The network faces a considerably larger difficulty with Hrudey’s exit…
For more than 20 years, Kelly Hrudey was among the most well-known voices in Canadian hockey broadcasting. However, his abrupt departure from Sportsnet has left the company with a dilemma that it might not be able to fix with just one hire.
On August 5, Hrudey stated on social media that he was told on June 19 that his contract would not be renewed for the 2026-27 season. The relocation brings to an end a 12-year stint with Sportsnet and completes a broadcasting career that dates back to 1998 and covers both CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada and Sportsnet.
As a panelist, the ex-NHL goalie established a special place for himself by being able to explain in-game modifications, positioning, and the nuances of goaltending in a manner that few other television personalities could equal. He became a fixture on national broadcasts because of his ability to adapt that analysis to the current game.
But here’s the twist that makes his departure even more problematic for the channel. Hrudey, as Hockey Patrol emphasizes, was more than just a studio analyst. He also worked as a color commentator for Calgary Flames regional broadcasts with Jon Abbott and Brendan Parker, offering supporters a wealth of institutional knowledge about the team.
As a result, Sportsnet now has two vacant positions rather than just one. The network must find someone who can manage regular regional broadcast duties in Calgary and fill a goaltending voice on its national panel.
Devan Dubnyk, a former goalie for the Minnesota Wild who has established a reputation in his post-playing career as an analyst and appeared on shows like NHL Tonight, is one name that has come up in speculation. However, there is no indication that Sportsnet has identified anyone else, including Dubnyk, as a candidate. It’s still just speculation.
The Flames’ broadcast booth has already been depleted over the last several years. In April 2025, Greg Millen, who frequently covered for Hrudey, died. John Garrett, who was largely a Canucks broadcaster but occasionally appeared on Flames coverage, has also left.
Sportsnet has not publicly stated how it intends to fill either position. The direction of the network’s choosing will speak volumes. It indicates that they still appreciate Hrudey’s contributions if they place a high importance on analytical depth. It might indicate a larger shift in how the network treats hockey coverage if they decide to go with a more entertainment-focused voice or leave the position open.
The broadcast schedule for 2026–2027 is still up in the air, and the answer might need two replacements rather than just one.
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