Analysis: Is Bruce Cassidy the Right Fit for the Devils? Keefe Might Stay

The Vegas Golden Knights fired Bruce Cassidy on Sunday, despite their outstanding playoff position and his successful career with the organization.

This unexpected move has put Cassidy on the coaching market, which could attract Devils general manager Tom Fitzgerald. Cassidy, during his time in Vegas, amassed an impressive 178-99-43 record, the fifth best in that period, with 24 playoff wins (fourth most) and a Stanley Cup, demonstrating his value as a coach.

Cassidy's system relies on a solid defense and good goaltending, but the Devils are characterized by their speed and skill in attack.

The New Jersey team stands out for its high-speed play and skill, thriving on the counterattack, which could generate a clash of styles if Cassidy took over. Before Jack Hughes' injury, the Devils had a 12-4-1 record, showing a more open style of play, but after the injury the system closed, focusing more on defensive structure.

Despite the doubts, Sheldon Keefe is still in charge of the Devils and could remain in the position.

Fitzgerald, the general manager, has expressed his support for Keefe, but the team's performance in the season could be decisive. The return of Jack Hughes and the improvement of Luke Hughes have revitalized the Devils' offensive game, as Keefe explained after the 5-3 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks, highlighting the importance of controlled entries and speed in the neutral zone.

Cassidy usually implements a simple game, prioritizing sending pucks behind the defense and battling for rebounds, while the defense focuses on blocking the opponent and relying on goaltending.

This approach differs significantly from the Devils' style, which relies on speed and skill to generate attacking opportunities. Hiring Cassidy could move the Devils away from their current identity, but Keefe has managed to bring the team back to its original style of play.

The performance of the Devils, both before and after Jack Hughes' injury, demonstrates the importance of their style of play and the impact of injuries.

Keefe has managed to get the team to play effectively, and he could keep his job if the team maintains its level of play. The analysis of the situation suggests that Keefe's continuity is a real possibility, and that the final decision will depend on several factors, including the team's performance in the remainder of the season and the options available in the coaching market.