From Devils to Knights: The Tortorella Effect and the Legacy of AHL Success
The New Jersey Devils had a challenging season, but they have been a topic of discussion in the Stanley Cup Final conversation. The focus is not on players like Nico Hischier or former players now with other teams, but rather on the head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights. The Devils and their fans are familiar with John Tortorella's history, including a heated exchange with Peter DeBoer when he was coaching the New York Rangers. Despite past conflicts, Tortorella is the only ESPN analyst who predicted the Devils to win the Stanley Cup, suggesting a change in perspective.
When the Golden Knights made the strategic decision to replace their coach and hire Tortorella, comparisons were drawn to the 2000 Stanley Cup-winning Devils. The Devils had a similar coaching change when Lou Lamoriello replaced Robbie Ftorek with Larry Robinson, resulting in a positive impact on the team. The Knights' decision to bring in Tortorella was met with uncertainty, but their current success in the playoffs has drawn parallels to the Devils' historic Cup win.
Reflecting on the Devils' 1995 Stanley Cup victory, a memorable moment for fans, it is worth noting the success of their AHL affiliate, the Albany River Rats. In the same year, the River Rats won the Calder Cup, marking a rare achievement for the Devils organization. The Devils are the only team in the league to have both a Stanley Cup and Calder Cup champion in the same season, a feat that may soon be matched by the Carolina Hurricanes and the Chicago Wolves.
If the Hurricanes and Wolves secure victories, they would join the exclusive club of franchises with a Stanley/Calder Cup affiliate team double, a distinction previously held by the New Jersey Devils and Albany River Rats in 1995. The 1995 River Rats team featured notable players like Pascal Rheaume, Mike Dunham, and Steve Sullivan, who went on to have successful careers in the NHL. The connection between the Devils and their AHL affiliate remains a significant part of their history and success in the league.