Definitive New Jersey Devils Mount Rushmore Of Forwards
By Dave Browne
Mount Rushmore represents four American presidents who helped signify the true symbolism of our country through dedication and perseverance. All four presidents in some way helped transcend our country to what it is today. When thinking about the history of the New Jersey Devils, more often than not people will bring up Martin Brodeur, the team’s stingy defense and most importantly three Stanley Cup championships.
Lost in the shuffle are an abundance of talented forwards the organization has had since its inception in New Jersey back in 1982 who have helped mold the success of the organization. Two forwards are fairly obvious in the team’s success, whereas picking the other two are not as easy.
Patrik Elias
Patrik Elias is the most prolific offensive forward in Devils’ history. He leads the organization in every major statistical category, ranging from goals (408), assists (617), points (1025), power play goals (113) and game-winning goals (80).
No other player, active or retired is even close to those totals. Elias was a catalyst for one of the leagues highest scoring teams in the early 2000’s while playing on the franchises most prestigious offensive line (The ‘A Line’, along with Jason Arnott and Petr Sykora). His goal in the final moments of Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Finals against the Philadelphia Flyers back in 2000 helped erase a 3-1 series deficit to lead the Devils to their second ever Stanley Cup Finals appearance.
Not only did Elias light up the score sheet, he also played a great two-way game. He was also a fierce fore-checker, back-checker and penalty killer. His number is hanging in the rafters of the Prudential Center and comfortably will hold every offensive record for a long time.