As NHL goalie week wraps up, it’s only right to reflect on some of the iconic moments in Devils goaltending history. According to the NHL website, goalie week is all about celebrating the unique artistry of puck-stoppers throughout the years. From memorable playoff appearances to incredible shutout victories, the Devils’ goalies have experienced it all.
One moment that stands out is when Martin Brodeur, a goalie who spent 22 years of his NHL career with the Devils, scored a goal in style during the 1997 playoffs against the Montreal Canadiens. This rare goalie goal helped secure a 5-2 win for the Devils and marked only the second time a goalie had scored in the playoffs. The only other goalie to accomplish this feat was Ron Hextall of the Flyers and Islanders.
On April 17, 1997, Brodeur made history with his unforgettable goal. Even after leaving the Devils and signing with the St. Louis Blues, Brodeur remained an icon for Devils fans until his retirement in 2015.
Scott Wedgewood, another notable Devils goalie, made his NHL debut in 2016 after spending four years in the minors. He secured a 2-1 win in his first game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, becoming the first Devils goalie since Brodeur to win in his debut. Wedgewood’s impressive start continued, as he shut out the Pittsburgh Penguins just four days later, ending their six-game winning streak.
Games on March 20, 2016 and March 24, 2016, will always be remembered as Wedgewood’s debut and shutout victory against tough opponents.
Meanwhile, Sean Burke’s overtime win against the Chicago Blackhawks showcased his resilience during a tough season riddled with injuries. Despite the challenges, Burke managed to record back-to-back shutout wins in 2019 just before the New Year. He helped the Devils secure victories against the Carolina Hurricanes and the Vancouver Canucks, marking the first time a goalie achieved consecutive shutouts in Devils history.
The games on December 29, 2018, and December 31, 2019, will forever be etched in Devils history as the moments when Blackwood made an indelible mark with his stellar performances.
These iconic goaltending moments span across years and serve as a testament to the skill, dedication, and resilience of the Devils’ goalies. From Brodeur’s historic playoff goal to Wedgewood’s impressive debut wins and Blackwood’s back-to-back shutouts, the Devils have a rich goaltending legacy that continues to captivate fans and earn the admiration of hockey enthusiasts worldwide.
