Devils Players Hold Team Meeting After Another Brutal Loss

The New Jersey Devils have lost five of their last six games, including a 4-0 shutout at the hands of the Detroit Red Wings Wednesday night. That called for desperate measures of sorts, leading the players to hold long team meetings before practice on Thursday, for some "honest conversations."

The Devils held a long meeting today to hold one another accountable and have honest conversations about where their game is currently at.@amandacstein reports in Devils Now presented by @RWJBarnabas. pic.twitter.com/Kc6XnvLtwp
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) November 23, 2023

Veteran forward Erik Haula, in his second year in New Jersey, said the players wanted to "take a good look at our team and where we're at." He added that they don't want to accept things the way they've been going.

"We're not playing the game the right way. We've been arrogant and not respecting the game and it's cost us."

Veteran Brendan Smith, also in his 2nd campaign with the Devils, said they "tried to hash things out" and he's "encouraged by it." He added that they need to focus on their own end first.

Head coach Lindy Ruff said it's all about being accountable.

The Devils are 8-8-1 to start the season, not the way they wanted to get the campaign going, as they came in with thoughts of being a true Stanley Cup contender.

Photo: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports