Locked On Devils - Daily Podcast On The New Jersey Devils

By Trey Matthews, Locked On Podcast NetworkSports Hockey

Locked On Devils - Daily Podcast On The New Jersey Devils episodes

May 09 Sunny Raiding Sunrise? New Jersey Devils Looking to Fill Out New FO + Grits Extension Incoming?
Zach Berman opens the episode discussing reports that new New Jersey Devils GM Sonny Mehta is looking to bring two key front office figures from his former employer, the Florida Panthers—Bryan McCabe and Braden Birch—into the Devils organization. Zach Berman frames this as an exciting opportunity for New Jersey, particularly given the team's struggles with player development and cap management in recent years. McCabe is praised for his work as Florida's director of player development, having played a key role with several successful Panthers defensemen, while Birch is credited for his expertise in cap management and hockey operations.
The episode also speculates on a possible contract extension for Arseni Gritsyuk, noting rumors that something is imminent. While Zach Berman jokes about Gritsyuk's new shaved-head look, he emphasizes the forward's value and potential as a long-term contributor to the Devils' lineup. The team’s cap situation remains a challenge, and Zach Berman anticipates that making room for extensions and restructuring contracts will be a top priority for Mehta.
Coaching is another focal point, as Zach Berman addresses the uncertainty around head coach Sheldon Keefe's future. There is speculation that if the Edmonton Oilers were to fire their coach Chris Knoblauch, Mehta might consider replacing Keefe with Knoblauch, whom Zach Berman regards as a particularly strong fit for the Devils’ up-tempo style. He notes that the Devils’ current coaching and front office situation is fluid, and advises fans to be patient as Mehta methodically evaluates options.
Lastly, Zach Berman reassures listeners that Mehta is taking a considered approach to building his staff, referencing the planned changes in the front office and expressing confidence in the new management’s direction. With other NHL teams facing more dire situations, Zach Berman believes New Jersey offers an especially attractive destination for ambitious executives from successful organizations. He urges patience from the fanbase, maintaining that positive changes are on the horizon as Mehta assembles his team.
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31 min
May 07 Staying At 12: Should the New Jersey Devils Keep or Trade their First Round Pick
The episode, hosted by Zach Berman, centers on the New Jersey Devils' position in the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft after not moving up in the lottery and remaining with the 12th overall pick. Zach Berman expresses frustration at the Devils’ frequent absence from playoff contention and the team’s repeated reliance on the draft lottery for hope, marking this as their 11th lottery appearance in 14 seasons since the 2012 Stanley Cup Finals. He notes that while the lottery didn’t yield a major setback, as with the Vancouver Canucks, it is still disappointing for fans who want to see progress.
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around whether the Devils should keep or trade their 12th overall pick. Zach Berman leans toward keeping the pick, citing the team’s relatively weak prospect pool (ranked 22nd out of 32 by The Athletic) despite years of high draft picks. He argues that building up a pipeline of young, cheap talent is essential both for cap flexibility and for maintaining a steady influx of talent, which could sustainably support the Devils’ long-term competitiveness.
However, Zach Berman acknowledges the arguments in favor of trading the pick, especially if it could bring in an established top-six winger—a critical need for the roster since the departure of Tyler Toffoli. He speculates about the trade market, mentioning names like Jordan Kyrou and Robert Thomas

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31 min
May 02 Spring Cleaning: Chuck Fletcher & Dan Mackinnon FIRED by New Jersey Devils, More to Come?
Chuck Fletcher and Dan McKinnon have been fired from the New Jersey Devils organization as part of significant changes to the team's front office, a move that Zach Berman describes as long overdue at 00:12:49. Fletcher, who served as Senior Advisor to the President, Hockey Operations and General Manager, is criticized by Zach Berman for carrying over his poor front office track record from the Philadelphia Flyers, with both him and McKinnon being linked to the Devils’ lackluster player development and questionable contract decisions. McKinnon, who managed the Devils’ AHL affiliate, Utica Comets, is also noted for a decade of underwhelming prospect development, despite the organization's repeated high draft picks.
