Devils Fire Ftorek

Archived from 1999-2000 season.

In a shocking move the first-place New Jersey Devils fired head coach Robbie Ftorek on Thursday. Assistant coach Larry Robinson will take over for the rest of the season.

"I did not see light at the end of the tunnel ... and felt that the decision was necessary," Devils president and general manager Lou Lamoriello said.

The Devils are clearly trying to avoid another early playoff exit. Since winning the Stanly Cup in 1995, the Devils have struggled in the playoffs despite strong regular season performances.

"We were not playing to our capabilities, in my mind," Lamoriello said. "I did not see this changing, I did not think we would come out of this slump ... and go forward."

Ftorek, 48, was in his second season as Devils coach and ninth with the organization. He compiled an 88-49-19 (.625) mark after replacing Jacques Lemaire in May 1998.

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