The hockey world is in mourning after the news that legendary New York Post writer Larry Brooks has passed away at the age of 75 following a battle with cancer. One of the last calls he received was from an old friend — John Tortorella.
Larry Brooks was born on February 25, 1950, in New York City — a city he would go on to conquer with his pen and personality. After starting out as a baseball reporter for the New York Post, Brooks served as vice president of communications for the New Jersey Devils before returning to The Post to cover the New York Rangers.
Gave Henrik Lundqvist his nickname
Throughout his career, Larry Brooks chronicled countless unforgettable moments for the Rangers. He was the one who gave Henrik Lundqvist the nickname “King Henrik” back in 2005, to name just one. In 2018, Brooks received the Elmer Ferguson Memorial Award, bestowed by the Hockey Hall of Fame “in recognition of distinguished members of the newspaper profession whose words have brought honor to journalism and to hockey.” In every sense, he was a true Hall of Famer.
John Tortorella called Larry Brooks
But not everything always went smoothly. When John Tortorella served as head coach of the New York Rangers between 2008 and 2013, the two often clashed — but their relationship was built on mutual respect and became good friends. That’s why Tortorella called Larry earlier this week to check in, a gesture that meant the world to Brooks, according to his son Jordan Brooks, as reported by The New York Post.
Larry Brooks passed away on Thursday morning. He is survived by his son Jordan and two grandchildren.
Rest in peace.
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