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 5-1 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers sealed their fate, while the Ottawa Senators picked up a crucial win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. 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 Devils team reporter Amanda Stein. “I’ve coached for 20 years; this is the first 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.”
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.
Cody Glass scored the lone goal for New Jersey, but the response lacked energy and structure. The Devils registered more shots than Philadelphia (24-19) but failed to put the puck in the net.
The Flyers completed a season sweep over the Devils, their first since 1983-84. The game highlighted deeper issues within the Devils’ roster. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom struggled again, 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
(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.
New Jersey holds a 40–35–3 record and is seventh in the Metropolitan Division, ahead of only the New York Rangers. 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.
Related: NHL Fans Stunned as Islanders Fire Head Coach with Four Games Left
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.