A Foundation of Trust and Development

Shero’s initial time with the New Jersey Devils, beginning in 2006, wasn’t just about on-ice performance; it was about cultivating a culture of care and trust. As Jesper Bratt recalled, “It was pretty short because I think I was probably pretty exhausted from having to meet all these guys before me. But obviously he said he watched me play and liked my intensity, liked my game. And that was it. A few months later, New Jersey chose me [in the sixth round of the 2016 NHL Draft].” This brief, yet impactful interaction highlighted Shero’s genuine interest in each player, going beyond scouting reports to offer encouragement and a sense of security.

“He said he watched me play and liked my intensity, liked my game. And that was it. A few months later, New Jersey chose me [in the sixth round of the 2016 NHL Draft].”

Jesper Bratt, New Jersey Devils Forward

Forward Jesper Bratt emphasized the importance of Shero’s early support, stating, “My first couple years [in New Jersey], he brought me in, made sure I was taken care of as an 18-year-old. He was always there and asked if I needed anything, and not just hockey-wise. Hockey-wise, he was very intelligent and understood the game of hockey, but I’m so thankful he always made sure I was taken care of moving forward and feeling comfortable. He was in contact with my family too, and told them he’ll take care of me. So it was great to hear from my parents that I was in good hands. That’s what I’ll remember.”

Pittsburgh’s Renaissance: A Culture Shift

Shero’s arrival in Pittsburgh in 2006 marked a dramatic turning point for the Penguins, a franchise that had endured a challenging period. Sidney Crosby vividly remembers the initial impact: “It’s going back a ways now, but I remember just being a young player and just how instrumental he was. We had lost, we finished last the year before he came in and really established how he wanted to change the culture and wanted to get back to winning. As a young guy he encouraged me to talk to him. He said his door was always open, and for a young player, you’re pretty intimidated to talk to the GM. But he made it a point to bring me in there sometimes, talk hockey, kind of tell me what he expected of us. He was just someone who really empowered me personally, and I think us as a group. You could see what developed there. He had a huge impact on me, had a huge impact on the organization, and just forever grateful.”

“It’s going back a ways now, but I remember just being a young player and just how instrumental he was. We had lost, we finished last the year before he came in and really established how he wanted to change the culture and wanted to get back to winning. As a young guy he encouraged me to talk to him. He said his door was always open, and for a young player, you’re pretty intimidated to talk to the GM. But he made it a point to bring me in there sometimes, talk hockey, kind of tell me what he expected of us.

Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins Captain

Evgeni Malkin echoed Crosby’s sentiments, adding, “He was the first person to text me when I was still playing in Russia and prior to my first NHL season in 2006-07. He was always nice to me but I [didn’t] speak English really well and he gave me, like, a translator. He signed [Sergei] Gonchar. He knew he helped me too. I think it’s a big deal. He built a very good team. We played in the Final in 2009 … win the Cup. All about him.”

“He was the first person to text me when I was still playing in Russia and prior to my first NHL season in 2006-07. He was always nice to me but I [didn’t] speak English really well and he gave me, like, a translator. He signed [Sergei] Gonchar. He knew he helped me too. I think it’s a big deal. He built a very good team. We played in the Final in 2009 … win the Cup. All about him.”

Evgeni Malkin, Pittsburgh Penguins Forward

Kris Letang, who began his NHL career under Shero in 2006-07, shared a similar perspective: “When I came into the League, Ray gave me all the opportunity to become the player I am today. I’m really grateful for that. I had the chance to win a Stanley Cup with him, so I only have great memories. I can only speak to the gentleman he is and how great he’s been to me.”

Recent Success and Lasting Legacy

Shero’s recent tenure with the New Jersey Devils demonstrates his continued ability to identify talent and build competitive teams. As coach Sheldon Keefe noted, “It’s the legacy of those that are here before that kind of laid the foundation, and for this iteration of the Devils specifically, so many important players you know that Ray was instrumental in bringing in to the fold and so many people that are leaders in our organization are here because of his work. It’s a day of reflection and honoring him, and perhaps fitting in that we were able to punch a playoff ticket [Wednesday], and then the Penguins coming to town tomorrow as well. So it’ll be a great opportunity to honor him.”

Did You Know?

Ray Shero is considered one of the most astute and successful GMs in NHL history. His ability to scout, draft, and develop talent has consistently translated into on-ice success.