Since ESPN acquired a portion of the NHL’s television rights, the outcomes have been a mix for both the league and its fans. While there have been some noteworthy events like the Frozen Frenzy in October, there have also been numerous instances where the network and its talent have ignored or undermined the league. This is not what they had hoped for in a broadcasting partner.
Despite having some exceptional talent on board, there was one glaring absence that left many people disappointed: Gary Thorne. Thorne, who was the voice of the Baltimore Orioles for a significant period, also served as the voice of ESPN’s hockey coverage from 1992 to 2004, alongside the legendary Bill Clement, who was part of the Flyers’ Cup-winning teams in the mid-’70s. In my opinion, Thorne is one of the greatest hockey commentators of all time, on par with the likes of Mike “Doc” Emrick. Who can forget the chills we felt when he called Ray Borque finally lifting the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2002?
Hence, it is understandable why people felt let down when Thorne, who has also lent his voice to NHL video games over the years, did not join ESPN’s team. The reason for this remains unknown, perhaps he simply did not want to be a part of it. However, a video circulating on X, shared by Birdseye Sports founder Ben Talbott, captures Thorne commentating on one of his grandson’s high school hockey games. It is evident from the video that Thorne has a natural talent for calling hockey games.
Imagine being a high school hockey player and having your games streamed, with the play-by-play being done not by some student in the journalism or broadcast club seeking extra credit, but by none other than Gary Thorne himself. It’s truly remarkable. Personally, I would love to see Gary Thorne back in the broadcast booth for NHL games. In the meantime, let’s enjoy some of Thorne’s memorable goal calls.
According to the Source outkick.com