Betting on the Devils: Sunny Mehta on Analytics, Decision-Making, and His New Job.

John Shannon and Daren Millard are joined by New Jersey Devils General Manager Sunny Mehta on 100% Hockey for his first conversation with the show since taking over in New Jersey.

Mehta discusses the transition from helping build a championship organization in Florida to being the person ultimately responsible for the decisions in New Jersey. Despite years spent preparing for an opportunity like this, he explains why the reality of sitting in the GM’s chair has been even more demanding than he anticipated.

The conversation dives into Mehta’s unconventional path through hockey, including his background in analytics, poker, and financial trading, and how those experiences influence the way he evaluates risk and makes decisions as an NHL executive.

Mehta also discusses bringing longtime Florida executive Bryan McCabe into the organization, the different perspectives they bring to player evaluation and development, and the importance of surrounding himself with people whose strengths complement his own.

John and Daren also ask about Mehta’s relationship with head coach Sheldon Keefe and how the front office and coaching staff work together as the Devils try to establish the identity of this new era in New Jersey.

Plus, the guys work through some of the early stories around the NHL, including injuries, the first impressions of the new season, and whether the league’s shortened training camp is already having an impact.