Coaching the Toronto Maple Leafs can be a life-changing experience, as Sheldon Keefe learned during his tenure with the team. Despite facing intense media scrutiny and high expectations, Keefe’s time with the Leafs was marked by regular-season success but playoff disappointments. After being let go by Toronto, Keefe took the lessons he learned and brought them to the New Jersey Devils.
The Devils, who showed promise two seasons ago but struggled significantly last season, are looking to Keefe to help turn things around. With a young core of talented players, Keefe’s focus is on building a foundation of resilience and consistency to help the team push through adversity. His experience in Toronto, where he saw the team thrive even in the face of key injuries, will be invaluable in guiding the Devils forward.
One of Keefe’s key challenges as a coach is holding players accountable. While he has taken a more aggressive approach in disciplining players in the past, he believes that players ultimately need to hold themselves and each other accountable for success. By fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork, Keefe hopes to help the Devils reach their full potential.
Keefe’s approach to leadership and player development is rooted in building relationships with his players and helping them grow both on and off the ice. He understands the importance of allowing players to be themselves while also guiding them in their roles as leaders. Just as he helped players like Auston Matthews develop their leadership skills in Toronto, Keefe is now focused on working with Jack Hughes and the rest of the Devils’ core to help them reach their full potential.
Despite the pressure and expectations that come with coaching in the NHL, Keefe remains focused on the opportunity to lead the Devils to success. With a renewed sense of purpose and a revamped roster, the team is poised to make a strong push in the upcoming season. Keefe’s experience in handling expectations and guiding teams through challenges will be crucial as the Devils aim to return to playoff contention and compete for the Stanley Cup.
Overall, Keefe’s journey from Toronto to New Jersey represents a new chapter in his coaching career. With valuable lessons learned and a fresh perspective on leadership and accountability, Keefe is ready to make an impact with the Devils and help the team reach new heights in the NHL.