The New Jersey Devils recently marked a significant moment in their franchise history by honoring former coach Jacques Lemaire. This tribute took place during a memorable pregame ceremony where Lemaire was welcomed into the team’s Ring of Honor. At 79 years old, the coaching icon was rightfully celebrated for his profound impact on the Devils, most notably guiding them to their inaugural Stanley Cup championship in 1995. The atmosphere was charged with nostalgia and admiration as Lemaire shared the ice with former players, including legendary goaltender Martin Brodeur and esteemed defensemen Scott Stevens, Scott Niedermayer, and Larry Robinson.
Lemaire’s induction isn’t merely a testament to his time in New Jersey; it encapsulates a career sprinkled with remarkable achievements. An 11-time Stanley Cup champion, Lemaire won the esteemed trophy eight times as a player with the Montreal Canadiens and twice more in leadership roles within the organization. His tenure with the Devils began in the 1993-94 season, a pivotal moment that would eventually culminate in a historic victory over the Detroit Red Wings in the 1995 Finals. The resilience he instilled in the team was especially evident during the intense 1994 conference finals against the New York Rangers—a series that, despite the heartbreaking finish, laid the groundwork for their future success.
Robinson, one of Lemaire’s closest contemporaries, reflected on their shared history at the Canadiens, emphasizing the synergy they developed as players before transitioning into coaching roles. Robinson’s heartfelt sentiment, “I wouldn’t have missed this for anything,” underscores the tight-knit bonds formed within hockey’s elite circles. Their collaboration continued in New Jersey, where Robinson not only served as an assistant during Lemaire’s championship run but also took the reins as head coach during the team’s subsequent title victory in 2000.
What makes Lemaire’s legacy even more captivating is his connection with current hockey operations president Lou Lamoriello. Although they now operate in different franchises—Lamoriello with the New York Islanders and Lemaire as a special assignment coach—our understanding of teamwork and strategy propagated during their time together continues to resonate. In his poignant acceptance speech, Lemaire expressed appreciation for their collaborative efforts, focusing on their shared vision of improving the team—a principle that beautifully encapsulates the essence of championship culture.
As he accepted this prestigious honor, Lemaire acknowledged that while coaching is a demanding journey fraught with stress, he has embraced life beyond the ice. “I haven’t lost a game since 2011,” he humorously remarked, demonstrating that he has traded the pressures of coaching for the pleasures of retirement. With 617 career wins, Lemaire’s achievements extend far beyond statistics; they represent a deep commitment to the sport and the development of players and teams alike.
In celebrating Jacques Lemaire, the New Jersey Devils are not just honoring a former coach, but they are reaffirming their commitment to a legacy built on excellence, teamwork, and perseverance. His induction into the Ring of Honor is not just a recognition of past accomplishments but a continued inspiration for current and future generations of hockey players and fans alike.