Photo via Yahoo Sports

ESPN's new NHL studio features tribute to the late Barry Melrose

ESPN launched its broadcast schedule for the 2026-27 professional hockey campaign by unveiling an upgraded production facility called Studio W. During the debut broadcast on Tuesday, September 29, anchor Steve Levy dedicated a portion of the broadcast to honoring former coach and analyst Barry Melrose, who passed away on September 9 following a battle with Parkinson's disease.

The tribute featured a caricature of the late broadcaster painted onto the studio boards, complete with his signature hairstyle, facial hair, and cigar. Levy delivered an emotional farewell message before the network aired additional retrospective footage on the program The Point, while also suggesting that league arenas observe a moment of silence for their former colleague.

Up nextNHL· 1h ago

Lyle Odelein, Stanley Cup winning defenseman who played for several NHL organizations, dies at 58