Fitzgerald’s vision has quickly proven to take shape, as the team was able to secure a spot in the playoffs after a one-year hiatus, despite being without key players like Jack Hughes. Keefe’s ability to guide his team back to the playoffs reinforces his reputation as a coach who can develop talent and produce results even under challenging circumstances. Considering he holds the distinction of being the first Maple Leafs coach in 19 years to lead them to the second round of the playoffs, it’s no surprise that he was able to bring New Jersey back into postseason contention in his first year.
Sheldon Keefe’s first year in New Jersey can be considered a success. He stabilized a team that was previously inconsistent, brought the best out of both young and veteran players, and laid the groundwork for a stronger future. While challenges remain, especially defensively and in playoff adaptability, Keefe has given the Devils a clear identity and direction. His leadership has positioned the franchise not just to compete, but to build toward sustained success.
