James Guillory-Imagn Images

Devils Coach Calls Out New Jersey's 'Embarrassing' Playoffs Elimination

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ankit Kumar | Last updated Apr 8, 2026 7:21 AM ET

The New Jersey Devils crashed out of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoff race on April 7, and head coach Sheldon Keefe did not hide his frustration.

A heavy 5–1 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers sealed their fate, while the Ottawa Senators picked up a crucial point elsewhere. Keefe called the outcome 'embarrassing,' admitting it marked the first time in two decades he would miss the playoffs entirely.

"It’s difficult, it’s embarrassing, I don’t like it," Keefe said, via reporter Amanda Stein. "I’ve coached for 20 years,this is the 1st time I won’t be participating in the playoffs at any level. It’s not fun (...) But we’ve earned this. It is what it is.”

HC Keefe on #NJDevils being eliminated from playoff contention:

"It’s difficult, it’s embarrassing, I don’t like it. I’ve coached for 20 years,this is the 1st time I won’t be participating in the playoffs at any level. It’s not fun (...) But we’ve earned this. It is what it is.”
— Amanda Stein (@amandacstein) April 8, 2026

Philadelphia dominated early and never looked back. Trevor Zegras struck twice in the opening minutes and added an assist, setting the tone. Tyson Foerster followed with two goals of his own in the second period, while Dan Vladar made 23 saves to secure a convincing win.

Cody Glass scored the lone goal for New Jersey, but the response lacked energy and structure. They registered more shots (24-19) but failed to put the puck in the net.

The defeat completed a season sweep by Philadelphia, something not seen since 1983–84. It also highlighted deeper issues within the Devils' roster. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom struggled again (made just 14 saves), continuing a difficult campaign marked by inconsistency. Defensive changes failed to deliver balance, while offensive production remained below expectations.

New Jersey Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe at Prudential Center.Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images

This collapse comes during a turbulent stretch for the franchise. Just one day earlier, general manager Tom Fitzgerald was dismissed, signaling a major shift in direction. Injuries also played a role, with Jack Hughes missing significant time in a disrupted season.

New Jersey holds a 40–35–3 record and sits near the bottom of the Metropolitan Division race. Despite solid contributions from Jesper Bratt and Nico Hischier, the team never found consistent form.

With four games left, the Devils now turn toward the offseason, facing tough questions about identity, leadership, and roster construction.

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

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