Legendary hockey announcer signs off for what may be the last time
The Toronto Maple Leafs lost to the Florida Panthers last night in game 5 of the conference final, bringing their season to an abrupt end. With lots of changes around the corner now that the season is over, it also could mark the end of a legendary broadcasting career.
As the Leafs were going through the handshake line last night, legendary Leafs announcer Joe Bowen shares heartfelt message as his future as a broadcaster is unknown:
LeafsJellyHD
@LeafsJelly
"If this is the end of the line, been a helluva run for us."
Joe Bowen and Jim Ralph bid farewell for perhaps the last time ever.
Bowen has been the voice of the Leafs since 1982 and without a contract for next year, he may not be back next season. If this is the end, Leaf fans have more to be sad about after the loss in game 5 last night.
Although it is clear the 72 year old wants to continue to work, at this point in his career, Rogers media might choose to go in a different direction for various reasons.
If this is the end for Bowen, he'll leave the broadcast booth as one of the most recognizable play-by-play voices in hockey, with his signature catchphrase, Holy Mackinaw endearing him him to most around the hockey world
POLL |
Should Bowen continue to do Leaf games next season? |
Yes | 148 | 63.8 % |
No | 50 | 21.6 % |
It shouldn't even be a question | 34 | 14.7 % |
List of polls |
|
45 minutes ago | By Daniel Lucente Blackhawks' Connor Bedard's Struggles Have Led HNIC Panel To Debate Changing His Position |
|
2 hours ago | By Daniel Lucente Terrifying Scene as Hockey Player Lays Unconcious On The Ice For 10 Minutes And Has To Be Stretchered Off |
|
3 hours ago | By Julien Trekker Ryan Reaves Responds With Classy Gesture After Horrendous Hit on Darnell Nurse |
|
5 hours ago | By Tom Banks Elliotte Friedman Makes Surprise Statement About The NHL's Salary Cap Situation For 2025-26 |
|
16 hours ago | By Graham Montgomery Terrifying Scene as Ryan Reaves Commits Illegal Head Shot on Oilers Defenseman Darnell Nurse |
|
18 hours ago | By Graham Montgomery Matt Rempe gets special offer from MMA fighter ahead of fight night in Madison Square Garden |
|
19 hours ago | By Graham Montgomery Chicago Blackhawks to make former 1st overall pick a healthy scratch against Vancouver Canucks |
|
21 hours ago | By Tom Banks Montreal Canadiens Prospect Jacob Fowler Suspended After Shocking Incident In Recent NCAA Game |
Previously on Bladeofsteel