Mark Messier, a Hockey Hall of Famer and six-time Stanley Cup champion, leads a team of analysts and commentators set to cover Amazon Prime’s inaugural Canadian broadcast of “Monday Night Hockey” throughout the upcoming NHL season, as announced by the league and Prime Video on Monday.
According to a post from Sports on Prime Canada on X, Messier will present 10 engaging segments featuring anecdotes from his illustrious career, which will air during the season. The former center spent 25 seasons in the NHL, playing for teams such as the Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, and Vancouver Canucks.
Lights, camera, Prime. 🎬
Introducing the broadcast talent squad for Prime Monday Night Hockey. pic.twitter.com/hlbtygMc85
— Sports on Prime Canada (@SportsOnPrimeCA) September 23, 2024
Each week, Adnan Virk and Andi Petrillo will co-host from the on-site desk, with Blake Bolden joining as an analyst along with various local guests throughout the season. John Forslund will handle play-by-play duties, while Jody Shelley, Thomas Hickey, and Shane Hnidy will contribute as analysts.
Canadian viewers can tune in to “Prime Monday Night Hockey” starting on October 14, when the Montreal Canadiens face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins at 7 p.m. ET. The program will cover “all national regular-season Monday night NHL games in English throughout the 2024-25 season for Prime Members in Canada,” as noted in the announcement.
What the cast brings
While Messier is the marquee name, Forslund is the significant addition for Amazon and Canadian fans. Currently the play-by-play voice for the Seattle Kraken and a former commentator for the Carolina Hurricanes, Forslund has gained recognition in recent years on NBC Sports and TNT, positioning himself as a leading candidate to succeed Doc Emrick as the premier voice of hockey in the United States.
In the modern broadcasting landscape, he stands out as one of the finest. It will be interesting to see which of the three analysts secures the main color-commentary role and who assumes responsibility as the between-the-benches or sideline interviewer, though Hnidy undoubtedly boasts an advantage in experience.
Messier has previously served as a lead studio analyst for ESPN. While he does have his notable moments, he can sometimes appear a bit rigid. If Amazon intends to leverage him primarily for pre-recorded segments that draw from the wealth of stories he has about his playing days, this could be a more effective utilization of his talents.
Most former players excel at reminiscing about their glory days rather than discussing current events. Virk and Petrillo are both accomplished professionals, while Bolden is a promising voice in ESPN’s coverage, bringing top-tier professional hockey experience along with a community role with the Los Angeles Kings.
Although Amazon isn’t reinventing the wheel in this endeavor, it has assembled a well-crafted studio setup that should enhance the streaming service’s credibility as it steps into the NHL domain. The most thrilling addition is the “NHL Coast to Coast” whip-around show.
NFL RedZone has been a resounding success for numerous years and has inspired numerous imitations (most recently seen in Peacock’s Olympic coverage), yet none have come close to replicating its success. NHL Network has offered an “On The Fly” program for years, featuring live look-ins across the league, but a true RedZone-like channel would be incredibly valuable for hockey fans, especially on nights when most teams compete.
Unfortunately, American fans will need to be patient for their version. — Mark Lazerus, senior NHL writer
Required reading
(Photo: Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)
Mark Messier Leads Amazon Prime’s Star-Studded Broadcast Team for Inaugural Monday Night Hockey
Overview of Amazon Prime’s Monday Night Hockey
Amazon Prime Video is taking sports broadcasting to the next level with the launch of its inaugural Monday Night Hockey. This highly anticipated event is set to transform how fans enjoy NHL games, combining innovative streaming technology with an ensemble cast of hockey legends. Leading the charge is none other than Mark Messier, a two-time Stanley Cup champion and one of the greatest players in hockey history.
Mark Messier: A Legend in Hockey Broadcasting
Mark Messier, known for his leadership both on and off the ice, has seamlessly transitioned into the world of sports broadcasting. With his extensive experience and deep understanding of the game, Messier brings a unique perspective that captivates fans. His insightful analysis and charismatic presence make him an invaluable addition to Amazon Prime’s broadcast team.
Star-Studded Broadcast Team
In addition to Messier, Amazon Prime’s broadcast team features a lineup of hockey greats and experienced commentators, ensuring that viewers receive expert analysis and entertaining commentary. Some notable members of the team include:
- Wayne Gretzky – The all-time leading scorer in NHL history.
- Paul Bissonnette – Former NHL player and popular podcast host.
- Catherine Tappan – Renowned sports journalist and host.
- Brian Boucher - Former NHL goaltender and analyst.
What to Expect from the Broadcast
Amazon Prime’s Monday Night Hockey promises a fresh viewing experience with several exciting features:
- Multi-Camera Angles: Viewers can choose from various camera angles, providing a more personalized viewing experience.
- Interactive Features: Fans can engage with live polls, trivia, and social media integration during the broadcast.
- Expert Analysis: In-depth analysis from hockey legends will help fans understand intricate strategies and game dynamics.
- Behind-the-Scenes Content: Exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage will keep viewers connected to the players and coaches.
Benefits of Watching Monday Night Hockey on Amazon Prime
Choosing Amazon Prime Video for Monday Night Hockey comes with several advantages:
- Accessibility: Fans can watch games on various devices, including smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones, making it easy to tune in from anywhere.
- Ad-Free Experience: Subscribers enjoy uninterrupted viewing, allowing for a more immersive experience.
- On-Demand Replays: Miss a game? Amazon Prime offers on-demand access to past matches, ensuring fans never miss a moment.
Technical Innovations Enhancing the Viewing Experience
Amazon Prime is leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance the hockey viewing experience. Some key innovations include:
- Enhanced Streaming Quality: Expect high-definition streaming with minimal buffering, even during peak viewing times.
- Real-Time Game Stats: Viewers can access live stats and player performance metrics during the game.
Case Study: Transitioning to Streaming Sports
Amazon’s venture into sports broadcasting is not without precedent. Other streaming platforms like ESPN+ and DAZN have successfully launched sports packages, demonstrating the viability of streaming as a primary medium for sports. The success of these platforms showcases a growing trend where traditional cable subscriptions are declining, and streaming services gain traction.
First-Hand Experience: The Excitement of Watching Live Games
Fans who have experienced live NHL games can attest to the electrifying atmosphere. With Monday Night Hockey, Amazon Prime aims to replicate that excitement from the comfort of home. During a recent test broadcast, viewers reported impressive engagement, with interactive features sparking lively discussions on social media.
How to Access Monday Night Hockey on Amazon Prime
To catch all the action of Monday Night Hockey, follow these simple steps:
- Subscribe to Amazon Prime if you haven’t already. Enjoy a 30-day free trial if you’re a new user.
- Download the Amazon Prime Video app on your device or visit the website.
- Navigate to the live sports section to find Monday Night Hockey broadcasts.
- Set reminders for upcoming games to ensure you don’t miss out on any action.
FAQ: Common Questions About Monday Night Hockey
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is Monday Night Hockey exclusive to Amazon Prime? | Yes, it is exclusively available for Amazon Prime subscribers. |
| Can I watch replays of previous games? | Yes, all games will be available for on-demand viewing after they air. |
| Will there be commentary in multiple languages? | Currently, commentary is primarily in English, but additional languages may be added in the future. |
Conclusion
With Mark Messier and a talented broadcast team at the helm, Amazon Prime’s inaugural Monday Night Hockey promises an exciting new chapter for hockey fans. By combining legendary insight, interactive features, and innovative technology, this broadcast is set to redefine how we experience the NHL. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, don’t miss out on this groundbreaking event!
