Larry Brooks, a significant figure in journalism, was well-respected by NHL players and executives alike, as well as by his peers throughout his remarkable career. He passed away at the age of 75 after battling cancer, leaving behind a lasting legacy that resonated both in the world of hockey and journalism.
On Thursday morning, many from the hockey and journalism communities took to social media to express their admiration for Brooks. Howie Rhodes, a former play-by-play announcer for the Rangers, described him on X as “the greatest hockey writer in New York history.” He emphasized that no one understood the game—its intricacies, its players, and its essence—better than Brooks, calling him a true Hall of Famer and a tremendous loss to the sport.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also shared his thoughts, highlighting Brooks’ insightful analysis of not only the New York Rangers but also the entire NHL over his nearly 40-year career. Bettman noted that Brooks was a fierce advocate for players and maintained a strong, unequivocal voice in his writing.
Brooks had an unmatched ability to cover the NHL and provided readers with information they couldn’t easily find elsewhere. His weekly column, “Slapshot,” initiated in 1995, appealed to both die-hard hockey fans and those new to the sport, often revealing insights not disclosed by teams.
In 2018, Brooks was honored with the Elmer Ferguson Award from the Hockey Hall of Fame, recognizing journalists whose work has elevated journalism and hockey.
His passing affected many, including former Ranger Jimmy Vesey, who shared a heartfelt tribute, reminiscing about their conversations that spanned topics from the team’s performance to personal matters. Vesey remarked on how Brooks was a constant source of support and information throughout his time in New York.
Others in the hockey community expressed their sadness over the news, with figures like Mike Rupp and Linda Cohn acknowledging Brooks’ passion and knowledge of the game. Brooks started with the Post in 1976, covering the Islanders before transitioning to the Rangers and later the Devils. He returned to the Post in 1993 and solidified his role with the Rangers in 1996.
Mike Lupica from the New York Daily News reflected on Brooks’ impact, stating that his death signifies a broader loss not just for the Post but for the newspaper industry itself. Ian O’Connor echoed this sentiment, recalling his honor of working alongside Brooks, whom he likened to a hockey legend.
