ESPN hires Mark Messier as NHL analyst

ESPN has hired former NHL’er Mark Messier as an analyst for their NHL coverage.

The multi-year deal will see him be a “signature part” of ESPN’s coverage launching in the 2021-22 season.

“The game of hockey, and the NHL, have afforded me enormous opportunity, success and experiences on the ice and in my life,” said Messier in a statement. “My passion for the game is as strong as it has ever been and I am looking forward to sharing that passion, plus my insights and analysis with the sport’s incredible fans. The NHL is beginning a new era with ESPN and The Walt Disney Company — with an exciting, evolving game and phenomenally talented players — and I am thrilled to be a part of the team.”

Messier, who is the only player in NHL history to captain two teams to titles, is widely considered one of the best players to ever play the game.

A native of St. Alberta, Alberta, Messeir was drafted by the Oilers in the third round of the 1979 NHL entry draft. He went on to play 25 years in the NHL with the Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers and Vancouver Canucks. A veteran of 1756 NHL games, Messier scored 694 goals and 1887 points over his career.

Zach Laing is the Nation Network’s news director and senior columnist. He can be followed on Twitter at @zjlaing, or reached by email at zach@oilersnation.com.