Scotty Stevens to have number retired tonight

My homeboy Scotty Stevens is going to be the first player in Devils' franchise history to have his number retired tonight as his #4 will be raised to the rafters of the Continental Airlines Arena.

He won three Cups with the Devils, winning the playoff MVP Conn Smythe Trophy in 2000, and he also holds the records for most regular season games played by a defenseman at 1,635 and most career playoff games by a defenceman at 233. He also played on 13 all-star teams. The one thing missing from his resumé is a Norris Trophy, which I think he should have won in '93-94 when he led his team in scoring with 78 points. His longevity is all the more impressive when you consider how tough he played the game and how he came to the rink every night prepared to demolish his opponents. Stevens was intensity personified. Who can forget his hit on the Big E in the 2000 Eastern semifinals, which came as he led the Devs back to a Game 7 win after being down 3-1 in the series?

I see a future in coaching for Scott Stevens because he commands respect, knows how to win, respects the game and is a great motivater of people.

Now, on to March 24 when Kenny Daneyko's #3 will be hoisted high!