Scott Clemmensen's journey in professional hockey is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. Born on July 23, 1977, in Des Moines, Iowa, Clemmensen grew up in a region not traditionally known for producing hockey talent. Despite this, he developed a passion for the sport and honed his skills as a goaltender, eventually catching the attention of scouts.
Clemmensen's collegiate career began at Boston College, where he played for the Eagles from 1997 to 2001. During his time there, he became a reliable presence between the pipes, helping his team reach the NCAA Frozen Four multiple times. His standout moment came in 2001 when he backstopped Boston College to a national championship, solidifying his reputation as a dependable goaltender.
The New Jersey Devils selected Clemmensen in the eighth round of the 1997 NHL Entry Draft. After completing his college career, he joined the Devils organization, initially playing for their AHL affiliate, the Albany River Rats. Clemmensen made his NHL debut with the Devils during the 2001-2002 season. Over the next few years, he served primarily as a backup goaltender, gaining valuable experience and learning from established netminders like Martin Brodeur.
Clemmensen's role with the Devils fluctuated, but he remained a steady presence in the organization. His most notable season came in 2008-2009 when Brodeur was sidelined with an injury. Clemmensen stepped up as the starting goaltender, appearing in 40 games and posting a 25-13-1 record. His performance during this period was instrumental in keeping the Devils competitive, and he finished the season with a commendable .917 save percentage.
In 2009, Clemmensen signed with the Florida Panthers, seeking more consistent playing time. Over the next five seasons, he split duties with other goaltenders, providing veteran leadership and stability. His tenure with the Panthers included several memorable performances, and he was often called upon in critical situations.
Clemmensen returned to the Devils for the 2014-2015 season, serving as a backup and mentor to younger goaltenders in the organization. His professional career concluded after that season, but his involvement in hockey continued. Clemmensen transitioned into coaching and development roles, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring goaltenders.
Throughout his career, Clemmensen was known for his work ethic and professionalism.
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