Barry Melrose dies at 70, hockey icon who bridged coaching and broadcasting
Barry Melrose, the former NHL coach who became an Emmy-winning ESPN hockey analyst, died at 70 after retiring in 2023 due to Parkinson's disease. He coached the Los Angeles Kings to the 1993 Stanley Cup Final and spent 27 years at ESPN, becoming a recognizable figure with his mullet and flamboyant suits. Tributes from Gary Bettman, Wayne Gretzky and ESPN colleagues reflected his impact on hockey and broadcasting.