Chris Cuthbert – Toronto Maple Leafs Broadcaster Marks 30 Years of Iconic NHL Commentary
Chris Cuthbert has become a fixture in Toronto Maple Leafs broadcasts, bringing his distinctive play-by-play style to hockey’s most scrutinized franchise. Cuthbert currently serves as the primary voice for Maple Leafs games on Sportsnet. He calls most national and regional matchups for the team, establishing himself as the soundtrack to the team’s recent campaigns. His journey to this role followed a winding path through Canadian broadcasting, with previous stints at TSN, NBC, and CBC Sports.
The veteran broadcaster recently demonstrated his uncanny ability to capture moments when he seemingly talked Toronto forward Alex Steeves’ first NHL goal into existence during a broadcast. This “reverse announcer jinx” showcased why Cuthbert has earned respect from viewers across the hockey landscape. While some Edmonton fans have expressed frustration with his work alongside color commentator Craig Simpson, his professionalism and experience continue to make him a valued voice in hockey circles.
Cuthbert’s recent assignments have included calling Maple Leafs games from unique venues like Arizona’s Mullett Arena, where he witnessed the continued evolution of Toronto star Auston Matthews. His ability to adapt to different broadcast environments while maintaining his trademark delivery has cemented his position as one of hockey’s most recognizable voices.
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Chris Cuthbert’s Biography
Chris Cuthbert has established himself as one of Canada’s most recognizable sportscasting voices through decades of dedicated work in broadcasting. His journey from small-town beginnings to becoming a lead NHL commentator showcases his exceptional talent and passion for sports.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 20, 1957, in Brampton, Ontario, Chris Cuthbert developed an early passion for sports that would shape his future career. Growing up in Canada, he was immersed in the country’s rich hockey culture, which influenced his later specialization in hockey commentary.
Cuthbert pursued higher education at Queen’s University, where he likely honed his communication skills. His academic background provided a solid foundation for his broadcasting career.
After completing his education, Cuthbert’s first significant professional role was as sports director at CJAD radio in Montreal. This position marked the beginning of what would become a distinguished career in Canadian sports broadcasting.
Rise to Prominence
Cuthbert’s career gained momentum when he joined CBC Sports, where he developed his distinctive play-by-play style. His clear delivery and deep knowledge of hockey made him increasingly popular with Canadian audiences.
His reputation grew as he covered numerous hockey tournaments and other sporting events across Canada. Cuthbert’s voice became synonymous with important moments in Canadian sports, particularly in hockey.
In a significant career move, Cuthbert later joined Sportsnet, becoming their lead play-by-play commentator for NHL broadcasts. This transition solidified his status as one of the premier sportscasters in the country.
Notable Achievements
Cuthbert’s exceptional broadcasting talents have earned him recognition throughout his career. His ability to capture the excitement of pivotal moments has made him an all-time great among hockey commentators.
His work on Hockey Night in Canada, a cultural institution in the country, has cemented his place in Canadian broadcasting history. Cuthbert’s distinctive voice has narrated countless memorable hockey moments for generations of fans.
Beyond hockey, Cuthbert has demonstrated versatility by covering multiple sports at a high level. His enthusiastic yet measured approach to broadcasting shows his genuine love for sports and commitment to quality commentary.
Career Highlights:
- Lead play-by-play for NHL on Sportsnet
- Primary voice for Hockey Night in Canada
- Extensive Olympic Games coverage
- Respected for his genuine excitement and professionalism
Broadcasting Career
Chris Cuthbert has built an illustrious broadcasting career spanning over three decades, becoming one of Canada’s most recognizable sports voices. His distinctive play-by-play style has made him a fixture in Canadian homes during hockey and football broadcasts.
Start in Sports Broadcasting
Cuthbert’s journey began in the early 1980s at CJAD Radio in Montreal, where he cut his teeth covering local sports. He quickly displayed a natural talent for play-by-play commentary that would become his trademark.
His big break came when he joined CBC Sports in 1984, initially in a supporting role before moving into more prominent positions. The network recognized his potential and began assigning him to cover various sporting events.
By the late 1980s, Cuthbert was regularly handling play-by-play duties for CBC’s hockey broadcasts. His clear delivery and ability to capture the excitement of crucial moments made him stand out from his peers.
