The Hockey Hall of Fame's 2024 class is set to be enshrined, with a blend of legendary players and influential builders being honored. This year's inductees include prominent figures such as Pavel Datsyuk, Jeremy Roenick, Shea Weber, Natalie Darwitz, and Krissy Wendell-Pohl. Additionally, Colin Campbell and David Poile will be recognized in the Builders category.
A Stellar Class of Players
Pavel Datsyuk, a name synonymous with skill and sportsmanship, enters the Hall in his first year of eligibility. Datsyuk, who boasts two Stanley Cup victories, emphasized his joy at the announcement, stating, "I'm pumped. I'm a happy boy." His career also includes three Selke Trophies for being the league's top defensive forward, four Lady Byng Trophies for gentlemanly play, and an Olympic gold medal for Russia in 2018.
Shea Weber's illustrious career, which spanned 16 years with the Nashville Predators and Montreal Canadiens, earns him a spot in the Hall. Weber was a three-time Norris Trophy finalist and received the Mark Messier Leadership Award in the 2014-15 season. He also has two Olympic gold medals for Canada, secured in 2010 and 2014. Reflecting on his career and his relationship with David Poile, 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’s Long-Awaited Induction
Jeremy Roenick, who has been eligible for the Hall of Fame since 2012, finally sees his name etched among the greats. Roenick's prolific career includes 595 points in 524 games from 1988 to 1996 with the Chicago Blackhawks, as well as stints with the Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks. With 513 goals, Roenick ranks 42nd all-time in the NHL and fourth among U.S. players. He also has an Olympic silver medal from 2002. Overwhelmed by the honor, Roenick expressed, "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."
Trailblazers in Women's Hockey
The 2024 class also shines a spotlight on women's hockey, with Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl being inducted. Both players were pivotal members of the University of Minnesota’s 2005 national championship team. Wendell-Pohl captained the U.S. team at the 2006 Olympic Games and competed in the 2002 and 2006 Olympics. Darwitz represented the U.S. in the 2002, 2006, and 2010 Olympics.
Lanny McDonald, chair of the Hockey Hall of Fame board, celebrated their contributions to the sport. "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," McDonald said.
Builders Category Recognition
Colin Campbell and David Poile will be enshrined in the Builders category. Poile, the winningest general manager in NHL history, has had an impactful career leading both the Washington Capitals and the Nashville Predators. His longtime service to the game is seen as a cornerstone of modern NHL team management.
The Selection Process
The selection for the Hall of Fame is guided by the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee, composed of 18 former players, executives, and journalists, with Mike Gartner at the helm. Gartner emphasized the importance of the committee's work, noting, "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."
This year's induction ceremony is slated for November 11, promising to be a memorable event that honors the legacies of these remarkable individuals who have left indelible marks on the sport.