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Following the retirement of long-tenured broadcaster Roger Millions, Sportsnet has announced changes for the 43 regional games they will cover in 2018-19.
New host Ryan Leslie replaces Millions as the rink-side reporter, while former Calgary Sun writer Eric Francis (pictured, above) joins as a analyst.
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A divisive figure, Francis’ addition sparked controversy all over social media.
When the writer tweeted this:
Excited to announce I have joined Sportsnet full-time as a Senior columnist and TV analyst. I will remain in Calgary, focusing on the Flames and continuing my role on the broadcasts at home, while also traveling more with the team. Pumped join the talented Sportsnet team.
…. a Trevor Johnstone responded thusly: That’s great news EF, @Sportsnet was getting too good. They’ll appreciate you bringing the average back down.
And more negativity showed up on Reddit:
Aren’t these the same geniuses that hired Strombo for HNIC?
Calgary viewers will quickly learn to turn the sound down during the intermissions, just like we do here when Ian McIntyre comes on.
I will definitely miss Roger. All the best to him.