The Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2024: Icons Inducted
The Hockey Hall of Fame has unveiled its 2024 inductees, and it's a star-studded lineup that spans multiple eras and milestones in hockey history. Hockey legends Pavel Datsyuk, Jeremy Roenick, Shea Weber, Natalie Darwitz, and Krissy Wendell-Pohl headline this year’s class. Meanwhile, Colin Campbell and David Poile join the ranks of distinguished individuals in the Builders category.
Pavel Datsyuk: First-Year Inductee
Making the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, Pavel Datsyuk’s induction is a testament to his remarkable career. An elusive forward known for his wizardry on the ice, Datsyuk boasts a resume that includes two Stanley Cups with the Detroit Red Wings, three Selke Trophies for best defensive forward, and four Lady Byng Trophies for gentlemanly play. Additionally, he earned an Olympic gold medal for Russia in 2018. "I'm pumped. I'm a happy boy," Datsyuk exclaimed upon learning of his induction.
Shea Weber: Leadership and Longevity
Shea Weber, whose career spanned 16 years predominantly with the Nashville Predators and later the Montreal Canadiens, distinguished himself both as a player and a leader. A three-time Norris Trophy finalist and recipient of the Mark Messier Leadership Award during the 2014-15 season, Weber also secured two Olympic gold medals for Canada in 2010 and 2014. Reflecting on his relationship with David Poile, one of the Builders honorees, Weber remarked, "I've known David since I was drafted in Nashville. I tell him that he made only one bad trade in his career and has to live with that one. But it's an honor."
Jeremy Roenick: A Long-Awaited Honor
Jeremy Roenick’s induction has been a decade in the making. Eligible since 2012, Roenick is finally taking his place among hockey's elite. Known for his offensive prowess, Roenick recorded 595 points in 524 games during his prime with the Chicago Blackhawks. His scoring feats included 513 goals, placing him 42nd all-time in the NHL and fourth among U.S. players. He also had memorable stints with the Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks, and won an Olympic silver medal in 2002. Reacting to the news, Roenick said, "I'm at a loss for words and I'm never at a loss for words. Getting over this last hockey hurdle means so much to me."
Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl: Pioneers of the Women’s Game
Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl, integral contributors to the University of Minnesota’s 2005 national championship team, have long been stalwarts of the women's game. Darwitz represented the U.S. in three Olympic Games (2002, 2006, and 2010), while Wendell-Pohl captained the U.S. team at the 2006 Games and competed in 2002 as well. Their simultaneous induction holds special significance, reflecting the growing recognition of women’s contributions to the sport. As Lanny McDonald, chair of the Hockey Hall of Fame board, noted, "I think knowing where the women's game has gotten to in the last few years shows the strength of it. To have two women go in together—especially being teammates—we couldn't be more prouder of them."
Builders Category: Colin Campbell and David Poile
Honorees in the Builders category include Colin Campbell and David Poile. Poile, the winningest general manager in NHL history, has helmed both the Washington Capitals and the Nashville Predators. "Each of the 18 members of the selection committee take their responsibilities very, very seriously. They know that this means a lot to people, and it means a lot to players," stated Mike Gartner, head of the selection committee.
Selection Committee and Ceremony Details
The induction selection process is a meticulously guided endeavor led by the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee, comprising 18 former players, executives, and journalists, with Mike Gartner at its helm. The official induction ceremony will take place on November 11, a date that will undoubtedly be marked by accolades, reflection, and a celebration of hockey's rich history.