Mainstream Sports Networks
Cuthbert’s reputation grew as he became a fixture on CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada. His voice became synonymous with Saturday night hockey across the country.
Beyond hockey, Cuthbert demonstrated versatility by excelling in CFL football coverage. His calls of Grey Cup championship games earned him praise for balancing technical knowledge with infectious enthusiasm.
His Olympic broadcasting experience includes memorable work during the 2010 Winter Olympics, where he called events for CTV. His ability to quickly adapt to different sports showcased his exceptional broadcasting skills.
Cuthbert earned multiple Canadian Screen Awards for his work, cementing his status as one of the country’s elite sports broadcasters.
The Shift from CBC to TSN
In 2005, Cuthbert made a significant career move, leaving CBC to join TSN. This transition coincided with the end of the NHL lockout, and he became TSN’s lead football announcer.
At TSN, Cuthbert called hundreds of CFL games while continuing to cover NHL hockey. His partnership with analyst Glen Suitor for CFL broadcasts became one of the most respected broadcasting teams in Canadian sports.
His work at TSN further established his reputation for excellence, particularly his ability to elevate big moments with precise, emotional calls that resonated with viewers.
During his 15-year tenure at TSN, Cuthbert became the network’s most reliable voice for their biggest events, solidifying his status among Canada’s broadcasting elite.
A Voice Synonymous with National Events
In 2020, Cuthbert joined Sportsnet, bringing his recognizable hockey voice to Rogers’ NHL coverage. This move gave him an even larger platform as part of the national NHL broadcast team.
Cuthbert’s play-by-play style has earned him a reputation as an all-time great among fans. His genuine excitement and passion for sports come through clearly in his broadcasts.
Throughout his career, Cuthbert has called multiple Stanley Cup Finals, Grey Cups, and Olympic events. His voice has become woven into the fabric of Canadian sports broadcasting.
Even after joining Sportsnet, Cuthbert maintained his commitment to covering CFL games, demonstrating his dedication to Canadian football while continuing to excel in hockey coverage.
Chris Cuthbert and the Toronto Maple Leafs
Chris Cuthbert has become a familiar voice for Toronto Maple Leafs fans, calling many of their most significant moments from the broadcast booth. His distinct play-by-play style has accompanied Leafs fans through thrilling victories and heartbreaking defeats alike.
Covering the Maple Leafs
Cuthbert regularly handles Maple Leafs telecasts on Sportsnet as part of his role as a lead NHL play-by-play commentator. He typically works alongside analyst Craig Simpson for these broadcasts, creating a recognizable commentary team for Leafs fans.
Some fans have noticed the rotating broadcast crews, with both Cuthbert and Joe Bowen covering games. This rotation happens because different broadcasts feature different announcers depending on the network and regional coverage agreements.
Cuthbert has been particularly attentive to the evolution of star center Auston Matthews, whose goal-scoring prowess has given the broadcaster plenty of exciting moments to narrate. During a Leafs game at Mullett Arena, Cuthbert provided insight into Matthews’ development as a player.
Memorable Leafs Games
One standout moment in Cuthbert’s Leafs coverage came when he executed what fans call a “reverse announcer jinx” during a Toronto game. Just before Alex Steeves scored his first NHL goal, Cuthbert mentioned the player was looking for his first career tally. Seconds later, the puck was in the net, giving the Leafs a 1-0 lead.
During the 2023-24 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Cuthbert called several dramatic Atlantic Division matchups involving the Maple Leafs. His measured tone during overtime periods has become something of a trademark.
Notable Leafs Games Called by Cuthbert (2024-25 Season)
| Date | Opponent | Result | Network | Notable Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 15, 2025 | Columbus | W 4-2 | Sportsnet | Matthews hat trick |
| Feb 28, 2025 | Boston | L 3-2 (OT) | Hockey Night in Canada | Atlantic Division showdown |
| Mar 22, 2025 | Ottawa | W 5-3 | Sportsnet Ontario | Steeves’ milestone goal |
Partnerships and On-Air Synergy
Chris Cuthbert has developed strong broadcasting partnerships throughout his career calling Toronto Maple Leafs games. His chemistry with different analysts brings depth and insight to hockey broadcasts.
