Jessica Campbell just left the NHL bench for a development role in New Jersey. On paper it looks like a demotion. In practice it could be the most stable power base she has ever had.
The move was first reported by ESPN sources and then confirmed by the Devils official release. Both Jessica Campbell and Bryan McCabe are now listed as part of the Devils development staff. That pairing matters.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Why did Jessica Campbell leave the Seattle Kraken?
- A: She was hired by the New Jersey Devils for their player development staff alongside Bryan McCabe, reportedly seeking long-term stability and greater influence beyond the NHL bench.
- Q: Is the Devils development role a demotion from the NHL?
- A: It removes her from the NHL bench spotlight, but it could offer more institutional power, autonomy, and sustained impact in player development.
- Q: What does this move signal for women in hockey?
- A: It highlights the tension between visibility and real power for female coaches, raising questions whether the move advances representation or pushes her to the margins.