| Brian Rafalski |
| Brian Christopher Rafalski Defense Right-Handed Shot Height: 5' 10", Weight: 191 pounds Born: 9.28.73 Dearborn, Michigan |
| How he arrived: Signed as a free agent from HIFK Helsinki (Finland), 6.18.99 How he left: Signed as a free agent with the Detroit Red Wings, 7.1.07 |
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| Regular Season Statistics with the Franchise Stats in bold signifies team leader. |
Rafalski's arrival in New Jersey gave the Devils a great situation on the backline. Scott Stevens was the heavy hitter of the 3 top
flight D-men. Scott Niedermayer was adept at both ends. Rafalski had the skills to eventually become the quarterback of the
Devils' power play.
After playing at the U. of Wisconsin for 4 years, he played 4 more over in the Finnish League. An unusual move for an
American player coming out of college, but he had not been drafted, either, and it only benefited him, too, as he became a star
over there.
So to say that he was NHL ready when he signed with the Devils would be an accurate statement, I think.
He had a great run with the Devils. 2 Cup rings, 2 All-Star selections. But he decided to head home.
To play in Detroit, I mean.
Light years better than Gomez's reasoning for leaving. Family's always important.
flight D-men. Scott Niedermayer was adept at both ends. Rafalski had the skills to eventually become the quarterback of the
Devils' power play.
After playing at the U. of Wisconsin for 4 years, he played 4 more over in the Finnish League. An unusual move for an
American player coming out of college, but he had not been drafted, either, and it only benefited him, too, as he became a star
over there.
So to say that he was NHL ready when he signed with the Devils would be an accurate statement, I think.
He had a great run with the Devils. 2 Cup rings, 2 All-Star selections. But he decided to head home.
To play in Detroit, I mean.
Light years better than Gomez's reasoning for leaving. Family's always important.
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| Entry Draft: None |
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| Playoff Statistics with the Franchise |
