[5] On May 12, 2016, Kelly was assessed a ten-game suspension by the American Hockey League for an illegal check to the head of Toronto Marlies forward Andreas Johnson during a playoff game.

On July 11, 2016, having left the New Jersey Devils as a free agent, Kelly agreed to a one-year, two-way contract with the San Jose Sharks.

[9] Prior to the start of the 2019–20 NHL season, Kelly signed an officiating deal with the National Hockey League.

[10] He made his debut on January 28, 2021, at the Prudential Center for a game between the Philadelphia Flyers and the New Jersey Devils.

He was joined by linesman Devin Berg, and referees Frederick L'Ecuyer and Pierre Lambert.