Best Hockey Play By Play Announcer
Hockey is an exhilarating sport that is enjoyed by millions of people worldwide. The speed, agility, and skill of the players make it a thrilling experience for fans. But one thing that can elevate the excitement even further is a great play-by-play announcer. A good announcer can capture the essence of the game and make it an unforgettable experience for the viewers. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best hockey play-by-play announcers in the world.
1. Doc Emrick
Mike "Doc" Emrick is a legend in the world of hockey broadcasting. He has been calling games for over four decades and has been the voice of some of the biggest moments in hockey history. His emotional and descriptive commentary has made him a fan favorite and one of the most respected announcers in the game.
Emrick's attention to detail is unmatched. He meticulously prepares for each game, researching stats, player profiles, and any other relevant information. This level of preparation allows him to provide insightful analysis and bring a unique perspective to the game. His use of colorful language and creative metaphors makes even the most routine play exciting to listen to.
Emrick has won eight Sports Emmy Awards for Outstanding Sports Personality – Play-by-Play, including seven consecutive wins from 2014-2020. His contributions to the sport of hockey have been immeasurable, and he will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the all-time greats.
2. Jim Hughson
Jim Hughson is a Canadian broadcaster who has been calling NHL games for over 30 years. He is the lead commentator for Hockey Night in Canada and is also the voice of the NHL video game franchise.
Hughson is known for his smooth, calm delivery and his ability to capture the excitement and intensity of the game. His commentary is insightful and informative, and he has a great understanding of the game of hockey. He is also known for his ability to let the game speak for itself and knowing when to stay quiet and let the action do the talking.
Hughson has won four Gemini Awards for Best Sports Analyst/Commentator, and his contributions to hockey broadcasting have been invaluable.
3. Mike Lange
Mike Lange is a legendary announcer who has been calling Pittsburgh Penguins games since 1974. He is known for his colorful catchphrases and his ability to create a lively atmosphere in the arena.
Lange's unique style has made him a fan favorite in Pittsburgh and across the hockey world. His "Scratch my back with a hacksaw" call is one of the most famous in hockey history, and he has created countless other memorable moments over the years.
Lange has won two Sports Emmy Awards for Outstanding Sports Personality – Play-by-Play, and his contributions to the sport of hockey have been immeasurable.
4. John Forslund
John Forslund is a well-respected announcer who has been calling NHL games since the early 1990s. He is known for his clear, concise delivery and his ability to break down complex plays for the viewers.
Forslund's commentary is always informative and insightful, and he has a great understanding of the game of hockey. He is also known for his ability to stay calm and focused, even in high-pressure situations.
Forslund has won two Sports Emmy Awards for Outstanding Sports Personality – Play-by-Play, and his contributions to hockey broadcasting have been invaluable.
Conclusion
There are many great play-by-play announcers in the world of hockey, but these four stand out as some of the best. Doc Emrick's attention to detail and creative language, Jim Hughson's smooth delivery and insightful analysis, Mike Lange's colorful catchphrases and lively atmosphere, and John Forslund's clear and concise commentary are all qualities that make these announcers exceptional at their craft. No matter which announcer you prefer, it's clear that they all have a deep love and appreciation for the game of hockey, and their contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come.
