The Hockey Hall of Fame's 2024 class has been announced, bringing recognition to some of the most impactful figures in the sport's history. Leading the group are Pavel Datsyuk, Jeremy Roenick, and Shea Weber, along with women's hockey standouts Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl. This illustrious class also includes Colin Campbell and David Poile, who are being honored in the Builders category.
Pavel Datsyuk
Pavel Datsyuk, often hailed for his dazzling skills and two-way play, enters the Hall in his first year of eligibility. The Russian forward has an impressive resume that includes two Stanley Cup victories and three Selke Trophies, awarded to the NHL's top defensive forward. Additionally, Datsyuk has earned the Lady Byng Trophy four times for gentlemanly conduct on the ice and clinched an Olympic gold medal for Russia in 2018. Reflecting on his induction, Datsyuk expressed his excitement: "I'm pumped. I'm a happy boy."
Shea Weber
Shea Weber's career spanned 16 years, during which he became a cornerstone for both the Nashville Predators and the Montreal Canadiens. Known for his booming slap shot and leadership qualities, Weber was a three-time finalist for the Norris Trophy, awarded to the league's best defenseman. He also won the Mark Messier Leadership Award in the 2014-15 season and has two Olympic gold medals for Canada from the 2010 and 2014 Winter Games. Weber humorously recalled his long-standing relationship with David Poile: "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
Jeremy Roenick, a dynamic and outspoken forward, has been eligible for the Hall since 2012 and now finally receives his due recognition. Roenick recorded an impressive 595 points in 524 games with the Chicago Blackhawks from 1988 to 1996 and had stints with the Phoenix Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks. His 513 career goals place him 42nd all-time in the NHL and fourth among U.S.-born players. Roenick, who also earned an Olympic silver medal in 2002, was visibly moved by the honor: "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."
Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl
Natalie Darwitz and Krissy Wendell-Pohl both made indelible marks on women's hockey and were key members of the University of Minnesota's 2005 national championship team. Wendell-Pohl captained the U.S. team at the 2006 Winter Olympics and competed in both the 2002 and 2006 Games. Darwitz represented the United States in three Olympic Games: 2002, 2006, and 2010. Lanny McDonald, chair of the Hockey Hall of Fame board, highlighted the significance of their achievements: "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: Colin Campbell and David Poile
Colin Campbell and David Poile are recognized in the Builders category for their significant contributions to the game. Poile, the winningest general manager in NHL history, has led both the Washington Capitals and the Nashville Predators to success. The selection process that brought this impressive class to the fore is steered by the Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee, comprising former players, executives, and journalists. Mike Gartner, who heads the committee, underscored the diligence and responsibility of its members: "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 is slated for November 11, marking another celebratory chapter in the storied history of the Hockey Hall of Fame. This year's class not only reflects individual excellence but also acknowledges the broader contributions to the sport, whether through game-changing performances on the ice or strategic acumen behind the scenes.