'HORRIBLE': Furious NHL fans accuse ESPN of sabotaging Avalanche vs. Stars Game 7 with baffling announcer choice
ESPN's decision to assign Sean McDonough to the Avalanche-Stars Game 7 has sparked outrage (Getty Images)
Game 7 of the NHL first-round playoffs between the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars should be a moment of pure anticipation and adrenaline for fans. Yet, a large section of the hockey community is frustrated—not over the teams or players—but because of ESPN's decision on who will call the game. The network's choice to assign Sean McDonough, Ray Ferraro, and Emily Kaplan to the booth for Saturday night's clash at the American Airlines Center hasn't gone down well, especially among Avalanche faithful.
ESPN's commentary team selection sparks outrage among passionate hockey fans
Sean McDonough, a veteran broadcaster, is no stranger to high-profile events. However, his recent absence from NHL coverage due to ongoing health issues, paired with sporadic appearances throughout the regular season, has made his return less than welcome for some fans. Many are wondering why ESPN would bench Bob Wischusen—who called three of the six games in this intense series and has been praised for his energetic and insightful coverage.
'His is horrible man bob has basically done every game and has done it amazing. Sean has been like always HORRIBLE and for some reason he is the main guy. im tired of complaining,' one disgruntled fan posted on X, capturing the broader sentiment. Another simply called ESPN's move a 'joke,' insisting, 'What a joke. The only guy who should be calling that game is @espnbob.'
What makes the situation even more baffling to some is the context: The Avalanche's return to broader TV visibility this season following Comcast's deal with Altitude TV had many fans excited to watch their team more easily. Now, with ESPN handing the mic to someone who hasn't been as engaged in the series, viewers feel let down.
ESPN did assign a capable studio crew—Steve Levy, P.K. Subban, and Mark Messier—for intermission coverage, which adds credibility. But the absence of Wischusen in the main commentary booth has overshadowed that. 'We want Bob Wischusen!!!' one fan exclaimed, summing up the prevailing opinion online.
Also Read:
It wasn't funny for Dallas Stars: Oettinger reacts to Avalanche's lucky goal in Game 6
This isn't the first time ESPN has faced criticism from the NHL community, but with the stakes this high, the backlash is louder than ever. Fans aren't just watching a game—they're experiencing a story unfold, and they want the right narrator.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
2 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
ESPN anchor Jay Harris diagnosed with prostate cancer: All about his wife, kids and net worth
SportsCenter anchor Jay Harris revealed that he was battling prostate cancer during an appearance on Good Morning America on Thursday, June 5. With a career spanning more than two decades, Harris had become a respected and familiar presence in sports journalism, known for his steady voice and deep knowledge of the game. Also Read: ESPN star Jay Harris reveals prostate cancer disgnosis, 'I'll be away from…' According to CelebsWorlds, Harris's net worth is estimated to be $5 million. The sports anchor who joined ESPN in February 2003 has built a solid career as a consistent presence on SportsCenter and other ESPN programs. While exact contract details remain private, industry estimates suggest his annual salary is around $70,000, according to PlayersWiki. This aligns with compensation for veteran sportscasters who have regular airtime but aren't among the network's top-tier earners. His work on special segments and features also contributes to his visibility and overall earnings at the network, as reported by Collegenetworth. Harris's impressive journalism career has also won him several accolades acknowledging his work in the field. These awards include: Silver World Medal from the New York Festivals, Robert L. Vann Award from the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation, EXCEL Award from the Hampton Roads Black Media Professionals and Emmy Awards for his contributions to SportsCenter. Also Read: One Piece LEGO sets inspired by live-action series officially revealed: Release date, preorders, and full set list Harris is married to Stephanie Prigmore, and the two have kept most of their life private but are known to have a close-knit family. The two also share two children– Bryce and Tyra. They also have a strong bond as they continue to support each other in their careers and personal endeavours. Currently, Harris lives in Connecticut with his family, a location that keeps him close to ESPN's headquarters in Bristol. His role at the network often sees him anchoring the late-night editions of SportsCenter, including the 11 p.m. and midnight Eastern broadcasts.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Marco Sturm officially named as Boston Bruins' 30th head coach
