Canadian ice hockey legend Kelly Hrudey is a former National Hockey League ice hockey goaltender and is also famous as an analyst for Hockey Night in Canada. Hrudey- who is also a commentator for Calgary Flames – played for several major teams throughout his glittering career, including New York Islanders, Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks.
Born in Alberto, Canada, Hrudey kicked off his playing career with the Western Hockey League Medicine Hat Tigers, staying until 1980 when he was drafted in the second round of NHL Entry Draft by the New York Islanders. After playing for New Yok’s minor league affiliate, Indianapolis Checkers, he entered the main club in the 1984-85 season. Hrudey soon racked up impressive performances as the Islander’s goaltender, making 73 saves in the team’s epic 3-2 victory over Washington Capitals in the longest game in club history. He made the move to Los Angeles Kings in 1989, where he stayed for eight seasons before playing two seasons for the San Jose Sharks in 1998.
Towards the end of his playing career he began to make appearances as a studio analyst on Hockey Night in Canada, joining the team as a full-time analyst when he retired from the game. He was part of the team that helped the show debut on Canada Radio in 2007.
Inspired by his daughter’s mental health battles, Hrudey has done advocacy work for mental health awareness and charities, and received an honorary degree for his efforts in 2017.