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Friday, April 27, 2001
Vanbiesbrouck's leadership key for Devils
By Darren Pang
Special to ESPN.com
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John Vanbiesbrouck has logged a lot of time on the Isle, but he's still fresh and will be prepared to jump in at any moment to relieve Martin Brodeur. Lou Lamoriello knows Vanbiesbrouck from the World Cup and Olympic teams. He likes the presence Vanbiesbrouck brings to the locker room.
Chris Terreri hasn't played a lot of games this year, and the Devils probably felt they needed someone with a little more salt to backup Brodeur. Lamoriello has a great relationship with Terreri and it was probably tough to make the trade, but at least Terreri doesn't have to move. Trades like this can be much more difficult if an entire family is uprooted.
Vanbiesbrouck brings a lot to the table for Brodeur and the Devils, not the least of which is his leadership ability. Come crunch time, leadership in the locker room is almost as essential as talent. Plus, Vanbiesbrouck has been a No. 1 goaltender in the NHL for a long time. He's an excellent insurance policy behind Brodeur, and the Devils know he could come in at any moment and get the job done. With Terreri's lack of playing time this year, his ability to step in and take over the role as a No. 1 guy was questioned.
Mike Milbury deserves a lot of credit giving for Vanbiesbrouck the opportunity to win his first championship. But don't be surprised if you see Vanbiesbrouck back with the Islanders next year; they really liked him working with Rick DiPietro and just might bring him back.
Darren Pang, a former NHL goaltender, is an analyst for ESPN. Send this story to a friend | Most sent stories
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Devils get Vanbiesbrouck in trade with Islanders
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