14. march 2009 / PATRIK ELIAS TIES DEVILS ALL-TIME POINTS RECORD

For any long time Devils fan, a night when Patrik Elias's name reaches the scoreboard is as traditional as the "Hey song" played after a goal or the "Let's go Devils!" chant after a big win. Over the past ten seasons, Patrik has solidified himself as a staple of the New Jersey Devils, the team he began his career with, but Saturday night at the Bell Centre in Montreal he made his legacy official--tying the all-time franchise points record (701) set by current assistant coach John Maclean with a two point performance.

It only took one period for the Czech winger to tackle the record. He got the Devil's scoring started 5:27 into the first period with a drive from the point that broke through on a 5 on 3 New Jersey power play. A little over 5 minutes later he contributed a secondary assist on Brian Rolston's power play marker. The Devils went on to win the game 3-1, improving their record to 45-20-3.

Patrik now has 28 goals and 45 assists on the season. His storied season has also seen him tie the NHL record for most career overtime goals (15). Patrik ranks among the most productive Czech players in NHL history in points (J. Jagr, 1599; B. Holík, 746; P. Nedved and M. Straka; 717). He still has a chance to tie Nedved and Straka this season.

Another notworthy milestone reached Saturday was goaltender Martin Brodeur's all-time wins record (551) tying Patrik Roy. (Dan Altano)