Zach Berman connects these firings to a wider critique of the Devils’ front office over the last decade, highlighting missed opportunities and poor drafting decisions that have crippled the organization—most notably the inability to acquire or develop high-end talent like Quinn Hughes, whose likely contract extension in Minnesota further frustrates the Devils' situation (00:02:59). The show host underscores that errors by previous managers like Tom Fitzgerald and Ray Shero continue to haunt the franchise and laments persistent issues with a "boys club" mentality that recycles unsuccessful executives (00:16:34).
Attention then turns to who could be next on the chopping block. Zach Berman identifies two top candidates: Dave Rogalski, the Devils’ goaltending coach since 2020, and Megan Duggan, director of player development since 2022. Rogalski, associated with deteriorating goaltending performance and stagnant goalie prospects, is considered by Zach Berman to be a near-certain firing in any impending purge (00:22:13). Duggan, while a hockey legend, is blamed for the lack of progress among skater prospects and an overall weak farm system, though Zach Berman suggests she could stay in the organization in a different role if removed from player development.
Looking forward, Zach Berman expresses optimism about Sonny Maida’s leadership, hoping for a complete overhaul of the Devils' organizational culture and approach (00:28:27). With a chance to break away from outdated front office practices and failed scouting, there is hope that the franchise can restructure itself into a consistent Stanley Cup contender. As further staff changes loom and with the draft lottery approaching, Zach Berman anticipates a busy period of transition and potential improvement for the Devils (00:29:05). Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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30 min
April 30 Recapping The New Jersey Devils 25-26 Season
Zach Berman opened the episode by acknowledging the season as one of the most disappointing in New Jersey Devils franchise history, characterized by both rare moments of happiness and several infuriating lows. He began with an overview of current league playoff matchups, reflecting on which teams Devils fans might root for in the absence of their own team and voicing frustration that it “should have been us” advancing, as the Devils struggled mightily this year—including being swept by the Philadelphia Flyers.
Transitioning into the season’s high points, Zach Berman identified Jack Hughes’ golden goal for Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics as the proudest moment for Devils fans—a singular highlight that did not occur in an NHL game. Other top moments included the Devils’ early eight-game win streak, Simon Nemec’s hat trick against Chicago, Jack Hughes’ dominant game against the Rangers, and the firing of GM Tom Fitzgerald, which was largely seen as a much needed sign of change. Zach Berman also highlighted specific memorable wins, such as shootout victories over Washington and Toronto, and the long-awaited trade of underperforming forward Ondrej Palat.
However, the episode devoted even more focus to the season’s nadirs. The single worst moment identified was missing out on acquiring Quinn Hughes, as hopes to unite the three Hughes brothers were dashed when he was instead traded to the Minnesota Wild—a result Zach Berman argued was the signature failure of Fitzgerald’s tenure and a turning point that crystallized the team’s assorted contractual miscues and poor draft luck. Other lowlights included the ill-fated extension of goalie Jacob Markstrom, a record-setting 9-0 loss to the Islanders (compounded by the team’s lackluster response), and a series of humiliating defeats marked by poor goaltending, blown leads, or embarrassing efforts.
Finally, Zach Berman referenced further moments that symbolized the season’s dysfunction, such as Dougie Hamilton’s controversial benching and miscommunications from the front office. Adding to the misery was a freak off-ice injury to Jack Hughes that effectively doomed the Devils’ playoff hopes. Looking forward, Zach Berman promised to shift focus towards the NHL Draft and prospective rebuilding efforts in the next episode, inviting listeners to stay engaged despite this lost season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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34 min
April 28 Corralling the Captain: New Jersey Devils begin Extension Talks with Nico Hischier
The New Jersey Devils have initiated preliminary contract extension discussions with their captain, Nico Hischier, who is entering the final year of his current deal. Zach Berman explains that new general manager Sunny Mehta is proactively reaching out to Hischier’s camp, with both sides indicating a clear interest in keeping the captain in New Jersey for the long term. The most commonly predicted contract figure is around 8 years, $88 million (an $11 million AAV), putting Hischier among the league’s top-paid two-way centers as the NHL’s salary cap rises. Zach Berman underscores that locking in Hischier—an irreplaceable leader who has been vocal about his desire to win a Stanley Cup in New Jersey—is essential for the team's ambitions.
