The Hockey Hall of Fame has unveiled its class of 2024, inducting a group of notables headlined by Pavel Datsyuk, Jeremy Roenick, Shea Weber, Natalie Darwitz, and Krissy Wendell-Pohl. The esteemed selection also includes Colin Campbell and David Poile, who are being recognized in the Builders category.
Pavel Datsyuk: First-Year Inductee
Pavel Datsyuk enters the Hall in his first year of eligibility—a testament to an illustrious career highlighted by two Stanley Cup victories, three Selke Trophies for being the league's top defensive forward, and four Lady Byng Trophies for gentlemanly play. Additionally, Datsyuk clinched an Olympic gold medal for Russia in 2018. Clearly elated, the ever-humble Datsyuk remarked, "I'm pumped. I'm a happy boy."
Shea Weber: A Defensive Stronghold
Shea Weber’s career, which spanned 16 years with the Nashville Predators and Montreal Canadiens, is characterized by his robust defensive play and exceptional leadership. A three-time Norris Trophy finalist and recipient of the Mark Messier Leadership Award for the 2014-15 season, Weber also boasts two Olympic gold medals for Canada from the 2010 and 2014 Winter Games. Reflecting on his induction, Weber humorously acknowledged Poile's influence on his career, saying, "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: Long-Awaited Recognition
Jeremy Roenick, who has been eligible for the Hall of Fame since 2012, finally sees his hard work rewarded. During his career, Roenick tallied 595 points in 524 games from 1988-96 with the Chicago Blackhawks, and later had stints with the Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks. His 513 goals rank 42nd all-time in the NHL and fourth among U.S. players, complemented by an Olympic silver medal from 2002. With excitement, Roenick exclaimed, "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."
Trailblazing Women: Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl
Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl, both instrumental in the University of Minnesota's 2005 national championship team, have left indelible marks on women's hockey. Wendell-Pohl captained the U.S. team at the 2006 Olympics and competed in both 2002 and 2006. Meanwhile, Darwitz represented the U.S. in the 2002, 2006, and 2010 Olympics. Lanny McDonald, chair of the Hockey Hall of Fame board, lauded their achievements, saying, "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
Colin Campbell and David Poile are being honored in the Builders category for their substantial contributions to the sport. Poile, in particular, is celebrated as the winningest general manager in NHL history, having led both the Washington Capitals and the Nashville Predators. Their enshrinement underscores the impact of those who shape the game off the ice.
The Selection Process
Overseeing the selection process is an 18-member committee composed of former players, executives, and journalists. Mike Gartner, the head of the selection committee, highlighted the due diligence performed by its members, stating, "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 official induction ceremony will be held on November 11, marking a momentous occasion for the nuances of hockey as it continues to celebrate the legends and architects who elevate the sport.