Devils rookie minicamp - 7.16.2014

Assistant Coach Scott Stevens instructs Reece Scarlett during Devils prospects camp in July. (Tony Kurdzuk/The Star-Ledger)

(Tony Kurdzuk/The Star-Ledger)

NEWARK — The decision by Scott Stevens to step down as Devils assistant coach did not come as a surprise to club insiders.

Although Stevens' playing career was cut short by a concussion and subsequent related issues, that was apparently not behind his choice to leave the Devils' coaching staff for personal reasons.

According to several current and former Devils players who did not want to speak on the record, it is believed Stevens did not feel enough of his ideas were being heard on a club that has missed the playoffs two straight seasons.

The former defenseman does not like the grueling travel schedule and being away from his family, which was a major factor. While his relationship with coach Pete DeBoer seemed solid, Stevens is said to feel the travel isn't worth it unless he could institute more of his own strategical ideas.

Stevens apparently told Devils general manager Lou Lamoriello some time ago that he did not want to return this season. Lamoriello said only that Stevens, not the team, made the decision to step down.

Stevens could not be reached for comment.