The Color of Hockey: Devante Smith-Pelly’s New Chapter as a Broadcaster
Since 2012, William Douglas has been a prominent voice in the hockey community through his blog, The Color of Hockey. In 2019, he took his passion for storytelling to NHL.com, where he focuses on highlighting the contributions of people of color in the sport. One of his recent profiles shines a light on retired NHL forward Devante Smith-Pelly, who is stepping into a new role as an analyst for the Washington Capitals’ broadcasts this season.
A New Beginning for Smith-Pelly
Devante Smith-Pelly, a veteran of eight NHL seasons, is embracing a fresh start as he transitions from player to broadcaster. Standing in a studio area outside Capital One Arena before the Capitals’ home opener against the New Jersey Devils on October 12, Smith-Pelly expressed a mix of excitement and nerves. “I feel like a rookie again,” he said, reflecting on the challenges and learning curves that come with his new role.
As he prepares to go on air for a pregame segment, Smith-Pelly acknowledges the support he has received from the broadcast crew. “The whole crew behind the scenes have been very, very helpful and very patient with me as I transition to this new life,” he noted, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that is essential in the world of sports broadcasting.
Embracing the Analyst Role
This season, Smith-Pelly will appear as an analyst for approximately 25-30 Capitals broadcasts, including pregame, postgame, and alternate segments. His role is reminiscent of ESPN’s “ManningCast,” where he will provide insights and commentary that enhance the viewing experience for fans. The opportunity to engage with the audience in this way is something Smith-Pelly is genuinely enthusiastic about.
“I’m looking forward to digging in and scouting, learning about the college game,” he said, particularly excited about his upcoming role during a game between Penn State and Army’s NCAA Division I men’s hockey teams at Capital One Arena on December 12. This event is part of the inaugural Capital Hockey Classic, which also features a matchup between the United States Military Academy West Point and the United States Naval Academy club hockey teams.
A Journey of Discovery
Despite his extensive experience as a player, Smith-Pelly admits that he never played college hockey and hasn’t closely followed it in the past. This new venture into broadcasting presents an opportunity for him to broaden his understanding of the game. “I never played college hockey; it’s not something I’ve really followed,” he said. “I’m excited to challenge myself to call a good game and make sure that the intermission and pre and postgame shows are good shows.”
This eagerness to learn and adapt is a testament to Smith-Pelly’s character. He is not just stepping into a new role; he is committed to mastering it, ensuring that he provides valuable insights to viewers while also enjoying the process of discovery.
Staying Connected to the Game
After retiring from the NHL in 2022, Smith-Pelly found himself at a crossroads, unsure of what his next steps would be. “Honestly, when I retired, I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do,” he shared. However, a trial stint in broadcasting at TSN in Canada opened his eyes to a new passion. “After the first show, I was like, ‘Wow, I actually really enjoyed that,’” he recalled, realizing that he wanted to remain connected to hockey without pursuing coaching.
This new chapter in Smith-Pelly’s life allows him to stay close to the sport that has given him so much. By sharing his insights and experiences as a player, he can contribute to the hockey community in a meaningful way, all while continuing to grow and learn in his new role.
The Impact of Representation
Smith-Pelly’s journey is significant not only for him personally but also for the broader narrative of diversity in hockey. As a player of color who achieved success in the NHL, his transition to broadcasting serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes and broadcasters alike. His presence in the media landscape is a reminder of the importance of representation in sports, encouraging more individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in hockey, whether on the ice or behind the microphone.
As he embarks on this new adventure, Devante Smith-Pelly is not just stepping into a role; he is paving the way for future generations, proving that the love for the game can take many forms.