Barry Melrose, former NHL coach and longtime ESPN analyst, dies at 70
Melrose, who joined ESPN in 1996, was known for his studio work and coaching the Los Angeles Kings to the Stanley Cup Final.
- Barry Melrose, the former NHL player and coach who became a beloved ESPN hockey analyst, died Wednesday at 70. His wife, Cindy, confirmed the death to ESPN's Steve Levy.
- Melrose, who served as head coach for the Wayne Gretzky-led Los Angeles Kings, led the team to the Stanley Cup Final in 1993 during his first season. He compiled an 84-108-29 record as a head coach.
- His 11-year playing career included over 300 NHL games as a defenseman. He led the Medicine Hat Tigers to a Memorial Cup title in 1987 and guided the Adirondack Red Wings to a 1991 Calder Cup championship.
- Renowned for his flashy suits and wit, Melrose frequently covered Stanley Cup playoffs alongside Levy and John Buccigross. Wayne Gretzky called him the "conductor" of the hockey community.
- Melrose stepped away from ESPN in 2023 following his Parkinson's disease diagnosis. His legacy spans decades as both a player and broadcaster who remained dedicated to hockey throughout his career.
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Beloved Former NHL Coach & ESPN Analyst Barry Melrose Dead At 70; 'Best Friend' John Buccigross Pays Touching Tribute
Barry Melrose, one of the most recognizable voices in hockey broadcasting for nearly three decades, has died. Melrose was 70 years old. Melrose, a former NHL coach and ESPN analyst, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2023 and retired from ESPN shortly after. Barry Melrose, beloved ESPN hockey analyst and former NHL coach, has died […]
Hockey legend Barry Melrose dies at 70
Legendary hockey figure Barry Melrose has died at the age of 70. Melrose died on Wednesday following a battle with Parkinson’s disease. Melrose’s wife Cindy confirmed the news of the hockey icon’s death to ESPN. A former defenceman, Melrose played in the NHL for six total seasons from 1979-1986. Melrose would later rise to prominence thanks to his career as an NHL coach. Melrose coached the Los Angeles Kings during the Wayne Gretzky era and led …
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