Staff and Schedules: A New Jersey Devils Wrap

What this episode covers

Zach Berman opened the episode by breaking down significant changes to the New Jersey Devils’ coaching and development staff. Key hires include Leo Luongo as director of goaltending, Dan Stewart as goaltending coach, and the additions of Ted Donato and AJ McLean as assistant coaches. Luongo, brother of NHL legend Roberto Luongo, will oversee all goalie development, and his background with Florida’s “goalie excellence department” could signal a positive shift. Stewart was recruited from the Springfield Thunderbirds (AHL), reflecting the Devils’ recurring strategy of targeting St. Louis Blues affiliates for goaltending staff. Coaching Context The coaching additions represent a shift towards fresh faces with varied backgrounds—Donato brings over two decades of college coaching at Harvard, while McLean previously worked under Sheldon Keefe with the Toronto Marlies. Zach Berman notes that while none of the new assistants have substantial NHL head coaching experience, he welcomes the injection of new perspectives rather than the league’s tendency to recycle coaches. Notably, Donato’s collegiate success and NHL playing experience generate intrigue as to how his acumen will translate to the pro level. Schedule Breakdown The newly released 84-game schedule presents several quirks. Zach Berman highlights unusual stretches, such as playing the New York Rangers four times before Christmas and not facing the Carolina Hurricanes or Florida Panthers until after the All-Star break. The Devils face a long 24-day road trip leading into the break and have multiple back-to-backs (13 total) throughout the season. There are also distinct periods—like the early “southwest swing” and a home-heavy finish—that alter the rhythm of the campaign, while the schedule is lighter on weekend and Friday night home games. Post-All-Star and Fan Perspective After the All-Star break, the schedule ramps up in difficulty with all matchups against the Hurricanes and Panthers, as well as key games versus top competitors like the Lightning and Penguins. Zach Berman observes that while it may seem daunting, strong teams must rise to the challenge. He also provides advice for fans about the best road trips to take, recommending Montreal and Buffalo as top venues to visit. Ultimately, Zach Berman encourages listeners to start making plans for both home and away games using the schedule, expressing hope for a playoff push and lively fan participation.

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