Summary
The Stanley Cup Playoffs begin Saturday, marking a demanding period for hockey, with Ron MacLean, a venerable figure in Canadian broadcasting since 1987, continuing as a staple of Hockey Night in Canada. Despite the show’s tumultuous history, including losing and regaining his hosting role, MacLean is poised to remain with the program following the recent surprise extension of Rogers’ NHL broadcasting rights for another 12 years at $11 billion. Reflecting on his career, MacLean expresses relief for his younger colleagues amid past uncertainties regarding the show’s future.