[News] Devils fire head coach Pete DeBoer. Hire Oates and Stevens.

[btimbit]

Honestly, I'd probably think it'd sound like a good idea if Edmonton hadn't done something similiar

[Husky]

Lou is overrated these days. Ten years ago, I agree he had plans etc. Now he's slowly running that franchise into the ground.

[Yamer]

Originally Posted by Ozy_Flame

Oates played for the Edmonton Oilers. New Jersey will be no good.

Wow, I had to look this up. I don't remember him playing that single season for the Oil at all.

[killer_carlson]

Originally Posted by Husky

Lou is overrated these days. Ten years ago, I agree he had plans etc. Now he's slowly running that franchise into the ground.

I think ownership is a pretty big issue in NJ. I think Lou gets the respect he has because people know the cards he is being dealt.

[GreenLantern2814]

Originally Posted by dissentowner

Ya, the way it was played before the NHL tightened up on illegal checks, clutching, and grabbing.

If you think Scott Stevens wasn't a Hall of Fame player regardless of the era he played in, I don't know what to tell you.

[Vulcan]

No matter who the coach is in NJ, they all coach the same way or they are gone. For Lou there is only one way to play the game and that's his way. I think Brent and he got along well.

[OzSome]

I heard Scott Stevens will handle the defense and Oates the offense. I know it's been before but it is going to be interesting. It might work since both coaches were good players.

[sureLoss]

per Friedman the Devils did not get permission from the Capitals before talking to Oates and hiring him. Capitals eventually gave the go ahead, but league may have repercussions for the Devils.

[Volica]

I always feel bad for Jersey, growing up they were my second team (because Calgary rarely went to the playoffs), it's tough when the GM doesn't believe in rebuilding.

It also doesn't help that they were absolutely crippled over two seasons. Four years ago; If you looked over that top 6; you'd be hard pressed not to say they were an eastern conference favorite. Now it's like a retirement home that reminds me of Calgary 4-5 years ago; except with less talent.

[Jay Random]

Originally Posted by GreenLantern2814

If you think Scott Stevens wasn't a Hall of Fame player regardless of the era he played in, I don't know what to tell you.

The question is whether his playing experience qualifies him to be a good coach. If he tries to coach guys to play the way he played, New Jersey is going to need a bigger penalty box. Fortunately, they’ll have fewer fans, so they will be able to convert some seats.