Jake Allen’s 500th NHL game was marked with a full celebration Tuesday night at Prudential Center, where the New Jersey Devils goalie was honored with his silver stick before the team faced the Colorado Avalanche.
The night started with a video featuring Allen’s wife, Shannon, and their kids watching career highlights and offering their congratulations. Shannon’s message came straight from the heart: “Hi Jake, we’re so proud of you to reach 500 games in the NHL,” Shannon said in the video.
“We’re happy to be along for the ride. We love you, and cheers to many more games.”
After the tribute played, Allen skated to center ice and took in a standing ovation from the crowd. His family then joined him on the ice as the ceremony continued.
Devils captain Nico Hischier, along with alternate captains Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt, handed Allen a custom 500-game fishing rod and an engraved Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch. Martin Brodeur, the Hockey Hall of Famer who still stands as the NHL’s all-time wins leader among goaltenders and spent 21 of his 22 seasons in New Jersey, presented Allen with a custom Tiffany Crystal on behalf of the league.
To cap it off, Devils co-owners David and Allison Blitzer gave Allen his silver stick, along with mini sticks for his children.
Allen earned the milestone on Oct. 10, when he helped the Devils to a 4-1 win over the Vancouver Canucks. That game made him the 86th goalie in NHL history to reach 500 career appearances.
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