A Hall of Fame player and coach who won multiple Stanley Cups and is credited with popularizing the neutral-zone trap defensive strategy in hockey.
Jacques Lemaire is renowned for his illustrious hockey career, having won eight Stanley Cup championships with the Montreal Canadiens as a player and later leading the New Jersey Devils to their first Stanley Cup title as a coach. With a remarkable blend of skill, dedication, and leadership, Lemaire has left an indelible mark on the world of hockey.
Born on September 7, 1945, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Lemaire began his hockey journey at a young age. He played junior hockey for the Quebec Aces before being drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 1964. Lemaire's impressive skills and work ethic earned him a spot on the Canadiens' roster in 1967, where he would spend the next 12 seasons.
Lemaire's playing career was marked by incredible success, winning eight Stanley Cup championships in 1968, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979. He is one of only six players in NHL history to have scored two Stanley Cup-winning goals, achieving this feat in both 1977 and 1979. Lemaire's consistent performance and clutch playmaking ability made him a vital contributor to the Canadiens' dynasty of the 1970s.
After retiring as a player, Lemaire transitioned into coaching, beginning with the Montreal Canadiens from 1983 to 1985. He then led the New Jersey Devils from 1993 to 1998, guiding the team to their first Stanley Cup title in 1995. Lemaire also coached the Minnesota Wild from 2000 to 2009 and the Devils again from 2009 to 2011. With over 600 wins as an NHL coach, Lemaire is one of the most successful coaches in the league's history.
Lemaire's numerous accolades include induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1984, being named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players in 2017, and winning the Stanley Cup as a player and coach. He is also a two-time Jack Adams Award winner, recognizing him as the NHL's top coach.
Jacques Lemaire's remarkable hockey career has inspired generations of players and coaches. His dedication, work ethic, and leadership have set a high standard for those who follow in his footsteps. Lemaire's impact on the game extends beyond his on-ice accomplishments, as he continues to contribute to the hockey community as a special assignment coach for the New York Islanders.
"It's not about being the best player, it's about being the best team." - Jacques Lemaire
"I was always trying to improve, to be better. That's what drove me." - Jacques Lemaire
60 Years Old
A legendary hockey player who won two Stanley Cups and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, known for his incredible on-ice skills and overcoming health issues to dominate the sport.
65 Years Old
The greatest hockey player of all time, holding numerous records, including most career goals and assists, and leading his team to four Stanley Cup championships. A legendary athlete and iconic figure in the sport.
98 Years Old
Legendary hockey player known for his incredible on-ice longevity, playing professionally until age 52, and scoring over 800 goals in his career.
84 Years Old
A legendary Hall of Famer who dominated the NHL as a prolific goal-scorer and later became a successful coach and executive, known for his iconic mustache and charismatic personality.
69 Years Old
A legendary center who won four Stanley Cups with the New York Islanders and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, known for his exceptional two-way play and leadership.
74 Years Old
A legendary center who played 18 seasons in the NHL, holding numerous scoring records and earning five NHL First-Team All-Star selections. He's a Hockey Hall of Famer and one of the greatest players of all time.
74 Years Old
A legendary hockey player who won five Stanley Cup championships and was known for his speed, scoring ability, and charismatic personality. He is considered one of the greatest players in NHL history.
69 Years Old
A legendary goal-scorer and four-time Stanley Cup champion, known for his incredible on-ice accomplishments and charismatic broadcasting style.
