This day in NHL history: Martin Brodeur becomes first NHL goaltender to break this record
By Kyle McKenna
Former New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur inked his name in NHL history books on March 30, 2003, which was the first of many records.
The hockey community is well aware of the great Martin Brodeur’s goaltending records. There’s almost too many to list and keep track of.
“Marty” was simply the greatest of all-time between the pipes.
On this day in 1992, #NJDevils rookie goaltender Martin Brodeur made his NHL debut with 24 saves against the Bruins. It was the first of his NHL-record 691 career wins. pic.twitter.com/02LCAhTfAB
— Sportsnet Stats (@SNstats) March 26, 2020
Prior to winning his first Vezina Trophy and breaking NHL records year after year, the three-time Stanley Cup champion earned a unique goaltending record on this day back in March during the 2002-03 campaign.
Brodeur became the first NHL goaltender to earn four 40-win seasons.
No. 30 entered the 2002-03 campaign with two Stanley Cup championships on his hockey resume in addition to seven consecutive seasons posting 30 or more wins. While Brodeur was notorious for his success and hybrid style between the pipes, he was also a workhorse, which can’t go overlooked.
The 1993-94 Calder Memorial Trophy winner started in 70 or more games for 10 consecutive seasons from 1997-98 until the end of 2007-2008. Fans likely won’t witness that feat again in the NHL, so let that sink in.
On March 30, 2003, New Jersey and Brodeur earned history in a narrative fashion. The Devils shutout the New York Islanders on home ice at the old Continental Airlines Arena by a final score of 6-0. Brodeur and the Devils always found success at home during the regular season and the Montreal, Quebec native haunted the Islanders throughout his career.
Brodeur’s 52-career wins vs. the Isles were the most he collected vs. any NHL team and his 10 shutouts were his second-highest totals against a foe.
The Hockey Hall of Famer finished that season with a 41-23-9 record, prior to winning his first Vezina Trophy and third Stanley Cup championship.
Let’s not forget that the NHL entailed tie-games prior to the 2005-06 season. Fans have to wonder if Brodeur would have finished with 50 wins if the shootout round was installed then. Keep in mind that Brodeur set the wins record in a season with 48 back in 2006-07 after passing Bernie Parent’s original record from 1973-74.
Next. Revisit Ty Conklin's unique goaltending career. dark
Follow FanSided NHL for more news, analysis, opinion and unique coverage about hockey in all forms throughout the entire 2019-20 NHL season and beyond.