Relief Comes Every Few Weekes

Posted 2:12 PM ET | Comments 1

I think it's time we take a moment to commend one Kevin Weekes. Next in line in a revolving door of backups to Martin Brodeur, Weekes is by far the most talented of Marty's little helpers, and is also the most understanding and accepting of his situation.

Kevin Weekes is the epitome of class. His predecessor, Scott Clemmensen--now unfortunately a Devil once again--used his free time on the bench during the 2006-07 season to think up an article he later published in The Hockey News about how he feels like he isn't a real hockey player. Kevin Weekes said the day he signed with the Devils that he knew his job was to relieve Marty, and he'd be more than happy to do that. Not only that, but when Kevin does get the nod to play, he plays great! And when he's on the bench, it's hard to find a more excited guy. After a big fight, you can find Kevin banging his glove against the boards in support harder than any other player could bang their stick.

One night last season when Patrik Elias had scored an overtime game winner against Boston, while most guys are already congratulating Patty, in comes Weekes and he just hugs everybody all at once, blocker and glove still on. That's really what you love to see: a man who had nothing to do with the game itself equally as excited as the players who did. If you look at his website, he is nothing but grateful for just playing in the NHL. I was lucky enough to meet him, and he's extremely nice to all the fans, and doesn't take a thing for granted.

Watching him celebrate a goal like he scored it himself always reminds me that he's the best backup goalie in Devils history, both performance and attitude wise. Mike Dunham had the skill, but he was an emotional fireball, and not in a good way. Chris Terreri was certainly supportive, but he lost his starting job for a reason. When given his opportunities, Kevin Weekes is as good as any backup goaltender in the league; and when his job calls for being a supportive teammate, he has no issue doing that either.

I just wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the man who has both the easiest and hardest job in the NHL, Kevin Weekes.

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