NEWARK, New Jersey – The New Jersey Devils made a significant coaching decision on Monday, announcing the departure of Lindy Ruff from his coaching position. Associate coach Travis Green will step in as the head coach for the remainder of the season as the Devils aim to elevate their performance in the Metropolitan Division.
The decision to relieve Ruff of his duties came as the Devils struggled to meet expectations set after an impressive playoff run last year. General manager Tom Fitzgerald emphasized the team’s commitment to competitiveness and the need for a change to propel the Devils towards becoming perennial playoff contenders.
At 64 years old, Ruff has had a long-standing coaching career in the NHL, with notable stints with the Buffalo Sabres, Dallas Stars, and the Devils. Despite leading the Devils to the second round of last year’s postseason, the team fell short of their goals, prompting the coaching change.
Green, 53 years old, brings a wealth of coaching experience to his new role, having previously served as the head coach of the Vancouver Canucks. His leadership and understanding of the game at various levels make him a valuable asset as the Devils aim to regain their competitive edge.
The Devils’ struggles this season have been attributed to various factors, including goaltending woes, defensive lapses, and underperformance from key players. The team’s inability to secure early leads and capitalize on momentum has hindered their success, leading to the decision to make changes in coaching personnel.
Despite facing challenging circumstances, Ruff’s departure signifies a new chapter for the Devils as they seek to revitalize their performance and strive for success in the competitive NHL landscape. The coaching swap reflects the team’s determination to address existing issues and work towards a brighter future under Green’s guidance.