The New Jersey Devils fired coach Lindy Ruff on Monday and named assistant Travis Green as the interim replacement.

General manager Tom Fitzgerald made the surprising move with less than 30 games left in the NHL season. 

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<figcaption>New Jersey Devils’ head coach Lindy Ruff looks towards the ice. <span class="credit">AP</span></figcaption>

The Devils have lost five of seven to fall further out of playoff contention.

New Jersey plays Tuesday against Florida.

Ruff, 64, was in his fourth season with the team. 

The Devils reached the second round of the playoffs last year.

General manager Tom Fitzgerald made the surprising move with less than 30 games left in the NHL season.{ai:summary}<p>Sudden change in NJ Devils coaching staff as Lindy Ruff is fired midseason, Travis Green steps in. Playoff hopes dim for struggling team. #sports</p>

Devils fire Lindy Ruff as season spirals

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