The New York hockey community is mourning the loss of a pivotal figure, Larry Brooks, who passed away at the age of 75 after a brief battle with cancer. For nearly four decades, Brooks made an indelible mark as the hockey writer for the New York Post, where he became synonymous with coverage of the New York Rangers, New Jersey Devils, and New York Islanders.
Brooks, whose presence was a staple in the Madison Square Garden press level and dressing rooms, was known for his characteristic demeanor. With his hands in his front pockets and a notebook tucked in his back pocket, he moved through the rink with a calm confidence that concealed the depth of his knowledge. He was not only a collector of stories but also a master at delivering them, earning him the respect of players, fans, and colleagues alike.
An emblematic figure of the sport, Brooks often stated, “The Post has to be not just a first-read, but the must-read,” emphasizing the importance of journalism in sporting culture. Despite his humility in attributing his impact to a shared effort, those close to him recognized that Brooks was a pivotal force within the realm of sports writing. His storied career reached new heights when he received the Elmer Ferguson Memorial Award from the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2018, a tribute that solidified his place among legends.
Brooks leaves behind a family comprising his son, Jordan, his daughter-in-law, Joanna, and two grandchildren, Scott and Reese. His wife, Janis, predeceased him in 2020.
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Colleagues and players alike have shared heartfelt tributes, recalling Brooks’ skill in navigating the game. Dave Maloney, a former Rangers defenseman and current broadcaster, noted that Brooks was always present “around the crease,” a metaphor for his journalistic tenacity, while Sean Avery, a popular Rangers player, likened Brooks’ ability to influence the game to his own on-ice impact. “Brooksie could do that with the swipe of his pen,” Avery remarked, highlighting the strong relationship he maintained with the team.
James Dolan, executive chairman of MSG Sports, echoed the sentiment, appreciating Brooks not only for his reporting but also for his candid advice about the Rangers, which he valued immensely. A notable aspect of Brooks’ career was his ability to engage with figures within the sport, even sparking sometimes contentious relationships, such as with former Rangers coach John Tortorella. Their eventual reconciliation remained a testament to Brooks’ character, with Tortorella reaching out to check on him just days before his passing.
Over the years, Brooks passionately advocated for various causes in the hockey community, including pushing for the Rangers to retire the jersey of Brad Park. He was also known for coining the nickname “King Henrik” for goaltender Henrik Lundqvist, further cementing his influential role in the sport.
Brooks’ writing legacy extended beyond hockey; he began his career covering the Bronx Zoo Yankees in 1977, establishing himself among veteran baseball journalists almost immediately. His storied career included significant moments, such as breaking the news of Tom Seaver’s trade from the Mets to the Reds, a revelation that faced skepticism from fans who thought he was fabricating the story.
His tenure with the Devils as vice president of communications added another layer to his understanding of the sport, allowing him to cultivate valuable relationships with key figures such as general manager Lou Lamoriello. Their bond flourished even after Brooks returned to journalism, and Lamoriello recalled Brooks as a steadfast truth-teller.
With a passion for mentoring the next generation, Brooks also fostered a strong bond with current Rangers writer Mollie Walker, advising her to fully understand the intricacies of the NHL before seeking guidance from him. Walker described the mentorship as a blend of friendship and professional commitment, bridging a generational gap but united by their shared dedication to the craft.
As the hockey world reflects on Brooks’ contributions, the impact he made will echo for years to come. His commitment to sports journalism and fervor for the game will resonate with both seasoned writers and emerging talent. Friends and colleagues are hopeful that his grandchildren, particularly Scott, who plays hockey, will find inspiration in the legacy left behind by their beloved grandfather.
