Pete DeBoer probably doesn't have much rope left, and knowing that he decided to drastically change the line combinations in hopes of getting some results.
While the early returns were certainly good, the Devils were unable to keep a 4-1 lead on home ice and eventually fell to the Red Wings in a shootout.
Last night was hardly on DeBoer - Adam Henrique and Travis Zajac were missing for the final frame and the Devils had a 5-on-3 they didn't capitalize on - but the Devils have just three wins in their last 10 and have blown several leads in that span. They're only two points out of a playoff spot in the Metro, but in any other division they'd be at least seven points out already.
Change is looking necessary if the Devils want to get anything done and, while I like DeBoer, his message seems to have gone dry in New Jersey, and it's easier to replace a coach then turnover a roster mid-season.
If the Devils fall to the Islanders tonight, especially if it's ugly and in regulation, or fail to right the ship within the next few games DeBoer's days as a Devil could be over.
Recent posts