In a poignant moment at the 2024 NHL Draft in Las Vegas, Montreal Canadiens prospect Michael Hage, still mourning the loss of his father in a tragic swimming pool accident, was comforted by Sportsnet broadcaster Jeff Marek. Marek, a beloved figure in hockey broadcasting known for his warmth and knowledge of the game, reassured the young player, saying, “The whole hockey world is cheering for you. You know that, right?”
Marek, 55, had built a successful 30-year career in television and radio, rising from an entry-level radio gig to hosting his own show and becoming one of Sportsnet’s signature talents. However, his appearance at the 2024 NHL Draft would be his last with the network. Following the draft, Marek was absent from his popular podcast “32 Thoughts” and missed the final episodes of his daily radio show before a summer hiatus.
Fans speculated about Marek’s sudden absence, and their suspicions were confirmed when Sportsnet quietly parted ways with the broadcaster in July. The reason behind his departure was a sensitive issue that led both parties to remain silent. Marek had reportedly been under scrutiny from the NHL for allegedly sharing draft picks with a friend before they were publicly announced, prompting an investigation by the Nevada Gaming Control Board.
A spokesperson for the Nevada Gaming Control Board declined to comment on the matter when approached by The Athletic, stating, “As a law enforcement and regulatory agency, the Nevada Gaming Control Board does not comment on whether it is, or isn’t, investigating particular persons or entities.” Both the NHL and Sportsnet also refrained from providing any further information, and Marek did not respond to requests for comment.
During the draft broadcast, Marek sat at a desk near team executives and scouts, conducting interviews with newly drafted players. As a member of Sportsnet’s crew, Marek had access to draft selections before they were officially announced, a common practice for broadcast rightsholders. The production team would receive information about picks a few minutes in advance to prepare graphics, videos, and camera angles for the live broadcast.
The sudden end to Marek’s tenure at Sportsnet left many fans and colleagues surprised and disappointed. His kind-hearted demeanor and vast knowledge of hockey had endeared him to audiences, and his absence from the airwaves left a noticeable void in the broadcasting community. The circumstances surrounding his departure remain murky, but Marek’s impact on the world of hockey broadcasting will not soon be forgotten.