Three days ago on March 17, 2009, in a 3-2 win over the Chicago Blackhawks, Brodeur became the all-time NHL leader in wins by a goaltender with 552, passing Patrick Roy. I am disappointed I was unable to get this post written until today, but I had to get my bracket up and the Amaechi one was unplanned but necessary. Nonetheless Martin Brodeur deserves his time in the limelight because he is now the winning est goaltender in NHL history. But does this mean he is the greatest ever? Lets find out.Martin Brodeur has played ! all 15 of his NHL seasons with the New Jersey Devils. Brodeur is a three time Stanley Cup champion, in fact the Devils have only missed the postseason once in his career. Brodeur now is #1 in wins and #2 in shutouts (3 back of Terry Sawchuk). Brodeur is the only netminder with 7 seasons of 40 wins and has one at least 35 from 1998-2008. Brodeur has his share of the hardware, including 4 Vezina trophies, 4 Jenning trophies, a Calder Memorial trophy, and 10 all-star appearances.
He has the resume, but does he stand above Jacques Plante, Patrick Roy, Dominik Hasek, Bill Durnan, and Glenn Hall? Well, lets look at the entire package. I believe the most talented goalie of all-time is Dominik Hasek, but he does not have the longevity in the NHL to be the
best. Brodeur does. Brodeur has done it on good teams and bad teams alike. It doesn't matter he always has his best stuff. Brodeur may have the best glove hand ever. How many times do you hear, "What a great glove save by Brodeur." Brodeur is the best goalie in NHL history. He is not the best goalie to ever play the sport of hockey, but he is the greatest in NHL history. He has the skill, longevity, consistency, and victories to back it up. It will be a sad, sad day when Brodeur hangs up his skates. Until then, let us enjoy his amazing saves.
