In a tribute that was only right in the eyes of the Devils, the organization will pay the ultimate honor to Devils great Martin Brodeur.
By Patrick Comia
As far as the Devils were concerned, it was time to bring Martin Brodeur home, and be honored amongst the greats at the Prudential Center.
The team announced on Tuesday they would honor the former Devils netminder for his 21 years of service between the pipes.
Coming soon…to a rafter near you. Marty gets his place permanently above the @prucenter ice on Feb. 9. #MB30 #GOAT pic.twitter.com/KvXQm0kyjf
— New Jersey Devils (@NHLDevils) October 6, 2015
He will join former teammates Scott Stevens, Ken Daneyko, and Scott Niedermayer as the only Devils to have their jersey numbers retired.
A little known fact that makes this even unique: Brodeur will be the first non-defenseman to have his jersey retired.
This was an honor that was going to be done for the great number 30. However, it caught many off guard, including Brodeur at how quickly it was announced.
In a interview with Steve Politi of NJ.com, the three-time Stanley Cup goaltender had this to say:
I guess I was surprised because its happening so quickly, which was definitely nice. It’s going to be fun. I’m going to be more anxious as the day comes
So will the fans, as they welcome back one of their own.
A man they have watched since he came into League in 1994, winning the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie, feeling the heartbreak when he and the Devils lost in the Eastern Conference Final against the New York Rangers, then standing up and cheering when he hoisted the Stanley Cup with his teammates.
Legen…Wait for it…Dary. Legendary! #MB30 pic.twitter.com/I6tRicDiFA
— New Jersey Devils (@NHLDevils) October 6, 2015
There’s no need to list his many NHL records, cause that’s been overplayed. However, the most significant statistic you need to know about Broduer are his Stanley Cup rings. Three to be exact. Just sayin’.
Three Cups for #MB30. Three days until #NJDOpeningNight. pic.twitter.com/u544asfLnH
— New Jersey Devils (@NHLDevils) October 6, 2015
The actual ceremony will take place on February 9th, when the Edmonton Oilers visit The Rock. In addition to his jersey being retired, a status in his honor will be erected in front of the hockey arena.
Thank you to the @nhldevils organization and the fans for all of the support! I am very honored to join 3, 4, and 27!
— Martin Brodeur (@MartinBrodeur) October 6, 2015
No, thank you, Marty. Welcome home!
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