In the early hours of November 13, 2025, the renowned sportswriter Larry Brooks died at the age of 75, after a brief battle with cancer. He built his legacy covering hockey for decades and will be deeply missed.
A Storied Career in Hockey Media
Larry Brooks began his career at the New York Post in 1975 as a part-time clerk working the overnight shift. He worked his way up to full-time reporter and then beat writer, ultimately covering the NHL for nearly four decades. He first covered the New York Islanders in 1976, moved to the beat for the New York Rangers in the 1978-79 season, and later served with the New Jersey Devils organization as Vice President of Communications from 1982-92. He returned to the Post in 1993 and eventually launched his long-running “Slap Shots” column in 1995, becoming one of the most recognizable voices on the Rangers beat.
In 2018, Brooks received the Elmer Ferguson Memorial Award from the Hockey Hall of Fame, honoring his distinguished work in hockey journalism.
Impact and Legacy
Brooks’ coverage spanned major eras in U.S. hockey, particularly in the New York/New Jersey region. He was known for his no-nonsense style, his deep relationships with players and coaches, and his willingness to call things as he saw them. He had a reputation as both respected and, at times, feared for his commentary.
For decades, American hockey fans—especially those following the Rangers and Devils—relied on Brooks’ weekly insights, locker-room access and insider columns to understand the evolving storylines of the game. His passing closes a chapter on a media era when beat reporters defined the narrative around teams, players and the business of hockey.
Personal Details & Final Days
According to published reports, Brooks passed away after a brief fight with cancer. At the time of his death he was 75 years old. He is survived by his son Jordan, daughter-in-law Joanna, and grandchildren Scott and Reese. His wife Janis predeceased him in 2020. In recent weeks he had taken a medical leave of absence from his duties, underscoring the seriousness of his health battle.
Timeline at a Glance
- 1975: Started at New York Post as clerk.
- 1976: Assigned to cover the Islanders.
- 1978-79: Began covering the Rangers beat.
- 1982-92: Served with the Devils as Vice President of Communications.
- 1993: Returned to the Post.
- 1995: Launched “Slap Shots” column.
- 2018: Received Elmer Ferguson Award.
- Nov 13 2025: Passed away at age 75.
Why This Matters for U.S. Hockey Fans
In an era of changing media landscapes, Brooks represented the archetype of the long-tenured beat reporter who knew his sport inside and out. His body of work serves as a reference point for hockey journalism and his writing helped document many important moments in the U.S. game. For fans, his voice offered clarity, context and tradition.
Tributes and Reactions
Colleagues, former players and media figures immediately paid tribute to Brooks. Many emphasized how his departure leaves a void in the kind of long-form, deeply-rooted beat reporting that has become rarer in modern sports media. His influence extended far beyond just game recaps—he helped train and mentor young writers and set standards for access and integrity in sports journalism.
Final Thoughts
The key phrase—Larry Brooks died—is a succinct way to register the loss. But the full story is richer and filled with decades of contribution to sport journalism. His passing at 75 marks the end of an era, but his columns, interviews and the journalists he mentored will carry on his influence.
We invite readers to share their memories of Larry Brooks—whether a favorite article, moment in his coverage or his broader impact on hockey media—and stay tuned for further reflections on his vast body of work.