Discussion also centers on potential offseason targets, most prominently Ottawa captain Brady Tkachuk, who had a disappointing playoff series but remains a highly productive and physically imposing forward. Zach Berman cautions, however, against acquiring Tkachuk at the expense of key core players like Hischier or Jesper Bratt, arguing that the Devils should build around these foundational pieces rather than "blow it up" in response to short-term setbacks. The importance of adding complementary talent—rather than making reactionary changes to the core—is highlighted as the best strategy for New Jersey's long-term success.
Goaltending is another pressing issue addressed by Zach Berman, with the future of Jacob Markstrom in doubt due to a burdensome contract and inconsistent performance. The podcast floats the idea of targeting a trade for Minnesota Wild netminder Filip Gustavsson, who, despite serving as a backup during the playoffs, posted solid numbers in the regular season and might become available if Minnesota decides to prioritize Jesper Wallstedt. Gustavsson’s contract, however, includes a no-movement clause, so any potential deal would require the goalie's approval.
As the Devils look towards the upcoming offseason, Zach Berman stresses the need for a measured, forward-thinking approach under Sunny Mehta’s leadership. By extending Nico Hischier, seeking smart additions like Brady Tkachuk or Filip Gustavsson, and learning from other franchises’ patience, the Devils aim to retool and return to contention without sacrificing their core identity. The episode closes with anticipation for draft lottery outcomes and further offseason developments. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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30 min
April 22 Poker, Panthers, and Pork Roll: Sunny Mehta KILLED his Homecoming Presser
In this episode, Zach Berman offers an enthusiastic and detailed analysis of Sunny Mehta’s introduction as the new General Manager of the New Jersey Devils, following his impressive opening press conference.
Key Takeaways
* Press Conference Performance
* Zach Berman describes Sunny Mehta's opening presser as about as close to a "grand slam" as an opening press conference can get, praising Mehta’s clarity, insight, and energy 00:01:09.
* Cautions that, while exciting, a press conference is only words—"actions speak louder than words" 00:01:47.
* Management Philosophy
* Mehta did not obsess over winning the Stanley Cup immediately, instead emphasizing building the team methodically "brick by brick" 00:02:47.
* He emphasized making "smart, educated and objective decisions" repeatedly as a guiding principle 00:12:25.
* Sunny Mehta's poker background influences his management approach—described as "tight and aggressive": have patience for the right moment, then act boldly when the opportunity comes 00:13:40.
* Coaching Decisions
* Zach Berman discussed the potential future of head coach Sheldon Keefe. Despite Keefe's presence at the presser, Mehta stated there would be a period of evaluation for all players and staff 00:04:13.
* Analysis was provided on why Keefe might or might not stay, referencing his previous playoff performance and the influence of former GM Tom Fitzgerald on the system 00:05:33.
* Speculated that Keefe adjusted strategies late in the season to better suit the roster, possibly to audition for his own future or at ownership's behest 00:07:30.
* Front Office and Core Players
* Mehta pledged a more analytically-driven front office, building on his experience with the Florida Panthers, where multiple perspectives (traditional scouts, analytics, sports science) were valued 00:14:43.
* Commitment expressed to extend Nico Hischier and focus on building around the Hughes brothers 00:15:59.
* Ownership and Spending
* Owner David Blitzer signaled an ongoing commitment to "spend to the cap every year," denying internal cap rumors 00:21:27.
* Rumors of hiring a president of hockey ops were shot down; Mehta impressed so thoroughly that ownership appears content with him as sole GM 00:21:58.
* Personal & Cultural Notes
* Mehta is a lifelong Devils fan, bringing emotional investment and understanding of the team’s culture 00:16:36.
* Numerous lighthearted references: the New Jersey "Taylor Ham/Pork Roll" debate (Zach Berman is adamant it’s pork roll) 00:00:10 00:26:54, and Mehta’s enduring support of the struggling Mets 00:26:28.
* Looking Forward
* Zach Berman expresses excitement for the new era, expecting bold, well-considered moves and an analytically savvy approach under Sunny Mehta 00:27:42.
* Anticipates big decisions soon regarding coaching, core players, and scouting personnel.
