New Jersey Devils reshape roster and coaching staff under GM Sunny Mehta ahead of 2026-27 season

General manager Sunny Mehta has overhauled the New Jersey Devils' roster and coaching staff during the 2026‑27 offseason. He traded veteran goaltender Jacob Markstrom, extended captain Nico Hischier and forward Arseny Gritsyuk, and added forward Anthony Mantha. Mehta also retained head coach Sheldon Keefe and brought in a new coaching staff, including former Harvard coach Ted Donato.

The team finished the 2025‑26 campaign with a 42‑37‑3 record, missing the playoffs by 12 points. Defenseman Dougie Hamilton, a top‑four blueliner, remains on the roster despite trade speculation linking him to the Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers and Columbus Blue Jackets. Hamilton posted 39 points in 77 games last season. The Devils' AHL affiliate, the Utica Comets, also saw changes under new GM Brendan Birch, who emphasized alignment with head coach Ryan Parent.

Analysts question whether the Devils can add the 10 points needed to return to the Eastern Conference playoffs, given the modest offseason moves and the competitive Atlantic Division.