NEW YORK, March 1 (UPI) -- Defenseman Brian Rafalski of the New Jersey Devils, who enjoyed his best month of his career in February, Wednesday was named NHL Rookie of the Month.
The 26-year-old Rafalski had three goals and 10 assists in 13 games and was also plus-12, helping the Devils to a 7-4-1 record.
Signed as free agent in June, Rafalski ranks sixth among all rookies in scoring and tops among rookie defensemen with four goals and 25 assists in 62 games, as well as leading all rookies with a plus-23 rating.
Rafalski edged out teammate Scott Gomez, New York Rangers left wing Jan Hlavac, Dallas Stars left wing Brenden Morrow, goaltender Jean-Sebastien Aubin of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia Flyers netminder Brian Boucher. Gomez won the award in November.
