NJ Devils have been given permission to speak with Sheldon Keefe

Fresh off his exit from the Maple Leafs, there's already buzz about Keefe's next move. According to a report from a TSN insider, a team has reached out to the Maple Leafs seeking permission to interview Keefe.

The interested party is reportedly the New Jersey Devils, who made a mid-season coaching change in the 2023-24 season, replacing Lindy Ruff with Travis Green, now the head coach of the Ottawa Senators.

Keefe had recently inked a two-year contract extension with the Maple Leafs before his dismissal, which is why the Devils must seek permission to speak with him. Keefe will continue to receive compensation from the Maple Leafs until he secures a head coaching position elsewhere in the NHL.

Given Keefe's experience and track record, it wouldn't be surprising if other teams also express interest in speaking with him about coaching opportunities.

During his tenure with the Maple Leafs, Keefe led the team for parts of five seasons from 2019 to 2024. Despite strong regular-season performances, the team faced repeated early exits from the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Prior to his time with Toronto, Keefe coached the AHL's Toronto Marlies and the OHL's Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.

Source: Bladeofsteel
Sheldon Keefe gets first job interview since being let go by Leafs