The hockey world's mourning over Ranger beat man Larry Brooks' passing brings to mind names of other outstanding NHL reporters who excelled at their profession. Here are some who I revered over the years:
1. JOSEPH NICHOLS: Joe took over the Rangers' beat in 1926 and remained with the New York Times through the 1950s. Nichols was a fine and tireless writer.
2. JAMES BURCHARD: Like Nichols, "Thirsty Jim" covered the first Rangers Cup win in 1928 as well as 1933 and 1940 for the New York World-Telegram. He retired in the 1950's.
3. STAN SAPLIN: After reorganizing the Rangers publicity department in 1946-1950, Stan moved on to cover the Rangers for the New York Journal-American in 1950. He was a clever writer; a must read.
4. DAVE ANDERSON: When the Brooklyn Eagle still was thriving at the end of the 1940's Dave covered the Rangers and continued later with the J-A and then the Times following Joe Nichols.
5. KERR PETRIE: The Herald-Tribute was blessed with good hockey writers. They included Petrie, Al Laney and sports editor Bob Cooke – all in the 1940's and 1950's.
When A Visit To Columbus Is Of The Utmost Importance
Once upon a time, a mid-November game between the <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-rangers">Rangers</a> and Blue Jackets would be shrugged off with an "Eh" or a "Can't Be Bothered" sniff, and that would be that.
6. DANA MOZLEY: The Daily News gave hockey a big play and in addition to Mozley, Dick Young knocked off some strong pieces as well as sports editor Jimmy Powers.
7. BEN OLAN: For at least two decades, Benny was the lead hockey writer at The Associated Press as well as an excellent spinner of magazine profiles in the 1960's and 70's.