I give the guy credit, went undrafted despite good college numbers, didn't give up. Goes to Sweden for a year, then Finland for another 3, where he is named best defenseman twice, and best player once. Probably thought he wouldn't play in NHL, his size was seen as a detriment around that time. Great signing by the Devils, immediately adjusted and played well, becoming part of NJ's great defensive core that included Niedermayer, Daneyko, and Stevens, whom he was paired with- a great duo.
Signs as free agent with Detroit and becomes part of another great pairing, playing with Lidstrom.
Played in 5 finals, wins Cup 3 times, plays 11 seasons never missing playoffs.
Inducted into US Hockey Hall of Fame and won some bronze and silver medals at Olympics
Glad he made it and succeeded despite his size, and like I said, he just kept playing and trying.
Not sure where I would rank him in for defenseman, alot of guys I'd take over him, not a knock against Rafalski, more a compliment to who I consider better.
Teams started paying more attention to undrafted North Americans playing in Europe, trying to find the next Rafalski. Cory Murphy being an example.