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New Jersey Devils perimeter play needs to change for the better

After the past few years of Sheldon Keefe as head coach, there has been too much perimeter play. On the power play, the Devils pass the puck around too much, lo

Published: Tuesday, 6 October 2026 at 12:53 AM
New Jersey Devils perimeter play needs to change for the better
Key Things to Know
  • Joseph Stanislau argues the New Jersey Devils must move away from perimeter-heavy play to maximize their offense.
  • The writer claims the offense relies too heavily on defensemen Dougie Hamilton and Luke Hughes to generate scoring.
  • Stanislau urges head coach Sheldon Keefe to design an attack focused on interior slot penetration and net drives.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Joseph Stanislau of Pucks and Pitchforks argues that head coach Sheldon Keefe must adjust the New Jersey Devils' offensive system away from excessive perimeter play. Stanislau contends that relying too heavily on defensemen Dougie Hamilton and Luke Hughes at even strength and on the power play wastes the prime talent of the team's forwards.

The writer argues that the Devils need greater interior penetration, bumper usage, and net-front presence to succeed. Stanislau suggests that executive Sunny Mehta should evaluate Keefe's tactical fit, cautioning that a failure to adapt could warrant an early-season coaching change.

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