Barry Melrose Passes Away at 70
Barry Melrose, a former NHL defenseman and a well-known television analyst, passed away at the age of 70. ESPN confirmed his death on Wednesday. Melrose had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease earlier in 2023 and retired from broadcasting that year.
Early Career and Achievements
Born in Kelvington, Saskatchewan on July 15, 1956, Melrose was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the second round of the 1976 NHL Draft. He began his professional career with the Cincinnati Stingers in the World Hockey Association, playing for three seasons until the WHA disbanded. Melrose then joined the NHL, starting with the Winnipeg Jets in 1979, and later played for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings.
A defenseman recognized for his solid play away from the puck, Melrose had a career that included 300 NHL games, with a record of 10 goals, 33 points, and 728 penalty minutes. During his time with Cincinnati in the WHA, he scored five goals and accumulated 32 points in 178 games.
Transition to Coaching
Coaching presented Melrose with an opportunity for rapid recognition. Starting with the Medicine Hat Tigers in 1987, Melrose won the Memorial Cup in his debut season as head coach. He later coached the Seattle Thunderbirds and Adirondack Red Wings, leading Adirondack to a Calder Cup victory in 1992.
Melrose’s significant transition occurred in Los Angeles. Joining the Kings for the 1992-93 season, he guided a team spearheaded by Wayne Gretzky to the Stanley Cup Final during his first year. The Kings won against Calgary, Vancouver, and Toronto but ultimately lost to the Montreal Canadiens in five games. Melrose led the Kings for two additional seasons without playoff success before leaving the team.
Television and Legacy
For many American hockey fans, Melrose became a defining figure through his work on television. He joined ESPN in 1996 and spent 27 years as an analyst known for his insightful hockey commentary and distinctive style.
At ESPN, Melrose covered major events such as All-Star Games and Stanley Cup playoffs, often alongside colleagues Steve Levy and John Buccigross. On Wednesday, Buccigross expressed his profound grief on Twitter/X, describing Melrose as a best friend and admired mentor.
Though Melrose briefly left ESPN in 2008 to coach the Tampa Bay Lightning, his tenure was short-lived. After a 5-7-4 start, he returned to ESPN, continuing his role until retiring in 2023.
In a tribute, Bill Hofheimer, ESPN’s vice president of public relations, honored Melrose as a cherished member of ESPN and the broader hockey community.
His passion for hockey and vibrant personality left an enduring impact on fans and colleagues alike.