What happened: CBC will officially stop airing NHL games under the 'Hockey Night in Canada' banner following the expiration of its sub-licensing agreement with Sportsnet. The announcement arrived as the 2025-26 season concluded with the Carolina Hurricanes securing a 4-2 series victory over the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Final, marking the end of a 74-year broadcasting tradition dating back to 1952.

Why it matters: The transition follows a new 12-year, $11 billion agreement between the NHL and Rogers Communications, making Sportsnet the exclusive national home of the league through 2038. This shift leaves a significant void in Canadian public broadcasting, especially as the Canadiens' exit extends Canada's Stanley Cup drought to 33 years and national sports media rights continue to consolidate.

What to watch: CBC is expected to pivot its sports programming toward Olympic and Paralympic coverage starting next season. Sportsnet will consolidate all national NHL broadcasts onto its own television and streaming platforms.