Hockey World Mourns As Peter McNab, Beloved NHL Player-Turned-Beloved TV Analyst, Dies At 70

Focus On Sport. Getty Images.

The hockey world got hit with some heartbreaking news over the weekend as one of its most well-liked personalities passed away. Peter McNab, a NHL star who became a TV analyst after playing, died at the age of 70. 

When I was young Bs fan, the Lunchpail A.C. was the first iteration of the club that I fell in love with and Peter McNab was a big reason why. Essentially a point per game guy while in Boston, Maxy was equally adept at passing or scoring. And unlike many of his peers of that era, he did it gracefully as Grapes summed up so well.

After the Bruins traded him in 1984, McNab played three more seasons before moving into the TV booth of his last club, the New Jersey Devils. In 1995 when the Quebec Nordiques relocated to Denver, the University of Denver alum joined the Avalanche's TV crew and was there until his passing from cancer. While in Colorado, he won over another fanbase with his warmth, humor, and hockey knowledge.

What was more important than the NHL career he had or his terrific work as an analyst were the people in his life and the way he treated them. I know when we lose people nowadays, tributes are easy to find online. But you can tell just from reading the heartfelt Tweets or articles the last few days, that Peter McNab was different. He was beloved by all in his orbit and his loss is immense. 

On behalf of Spittin' Chiclets, we extend our deepest sympathies to Peter's family, friends, and the Colorado Avalanche family. He was a gem.