NEW YORK — The NHL has imposed a $25,000 fine on New Jersey Devils coach Sheldon Keefe due to unprofessional behavior towards the officials, which resulted in his ejection from Sunday’s game against the Vegas Golden Knights. The incident occurred after star center Jack Hughes suffered an injury.
On Wednesday, the league announced the penalty, coinciding with the Devils’ update that Hughes will be sidelined for the remainder of the regular season and playoffs following shoulder surgery. The fine will be directed to the NHL Foundation.
Keefe expressed frustration over the lack of a penalty call when Hughes collided with the boards, seemingly sustaining a severe injury. This incident happened late in the third period during New Jersey’s 2-0 defeat, after Hughes and Jack Eichel from the Golden Knights became entangled.
“I was ejected for telling the referee that I believed it was ten times worse than the earlier interference penalty called on Jack,” Keefe stated in Las Vegas.
In addition to Hughes’ injury, the Devils also lost defenseman Dougie Hamilton during Tuesday’s game in Dallas. However, the team has recently seen the return of starting goaltender Jacob Markstrom, who had been out with a long-term injury.
