Barry Melrose leaving ESPN? Whaaa?

Apparently Hockey Night In Canada reported that ESPN hockey analyst Barry Melrose might be leaving the network to become the next GM of the Tampa Bay Lightning.

I really don't see much truth to this rumor, but musing on the topic half asleep I asked myself, who would replace Barry Melrose? Here are some options to fill in next to John "Do You Get How Much I Love Music and How Many Famous People I Know Yet" Buccigross.

Don Cherry: Grapes is a broadcasting legend. I doubt in a million years he would ever leave HNIC. NBC tried to bring him down south and it failed miserably. It's hard to appeal to Canadian pride when your audience is void of Canadians.










Neil Smith: Former GM of the Rangers and Islanders (for 40 days, but still). Currently resides in NYC and works in broadcasting for Versus. Built a winner in 1994. Has said that living in New York allows him to be close to his son. Working in Bristol, Connecticut wouldn't change much.










Bill Clement: Former NHLer has two Cup rings from his time in Philadelphia. Clement has an extensive broadcasting background working for Versus, NBC, and ESPN. Hosts a Flyer's radio show on WBCB 1490 AM in Pennsylvania.












Jeremy Roenick: Wasn't he only signing with the Sharks to get his 500th goal? What the hell is he doing scoring in the post-season like it's 1993? Ok, JR might have a bit left in the tank, but if he calls it quits (again!), he's going to the mic. He's already shown he can be an interesting, provocative presence as he is never one to mince words on the ice or off it. Gregarious and intelligent, Roenick has cut his teeth with TSN during previous post-season coverage.




Steal Someone From TSN: Let's see how YOU like it, TSN!
When TSN took Darren Dreger from rival Canadian network Roger's Sportsnet they entered a dirty game. It's payback time.
Ok, by "Someone" I might be misleading. I really meant, "STEAL BOB McKENZIE!" I know it's his home and he loves it, but Canada, you've had Bobby Mac for too long! Stop being so damn selfish. He's one of the most connected men in all of hockey, the ultimate insider. His knowledge of the game covers every aspect from Joe Thornton's Raisin Bran to Gordie Howe's dentures.







Count von Count: One! Two! Three! Four! Five! Six!.....SIX!! Six skaters on the ice for the Canucks! TOO MANY SKATERS!!!






Shakira: You want ratings? This woman could be talking about the pros and cons of outside-in skate lacing and it's effect on pre-season game-day meals and guys would watch.







Wait a minute! This is ESPN! If Melrose leaves that gives them an extra three to five minutes a week they can devote to the 15th round of the NFL draft! The suspense is chilling! Who will be the 11th best offensive lineman this year?

Seriously, if Melrose does leave (and if he does I doubt it's to become GM of the Lightning), I wouldn't be surprised to see Clement, Darren Pang, or Ray Ferraro take over.