In an exciting announcement, USA Hockey revealed the esteemed individuals who will be inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2023, per NHL.com. The distinguished honorees include two-time Stanley Cup champion Dustin Brown, renowned NHL executive Brian Burke, accomplished player Jamie Langenbrunner, Boston College women’s hockey coach Katie King Crowley, and retired NHL official Brian Murphy.
The induction ceremony is set to take place on December 6, 2023, in Boston, marking a significant moment in the world of hockey.
Dustin Brown, a standout player, etched his name in history as the second United States-born player to captain a team to a Stanley Cup championship. He achieved this remarkable feat with the Los Angeles Kings in both 2012 and 2014. Throughout his illustrious 18-season NHL career, Brown remained a loyal member of the Kings, leaving an indelible mark. He holds the franchise record for games played (1,296) and ranks seventh in overall points with 712 (325 goals, 387 assists). Brown, who hails from Ithaca, New York, retired after the 2021-22 season. The Kings honored his contribution by retiring his No. 23 jersey and unveiling a statue depicting his iconic Stanley Cup lift.
Brian Burke, a seasoned NHL executive, played a pivotal role in the Anaheim Ducks’ historic Stanley Cup win in 2007, making them the first California-based team to achieve this feat. His impressive career spanned across various NHL organizations, including the Hartford Whalers, Vancouver Canucks, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Calgary Flames. Burke also served as the president of hockey operations for the Flames and the Pittsburgh Penguins. Furthermore, he contributed to the development of women’s hockey by taking on the role of executive director of the Professional Women’s Hockey League Players’ Association.
Jamie Langenbrunner, a prominent figure in NHL history, enjoyed an 18-season career with the Dallas Stars, New Jersey Devils, and St. Louis Blues. His extensive career statistics include 663 points (243 goals, 420 assists) in 1,109 games. Langenbrunner’s remarkable performances during the Stanley Cup Playoffs earned him accolades, with 10 goals in 23 games during the 1999 playoffs, helping the Stars clinch the championship. In 2003, he was a pivotal player for the New Jersey Devils, tying for the postseason lead with 18 points. Born in Cloquet, Minnesota, Langenbrunner represented the United States at multiple Olympics and now contributes to the Boston Bruins front office.
Katie King Crowley, an accomplished coach, is entering her 17th season at Boston College. She boasts an impressive record of 374 wins, 148 losses, and 53 ties. Her leadership led the Eagles to the Frozen Four five times, with a standout season in 2015-16 when BC achieved a 40-1 record, culminating in a national championship appearance. Crowley, a native of Salem, New Hampshire, has also made her mark as a player, participating in three Olympic Games and securing gold in 1998, silver in 2002, and bronze in 2006. Her prowess extends to the international stage, where she clinched a gold medal at the 2005 IIHF Women’s World Championship.
Brian Murphy, a distinguished NHL official, officiated on the ice from 1988 to 2020. In a notable achievement, he became the eighth person to officiate 2,000 regular-season games on March 16, 2019. Murphy predominantly served as a linesman but also took on the role of referee for 88 games during the NHL’s transition to a two-referee system in 1998-99. Hailing from Dover, New Hampshire, Murphy’s remarkable career included 304 playoff games, including nine appearances in the Stanley Cup Final.
The U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2023 represents a rich tapestry of talent, dedication, and contribution to the sport of hockey. Their induction is a testament to their enduring impact on the game, and they will forever be celebrated as icons in the world of American hockey.
