Hockey Night in Canada ends long-standing CBC broadcast run

The long-running Canadian sports institution ‘Hockey Night in Canada’ (HNIC) will not return to the CBC or any other network for the upcoming NHL season starting October 3. This marks the end of a broadcasting era that began in 1952.

Following a period of media rights negotiations, the CBC has decided to stop carrying NHL games to focus on its Olympic commitments, replacing the Saturday night slot with a new primetime showcase for Canadian athletes. While Rogers Sportsnet has secured extensive national rights, the future of the HNIC brand remains in transition.

The broadcast changes are accompanied by significant departures from the on-air talent roster. Hockey Hall of Famer and three-time Olympic champion Jennifer Botterill will not return to the studio panel, and veteran broadcaster Kelly Hrudey has concluded his 28-year tenure with the program. Sportsnet has rebranded its Saturday coverage as ‘Saturday Night Hockey,’ featuring a new studio ensemble including Colby Armstrong, Kevin Bieksa, Elliotte Friedman, and Ron MacLean.