The New Jersey Devils have been officially eliminated from playoff contention, marking a merciful end to a disastrous season. Zach Berman emphasized at 00:00:38 that, although mathematically four games remain, the combination of poor performances and external results sealed the Devils' fate. Key factors included underwhelming decisions by former GM Tom Fitzgerald, whose lack of urgency at the trade deadline and questionable contract extensions—especially that of goaltender Jacob Markstrom—set the stage for failure. Zach Berman argued that missing the playoffs might be a blessing in disguise, forcing ownership to finally address deep-rooted systemic issues and reevaluate leadership both in the front office and behind the bench. This season saw the Devils swept not just by their rivals the Flyers, but also the Islanders and Hurricanes, with the latest humiliating defeat on national television—a 5–1 loss to Philadelphia—underscoring the magnitude of the collapse at 00:13:01. Despite ...