Devils Daily

NJHN Daily: Devils Confidence Backfires; Sullivan Sweepstakes Begin; Barzal Rumor

Published

2 weeks ago

April 29, 2025

United States coach Mike Sullivan speaks to the media following a 4 Nations Face-Off hockey practice in Brossard, Quebec, on Monday, Feb. 10, 2025. (Christinne Muschi/The Canadian Press via AP)

Yesterday’s news that Mike Sullivan is suddenly available took up a lot of the oxygen before last night’s puck drop. Last summer, many wanted the New Jersey Devils to lure in the ex-Pittsburgh coach, given his history with GM Tom Fitzgerald, and the belief he would have been perfect to mold the young core. However, he wasn’t available, and once Sheldon Keefe was cut loose, Fitzgerald was adamant he was the right fit.

Keefe’s first season with the Devils, regardless of your personal bias, was successful. The Devils got back to the playoffs, and Keefe pushed the right buttons for most of the season. He’s the guy behind New Jersey’s bench now and moving forward. Erase any thought that Fitzgerald will fire Keefe for Sullivan. It’s not happening.

In the links, how the confidence in the Devils offense backfired.

Elsewhere, many, many teams are hot for Sullivan. Who will land the two-time Stanley Cup Champion, and Team USA coach? Plus, a Mathew Barzal rumor that ran wild.

Let’s do that hockey.

Devils News

New Jersey Hockey Now: The Devils’ offense was once one of the best in the NHL. However, this season it’s plummeted. General manager Tom Fitzgerald‘s confidence in the offense has New Jersey’s back against the wall heading into Game 5.

NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey Now

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: It was a bit surprising to see this note pop up on everyone’s social media, but the Pittsburgh Penguins and head coach Mike Sullivan have parted ways. Kyle Dubas explained it’s time for change and gave a timeline on when to expect a new coach to be named.

Boston Hockey Now: Yesterday, Andrew Fantucchio named five coaching candidates that could fill the void behind the Boston Bruins‘ bench. However, with Mike Sullivan’s sudden availability, his hat should be thrown in the ring.

Chicago Hockey Now: The Bruins aren’t the only team that should be interested in Mike Sullivan’s services. The Chicago Blackhawks have a coaching vacancy to fill, and Sullivan is an intriguing candidate to mold that young core.

The Athletic ($): Finally, it was the New York Rangers who waited to hire a head coach years ago when there was a belief Mike Sullivan could be available. He wasn’t then, but is now, and Chris Drury is going to want to land his main target.

Colorado Hockey Now: The Colorado Avalanche are not far removed from hoisting Lord Stanley as the NHL’s top team. How does their current roster compare to the 2022 championship team?

NYI Hockey Now: After their season was ultimately a disappointing one, rumors swirled that Mathew Barzal wanted out of the New York Islanders organization. Russ Macias debunked those whispers, however.

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