The New Jersey Devils honored one of the greatest players to ever play the game on Tuesday.
Past and present Devils stars were on hand as the franchise raised goaltender Martin Brodeur's iconic No. 30 to the rafters during an emotional pregame ceremony.
Scott Niedermayer, Scott Stevens, and Ken Daneyko - the only other players to have their numbers retired by the Devils - took part in the 80-minute ceremony. Former general manager Lou Lamoriello was also present, delivering a touching speech before introducing a video tribute.
Lamoriello to Brodeur: "I know that your dad is up there watching down, smiling."
— Rich Chere (@Ledger_NJDevils) February 9, 2016
Host Mike Emrick put Brodeur's career into perspective right off the bat:
Emrick says in 1992 8 goalie records were held by 5 goalies. "Today those eight records are held by one goalie."
— Rich Chere (@Ledger_NJDevils) February 9, 2016
The 43-year-old finished with a 691-397-154 record in 1,266 games with the Devils to go along with 125 shutouts. His accomplishments were certainly not lost on the New Jersey faithful, and its support for him was something Brodeur told the fans he would never forget.
Martin Brodeur: "Thanks for all the memories. Thanks for all the 'Marty's better' chants." #SaluteMB30 #MartysBetter
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) February 10, 2016
The best there is. The best there was. The best there ever will be. #SaluteMB30 pic.twitter.com/hZoWLc21ll
— New Jersey Devils (@NJDevils) February 10, 2016
