Jacques Lemaire's journey in the world of hockey is a tale of skill, strategy, and leadership. Born on September 7, 1945, in LaSalle, Quebec, Lemaire began his professional hockey career as a player with the Montreal Canadiens. He joined the team in the late 1960s and quickly became an integral part of their lineup. Known for his sharp hockey sense and ability to read the game, Lemaire played as a center and was recognized for his offensive prowess.

During his playing career with the Canadiens, Lemaire was part of a dominant era for the team. He contributed to eight Stanley Cup victories, with championships in 1968, 1969, 1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations was evident, as he scored several crucial goals during playoff runs. Lemaire's style of play was characterized by his strong two-way game, combining offensive skill with defensive responsibility.

After retiring as a player in 1979, Lemaire transitioned into coaching and management roles. He initially took on a position as an assistant coach with the Canadiens, where he began to develop his coaching philosophy. His understanding of the game and tactical acumen soon led him to head coaching roles. In 1983, Lemaire became the head coach of the Canadiens, a position he held until 1985. His tenure as head coach was marked by a focus on disciplined play and defensive structure.

Lemaire's coaching career continued to evolve as he took on new challenges. In 1993, he became the head coach of the New Jersey Devils. Under his guidance, the Devils adopted a defensive system known as the "neutral zone trap," which became a hallmark of Lemaire's coaching style. This system emphasized strong defensive play and counter-attacking, leading the Devils to their first Stanley Cup championship in 1995. Lemaire's strategic approach and ability to adapt his tactics to suit his team's strengths were key factors in the Devils' success.

Following his time with the Devils, Lemaire continued to coach in the NHL with the Minnesota Wild. He was appointed as the team's first head coach in 2000, leading the expansion franchise to its first playoff appearance in 2003. Lemaire's emphasis on defensive responsibility and team cohesion helped the Wild establish a competitive presence in the league.

Lemaire returned to the Devils for a second stint as head coach in 2009, further solidifying his legacy with the franchise. He retired from coaching in 2011, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and success. Throughout his career, Lemaire was recognized for his ability to develop players and implement effective game strategies. His influence extended beyond his teams, as his defensive systems were adopted by other coaches across the league.

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