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ESPN Analyst Sparks NHL Debate During Wild Card Game

10/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

ESPN analyst Ben McDonald said he won’t watch NHL Opening Night.
The remark came during the Cubs-Padres Wild Card Game broadcast as he promoted the NHL. Kevin Brown, an ESPN announcer, urged support, but McDonald remained dismissive.
John Buccigross, ESPN hockey host, responded, noting McDonald’s postseason baseball record; the episode spurred talks about ESPN’s NHL commitment following a WWE deal.

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Story summary

ESPN analyst Ben McDonald said he won’t watch NHL Opening Night.
The remark came during the Cubs-Padres Wild Card Game broadcast as he promoted the NHL. Kevin Brown, an ESPN announcer, urged support, but McDonald remained dismissive.
John Buccigross, ESPN hockey host, responded, noting McDonald’s postseason baseball record; the episode spurred talks about ESPN’s NHL commitment following a WWE deal.