Coaching Staff Changes
The New Jersey Devils have officially announced the completion of their coaching roster, with Head Coach Sheldon Keefe bringing on Jeremy Colliton as an assistant coach. Keefe, who recently joined the Devils from the Toronto Maple Leafs less than three weeks ago, is looking to solidify the team’s strategic direction and bolster their performance for the upcoming season. Tom Fitzgerald, the President and General Manager of the Devils, made the announcement on Tuesday.
Keefe has retained the majority of the interim coaching staff, aiming for continuity and stability as the team moves forward. Travis Green, who served as the interim coach towards the end of last season after Lindy Ruff was dismissed in early March, is part of the retained personnel. Alongside Green, the returning assistant coaches include Ryan McGill, Chris Taylor, and Sergei Brylin. Goaltending coach Dave Rogalski will also remain with the team.
The familiarity among the coaching staff is expected to create a cohesive environment, positively impacting the team’s performance. The stability and continuity that Keefe is promoting are anticipated to be crucial for the Devils as they strive to improve in the upcoming NHL season.
Jeremy Colliton's Background
Jeremy Colliton, the newest addition to the Devils’ coaching staff, brings a wealth of experience both from the NHL and international stages. For the past two seasons, Colliton has been at the helm of the Abbotsford Canucks in the AHL, leading the team to impressive records and playoff appearances. Before his tenure with the Canucks, Colliton served as the head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks for parts of four seasons, becoming the NHL’s youngest head coach at the age of 33.
During his time with the Blackhawks, Colliton amassed a record of 87-92-26. He also gained valuable experience coaching their AHL affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs. Colliton's international credentials also include a stint as the head coach for Team Canada at the 2022 Winter Olympics, stepping in for Claude Julien, who was sidelined due to injury. Despite Team Canada failing to secure a medal, the experience added to Colliton’s reputable resume.
Furthermore, Colliton has coached in Sweden, leading Mora IK in Sweden's second-tier league from 2013 to 2017. This international coaching experience has equipped Colliton with a diverse set of strategies and a broad understanding of player development, which he will now bring to the Devils.
Playing Background
Before transitioning into coaching, Jeremy Colliton was a professional ice hockey player. He was drafted in the second round of the 2003 NHL Draft by the New York Islanders and played as a center. Over six seasons within the Islanders’ organization, Colliton made 57 NHL appearances, scoring three goals and providing three assists.
Colliton’s playing career, though not extensive in the NHL, provided him with firsthand experience of the game at various levels, making him a versatile asset in coaching. His ability to understand and nurture talent has been acknowledged throughout his coaching career, which now continues with his new role at the New Jersey Devils.
Looking Forward
The integration of Jeremy Colliton into the Devils’ coaching staff represents a strategic move to harness his diverse coaching experience and innovative tactics. Together with Sheldon Keefe, the duo is expected to bring fresh energy and direction to the team.
As the Devils prepare for the new season, the organization and its fans will be closely observing the impact of these coaching changes. The goals are clear: to compete vigorously in the NHL and to make significant strides in performance. With a blend of retained familiarity and new expertise, the Devils' coaching staff is set to contribute significantly to the team's potential success in the upcoming season.