Barry Melrose, the former NHL defenseman who became a beloved figure on ESPN as a colorful hockey analyst, has died. His death was confirmed by ESPN, which said his wife informed the network of his passing. Melrose had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease earlier in the year and stepped away from his role at ESPN in 2023.
He was 70 years old, according to TheWrap. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman described Melrose as a distinctive and unforgettable presence in hockey, noting his signature mullet and long suit coats, according to a report from Yahoo Sports. Melrose’s career in hockey stretched over more than five decades, beginning as a player and later transitioning into coaching and broadcasting, fox29.com reported.
He played in the World Hockey Association with the Cincinnati Stingers from 1976 to 1977 before moving into the NHL. He played for the Winnipeg Jets, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Detroit Red Wings during his time in the NHL. Melrose finished his playing career with 300 regular-season NHL games, scoring 10 goals and 23 assists along with 728 penalty minutes.
He also coached in the American Hockey League, leading the Adirondack Red Wings to a Calder Cup championship in 1992. Melrose became the head coach of the Los Angeles Kings in 1992, after being hired by owner Bruce McNall. His rookie season with the Kings included a memorable playoff run featuring Wayne Gretzky, though they lost in the Stanley Cup Final to Montreal.
He was fired by the Kings in April 1995, just months after Gretzky was traded to St. Louis. Melrose left ESPN in June 2008 to coach the Tampa Bay Lightning for just 16 games before being let go again. He joined ESPN in 1996 as a lead hockey analyst and commentator, working with Steve Levy to cover every Stanley Cup Final from 1994 until 2022.
Melrose’s time at ESPN lasted nearly three decades, making him a familiar face on hockey broadcasts. He said in a statement that he had spent over 50 years playing, coaching, and analyzing hockey. His final words on the matter were that he wanted to focus on his health and family after stepping away from ESPN.
Melrose was known for his enthusiasm, honesty, and deep love of the game. ESPN shared a statement honoring his legacy, calling him one of hockey’s most trusted voices. His longtime colleague John Buccigross remembered him as a mentor and a close friend.
Buccigross said Melrose was a big brother figure with strong values and that he was deeply shaken by the news of his death. Melrose was born on July 15, 1956, in Kelvington, Saskatchewan. He grew up on a farm and took his first hockey stick to the face at age five.
He saved money from selling four pigs to buy his first pair of ice skates. Melrose played junior hockey with the Weyburn Red Wings and Kamloops Chiefs before joining the Stingers. He was a player who brought intensity to the game, known for his physical style and strong work ethic.
His impact on hockey extended far beyond his playing days, as he helped shape the game’s narrative through his commentary. He was remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his warmth and humor. Melrose’s life in hockey was one of dedication, flair, and a deep connection to the sport.
IMAGE: Barry Melrose pictured at game 6 of the 2010 Stanley Cup finals, Philadelphia, PA.. Photo: B_Melrose.JPG: Coberst
derivative work: Powers (talk) / Wikimedia, taken 2010-09-16, CC BY 3.0