Former NHL coach and ESPN analyst Barry Melrose dies at age 70

Barry Melrose, a former NHL player, coach, and longtime television analyst, died at age 70. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and ESPN confirmed the news on September 10, 2026. Melrose, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, retired from his broadcasting role in October 2023. His professional career included time as a defenseman for teams such as the Winnipeg Jets and Detroit Red Wings before moving into coaching, where he led the Los Angeles Kings to the 1993 Stanley Cup Final. Following his coaching career, he spent nearly 30 years as a primary voice for hockey coverage on ESPN. Tributes from colleagues and peers credited his influence in promoting the sport and his distinctive approach to commentary.

• 3:28 PMYahoo Sports — RIP Barry Melrose, the icon who made hockey fun and relatable for a generation
• 11:38 AMYahoo Sports — Barry Melrose Dies at 70: Tributes Pour in for NHL Legend