Barry Melrose, a prominent figure in hockey as both a player and coach, and later a well-known broadcaster, has died at the age of 70. ESPN confirmed his passing on Wednesday after being notified by his wife.
Melrose stepped away from his role as an analyst in 2023 following a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman remembered Melrose as a distinctive presence in hockey, stating, “From the flowing locks of his distinctive mullet to the flared lapels of his trademark long suit coats, Barry Melrose cut an unmistakable figure whenever you were fortunate enough to run into him at a rink or catch him on your television screen." Bettman added, "You were even more fortunate if you engaged him in conversation or listened to his analysis because he never failed to boost your love of the game of hockey.”
Melrose’s broadcasting style was characterized by an everyman’s relatability and a sense of humor, easily recognizable by his goatee and slicked-back hair. ESPN described him as “one of the most distinctive and trusted voices in hockey” for decades, noting his deep knowledge, refreshing candor, and unmistakable passion.
Born in Kelvington, Saskatchewan, Melrose began his professional hockey career in the World Hockey Association with the Cincinnati Stingers in 1976. After the WHA’s dissolution, he transitioned to the NHL, playing for Winnipeg, Toronto, and Detroit, concluding his playing career in the 1985-86 season. In 300 regular-season NHL games, he scored 10 goals and 33 points with 728 penalty minutes.
Transitioning to coaching, Melrose led the Adirondack Red Wings to the American Hockey League Calder Cup championship in 1992. The following year, he was hired by the Los Angeles Kings, guiding a team that included Wayne Gretzky to the Stanley Cup Final in 1993, where they ultimately lost to Montreal in five games. Melrose coached the Kings for two-plus seasons, compiling a record of 79 wins, 101 losses, and 29 ties, before being fired midway through the 1994-95 season.
In 1996, Melrose joined ESPN as an analyst. He briefly left broadcasting in 2008 to coach the Tampa Bay Lightning but was fired 16 games into the season and subsequently returned to ESPN. Melrose was also noted for his skill in fast-pitch softball, participating in offseason games in Saskatchewan with other former NHL players.