Hockey Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2024 Inductees
The Hockey Hall of Fame has unveiled its class of 2024, honoring seven distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the game. The inductees, comprising five players and two builders, will be celebrated at a ceremony on November 11, 2024.
Notable Players Honored
This year’s player inductees include Jeremy Roenick, Pavel Datsyuk, Shea Weber, Natalie Darwitz, and Krissy Wendell-Pohl—each of whom has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Jeremy Roenick spent a remarkable 20 years in the NHL, representing five different franchises. Renowned for his offensive prowess, Roenick netted 513 goals and 703 assists over 1,363 games. His stellar career places him fourth in goals and fifth in points among American-born players in NHL history, underscoring his lasting impact on the ice.
Pavel Datsyuk, who played 14 seasons with the Detroit Red Wings, is celebrated for his dual excellence in offensive and defensive play. Datsyuk was a perennial contender for the Selke Trophy, awarded to the league's best defensive forward, receiving votes in ten different years, and winning the prize three consecutive times from 2008 to 2010. Over 953 career games, he scored 314 goals and added 604 assists. His career is further highlighted by two Stanley Cup championships, cementing his legacy as a versatile and elite player.
Shea Weber is another standout inductee, known for his robust defensive skills and leadership. Over 16 years with the Nashville Predators and the Montreal Canadiens, Weber scored 224 goals and provided 365 assists. A three-time Norris Trophy finalist, Weber was instrumental in leading the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup Final in 2020, showcasing his enduring influence on the blue line.
Female Stars Recognized
Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl are both celebrated for their exceptional contributions to women's hockey. Darwitz's collegiate career was highlighted by leading the University of Minnesota to a national championship in 2005, where she scored the game-winning goal against Harvard. On the international stage, she earned two Olympic silver medals, a bronze, and a treasure trove of medals at the World Championships, including three golds and five silvers.
Wendell-Pohl has also made a significant mark in international play, scoring 106 goals in 147 games. Her accolades include a silver and bronze Olympic medal, and she was pivotal in leading Team USA to a gold medal at the World Championships in 2005, where she also earned tournament MVP honors.
Builders' Contributions to the Game
The Hall of Fame also recognizes influential builders who have shaped the sport off the ice. Among them is David Poile, the winningest general manager in NHL history, with 1,533 regular season victories. Poile, who served as the only GM in Nashville Predators history until his retirement last year, guided the team to its first Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2017, demonstrating his acumen and vision in team management.
Colin Campbell is another key figure being honored. Campbell spent 11 seasons as an NHL player before moving behind the bench. He won the Stanley Cup as an assistant coach with the New York Rangers in 1994, later serving four seasons as the Rangers' head coach. For the past 25 years, he has played a crucial role as an Executive Vice President for the NHL, contributing significantly to the league’s operations and governance.
The 2024 Hall of Fame class exemplifies the excellence and dedication required to reach the pinnacle of hockey. Their individual achievements and collective impact on the sport will be celebrated in the upcoming induction ceremony, further solidifying their places in the annals of hockey history.