Former Rangers head coach John Tortorella expressed deep respect and emotion in a tribute to longtime New York Post hockey writer Larry Brooks, who passed away at 75 after a battle with cancer. Tortorella, who had a notable and often intense professional relationship with Brooks during his coaching tenure, described Brooks as an "icon" and acknowledged the "big loss" his death represents for hockey.
Tortorella highlighted his respect for Brooks' dedication and work ethic, noting that despite their frequent disagreements, Brooks was always present and ready to engage. He characterized their exchanges as professional rather than personal, calling Brooks a "colleague" and emphasizing the mutual grind they both experienced in their respective fields.
He revealed that he had reached out to Brooks upon hearing about his illness and spoke with Brooks' son, who conveyed that the call meant a great deal to his father. Tortorella urged people to remember the man and his integrity, not the sensationalized aspects of their public interactions, stressing that Brooks, a "hockey lifer" who wasn't afraid to voice his opinions, earned that respect.
