For 20 years Sam Rosen and John Davidson were the popular tandem broadcasting Rangers games on television, and we always assumed their friendship was as tight as their on-air performance. So what of this Flashback Friday photo taken sometime in the late 1980's or early 1990's?
"This picture was part of a publicity photo shoot," explained Rosen the other day. "They decided to have us mock fight because it was at a time when we would disagree, on the air, about the value or virtues of fighting in the NHL. It's a fun picture!"
In reality Sam and JD were---and remain---the closest of friends. They first met when Rosen subbed on some Rangers broadcasts when Davidson was still tending goal for the Blueshirts, and they partnered on air for the first time to broadcast the 1986 NHL All-Star Game for ESPN. Months later they began their 20-year run calling Rangers games together for MSG.
"JD was THE broadcast standard in the NHL, which is why he is in the Hall of Fame," said Rosen. "I used to think I had a great work ethic, but once I saw how hard he worked, i knew I had to raise my level. He made me a better broadcaster. Working with JD was always fun. We had good times, and I believe our friendship and mutual professional respect came across on the air and made us an outstanding team."
Rosen, of course, remains the television voice of the Rangers to this day, partnering with Joe Micheletti on MSG, while Davidson is currently the President of Hockey Operations for the St. Louis Blues.
Have a favorite Sam-JD on-air moment or story? Then please share it below!
