NHL analyst makes a powerful case for Don Cherry, Barry Melrose’s Hockey Hall of Fame induction

NHL analyst John Buccigross made a compelling case for inducting Don Cherry and Barry Melrose into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Buccigross argued that each Cherry and Melrose have made huge contributions to hockey over their decades-long careers and deserve recognition whereas they’re nonetheless alive to understand the dignity.

On X, John Buccigross wrote,

“Why do Hall of Fames wait till folks die? Why do they adhere to arbitrary categorical guidelines that basically imply nothing and will be modified with fewer than 12 phrases?

“Hall of Fames/museums simply tell a story and ceremonies give someone a chance to feel love from family and friends and adoring strangers. Otherwise, these buildings are really meaningless.”

At 91, Don Cherry is remembered most for his daring persona and a long time of fiery commentary. Though he solely performed a single NHL sport with the Bruins, he made his mark behind the bench, guiding Boston to 2 Stanley Cup Final appearances throughout a powerful teaching profession.

Melrose, 68, had a 13-year enjoying profession earlier than rising to fame as coach of the Los Angeles Kings. Melrose guided an unlikely Kings staff led by Wayne Gretzky to the 1993 Stanley Cup Finals. He later grew to become a longtime ESPN and NHL Network analyst till 2023. He was not too long ago recognized with Parkinson’s illness.

“Time is proscribed for each. Cherry is 91 and Barry has Parkinson’s. How simple is that this? What are we doing?” Buccigross added.

Buccigross implored the Hall of Fame choice committee to not delay and wait till it is too late to honor two uniquely charismatic figures who gave their lives to rising the sport on a nationwide stage by way of the media.

“You can’t tell the story of hockey without the 30ish years Don Cherry and Barry Melrose gave the game via National Television. They both gave their entire lives to hockey and the NHL.”

Despite neither having the standard enjoying resume, their invaluable contributions warrant induction ahead of later in line with Buccigross.

Fans react to John Buccigross’s tackle Don Cherry, Barry Melrose’s Hockey Hall of Fame induction

Fans have been eagerly responding to John Buccigross’s feedback concerning the Hockey Hall of Fame induction of Cherry and Melrose. Many have voiced their assist for Buccigross’s perspective, agreeing that Cherry and Melrose’s contributions to the game deserve recognition.

One fan wrote,

“Completely agree, Mr. Buccigross! We also need to find a way to get Stan Fischler in there!”

Another fan wrote,

“Thanks for speaking up Booch”

Here are some further fan reactions:

“Agree..2 great ones, let them enjoy it” one fan wrote.

“Couldn’t agree more.” one other fan wrote.

“How is Don Cherry not already in?” a person commented.

“Big time agree @NHL” one other person wrote.

As the controversy continues, it is clear that Buccigross’s commentary has struck a chord with the passionate hockey neighborhood.