The New Jersey Devils' journey from the Colorado Rockies to becoming a staple of New Jersey sports is a tale of transformation and resilience. This period, spanning from 1982 to 1993, was crucial in shaping the identity and future of the franchise. The relocation and rebranding efforts were pivotal in establishing the Devils as a competitive force in the NHL.
From Colorado to New Jersey
The franchise's journey began in 1982 when the Colorado Rockies were sold and relocated to
New Jersey. The move was spearheaded by John McMullen, a New Jersey native and owner of Major League Baseball's Houston Astros. The decision to relocate was not without controversy, as it required compensating the New York Islanders, New York Rangers, and Philadelphia Flyers for encroaching on their territory.
Upon their arrival in New Jersey, the team was renamed the New Jersey Devils, a nod to the local legend of the Jersey Devil. The name was chosen through a public contest, reflecting the community's involvement in the team's new identity. The Devils began playing at the Brendan Byrne Arena in East Rutherford, marking the start of a new chapter in the franchise's history.
Establishing a New Identity
The early years in New Jersey were challenging, as the team struggled to find its footing in the NHL. The Devils' first game ended in a tie against the Pittsburgh Penguins, and their first win came against the New York Rangers. Despite these early achievements, the team faced criticism and struggled to rise above the lower ranks of their division.
The Devils' rebranding efforts extended beyond their name and location. The team worked to build a competitive roster, focusing on developing young talent and establishing a strong organizational culture. Key players such as John MacLean, Bruce Driver, and Ken Daneyko emerged as foundational pieces, contributing to the team's gradual improvement.
Building Towards Success
The hiring of Lou Lamoriello as team president in 1987 marked a turning point for the Devils. Lamoriello's leadership brought a new level of discipline and organization to the franchise. Under his guidance, the Devils achieved their first winning record in the 1987-88 season and made their first playoff appearance as the New Jersey Devils.
The Devils' playoff run in 1988 was a significant milestone, as they advanced to the conference finals before losing to the Boston Bruins. This achievement signaled the beginning of a new era for the Devils, as they transitioned from a struggling franchise to a competitive team in the NHL.
The relocation and rebranding of the New Jersey Devils were crucial in shaping the franchise's identity and future success. Through strategic leadership and community involvement, the Devils established themselves as a competitive force in the NHL, setting the stage for their eventual rise to prominence.
