Former NHLer, coach & ESPN commentator retires after terrible health diagnosis

We have some sad news to report on in the hockey world on Tuesday night as former NHLer, coach and ESPN commentator Barry Melrose has announced his retirement after being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.

"I've had over 50 extraordinary years playing, coaching and analyzing the world's greatest game, hockey," he said. "It's now time to hang up my skates and focus on my health, my family, including my supportive wife Cindy, and whatever comes next."

"I'm beyond grateful for my hockey career, and to have called ESPN home for almost 30 years. Thanks for the incredible memories and I'll now be cheering for you from the stands."

Melrose, 67, spent parts of nine seasons playing professionally in the WHA with the Cincinnati Stingers and in the NHL with the Winnipeg Jets, Toronto Maple Leafs and Detroit Red Wings. After retiring from playing, Melrose turned to coaching and eventually became the head coach of the Los Angeles Kings, leading them to the Stanley Cup Final in 1993 where they lost to the Montreal Canadiens. He would then return to an NHL bench in 2008-09 with the Tampa Bay Lightning, but his stint with them only last 16 games before being fired.

"Barry is a unique, one-of-a-kind person. And hockey on ESPN won't be the same without him.

For nearly 50 years, as a player, coach and broadcaster, Barry�s gigantic personality and trademark style have made our game bigger, more exciting and more entertaining. His love for hockey is obvious and infectious. And it is impossible to have a conversation with him without a smile on your face.

Barry, we wish you well in this fight and know you will give it everything you have � as you always do."

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POLL
11 OCTOBRE \| 25 ANSWERS Former NHLer, coach & ESPN commentator retires after terrible health diagnosis Did you get to watch Barry Melrose play?
Yes, I was lucky too	15	60 %
No, I didn't	10	40 %
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