The New Jersey Devils may not have done their due diligence in the hiring of Adam Oates.

Elliotte Friedman reported during Sportsnet's "Saturday Headlines" segment that his hiring could come under league investigation as the Devils were not granted permission by the Washington Capitals to speak to their former bench boss.

The Capitals did provide their blessing, according to Friedman, but only after the Devils had already agreed to terms with their new co-coach.

Oates was fired last year after the Capitals missed the playoffs for the first time in six seasons.