Thursday, April 17, 2025, marked a bittersweet moment for the New York Rangers and their loyal fanbase as they played their final game of the NHL season, a contest against the Tampa Bay Lightning. But this wasn’t just any ordinary game; it was the culmination of a remarkable 40-year career for their beloved play-by-play announcer, Sam Rosen, who is hanging up his microphone at the age of 77.
The evening was filled with heartfelt tributes to Rosen, who has been the voice of the Rangers for four decades. Before the puck dropped, every Rangers player donned a special jersey featuring Rosen’s name and the number 40, a nod to his extensive tenure with the team. The jerseys also included a patch emblazoned with his iconic call, “It’s a power play goal,” ensuring that his legacy would be woven into the fabric of the franchise long after he departed.
As the Rangers took to the ice for warmups, the atmosphere was electric. Fans packed Madison Square Garden, eager to witness not just a game, but a celebration of a man who has been an integral part of their hockey experience. The Rangers’ color commentator for 20 of those years, Joe Micheletti, joined in the tribute by wearing the same special jersey, underscoring the camaraderie and respect shared among the broadcast team.
Even the visiting team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, recognized Rosen’s contributions to the sport. They presented him with a signed jersey featuring the number 40, a gesture that highlighted the respect he commands throughout the league.
Rosen’s final game was not just a farewell; it was a showcase of his enduring impact on the Rangers community. He marked the occasion with a memorable broadcast, culminating in a 4-0 victory for the Rangers. As the game concluded, Rosen expressed his gratitude to the fans and the organization, stating, “A great way to go out, a 4-0 Rangers win.” His voice, filled with emotion, resonated throughout the arena as he thanked everyone who had been part of his journey.
Throughout the game, MSG Networks honored Rosen by frequently showing him and Micheletti in the booth, allowing fans to savor his final moments on air. Midway through the third period, Rosen was honored on the video board, prompting a “Sam Rosen” chant from the crowd. It was a fitting tribute to a man who has been a constant presence in their lives, calling games for generations.
Reflecting on his career, Rosen shared, “This career has been so much about the great people that I’ve met, in the sport, in the business. It’s been a marvelous career.” His humility and appreciation for the sport and its community were evident as he acknowledged the relationships he formed over the years.
The Rangers’ victory was a perfect send-off for Rosen, who has been synonymous with the franchise. He expressed how fortunate he felt to have witnessed the talents of so many great players, saying, “It has been unimaginable how lucky I’ve been to watch these great, great players.”
As the night drew to a close, Rosen was named the No. 1 star of the game, a final honor that encapsulated his significance to the team. He took a moment to thank the fans, stating, “To the fans watching, a big, big thank you. You’ve made this all possible – your support, your love, your enjoyment of what I’ve been able to do.” His heartfelt words resonated with the audience, many of whom had grown up listening to him call the games.
Rosen’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Rangers. His voice has been the soundtrack to countless memorable moments in Rangers history, and his departure leaves a void that will be felt by fans and players alike. Kenny Albert, who has served as the Rangers’ primary radio play-by-play announcer since 1995, is set to take over the role, stepping into the considerable shoes left behind by Rosen.
The Rangers’ season may have ended with disappointment as they missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2020-21 season, but the farewell to Sam Rosen turned a challenging season into a celebration of a life dedicated to hockey. As fans left Madison Square Garden, there was a shared sense of gratitude for the memories and moments created over the years.
As the Rangers look ahead to the future, they will carry with them the legacy of Sam Rosen, a true icon of the sport. His impact on the franchise and the community will endure, as will the memories of his unforgettable calls and the warmth he brought to the broadcasts.
In the end, it was not just a game; it was a heartfelt tribute to a man who has given so much to the sport and its fans. As the lights dimmed at Madison Square Garden for the last time with Rosen at the helm, it was clear: the Rangers family will miss their voice, but his spirit will always be part of the game.
