The New Jersey Devils' coach Sheldon Keefe has been fined $25,000 for his unsportsmanlike conduct towards officials during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights. This incident followed the injury of star center Jack Hughes, who was taken off the ice after a collision that left him visibly in pain. Keefe expressed his frustration over the lack of a penalty call during Hughes' injury incident, which he described as more serious than a previous interference penalty called against his team.

Since that game, there has been no injury update provided by the Devils on Hughes, who leads the team in scoring. Additionally, the Devils have faced other injury challenges with key players, including Dougie Hamilton, who was injured in a recent match against the Dallas Stars, and they've just reinstated goaltender Jacob Markstrom after a prolonged absence due to injury.

Sheldon Keefe, head coach of the New Jersey Devils, received a hefty $25,000 fine from the NHL for unprofessional conduct towards officials that led to his ejection during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights. This incident occurred after star center Jack Hughes sustained a significant injury, which Keefe felt should have drawn a penalty from the referees. Keefe expressed his frustration, particularly regarding Hughes' injury, as he is the team's leading scorer this season.

The Devils have not provided an update on Hughes' condition, which remains a concern for the team as they navigate the season. Additionally, defenseman Dougie Hamilton suffered an injury in a recent game against Dallas, and starting goaltender Jacob Markstrom is only just returning from an extended absence. These injuries put further pressure on the Devils as they strive for playoff contention.

In a thrilling game on January 16, 2025, William Nylander, affectionately dubbed 'Slick Willy', exhibited his remarkable talent by scoring two goals, including a game-winner in overtime, leading the Toronto Maple Leafs to a 4-3 victory against the New Jersey Devils. Nylander's performance came on the heels of a three-game losing streak for the Leafs, and he dismissed concerns about the team's performance just a day prior.

Devils coach Sheldon Keefe, experiencing his first game back in Toronto, was well aware of Nylander's potential, having witnessed his clutch performances before. The game showcased Nylander's unique blend of skill and charisma, affirming his reputation as one of the NHL's top players.

In a pivotal match for the Toronto Maple Leafs, William Nylander snapped a scoring slump by netting two goals, including the overtime winner, in a 4-3 victory against the New Jersey Devils. Despite having only scored once in his last 11 contests, Nylander remained unfazed by external pressures, displaying a confident demeanor as the Leafs sought to end a three-game losing streak.

Auston Matthews also shone, scoring twice in the third period to force overtime. His efforts, combined with Nylander's, revived the crowd and showcased the team's resilience. Coach Craig Berube commended the team's mentality and their determination to battle back despite trailing during the game.

Mitch Marner reached a personal milestone, recording his 700th and 701st career NHL points in the comeback, further emphasizing the offensive capabilities of the team. The victory was bittersweet for the Devils' coach Sheldon Keefe, who faced his former team for the first time since being dismissed last spring. Despite a strong start, the Devils faltered late, allowing the Leafs to secure a season sweep of the series.

Sheldon Keefe returned to Toronto as the New Jersey Devils' head coach, facing off against the Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena. Keefe, who previously coached the Leafs for five seasons, expressed nostalgia but remained focused on the game. Despite leading twice in the game, the Devils fell to the Leafs 4-3 in overtime, with William Nylander scoring the decisive goal.

Keefe reflected on his time in Toronto, noting the challenges and successes he experienced and acknowledged the organization’s supportive fan base. His successor, Craig Berube, praised the team's professionalism while addressing his players' performance issues, particularly with Max Domi stepping into a more prominent role due to an injury to John Tavares.