Sportsnet's latest decision involving Ron MacLean proves to be a controversial one

In a social media update, Sigel wrote that MacLean will be back "barring the unforeseen," putting him on track for a remarkable 41st season calling NHL hockey on Canadian television.

But Sigel's report came with a catch that has hockey fans far more concerned than the MacLean news itself.

Neither Elliotte Friedman nor Kevin Bieksa has a finalized contract with Sportsnet as of yet.

Sigel noted there has been chatter about one or both insiders exploring opportunities with Amazon, which begins its own 12-year Wednesday Night Hockey package this season, though nothing has materialized on that front.

The timing has not sat well with viewers. Sportsnet already chose not to renew Kelly Hrudey's contract for next season, a decision that irritated fans who valued his hockey knowledge.

Adding MacLean's return to that mix, while two of the network's most trusted voices in Friedman and Bieksa remain unsigned, has fueled backlash across social media.

Some fans argue MacLean's hosting style has grown tiresome since his high-profile split from Don Cherry, while others say losing Friedman or Bieksa would be an unacceptable outcome given their standing in the hockey world.

Sportsnet has said it plans to lay out its full hockey broadcast plans in September.

Until then, the futures of Friedman and Bieksa remain the biggest lingering question for Canadian hockey fans heading into the 2026-27 season.

Only time will tell how this all plays out.

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Kevin Bieksa's future with Sportsnet in jeopardy following surprising report