30 Facts About The Devils Du New Jersey

The Early Years

The New Jersey Devils have a rich history filled with fascinating moments. Let's dive into some interesting facts about this iconic NHL team.

1. The Devils were originally the Kansas City Scouts before moving to Colorado and becoming the Rockies. They finally settled in New Jersey in 1982.

2. The team name "Devils" was chosen through a fan contest. It references the legendary Jersey Devil, a mythical creature said to inhabit the Pine Barrens of New Jersey.

3. Their first season in New Jersey was rough. They finished with a record of 17-49-14, placing them last in the Patrick Division.

Championships and Triumphs

Despite a rocky start, the Devils have had their share of glory. Here are some highlights from their championship years.

4. The Devils won their first Stanley Cup in 1995, defeating the Detroit Red Wings in a four-game sweep.

5. They clinched their second Stanley Cup in 2000, beating the Dallas Stars in six games.

6. The Devils' third Stanley Cup came in 2003 after a seven-game series against the Anaheim Mighty Ducks.

Legendary Players

The Devils have been home to some of the NHL's most legendary players. Let's look at a few who made a significant impact.

7. Martin Brodeur, considered one of the greatest goaltenders of all time, spent 21 seasons with the Devils. He holds numerous records, including most wins and shutouts by a goalie.

8. Scott Stevens, known for his hard-hitting style, captained the Devils to all three of their Stanley Cup victories.

9. Patrik Elias is the franchise's all-time leading scorer with 1,025 points.

Memorable Moments

The Devils have had their share of unforgettable moments. Here are a few that stand out.

10. In 1988, the Devils made their first playoff appearance, reaching the conference finals before losing to the Boston Bruins.

11. The 2000 Eastern Conference Finals saw the Devils come back from a 3-1 series deficit to defeat the Philadelphia Flyers.

12. In 2012, the Devils made an unexpected run to the Stanley Cup Finals, ultimately losing to the Los Angeles Kings.

Home Arena

The Devils' home arena has its own set of interesting facts. Let's explore some details about where they play.

13. The team originally played at the Brendan Byrne Arena, later known as the Continental Airlines Arena and the Izod Center.

14. In 2007, the Devils moved to the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, often referred to as "The Rock."

15. The Prudential Center is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and has hosted numerous concerts and events besides hockey games.

Fan Culture

Devils fans are some of the most passionate in the NHL. Here are some facts about the team's fan culture.

16. The "Devils Army" is the nickname for the team's loyal fan base.

17. The "Let's Go Devils" chant is a staple at home games, creating an electric atmosphere in the arena.

18. The team mascot, NJ Devil, is a fan favorite and can often be seen entertaining the crowd during games.

Rivalries

Every great team has its rivals, and the Devils are no exception. Here are some of their most intense rivalries.

19. The New York Rangers are arguably the Devils' biggest rivals, with the two teams often engaging in heated battles known as the "Battle of the Hudson."

20. The Philadelphia Flyers also share a fierce rivalry with the Devils, stemming from numerous playoff encounters.

21. The New York Islanders round out the Devils' primary rivals, making for exciting matchups whenever they meet.

Community Involvement

The Devils are not just about hockey; they are also deeply involved in their community. Here are some ways they give back.

22. The Devils Care Foundation supports various charitable initiatives throughout New Jersey.

23. The team frequently hosts youth hockey clinics and camps to promote the sport among young players.

24. Players often visit local hospitals and schools, bringing joy to fans and residents alike.

Records and Achievements

The Devils have set numerous records and achieved many milestones. Here are a few notable ones.

25. The team holds the record for the fewest goals allowed in a season, with just 164 in the 2003-2004 season.

26. Martin Brodeur's 125 career shutouts are the most by any goalie in NHL history.

27. The Devils have made the playoffs 23 times since their inception, a testament to their consistent performance.

Coaching Legends

Great coaches have led the Devils to success over the years. Let's look at some of the most influential.

28. Jacques Lemaire coached the team to their first Stanley Cup in 1995 and is known for implementing the "neutral zone trap" strategy.

29. Pat Burns, who led the Devils to their 2003 Stanley Cup victory, was posthumously inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2014.

30. Lou Lamoriello, although primarily known as the team's general manager, also served as head coach during parts of his tenure and played a crucial role in the team's success.

Final Whistle

The New Jersey Devils have a rich history filled with triumphs, challenges, and memorable moments. From their Stanley Cup victories to their legendary players, the Devils have left an indelible mark on the NHL. Their dedicated fan base, known for their passion and loyalty, continues to support the team through thick and thin. The Devils' commitment to excellence and community involvement makes them a standout franchise in the league. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the sport, the New Jersey Devils offer a fascinating journey through hockey history. Keep an eye on this team as they strive for future success and continue to build on their storied legacy.