Jacques Lemaire, the coach that changed the fortunes of the N.J. Devils — changing hockey in the process — will be inducted into the Devils Ring of Honor on Jan. 22, 2025, the team announced.
Lemaire, the team’s all-time winningest head coach, led the Devils to their first Stanley Cup, in 1995, using a system that emphasized the team’s superior defense and Hall of Fame goalie Martin Brodeur. Its impact on the league was felt immediately.
Lemaire was informed of his induction with a surprise phone call from that 1995 team: Brodeur and 2024 Ring of Honor Inductee Sergei Brylin.
Lemaire will be the club’s third Ring of Honor inductee, joining Brylin and former owner John McMullen, inducted in 2017.
The selection of Lemaire was made by the team’s Ring of Honor Committee.
The committee, created last year, will decide all future inductees. It includes all five players who have their number retired by the organization (Scott Stevens, Ken Daneyko, Scott Niedermayer, Brodeur, Patrik Elias), the two Ring of Honor inductees as well as select media/team executives.
All fans in attendance will receive a limited-edition Ring of Honor commemorative pin courtesy of Citizens. This marks the second induction in a five-year program sponsored by Citizens. Fans are asked to be in their seats by 6:45 PM for the start of the ceremony.
“Jacques Lemaire played an integral role in establishing the championship culture synonymous with the New Jersey Devils that we still strive for today,” Devils Managing Partner David Blitzer said. “Jacques was the consummate winner who had the ability to teach his players what it took to get to that next level, and we are proud to name him as the club’s third-ever inductee into our Ring of Honor.”
Lemaire will be honored with his wife, Mychele, and his family by his side. The on-ice ceremony will feature a tribute video showcasing highlights of his career, with more video storytelling featured throughout the game.
“We’re excited to recognize Jacques Lemaire. His leadership and long-standing commitment to the team and community represent what it means to be a New Jersey Devil,” Citizens Metro President Rebecca O’Connell said.
“At Citizens, we are committed to helping the New Jersey community thrive. We are proud to support the Devils Ring of Honor and recognize those who have made a lasting impact on the team and in our communities.”
Lemaire, who had three stints with the team as head coach, ranks first with 276 career regular season wins, and 35 postseason victories rank first in franchise history. In his career, he’s coached the 20th most games in NHL history and has the 22nd most wins.
His coaching career followed an elite playing career in which he won eight Stanley Cups while playing for the Montreal Canadiens from 1967-79. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1984.
Lemire currently is a special assignment coach with the New York Islanders.
