Barry Melrose Former Player Coach and ESPN Analyst Dies: Barry Melrose, Former Player, Coach and ESPN Analyst, Dies at 70
Barry Melrose, the former NHL player, coach and longtime ESPN hockey analyst, has died at the age of 70. ESPN confirmed his death on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, bringing an end to the career of one of the most recognizable personalities in hockey.
Barry Melrose Former Player Coach and ESPN Analyst Dies at 70
Melrose was widely known for his deep knowledge of the game, outspoken personality, sense of humor and distinctive appearance. His trademark mullet, goatee and colorful suits made him instantly recognizable to hockey fans across the United States.
Barry Melrose Former Player Coach and ESPN Analyst Dies Hockey Career
Born on July 15, 1956, in Kelvington, Saskatchewan, Canada, Melrose began his professional hockey career with the Cincinnati Stingers of the World Hockey Association in 1976.
He later moved to the NHL, playing for the Winnipeg Jets, Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings. As a defenseman, Melrose appeared in 300 regular-season NHL games between 1979 and 1986.
After retiring as a player, he quickly moved into coaching. One of the biggest highlights of his coaching career came in 1993, when he guided the Los Angeles Kings to the Stanley Cup Final in his first season as the team’s head coach. The Kings, led by superstar Wayne Gretzky, eventually lost the championship series to the Montreal Canadiens.
Melrose also coached the Tampa Bay Lightning during the 2008-09 season before returning to television.
Barry Melrose Former Player Coach and ESPN Analyst Dies A Long Career With ESPN
Melrose joined ESPN in 1996 and became one of the network’s most popular hockey analysts. For more than two decades, he provided analysis of NHL games, the Stanley Cup Playoffs and other major hockey events.
His broadcasting style was different from many traditional sports analysts. Melrose combined detailed hockey knowledge with humor, strong opinions and an energetic personality, making him a fan favorite.
In 2023, Melrose announced his retirement from ESPN after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. At the time, he said he wanted to focus on his health and family.
Hockey Community Remembers Barry Melrose
Following news of his death, tributes began pouring in from across the hockey world. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and Wayne Gretzky were among those who previously praised Melrose’s impact on hockey.
ESPN also remembered him as one of the network’s distinctive and trusted voices in hockey.
Barry Melrose leaves behind a unique legacy that stretched from professional hockey player to NHL coach and finally to one of the sport’s most recognizable television analysts. His passion, personality and love for hockey made him a memorable figure for generations of fans.