In a dramatic turn of events in the lead up to a critical game in the 2022 Eastern Conference final in Tampa Bay, former New York Rangers captain Dave Maloney found himself in the shadows of his radio broadcast partner, Sam Rosen. As they made their way to Amalie Arena under the scorching Florida sun, it was Rosen, the seasoned play-by-play commentator, who attracted the adoration of fans along the way.
Maloney, a key player in the Rangers’ 1979 Stanley Cup Final appearance, stood by patiently as Rosen engaged with the throngs of supporters. Despite the sweltering heat and humidity, Rosen graciously interacted with each fan, embodying the spirit of New York’s loyal hockey community.
For Maloney, this moment underscored the significance of Rosen to Rangers fans. With a broadcasting career dating back to the 1984-85 season, Rosen has been the voice of the team during some of their most historic moments, including the memorable 1994 Stanley Cup victory. His iconic calls have become synonymous with Rangers hockey, earning him prestigious accolades such as the Foster Hewitt Memorial Award from the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Throughout the years, Maloney witnessed Rosen’s unwavering passion and youthful energy, a sentiment echoed by Joe Micheletti, Rosen’s longtime color commentary partner on MSG broadcasts. “His enthusiasm and love for the game have never faltered,” Micheletti remarked, highlighting Rosen’s enduring commitment to his craft.
As rumors swirled about Rosen’s impending retirement, the hockey world braced for the end of an era. Maloney acknowledged that while Rosen had set a high standard for his successor, Kenny Albert, no one could quite replicate the iconic presence Rosen brought to the broadcast booth.
Micheletti, anticipating the tributes and outpouring of support for Rosen, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate his colleague’s illustrious career. Hall of Famer Mark Messier echoed this sentiment, noting that if anyone deserved a victory lap, it was Rosen.
Following the announcement of his retirement, Rosen received an outpouring of praise and well wishes from colleagues and fans alike. Looking ahead to the final stretch of his broadcasting career, Micheletti reassured Rosen that they were poised for an unforgettable season.
For Mike Richter, the former Rangers goaltender who backstopped the team to their Cup triumph in 1994, Rosen’s iconic call at the championship moment remains etched in his memory. “The waiting is over! The New York Rangers are the Stanley Cup champions! And this one will last a lifetime!” Rosen’s words captured the essence of that historic victory, a testament to his unique ability to encapsulate the emotions of the game.
Reflecting on his own partnership with Rosen, former Rangers goaltender John Davidson recalled their two-decade collaboration that spanned from 1986-87 to 2006. As Davidson departed to assume a leadership role with the St. Louis Blues, he cherished the memorable moments shared alongside Rosen, a broadcasting legend whose impact extended far beyond the airwaves.