Marco Sturm takes over as Bruins' new head coach (Image via: Getty Images) The Boston Bruins have officially named Marco Sturm as the franchise's 30th head coach, marking a significant new chapter in the team's storied history. The announcement came on June 5, with General Manager Don Sweeney expressing confidence that Sturm's combination of experience, leadership, and passion will guide the Bruins into a competitive future. Marco Sturm to lead Boston Bruins into new era of competitive NHL success Don Sweeney highlighted that the Bruins were seeking a coach who could maintain the team's solid defensive foundation while pushing for offensive growth. Sturm's background stood out during the selection process, his extensive playing career, coaching stints at various levels, and international success made him a well-rounded candidate. 'We're proud to name Marco as the 30th Head Coach of the Boston Bruins,' Sweeney said. 'Marco impressed us at every step with his preparation, clarity, and passion. As a former Bruin, he understands what this team means to the city and our fans. We're embracing a new direction with Marco behind the bench and are confident his energy, standards, and commitment to a competitive, hard-nosed brand of hockey reflect exactly what Bruins hockey should be. ' Breaking News: Boston Bruins Hire Marco Sturm as Head Coach At 46, Marco Sturm brings extensive coaching and playing experience. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trading CFD dengan Teknologi dan Kecepatan Lebih Baik IC Markets Mendaftar Undo He led the AHL's Ontario Reign to three consecutive playoff appearances and spent four years as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Kings, helping them reach the 2022 NHL playoffs. Internationally, Sturm guided Germany to a historic silver medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics, their first hockey medal since 1976. As a player, he appeared in 938 NHL games, including with the Bruins, and scored the memorable overtime winner in the 2010 Winter Classic. Sturm is one of the most successful German players in NHL history. Sturm expressed gratitude and excitement for his new role in Boston. 'I'm incredibly honored to be named head coach of the Boston Bruins,' he said. 'I know how much this team means to the city and the fans. I'm excited to get to work and do everything I can to help this team succeed.' Also Read: Leon Draisaitl makes history with one of the fastest goals in Stanley Cup Final Game 1 The Bruins are placing their trust in a coach who understands their identity and possesses the vision to lead them forward. As the team prepares for the upcoming seasons, all eyes will be on Sturm to see how his leadership translates into success on the ice.
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Gary Bettman sparks outrage with ‘abhorrent, disgusting' remark as 2018 World Juniors sexual assault trial nears key stage
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman speaks to the media prior to Game One (Credit: Getty Image) As the hockey world turned its focus to Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman found himself at the center of a firestorm. While he touched on expected topics like CBA talks, taxes, and possible league expansion, it was his remarks about the 2018 World Juniors sexual assault trial that truly caught attention. NHL faces fresh criticism amid trial tensions The trial involves five former Team Canada players, Michael McLeod, Carter Hart, Dillon Dube, Alex Formenton, and Callan Foote, accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a London, Ontario hotel room in 2018, as the court gears up for final arguments, the hockey world watches closely, and Bettman's words have only added fuel to the fire. Fans online quickly responded, with some arguing that the league should have avoided any comment until after a verdict is delivered. The NHL's leadership has previously faced intense scrutiny over how it handles sexual misconduct cases, most notably in the fallout from the 2010 Brad Aldrich scandal with the Chicago Blackhawks. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman speaks to the media prior to Game One (Credit: Getty Image) Joel Quenneville's return adds to the controversy Adding more context to the backlash is the NHL's recent decision to greenlight Joel Quenneville's return. Once a respected coach, Quenneville resigned in 2021 after being named in the cover-up of the Aldrich incident involving Kyle Beach. As the trial moves closer to a verdict and the NHL season concludes, Bettman's comments have done little to reassure fans. They have exposed deeper concerns about the league's stance on serious allegations and how its leadership handles ongoing legal cases. Read more: Reliving the 25 most unforgettable Stanley Cup clinching moments in NHL history While the judicial system works toward a decision, the spotlight remains not just on the courtroom, but on the league's highest office.
