Jeff Marek's firing finally addressed by Elliotte Friedman on the newest episode of the 32 Thoughts Podcast
Elliotte Friedman finally broke his silence regarding the firing of Jeff Marek on his latest episode of 32 Thoughts with new co-host Kyle Bukauskas.
Early this summer, fans were shocked to learn that Sportsnet had quietly cut ties with longtime host and analyst Jeff Marek. The move was also preceded by reports emerging that Marek had leaked private information pertaining to players in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. Although Marek hasn't yet resurfaced in the world of hockey media, he did issue a statement earlier in the offseason, confirming his departure from Sportsnet and suggesting his next pursuits are on the horizon. He was also seen in Europe at one point reporting.
With the 2024-25 season on the horizon, co-host Elliotte Friedman is ready to bring back the 32 Thoughts podcast. On Thursday, Sportsnet announced that Kyle Bukauskas, a familiar face as an in-arena host, will join the show as Jeff Marek's replacement.
By Friday morning, Elliotte Friedman and Kyle Bukauskas had already dropped their first episode as the new podcast duo. During the podcast, Friedman did speak about his experiences working with Marek but avoided discussing the details of his on-air partner's termination from Rogers. He did reveal that Sportsnet had given him the opportunity to exit the program after Marek's exit. Friedman opted to stay with the show, first producing one solo episode in mid-August before pairing up with Bukauskas.
«We were going to do this for 2000 years we were going to outlive everyone.»
My belief has always been, it's Jeff Marek's story to speak about first and that's the way I'm going to leave it. When Jeff talks, some day after that, I will talk. Jeff is a great broadcaster, he brought out the best in me in this podcast and he's a huge reason why it's got to where it is. I will miss his stupid weird ideas, and I will miss working with him,» Friedman added. «As great as he is a broadcaster, he's an even better person I believe Jeff will land on his feet. I look forward to seeing what the next chapter in his life is.»
- Elliotte Friedman
My belief has always been, it's Jeff Marek's story to speak about first and that's the way I'm going to leave it. When Jeff talks, some day after that, I will talk. Jeff is a great broadcaster, he brought out the best in me in this podcast and he's a huge reason why it's got to where it is. I will miss his stupid weird ideas, and I will miss working with him,» Friedman added. «As great as he is a broadcaster, he's an even better person I believe Jeff will land on his feet. I look forward to seeing what the next chapter in his life is.»
- Elliotte Friedman
The new co-hosts then broke down each team's offseason moves, talked about heartfelt tributes to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, speculated at a possible Sidney Crosby contract extension in Pittsburgh, and a look ahead at what might be in store for Mitch Marner in Toronto.
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| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 6 | 280 ANSWERS Jeff Marek's firing finally addressed by Elliotte Friedman on the newest episode of the 32 Thoughts Podcast Are you happy with the choice being Kyle Bukauskas? | ||
| Yes | 118 | 42.1 % |
| No | 162 | 57.9 % |
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