Dynamic with Craig Simpson
Cuthbert’s partnership with Craig Simpson on Sportsnet stands as one of Canadian hockey’s most recognizable commentary duos. Their contrasting styles create a balanced broadcast experience for viewers.
Simpson, a former NHL player, brings technical analysis while Cuthbert delivers crisp play-by-play action. This partnership began when Cuthbert joined Sportsnet in 2020 after leaving TSN.
The pair often faces scrutiny from dedicated Leafs fans. Some Toronto supporters on social media have criticized them for perceived neutrality in national broadcasts, with Reddit threads occasionally questioning their enthusiasm for Leafs highlights.
Despite criticism, their professional approach maintains broadcast integrity, focusing on accurate game calling rather than home-team favoritism.
Work with Ray Ferraro
Before his Sportsnet move, Cuthbert formed an effective tandem with Ray Ferraro at TSN. Their partnership spanned major hockey events including World Championships and Winter Olympics broadcasts.
Ferraro’s quick-witted analysis complemented Cuthbert’s measured delivery. The duo received praise for their ability to explain complex plays in simple terms while maintaining narrative flow.
Their broadcast style contrasts with local radio team Joe Bowen and Jim Ralph on Sportsnet 590 The Fan, who bring more partisan Leafs enthusiasm.
Unlike the more emotionally connected local broadcasts, Cuthbert and Ferraro maintained neutral tones fitting national coverage expectations while still capturing game excitement through detailed storytelling and technical observations.
Significant Events and Highlights
Chris Cuthbert has cemented his legacy in Canadian sports broadcasting through numerous memorable calls spanning hockey, football, and Olympic events. His distinctive voice has become synonymous with some of the most dramatic moments in Canadian sports history.
Iconic Hockey Moments
Cuthbert’s NHL career reached new heights with the Toronto Maple Leafs. His play-by-play commentary added gravity to crucial moments. His call of the Maple Leafs’ dramatic Game 6 against Tampa Bay highlighted how penalty problems undermined Toronto’s efforts.
In recent seasons, Cuthbert has provided insight on the Maple Leafs’ roster construction. He particularly noted the team’s goaltending depth with Stolarz and Hildeby. He’s also addressed Toronto’s offensive struggles during crucial playoff stretches.
One particularly memorable broadcast came during the December 4, 2021 matchup between Toronto and Minnesota, where Cuthbert’s energetic delivery captured the back-and-forth nature of the contest.
Calls of the Grey Cups
Beyond hockey, Cuthbert has distinguished himself as a premier CFL broadcaster. His Grey Cup calls feature the perfect blend of excitement and analytical clarity that elevates championship moments.
Cuthbert’s preparation for Grey Cup broadcasts is meticulous. He often spends weeks researching player backgrounds and storylines. This attention to detail allows him to weave narrative context seamlessly into the biggest plays.
His ability to capture the emotional weight of decisive CFL playoff moments has made him a favorite among football fans. Cuthbert’s voice rising with the crowd creates an immersive experience for viewers.
Olympic Coverage
Cuthbert’s Olympic broadcasting career spans multiple Games. His versatility shines across various sports. His ability to quickly master the nuances of different events demonstrates his exceptional broadcasting range.
His Olympic calls balance technical expertise with accessibility for casual viewers. Cuthbert possesses a unique talent for explaining complex sporting moments without condescension or oversimplification.
The broadcaster’s preparation for Olympic assignments is legendary among colleagues. He typically arrives weeks before events begin, interviewing athletes and coaches. This ensures his commentary remains authoritative and informative.
Industry Recognition and Awards
Chris Cuthbert has garnered impressive recognition throughout his broadcasting career. His exceptional talent and dedication to sports broadcasting have earned him multiple prestigious accolades and a place among Canada’s broadcasting elite.
Gemini Award Wins
Cuthbert’s excellence behind the microphone hasn’t gone unnoticed by his peers. In 1998, he won a Gemini Award for Best Sports Broadcaster, cementing his status as one of Canada’s premier play-by-play voices.
This wasn’t his only brush with Gemini glory. Over his illustrious career, Cuthbert has actually collected five Canadian Screen Awards (formerly known as Gemini Awards). These multiple wins demonstrate his consistent excellence and staying power in the industry.
The Canadian broadcasting community further recognized his talents when Sports Media Canada named him Sportscaster of the Year, adding another prestigious honor to his collection.