Notable Quotes
* On decision-making: "I want to make smart, educated and objective decisions and I want to do it over and over and over again." 00:12:25 
* On poker influence: "You're more patient than other poker players... you have the guts to do what it takes when that moment is right to win the hand. And I'd say that's exactly how I view this." 00:13:40 
* On being a Devils fan: "...growing up the devil's logo was almost like a religious symbol to him." 00:18:49 
Summary
The episode is a passionate, optimistic endorsement by Zach Berman of Sunny Mehta’s vision for the Devils. He praises Mehta’s intellect, creativity, and commitment—blending analytical prowess with lifelong loyalty. Zach Berman notes the presser’s fresh energy, the promise of rational process over impulsiveness, and the expectation that Mehta’s leadership will produce both immediate and long-term improvements for the franchise. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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30 min
April 20 Utica Heartbreak: New Jersey Devils' AHL Squad Falls JUST Short of Miracle Playoff Berth
Zach Berman opened the episode by reflecting on the excitement surrounding the Buffalo Sabres' dramatic playoff win, expressing happiness for Lindy Ruff and comparing the different dynamics of this year's NHL playoffs from a Devils fan perspective. He noted the odd feeling of not having the Rangers as a direct rival in the playoffs and discussed general playoff rivalries and rooting interests among Devils fans, including the dislike for teams like the Hurricanes, Maple Leafs, and Islanders, and a collective hope that certain playoff outcomes will impact other teams' roster decisions 02:00.
The focus then shifted to the Utica Comets, the New Jersey Devils' AHL affiliate, who made a late-season push but ultimately missed the Calder Cup playoffs by just one point. Zach Berman detailed their season turnaround after a disastrous start and highlighted individual players, such as Xavier Parent and Angus Crookshank, who showed promise down the stretch. While acknowledging that missing the playoffs can't be viewed as a success, Zach Berman pointed to optimism for the future and noted that changes could be coming in the Comets' front office and player development systems 07:00.
Attention was then directed to the upcoming introductory press conference for new Devils general manager Sunny Mehta. Zach Berman expressed excitement about Mehta's background and his engagement with fans on social media, especially his nostalgic posts connecting his fandom to his new role. Anticipating the presser, Zach Berman outlined key questions regarding Mehta's plans for analytics, player acquisition, front office changes, and especially how he intends to improve the Devils' player development, which has struggled in recent years 14:12.
In the final segment, Zach Berman discussed potential offseason moves for the Devils, revisiting interest in Seattle’s Jared McCann as a flexible option who could strengthen both center and wing depth. He also floated names like Eeli Tolvanen and Shane Wright as possible targets, reflecting on the need to navigate no-trade clauses and other roster complications. Zach Berman ended by acknowledging that, while hope for blockbuster trades like acquiring Adam Fox from the Rangers is unrealistic, there is renewed excitement and curiosity about the direction the Devils will take under Mehta’s leadership with the impending press conference set to offer the first insights 27:08. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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31 min
April 18 Sunny with a Chance of Adversity: Turning the New Jersey Devils around will NOT BE EASY
Zach Berman opens the episode by addressing the initial excitement around the New Jersey Devils hiring Sonny Mehta as their new general manager. Despite Mehta being a highly desired candidate and the Devils job seen as the most attractive GM position available, Zach Berman stresses that the work ahead will be significantly more challenging than fans might hope. He explains that former GM Tom Fitzgerald left the organization in a difficult state, with significant structural, contractual, and cultural obstacles that won’t be solved quickly or easily 00:00:08.
He discusses insights from Elliotte Friedman’s recent reporting, including behind-the-scenes details of the hiring process and ownership dynamics, such as Bob Myers’ growing influence and the collaborative structure among the sports teams under the same ownership group. Zach Berman notes that the organization values synergy across its portfolio, which includes various pro teams. He also references the fallout from failed trade deals—particularly the club’s inability to acquire Quinn Hughes and subsequent fractures caused by no-trade clauses in existing players’ contracts—which contributed to Fitzgerald’s dismissal and have now become challenges for Mehta to overcome 00:07:36.
