"Pete DeBoer comes from an organization where doubt is part of the mindset.

The Florida Panthers, whom DeBoer coached for the past three seasons, have missed the playoffs in each of the last 10 years. They haven't advanced past the first round since 1996.

So DeBoer, set to open training camp as the Devils' new head coach, would recognize shaken confidence if it existed around a team embarrassed by missing the playoffs last spring.

"I don't sense that. I think there is optimism," DeBoer said in an interview with The Star-Ledger. "I think guys are ticked off. I think they're excited to right the ship. I don't sense any doubts or lack of confidence.""