Former NHL goaltender Kelly Hrudey, a prominent voice on "Hockey Night in Canada" for decades, is departing Sportsnet after the network chose not to extend his contract. This decision marks the conclusion of a significant 28-year association for Hrudey with the broadcaster, which began shortly after his retirement from professional hockey in July 1998. Hrudey publicly shared the news of his departure on social media, reflecting on his extensive career and expressing appreciation for his colleagues and the opportunities he was afforded.
Hrudey's broadcast journey extends even further back, totaling 32 years, as he had already ventured into commentary during his active playing days. He joined postseason coverage for "Hockey Night in Canada" in his final four seasons whenever his team did not qualify for the playoffs. His long tenure included working alongside notable figures such as Ron MacLean, Kevin Bieksa, and Jennifer Botterill, particularly on national telecasts since the 2014-15 season. While he did not disclose the specific reasons for Sportsnet's decision, Hrudey maintained a gracious and thankful demeanor, looking back fondly on the memories created and hinting at an exciting "act three" for his career, without revealing its exact nature.
Kelly Hrudey's Illustrious Playing Career in the NHL
Kelly Hrudey's journey in professional hockey began when he was drafted by the New York Islanders in the second round of the 1980 NHL Draft. He made his debut in the 1983-84 season, playing a limited 12 games, but quickly established himself as a formidable presence between the pipes. By the 1984-85 season, Hrudey became a regular starter for the Islanders, leading the team in appearances for six consecutive seasons. His impactful tenure with the Islanders eventually concluded in the 1988-89 season when he joined the Los Angeles Kings.
Hrudey spent eight seasons guarding the net for the Los Angeles Kings, serving as their primary goaltender until the 1995-96 season, when Byron Dafoe took over the starting role. He concluded his distinguished playing career with two seasons at the San Jose Sharks, ultimately retiring after the 1997-98 season. Throughout his career, Hrudey compiled a record of 271 wins, 265 losses, and 88 ties, along with a save percentage of .893 and a goals-against average of 3.43. He participated in 85 playoff games, securing 36 wins and 46 losses, notably starting for Los Angeles in the 1993 Stanley Cup Finals during the era of Wayne Gretzky. Despite reaching the finals, his team ultimately lost to Montreal in a 4-1 series, marking his closest attempt at winning the Stanley Cup as a starter.
The Conclusion of Hrudey's Broadcasting Chapter with Sportsnet
The long-standing partnership between Kelly Hrudey and Sportsnet has come to an end, with the network opting not to renew the contract of the esteemed hockey broadcaster. Hrudey, a former NHL goaltender with 15 seasons under his belt, conveyed the news of his departure on social media, expressing profound gratitude for his extended career in broadcasting. He acknowledged the many individuals behind the scenes, from producers and directors to the hair and makeup teams, crediting them for their invaluable support in making him appear presentable on air.
Hrudey's venture into broadcasting predates his full retirement from playing, as he began contributing to "Hockey Night in Canada" postseason coverage during the final four seasons when his teams missed the playoffs. He revealed that he had been aware of Sportsnet's decision for some time, with official notification received on June 19 that he would not return for the upcoming season. While he did not disclose his future plans, Hrudey hinted at an exciting "act three," affirming that this transition is not a retirement from public life. He has previously served as a color analyst for the Calgary Flames, both nationally and regionally, suggesting a potential continuation in hockey-related roles.
