Tom Fitzgerald, the general manager of the New Jersey Devils, has given an update on the team’s search for a new head coach.
New Jersey fired Lindy Ruff on March 4 and named Travis Green the interim head coach. With the Devils falling to make the playoffs, Fitzgerald can begin his search for the team’s new head coach but isn’t ruling out Green being promoted.
Fitzgerald said he wants to take his time with the search for a new coach and has specific criteria in mind. The new coach must be a strong communicator, willing to work with all areas of the organization, and understand the team's goals.
Fitzgerald continued, stressing the need for a coach who utilizes analytics, understands sports science, manages player practice and performance, and holds all players accountable.
After taking over as interim head coach, Green went 8-12-1 in 21 games with the Devils who finished 13th place in the Eastern Conference.
Fitzgerald ‘Excited’ For Devils Offseason
With the Devils not making the playoffs, Fitzgerald is eager for the off-season and the potential changes it may bring to his team.
The Devils have several pending free agents, and Fitzgerald plans to offer contracts to the restricted free agents. He believes he knows what the team needs to become a Stanley Cup contender. Fitzgerald expressed excitement about the upcoming off-season, as he believes he knows exactly what the team and individual players need to excel. He emphasized the desire for momentum-changing lines in games to improve the team..
Fitzgerald added that he is seeking to improve the team, particularly in the area of momentum-changing lines, to meet the expectations of the fans and core skill players.
Jack Hughes Rehabbing Shoulder Injury
Devils star forward Jack Hughes
was shut down for the season on April 9
due to a shoulder injury, as he missed a total of 16 games. is rehabbing his shoulder and Fitzgerald expects the star forward to have a full recovery and be ready for the start of the 2024-25 NHL season. Fitzgerald stated that Hughes underwent surgery and is now rehabilitating in Michigan. He anticipates a full recovery and a return with renewed energy for the upcoming season.
Hughes Despite only playing in 62 games last season, Hughes still had a solid season
recording 27 goals and 47 assists for 74 points
But ever since New Jersey chose Hughes as the first overall pick in 2019, he has been troubled by injuries and has not been able to play a complete 82-game season in his first five seasons. The general manager of the New Jersey Devils, Tom Fitzgerald, has given an update on the team's search for a new head coach following the regular season..
However, since New Jersey took Hughes first overall in 2019 injuries has plagued the American as he has yet to play a full 82-game season in his first five seasons.
