Former NHL goaltender Kelly Hrudey bid farewell to his long-standing role on “Hockey Night in Canada.” Hrudey, 65, shared in a social media video that his contract was not renewed for the upcoming season, ending his tenure with the iconic program. He transitioned to broadcasting immediately after retiring from professional hockey in 1998.
Expressing gratitude to viewers, Hrudey acknowledged that opinions of him varied but embraced both positive and negative feedback. Following a change in NHL broadcasting rights in 2014, Rogers Communications took over exclusive Canadian national broadcast rights, though “Hockey Night in Canada” games continued on CBC-TV until recently.
Throughout his time on the show, Hrudey contributed as both an in-game commentator at NHL arenas and a studio analyst in Toronto, collaborating with host Ron MacLean and fellow analysts. His almost two-decade NHL career, spanning the New York Islanders, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks, provided valuable insights, particularly in the “Behind the Mask” segment where he analyzed goalie performances.
Hrudey expressed appreciation for the team behind the scenes, including directors, production staff, and the hair and makeup crew. Notably, his advocacy for mental health, documented in his book “Calling the Shots: Ups, Downs and Rebounds – My Life in the Great Game of Hockey,” has been a significant aspect of his public persona.
Notably, Hrudey clarified that this departure does not signify his retirement, leaving his future plans undisclosed. Colleague Elliotte Friedman, an analyst on “Hockey Night in Canada,” extended thanks for their 22-year collaboration.
The upcoming season will see significant changes in Canadian hockey broadcasting, with NHL games no longer airing on CBC after nearly 75 years. Additionally, an expansion of streamed games on Amazon’s Prime Video is set to enhance the viewer experience.
Rogers Communications has not provided any official statement regarding Hrudey’s departure. His exit follows another significant departure from “Hockey Night in Canada” as veteran CBC Sports reporter Scott Oake, who hosted the show’s After Hours segment for over two decades, announced his retirement plans earlier this year.