There will be some big changes that will permanently alter hockey broadcasting.
The Canadian hockey broadcasting scene may experience a significant shift in time for the 2026–27 NHL season, as two of Sportsnet’s most well-known figures, Elliotte Friedman and Kevin Bieksa, are allegedly in doubt about their futures with the network.
Speculation has already started that Friedman and Bieksa may be moving to other outlets since neither is believed to have an agreement with Sportsnet for the upcoming season. Amazon Prime Video is the most likely candidate; it is expanding its presence in Canadian hockey considerably after agreeing a 12-year contract with Rogers to broadcast national NHL games on Wednesday nights and a few Stanley Cup Playoff series.
The fact that Amazon is a desirable location for established Canadian hockey personalities is a natural result of that expansion. It’s crucial to underline that nothing has been officially finalized, even if there has been a lot of conjecture connecting Friedman and Bieksa to Prime Video. Rather than stating that both broadcasters have already inked contracts with other organizations, reports have characterized them as not having any deals with Sportsnet.
However, for Amazon, it would make sense to add either broadcaster. Friedman has cemented his reputation as one of the Canadian hockey media’s most dependable sources. He has been a crucial component of Sportsnet’s NHL coverage since joining the network in 2014, thanks to his blend of reporting, salary-cap knowledge, and league-wide connections.
In the meanwhile, Bieksa has emerged as one of Canadian hockey’s most well-known television personalities after moving on from his playing career. He has become a fan favorite thanks to his readiness to speak frankly, as well as his sense of humor and evident chemistry with Friedman and the other panel members.
Therefore, losing the duo would be a major blow to Sportsnet’s presentation. Bieksa isn’t just another former NHL player with a mic, and Friedman isn’t just another studio commentator. Both bring with them personalities and points of view that have grown strongly identified with Hockey Night in Canada.
If Sportsnet loses them, Kelly Hrudey, another well-known figure, might be involved in the reorganization.
Hrudey recently stated that Sportsnet would not prolong his contract for the 2026-27 season, bringing an end to his 28-year career as a full-time contributor to Hockey Night in Canada. However, the ex-NHL goalie stated that his exit from Sportsnet does not mean he is retiring.
Hrudey’s next action is therefore very fascinating. There’s at least a chance Hrudey may join Friedman and Bieksa if they finally depart for Amazon, creating a rather extraordinary reunion of recognizable Sportsnet personalities on a rival broadcast.
For the time being, however, there is more speculation than certainty. Although the business has not yet released the whole on-air lineup, Amazon has stated that its presence in the NHL will grow.
The futures of Bieksa and Friedman may turn into one of the most significant narratives in Canada’s hockey media landscape as the new season draws near and training camps approach. Additionally, if the rumors prove true, when the puck drops for the 2026–27 season, Sportsnet might appear very different.
