ESPN is reporting that Barry Melrose will be named as the Tampa Lightning's new head coach on Tuesday, June 24.
ESPN probably got this "breaking news" straight from Melrose himself, seeing as he has worked for ESPN since 1996.
Melrose was the coach of the Los Angeles Kings from 1992 to 1995. Some of the highlights of Melrose's tenure include a run to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1993 and Wayne Gretzky passing Gordie Howe as the NHL's all-time leading goal scorer.
I have to admit I didn't initially like Melrose as an analyst.
I came to realize he was knowledgeable, usually kind of humorous, and he knows the game. I only wish now that the NHL was on ESPN's radar a little more since they don't have television rights anymore.
I grew up watching "National Hockey Night", and I have to admit I miss it.
That said, I think Melrose will be a good fit for the Lightning. I wonder how many of his former players, like Luc Robitaille, Kelly Hrudey and Marty McSorley, he will tab to join his staff as assistant coaches.
There are a lot of parallels to this situation and the Kings when Melrose took over there. Warm weather climate, some good offensive talent, etc. The ingredients seem to be there for success.
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