No matter the time, it’s still hockey to Barry Melrose
Starting this Friday, ESPN’s Barry Melrose will provide analysis of Olympic hockey action. He generally will be seen on SportsCenter between 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. ET every day games are played. When analyzing NHL action, Melrose usually begins his day at 6 p.m. and ends at 2 a.m. Front Row asked Melrose, who expects Canada, Sweden and the U.S. to medal, about his inverse schedule.
How are you preparing for your upside down schedule since you usually work late nights and now are working mornings?
I spend the whole night awake watching old movies and I sleep during the day. That’s how I am getting ready for the Sochi scheduling where I’m up at 7 o’clock watching games and then I’m done at 6 p.m. instead of 2 a.m. I’ve done the scientific research and felt this is the best way to handle the changeover!
Are you going to be changing your eating schedule or what you eat or drink?
I’ll eat and drink more. I think that’s that the right way to go. That’s the safest way. I’ll stay hydrated and completely full for the duration.
Are you going to watch Olympic games differently than you watch NHL games?
I will because obviously you have to put more focus on the big games and the countries you think have a chance to medal. I don’t plan to spend a lot of time on Slovenia but that might change if they get a couple upset wins. There is an upset every year. Switzerland always surprises and Slovakia certainly can. Early upsets and surprises will grab my attention.
Mainly, I’ll focus on the NHL stars because 99 percent of the time, the teams with the vast majority of NHL players are the teams that win gold and medal.
How will you spend your nights in Bristol?
Catch up on movies and series like Shameless and Walking Dead, have some cigars in my favorite cigar bar. I can’t stay up that late though because I have to wake up early to start watching games again.
Since you’re working the morning shift will you dress any differently?
I’ll wear pajamas until I go do my first hit then I’ll change into a suit! Seriously, I’ll be dressed as nicely at 7 a.m. as I am at 7 p.m.
