The Hockey Hall of Fame has unveiled its class of 2024, a diverse and accomplished group of athletes and contributors who have left an indelible mark on the sport. This year's inductees include Pavel Datsyuk, Jeremy Roenick, Shea Weber, Natalie Darwitz, and Krissy Wendell-Pohl, with Colin Campbell and David Poile honored in the Builders category. The official induction ceremony is set for November 11.
Pavel Datsyuk: First-Year Electee
Pavel Datsyuk's induction comes in his very first year of eligibility, a testament to his exceptional career. Datsyuk, a Russian forward known for his dazzling puck skills and defensive prowess, played a pivotal role in the Detroit Red Wings' success, earning two Stanley Cups. His accolades also include three Selke Trophies as the league's top defensive forward and four Lady Byng Trophies for gentlemanly conduct. Datsyuk's impressive resume is rounded off with an Olympic gold medal from the 2018 Winter Games. "I'm pumped. I'm a happy boy," Datsyuk remarked on his induction.
Shea Weber: A Stalwart Defenseman
Shea Weber's career spanned 16 years, primarily with the Nashville Predators and later the Montreal Canadiens. As a three-time Norris Trophy finalist and the recipient of the Mark Messier Leadership Award during the 2014-15 season, Weber's contributions to the game were immense. He also boasts two Olympic gold medals with Team Canada from the 2010 and 2014 Games. Reflecting on his journey, Weber shared, "I've known David [Poile] 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: Long-Awaited Recognition
For Jeremy Roenick, the journey to the Hall of Fame has been a long one, having been eligible since 2012. Roenick, who sits 42nd on the NHL's all-time goals list with 513 goals and fourth among U.S. players, made his mark with the Chicago Blackhawks, tallying 595 points in 524 games from 1988 to 1996. His career also included stints with the Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks. Roenick, who also has an Olympic silver medal from the 2002 Games, expressed his elation, "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: Trailblazers in Women's Hockey
Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl, both integral to the University of Minnesota's 2005 national championship team, have made significant contributions to women's hockey. Wendell-Pohl captained Team USA at the 2006 Olympics and competed in both the 2002 and 2006 Games. Meanwhile, Darwitz represented the U.S. in three Olympic Games (2002, 2006, and 2010). Lanny McDonald, the chair of the Hockey Hall of Fame board, praised their inclusion, "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: Honoring the Architects
In the Builders category, Colin Campbell and David Poile receive deserved recognition. Poile, the winningest general manager in NHL history, has orchestrated successful teams for both the Washington Capitals and the Nashville Predators. The selection process, guided by the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee, is known for its rigor and integrity. Committee head Mike Gartner explained, "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."
The class of 2024 is a testament to the diverse pathways to greatness in hockey, celebrating not only the athletes who excelled on the ice but also the visionaries who shaped the game's future. The forthcoming induction ceremony promises to be a memorable celebration of their contributions to the sport.