26-22-6: MAAAAARRRRRTTTTTYYYYY

A fun way to spend a Friday, watching hockey and watching Marty Brodeur have a rare off game to the benefit of the Blueshirts. Does life get any better?

*As happy as I was to watch the game, I have to vent: I've had enough of Joe Micheletti. This was it. The final straw. He is horrifyingly bad. Not only is his voice annoying, but his stats are wrong and his analysis misguided. He ruined J.D.'s return to the booth during the Leetch game and grates on my nerves every time he opens his mouth. As I've said in the path, I feel bad for people not as informed/obsessed with hockey, because they have no idea how dumb he is making them. He shoots his mouth off without thinking, without paying attention, and its dogma to some people. That is so disturbing to me. "The Rangers scored on their first shot of the game!!! ... Oh, I'm being informed it was their third." PAY ATTENTION!! IT'S YOUR JOB!!!!!!!!! Thank goodness I have season tickets so I don't have to listen to him half of the year.

*Speaking of the first goal: Dubi, Dubi, Doo. I loved the Bud Light penguin and I love this kid. As I mentioned in the past, he has often been the best Ranger on the ice and - if he fills out his frame - he could turn into a shorter version of Jason Arnott. Granted, Marty played the angle poorly, but we'll take it.

*Do you actually believe that Malik was too hurt to play, or do you think that he is just trying to avoid being traded? Hmmm ...

*Staying with Ranger defensemen: I think Jason Strudwick played a really solid game, while Malik's buddy Rozy looked tentative and lost a good portion of the game. He turned the puck over once with a horrible pass from behind the net that gave the Devils the best chance of the night. Hank, luckily, was able to make the stop and Rozy should buy him dinner.

*I love Sean Avery. What a spectacular intermission interview. He seemed so bored and yet still managed to show off his vitriol with a sharp wit. And he showed off his good aim by getting Patrik Hepatitis-Positive in the face with the puck in the middle of the second period. It may have been an accident, but Elias sure as hell thought it was intentional ... and that's all that matters, go Sean!

*Newark is a ghetto and most Devils fans are retarded, but I gotta give credit where its due - I love that they boo Gomez every time he touches the puck. If anyone has one of the Gomez pesos that they hand out there, I would be hugely appreciative if you could scan it for me. But what a great way to get back at all your haters - notch your 500th career point. Congrats Scotty!

*My house took a huge power hit as Chris Drury scored to make it 2-0. Trippy. I guess Captain America really is coming back to life ... who woulda thought it was Frankenstein style? (get it? lightning ... work with me people.) Congrats go out to him too for hitting #500. What a nice coincidence that both big ticket Rangers signings score their 500th point in the same game.

*Oduya? What a great name.

*Is there any doubt that when Marty Straka gets the puck, he will automatically try to find Jagr and pass it to him? I understand that they are friends but Straka can be a good player in his own right, he just needs to get his self-confidence back and not rely on his fellow Czech.

*I love the new Rangers power play when Jagr isn't on the ice. The boys actually cycle and create chances, rather than stand around and pass the puck back and forth to Jagr before turning it over.

*It boggles my mind that Mike Rupp is in the NHL. I saw him playing in the UHL during the lockout with the Danbury Trashers and he was terrible there. And with Cam Janssen out, he has an NHL job. I guess there is a quota for garbage in Jersey.

*As my dad said, "Is it possible? The Rangers won back-to-back games?" That's four wins in the last five games folks ... maybe we have turned a corner ...

*PHW Three Stars
3-Zach Parise - one goal.
2-Drury - two goals.
1-Hank - 33 saves.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Hank - he bailed out the Rangers time and time again, and held strong despite giving up a soft goal.
2-Dubi - the kid is good; what else can you say?
1-Gomez/Dru - both worked hard, both got point #500. Nice accomplishments boys, I'm just glad they came against a rival like the Devils.

 26-22-6: MAAAAARRRRRTTTTTYYYYY - Celebrating a Hockey Icon

In the world of professional ice hockey, certain numbers hold a special place in the hearts of fans. They become synonymous with greatness, with legends who have left an indelible mark on the sport. One such iconic sequence is 26-22-6, affectionately associated with "MAAAAARRRRRTTTTTYYYYY!" This sequence is more than just numbers; it represents the illustrious career of Martin Brodeur, one of the greatest goaltenders in the history of the game. In this article, we will delve into the significance of 26-22-6, explore the remarkable story behind it, and address frequently asked questions (FAQs) to celebrate the enduring legacy of Marty Brodeur.

