New Jersey Devils
Sergei Brylin Named Second Devils Ring of Honor Inductee
Sergei Brylin joins Dr. John J. McMullen as the second member of the Devils RIng of Honor.
The New Jersey Devils announced on Tuesday that Sergei Brylin will be the second inductee to the Devils Ring of Honor.
The Devils will hold a pregame ceremony at Prudential Center on Saturday, January 20 before they take on the Dallas Stars.
Brylin joins Dr. John J. McMullen, the Devils’ first owner who brought the team to New Jersey from Colorado. The former Devils forward now serves as an assistant coach to Lindy Ruff.
According to the press release, “We are proud and privileged to be naming Brylin as the club’s second-ever inductee into the Ring of Honor,” said David Blitzer, Managing Partner, Devils. “Sarge knew what it took to win a championship, what it meant to New Jersey, and how that connects him forever with our amazing fans. Having played his entire 13-year NHL career with the Devils, he has continued to make New Jersey his home. Now a member of the Devils coaching staff, Brylin’s leadership has been an invaluable addition to our current team.”
Brylin’s name is certainly synonymous with success and dedication in the world of professional ice hockey. The former NHLer carved out a remarkable career as a forward for the Devils. Born on January 13, 1974, in Moscow, Russia, Brylin’s journey from his early days in the sport to becoming a three-time Stanley Cup champion with the Devils is a testament to his skill, resilience, and passion for the game.
Brylin’s hockey journey began in Russia, where he, in fact, honed his skills in the competitive Russian leagues. His exceptional talent quickly caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Devils in the second round of the 1992 NHL Entry Draft.
Brylin made his NHL debut with the Devils during the 1994-95 season. It didn’t take long for him to establish himself as a valuable asset to the team. Known for his versatility, Brylin could seamlessly play multiple forward positions, contributing both offensively and defensively.
Brylin’s legacy with the Devils is most notably marked by his pivotal role in the team’s three Stanley Cup victories in 1995, 2000, and 2003. His ability to step up in crucial moments and deliver clutch performances earned him the admiration of teammates and fans alike.
In the 1995 playoffs, Brylin notched several key goals, certainly helping the Devils secure their first-ever Stanley Cup championship. His scoring touch and relentless work ethic continued to be instrumental in the team’s subsequent title runs, making him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the Devils’ locker room.
Throughout his 13-season NHL career, all spent with the Devils, Brylin exhibited a high level of consistency on the ice. He surpassed the 20-goal mark twice and exceeded the 40-point mark multiple times, showcasing his offensive prowess. However, Brylin’s impact extended beyond the scoresheet. Although he didn’t win any Selke Awards, he was known for his responsible two-way play and ability to contribute in various game situations.
Brylin’s leadership qualities were evident throughout his tenure with the Devils. As a veteran presence in the locker room, he played an essential role in mentoring younger players and contributing to the team’s overall cohesion. His dedication to the game was further highlighted by his longevity, as he remained a Devil for the entirety of his NHL career.
Brylin’s career with the Devils is a story of perseverance, versatility, and championship success. From his early days in Russia to his triumphant moments on the NHL stage, Brylin’s impact on the Devils and the sport of hockey as a whole is indelible. As fans reminisce about the glory days of Devils hockey, Brylin’s name will always be synonymous with the franchise’s golden era and now memorialized in the Devils Ring of Honor.