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Devils Announce Big Changes Following Early Playoff Exit

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated May 9, 2025 7:11 PM ET

The New Jersey Devils reached the postseason this year, but they fell short of advancing past the first round. New Jersey lost in five games to the Carolina Hurricanes, ending any hope the franchise had for this season.

Following the early playoff exit, the Devils' front office has determined that some changes need to be made. The team announced some coaching staff changes following the disappointing ending to the season.

"The New Jersey Devils today announced that the team will not renew the contracts of Assistant Coaches Ryan McGill and Chris Taylor. Additionally, the contracts of Head Video Coach Jerry Dineen and Utica Comets Assistant Coach David Cunniff also will not be renewed."

While the Devils did reach the postseason, the team had much higher goals than just a first-round appearance. Injuries did play a role in the early playoff loss, but the team now has some soul-searching to do this offseason.

Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald discussed this fact during his end-of-the-year press conference.

"We've got a lot of decisions to make on certain players whether we bring guys back, trade players (but) we won't be coming back with the same group (in 2025-26)," Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald said during his end-of-season press conference on Thursday. "I can tell you that because it wasn't good enough."

New Jersey will go forward seeking an update in different areas, as they try to build a team capable of winning the Stanley Cup. This will be a crucial summer for the team, and one that could alter the trajectory of the franchise for years.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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