30 Facts About Red Wings Vs. Devils

The Rivalry Begins

The Detroit Red Wings and New Jersey Devils have a storied rivalry in the NHL. Their clashes on the ice have produced memorable moments and intense competition. Here are some fascinating facts about their rivalry.

1. The Red Wings and Devils first faced off on October 5, 1982. This game marked the beginning of a rivalry that would grow over the decades.

2. Detroit and New Jersey have met in the playoffs only once, during the 1995 Stanley Cup Finals. The Devils swept the series 4-0 to win their first Stanley Cup.

3. The 1995 Stanley Cup Finals were notable for the Devils' defensive strategy, known as the "neutral zone trap," which stifled the Red Wings' high-powered offense.

4. The Red Wings have won 11 Stanley Cups, while the Devils have claimed 3 championships. Both teams have a rich history of success.

Legendary Players

Both teams have been home to some of the greatest players in NHL history. These legends have left an indelible mark on the rivalry.

5. Steve Yzerman, a Red Wings legend, played his entire 22-season career with Detroit and is considered one of the greatest captains in NHL history.

6. Martin Brodeur, the Devils' iconic goaltender, holds numerous NHL records, including most wins and shutouts by a goalie.

7. Nicklas Lidstrom, another Red Wings great, won seven Norris Trophies as the league's best defenseman and was known for his impeccable play.

8. Scott Stevens, a hard-hitting defenseman for the Devils, was known for his physical play and leadership, helping New Jersey win three Stanley Cups.

Memorable Moments

The rivalry has produced unforgettable moments that fans still talk about. These events have added to the lore of Red Wings vs. Devils matchups.

9. In Game 2 of the 1995 Stanley Cup Finals, Claude Lemieux scored the game-winning goal in double overtime, giving the Devils a 2-0 series lead.

10. During the 2000-2001 season, the Red Wings and Devils played a thrilling game that ended in a 4-4 tie, showcasing the skill and determination of both teams.

11. In 2008, the Red Wings defeated the Devils 1-0 in a game that featured a goaltending duel between Chris Osgood and Martin Brodeur.

12. The 2014 Stadium Series game between the Red Wings and Devils was played outdoors at Yankee Stadium, with New Jersey winning 7-3 in front of a packed crowd.

Coaching Legends

Behind every great team are great coaches. The Red Wings and Devils have been led by some of the best in the business.

13. Scotty Bowman, who coached the Red Wings from 1993 to 2002, is considered one of the greatest coaches in NHL history, winning three Stanley Cups with Detroit.

14. Jacques Lemaire, who coached the Devils from 1993 to 1998 and again from 2009 to 2011, implemented the neutral zone trap and led New Jersey to their first Stanley Cup.

15. Mike Babcock, who coached the Red Wings from 2005 to 2015, led Detroit to a Stanley Cup victory in 2008 and was known for his meticulous preparation.

16. Pat Burns, who coached the Devils from 2002 to 2004, guided New Jersey to their third Stanley Cup in 2003 and was known for his fiery coaching style.

Fan Bases

The fans of both teams are passionate and dedicated, adding to the intensity of the rivalry.

17. Red Wings fans are known for throwing octopuses onto the ice during playoff games, a tradition that dates back to 1952.

18. Devils fans are famous for their "Marty's Better" chant, in honor of Martin Brodeur, whenever they play against top goaltenders.

19. The Red Wings' "Hockeytown" moniker reflects Detroit's deep connection to the sport and its storied hockey history.

20. Devils fans have embraced the team's mascot, NJ Devil, who entertains the crowd with antics and stunts during games.

Records and Achievements

Both teams have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones throughout their histories.

21. The Red Wings hold the record for the longest winning streak in a single season, with 23 consecutive wins during the 2011-2012 season.

22. Martin Brodeur holds the record for most wins in a single season by a goaltender, with 48 victories during the 2006-2007 season.

23. The Red Wings have made the playoffs 25 consecutive times from 1991 to 2016, the longest streak in NHL history.

24. The Devils' 2000-2001 team set a franchise record with 111 points in the regular season, finishing first in the Eastern Conference.

Iconic Arenas

The venues where these teams play have become iconic in their own right, hosting countless memorable games.

25. Joe Louis Arena, the Red Wings' home from 1979 to 2017, was known for its passionate fans and electric atmosphere.

26. The Prudential Center, the Devils' home since 2007, is nicknamed "The Rock" and is known for its modern amenities and enthusiastic crowd.

27. Little Caesars Arena, the Red Wings' current home, features state-of-the-art facilities and has quickly become a favorite among fans.

28. The Devils' former home, the Continental Airlines Arena, hosted many memorable games and was known for its intimidating atmosphere.

Future Stars

The rivalry continues to evolve as new stars emerge, ensuring that the Red Wings vs. Devils matchups remain exciting.

29. Dylan Larkin, the current captain of the Red Wings, is known for his speed and leadership, representing the future of Detroit hockey.

30. Jack Hughes, the Devils' young star, has quickly become one of the most exciting players in the league, showcasing his skill and potential.

Final Whistle

The Red Wings vs. Devils rivalry is packed with history, drama, and unforgettable moments. From Stanley Cup showdowns to legendary players like Steve Yzerman and Martin Brodeur, these teams have given fans plenty to cheer about. Whether it's the intense games or the passionate fanbases, this matchup never disappoints.

Both teams have seen their ups and downs, but their commitment to the sport remains unwavering. As they continue to battle on the ice, fans can expect more thrilling games and new memories.

So, next time the Red Wings and Devils face off, remember the rich history and excitement that come with it. Hockey fans, get ready for more action-packed moments and epic showdowns. This rivalry is far from over, and the best is yet to come.