EXCLUSIVE: Devils' Erik Haula Reflects On Milestone Game & Sharing Hockey Journey With His Children

New Jersey Devils forward Erik Haula will appear in his 700th NHL game Thursday night against the Detroit Red Wings.

It is a lot of games. 

That is the first thing that comes to Erik Haula's mind when thinking about appearing in his 700th NHL game. 

The impressive milestone will be achieved on Thursday night when the New Jersey Devils face the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena.

"It is a lot of hard work," Haula said. "(I am) very fortunate to be able to play so long. I am proud of the number and just hoping I can keep it up and keep playing as long as I can."

A journey that began at 22-years-old with the Minnesota Wild, Haula additionally played for the Vegas Golden Knights, Carolina Hurricanes, Florida Panthers, Nashville Predators, and Boston Bruins before coming to the Devils.

Each stop in his career was vital as it molded him from a "young guy" to the adult he is today.

"I like the person I became now through my journey, and I am proud of that," he said. "I have learned a lot of lessons along the way."

Now, at 33, Haula is a veteran on the ice and father to a three-year-old and nine-month-old off the ice.

During pregame warmups at most home games at Prudential Center, one can look toward the Zamboni entrance and find Haula by the glass with his young family. It is a proud dad moment that most NHLers look forward to.

"They are the most important thing in my life," Haula shared. "I am glad I get to share this journey with them."

The Finnish forward signed a three-year contract to remain in New Jersey through the 2025-26 season. When all is said and done, and the decision to hang up his skates is made, there is one thing that Haula hopes to have accomplished besides winning the Stanley Cup, and it naturally ties in with his family.

"In some ways, I am hoping to play long enough where they can both remember being at the glass or being at the rink with me. It is special and something I have always dreamed of." 

For the 700th time, Haula will put on his skates and gear in hopes of celebrating a win and seeing his team jump back into the win column. The puck drops between the Devils and Red Wings at 7:00 p.m. 

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