Over 40 years after making his NHL debut for the franchise, one of the original New Jersey Devils' legends has heard his name called to be inducted into the Ring of Honor.
On Thursday, the Devils announced that franchise legend John MacLean, the team's third-ever first-round pick and (current and former) holder of a number of club offensive records, including career power play points (197), will be inducted into the Ring of Honor on Jan. 27 before the Devils' game against the Winnipeg Jets at the Prudential Center.
MacLean, 61, will become the Devils' fourth Ring of Honor inductee, joining the late John J. McMullen, former teammate and current Devils coach Sergei Brylin, and legendary Devils coach Jacques Lemaire.
With Brylin and Lemaire inducted on Jan. 20, 2024, and Jan. 22, 2025, MacLean's induction into the Ring of Honor will mark the third consecutive year with a franchise icon added, with many more - namely Martin Brodeur, Ken Daneyko, Scott Niedermayer, and Patrik Elias - still to come.
“We are proud to name John MacLean as the club’s fourth-ever inductee into the Ring of Honor. As one of the original Devils, ‘Johnny Mac’ was an integral part in transforming this franchise from an also-ran to a Stanley Cup Champion," managing partner David Blitzer said in the press release.
"He will forever be remembered by fans for scoring one of the most famous goals in team history, and now he will be acknowledged for all that he meant to this organization. We look forward to celebrating with him and his family.”
Tickets for MacLean's special night are already on sale, and fans are advised to be seated by 6:45 for the ceremony, career highlight package, and more.