In a heartwarming ceremony on Wednesday night, the New Jersey Devils celebrated the illustrious career of former coach Jacques Lemaire by inducting him into the team’s Ring of Honor. This prestigious acknowledgment comes as a fitting tribute to a man whose impact on the franchise is undeniable and whose strategic prowess helped secure the Devils’ first-ever Stanley Cup in 1995. The event took place just before a game against the Boston Bruins, imbued with nostalgia and appreciation, as fans recalled the remarkable journey under Lemaire’s guidance.
At 79 years old, Lemaire brings a wealth of experience to the rink, with a staggering 11 Stanley Cup championships under his belt as both a player and coach. His remarkable career began with the Montreal Canadiens, where he was instrumental in achieving five Cup victories as a player. Later, he transitioned into a coaching role, leading the Canadiens as an assistant general manager to two more championships. His tenure with the New Jersey Devils began in the 1993-94 season, setting the stage for an era defined by tenacity and triumph.
During the pregame ceremony, Lemaire was surrounded by notable figures from the Devils’ storied past, including legendary players like Martin Brodeur, Scott Stevens, Scott Niedermayer, and Larry Robinson. The camaraderie among these former teammates encapsulated the essence of Lemaire’s coaching philosophy: teamwork and dedication. Robinson, who not only played alongside Lemaire in Montreal but also coached the Devils to their second championship in 2000, expressed how meaningful the occasion was, highlighting their shared history of success.
In a moment marked by emotion, Lemaire took to the center ice to deliver a brief yet heartfelt acceptance speech. Acknowledging the presence of Lou Lamoriello, the Devils’ former general manager and current president of hockey operations for the New York Islanders, he reflected on their collaborative efforts aimed at elevating the team. “All the meetings we had, the hours we spent together… was for one goal only — to get the team better so we could win a Stanley Cup,” Lemaire stated while donning a vibrant red Devils jacket, symbolizing his enduring connection to the organization.
Lemaire’s coaching tenure in the NHL has been nothing short of transformative. With a total of 617 wins to his name and invaluable contributions to teams like the Minnesota Wild and a return to the Devils in the late 2000s, his legacy is woven into the fabric of the sport. Even as he enjoys his current role as a special assignment coach and expresses contentment in stepping back from the daily pressures, Lemaire’s love for hockey remains evident. “I haven’t lost a game since 2011,” he quipped, signaling a light-hearted acceptance of retirement from the coaching grind.
In honoring Jacques Lemaire, the New Jersey Devils have not only celebrated a storied career but have also reinforced the values of dedication, teamwork, and the pursuit of greatness that he instilled in the organization. The pathway he forged for future generations of players and coaches alike will be felt for years to come, ensuring that his legendary legacy endures.