Section 1: The Numbers

1.1 26 - The Record

The number 26 signifies a remarkable record, one that may never be equaled or surpassed in the world of professional hockey. It represents the astonishing 26 seasons that Martin Brodeur played in the National Hockey League (NHL), all with the New Jersey Devils. This longevity alone is a testament to his durability, skill, and love for the game.

1.2 22 - The Wins Record

The number 22 marks the pinnacle of Brodeur's career - the record-breaking 22 regular-season wins in the 2010-2011 season. It was during this season that he surpassed Patrick Roy's long-standing record for the most career wins by an NHL goaltender. This achievement solidified his place in hockey history.

1.3 6 - Stanley Cup Triumphs

The number 6 represents the incredible six Stanley Cup championships won by Brodeur and the New Jersey Devils during his career. These championships underscored his ability to perform at the highest level in the playoffs, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest goaltenders in the history of the sport.

Section 2: The Story Behind 26-22-6

2.1 Early Beginnings

Martin Brodeur was born on May 6, 1972, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. His journey in hockey began at an early age, influenced by his father, who was a photographer for the Montreal Canadiens. Brodeur's talent and passion for goaltending quickly became evident.

2.2 Drafted by the Devils

In the 1990 NHL Entry Draft, the New Jersey Devils selected Brodeur with the 20th overall pick. Little did they know that they were drafting a future legend who would define their franchise for decades to come.

2.3 Championships and Records

During his illustrious career, Brodeur not only won multiple Stanley Cups but also rewrote the record books. His style of play, characterized by exceptional puck-handling skills and a calm demeanor under pressure, revolutionized the goaltending position.

Section 3: The Significance

3.1 Consistency and Longevity

26-22-6 embodies the extraordinary consistency and longevity of Martin Brodeur's career. Playing at an elite level for 26 seasons is a feat few athletes can match. His ability to perform at a high level year after year speaks volumes about his dedication and talent.

3.2 Records and Milestones

The numbers within the sequence highlight the numerous records and milestones Brodeur achieved throughout his career. Breaking the all-time wins record and winning six Stanley Cups are accomplishments that define greatness in the sport.

3.3 Legacy and Inspiration

Martin Brodeur's legacy extends beyond the records and championships. He inspired a generation of goaltenders and hockey enthusiasts with his unique style of play. His success as a goaltender from Quebec, a province known for producing elite netminders, further solidified his status as a hockey icon.

Section 4: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

4.1 What made Martin Brodeur's playing style unique?

Martin Brodeur's playing style was unique because of his exceptional puck-handling skills and ability to act as a third defenseman. He revolutionized the role of a goaltender by actively participating in plays beyond the crease.

4.2 How did Martin Brodeur impact the New Jersey Devils franchise?

Martin Brodeur had a profound impact on the New Jersey Devils franchise. His stellar goaltending and leadership were instrumental in the team's multiple Stanley Cup victories and sustained success over the years.

4.3 What other records and achievements did Martin Brodeur have in his career?

In addition to the most career wins by an NHL goaltender and his six Stanley Cup championships, Martin Brodeur holds several other records, including most career shutouts and most career saves.

4.4 What is Martin Brodeur's post-playing career involvement in hockey?

After retiring as a player, Martin Brodeur continued to be involved in hockey. He held various roles within the New Jersey Devils organization, including serving as the team's executive vice president of business development and as an assistant general manager for the team.

4.5 How has Martin Brodeur contributed to the development of young goaltenders?

Martin Brodeur has contributed to the development of young goaltenders by sharing his knowledge and experience. He has worked as a mentor and advisor to aspiring goalies, passing on his insights and techniques to the next generation.

26-22-6: MAAAAARRRRRTTTTTYYYYY represents the remarkable career of Martin Brodeur, a goaltending legend whose impact on the game of hockey is immeasurable. His longevity, consistency, and numerous records have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring goaltenders and fans alike. Beyond the numbers, Brodeur's legacy is a testament to the enduring love for the game and the unwavering dedication of a true hockey icon. His name will forever be synonymous with greatness in the world of professional hockey, and his contributions will continue to shape the sport for generations to come.