Looking forward, Zach Berman outlines the specific, daunting problems Mehta will inherit. The team faces an unfavorable cap situation, problematic contracts with restrictive trade clauses, and underperforming high-cost players like Timo Meier. Key questions loom about the futures of important players such as Nico Hischier and Dougie Hamilton, while urgent needs remain for improved goaltending and depth scoring. Zach Berman underscores that this is not a rebuild that can be addressed in one offseason. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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31 min
April 17 A Sunny Day In Hell: New Jersey Devils GET THEIR GUY, Land Sunny Mehta as GM
In the episode "A Sunny Day In Hell: New Jersey Devils GET THEIR GUY: Land Sunny Mehta as GM," Zach Berman expresses excitement and relief as the New Jersey Devils secure Sunny Mehta as their new general manager. Zach Berman emphasizes that this hire marks a significant turning point for the franchise, especially after concerns that the Devils might come up short in their GM search. He details how Mehta was the team’s clear top choice and notes the speed and decisiveness of the Devils’ management and ownership—something not seen in recent organizational history.
Zach Berman recounts Mehta’s intriguing background, highlighting his unconventional path to hockey management. Mehta studied jazz guitar before earning a master’s in data science, became a professional poker player, published books on poker strategy, and eventually transitioned into hockey analytics. His previous tenure with the Devils as their analytics head is credited with innovations like a player ranking system that famously advocated drafting Jesper Bratt in the sixth round—now a key Devils player.
The discussion points to Mehta’s successful stint with the Florida Panthers, where he helped transform the team into a perennial contender by leveraging analytics to identify undervalued, high-upside talent. Zach Berman contrasts this approach with the Devils’ previous strategy of acquiring players for toughness’ sake rather than skill plus grit. He highlights Mehta’s ability to blend analytics and traditional scouting, resulting in impactful acquisitions and team-building successes in Florida.
Looking ahead, Zach Berman speculates that Mehta’s leadership will lead to substantial changes in the Devils’ front office and team methodology, including potentially overhauling scouting and development. The episode closes with optimism, calling this hire a “monumental win” for the franchise and its fans, and suggesting that while a turnaround won’t happen overnight, Mehta’s arrival finally gives supporters real hope for consistent contention and future championships. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com
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31 min
April 16 A Wrap on The 2025-2026 New Jersey Devils Season: Part 1
The episode opens with Zach Berman expressing relief that the challenging 2025-2026 New Jersey Devils season has finally ended, describing it as one of the most disappointing in franchise history relative to expectations. He briefly mentions the final game against Boston—a 4-0 loss that encapsulated the team’s struggles and lack of motivation, particularly highlighting the failure of goaltender Nico Daws to capitalize on his opportunity in net. Zach Berman uses the loss as a launching point to discuss a deeper organizational flaw: the inability to effectively develop goaltending talent, resulting in a perpetual cycle of failed veteran acquisitions and short-lived solutions.
Zach Berman expands the critique beyond goaltending to the entire player development pipeline, asserting that poor drafting and inadequate development have left the team dependently on free agency and trades, despite having core talent like Jack Hughes on team-friendly contracts. He underscores that this developmental weakness has left the Devils in a cap-strapped position with disappointing seasons, missing the playoffs by significant margins and failing to meet even basic benchmarks that were once organizational standards.
A significant portion of the episode addresses the lack of accountability under former GM Tom Fitzgerald. Citing recent quotes funneled through media channels and postgame comments from team leaders, Zach Berman argues that a culture of excuse-making and lenience has trickled down from management to the roster. This, he claims, resulted in players failing to step up during adversity and an overall atmosphere where underachievement became tolerated, contributing to the team’s stagnation in a period when they should have been contending for championships.
Looking forward, Zach Berman is hopeful for a wholesale reset in the Devils’ front office and philosophy, emphasizing the need to restore higher standards and competitive expectations. He expresses excitement at the prospect of a new GM inheriting a core with great potential and a passionate, deserving fan base, and longs for a return to meaningful playoff hockey at the Prudential Center. The episode concludes with optimism that new leadership can reclaim the organization's past stature and transform recent disappointment into future success for the Devils and their supporters.
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34 min

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Locked On Devils podcast is the daily podcast that drops the puck and keeps you ahead of the game and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the New Jersey Devils and the…