Episode
Utica Heartbreak: New Jersey Devils' AHL Squad Falls JUST Short of Miracle Playoff Berth
- Published
- Apr 20, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1813
- Processing state
processed- Canonical source
- https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-devils/
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Summary
Zach Berman opened the episode by reflecting on the excitement surrounding the Buffalo Sabres' dramatic playoff win, expressing happiness for Lindy Ruff and comparing the different dynamics of this year's NHL playoffs from a Devils fan perspective. He noted the odd feeling of not having the Rangers as a direct rival in the playoffs and discussed general playoff rivalries and rooting interests among Devils fans, including the dislike for teams like the Hurricanes, Maple Leafs, and Islanders, and a collective hope that certain playoff outcomes will impact other teams' roster decisions 02:00. The focus then shifted to the Utica Comets, the New Jersey Devils' AHL affiliate, who made a late-season push but ultimately missed the Calder Cup playoffs by just one point. Zach Berman detailed their season turnaround after a disastrous start and highlighted individual players, such as Xavier Parent and Angus Crookshank, who showed promise down the stretch. While acknowledging that missing the playoffs can't be viewed as a success, Zach Berman pointed to optimism for the future and noted that changes could be coming in the Comets' front office and player development systems 07:00. Attention was then directed to the upcoming introductory press conference for new Devils general manager Sunny Mehta. Zach Berman expressed excitement about Mehta's background and his engagement with fans on social media, especially his nostalgic posts connecting his fandom to his new role. Anticipating the presser, Zach Berman outlined key questions regarding Mehta's plans for analytics, player acquisition, front office changes, and especially how he intends to improve the Devils' player development, which has struggled in recent years 14:12. In the final segment, Zach Berman discussed potential offseaso…