The final whistle for CBC's Hockey Night
CBC and Sportsnet announced that the current NHL season will be the last one aired on CBC, bringing an end to the network’s decades‑long tradition of broadcasting Hockey Night in Canada.
The move is tied to Rogers Communications’ $11 billion deal for the league’s national broadcasting rights, a contract that was renewed for another 12 years and that earmarks the games for Rogers’ streaming service, Sportsnet+.
Journalist Simon Houpt has highlighted how the program was more than a sports broadcast; it served as a national gathering point and a reflection of Canadian identity, making its loss feel like a cultural shift.
A ritual that defined a generation
For generations, families across the country tuned in on Saturday evenings to watch Ron MacLean and Don Cherry’s commentary, a ritual that blended sport with a shared sense of community.
The tradition stretched back 74 years, embedding itself in the fabric of Canadian households and becoming synonymous with the sport itself.
As the final puck drops on CBC’s broadcast, the league and its partners hope the move will secure a sustainable future for hockey coverage, even as fans grapple with the end of an era.
A new era of sports broadcasting
The shift to a subscription‑based model also signals a broader change in how Canadians consume live sports, as advertisers and viewers adapt to a landscape where premium streaming replaces free over‑the‑air access.