Canadian Football Hall of Fame Induction
In November 2014, TSN proudly announced Cuthbert’s upcoming induction into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. This honor recognized his exceptional contributions to Canadian football broadcasting throughout his career.
Cuthbert joined the distinguished ranks of the Football Reporters of Canada Hall of Fame, an acknowledgment of his significant impact on football coverage in the country. Few broadcasters achieve this level of recognition, highlighting Cuthbert’s special place in Canadian sports media.
His induction stands as a testament to his skill, professionalism, and lasting influence on how Canadians experience football through his vivid, insightful play-by-play announcing.
Beyond the Play-by-Play
Chris Cuthbert’s relationship with the Toronto Maple Leafs extends far beyond his role as a play-by-play commentator. His contributions to hockey culture and media showcase his deep commitment to the sport both on and off the air.
Involvement in Pre-Season and Off-Season
Cuthbert’s connection to the Maple Leafs doesn’t end when the regular season concludes. During pre-season games, he provides fans with his signature commentary style, helping viewers become familiar with new prospects and returning players alike.
In the off-season, Cuthbert frequently participates in team-related events. He has been known to moderate panel discussions with coaches and management during fan conventions, offering insights that only someone with his experience could provide.
His work during the Hockey Day in Canada celebrations has been particularly noteworthy. Cuthbert serves not just as a broadcaster but as an ambassador for the sport during these national celebrations, often highlighting the rich history of the Maple Leafs organization.
Contributions to Sports Media and Journalism
Cuthbert’s impact on sports media extends beyond television broadcasts. His career began at CJAD Radio, where he developed the distinctive voice and analytical approach that would later become his trademark with the Leafs and other NHL teams.
His written work has appeared in various hockey magazines, providing thoughtful analysis of team dynamics and player development. These pieces showcase a depth of understanding that complements his broadcast work.
| Media Platform | Contribution Type | Notable Work |
|---|---|---|
| Television | Play-by-Play | Maple Leafs primetime games |
| Radio | Commentary | CJAD Hockey coverage |
| Analysis | Season preview features | |
| Digital | Interviews | Player profile segments |
Cuthbert’s ability to translate complex hockey concepts into accessible content has made him a valuable voice in Toronto sports journalism circles.
Role in Promoting Ice Hockey Culture
Cuthbert has been instrumental in growing hockey’s cultural footprint in Toronto. His passionate calls during crucial Maple Leafs moments have become part of the team’s modern folklore, connecting new generations of fans to the game.
His work extends to promoting youth hockey initiatives throughout Ontario. Cuthbert regularly appears at community events, using his platform to advocate for greater accessibility to the sport.
When covering matchups against traditional rivals like the New York Rangers, Cuthbert expertly weaves historical context into his commentary, educating viewers about the rich traditions of these hockey institutions.
His distinctive voice has become synonymous with big Maple Leafs moments. When Auston Matthews makes history in a new era, it’s often Cuthbert’s voice providing the soundtrack, cementing his role as a cultural ambassador for the team and the sport.
The Impact of Broadcasting Changes
Broadcasting shifts have significantly altered the Maple Leafs viewing experience. These changes affected how fans connect with the team and how Chris Cuthbert’s distinctive voice reaches Toronto’s passionate fanbase.
Transition to Sportsnet
Chris Cuthbert made headlines when he jumped ship to join Sportsnet after 15 years at TSN. This move wasn’t a sudden decision – Cuthbert had actually tried to leave for Sportsnet multiple times before finally making the switch in 2020.
The transition meant Cuthbert would call more Maple Leafs games nationally. Sportsnet carried 14 Maple Leafs games regionally this season, with Cuthbert handling play-by-play duties alongside analyst Craig Simpson, according to broadcast rankings.
For Toronto fans, this represented a significant upgrade. Many supporters had long preferred Cuthbert’s calling style over other broadcasters, with some fans even admitting they would sync radio broadcasts with TV footage to hear preferred commentators.
Adjustments During the Pandemic
In 2020, Covid-19 disrupted sports broadcasting. Cuthbert faced unique challenges calling Maple Leafs games. The pandemic forced broadcasters to adapt quickly. They often called games remotely rather than from arena press boxes.
These adjustments came right as Cuthbert joined Sportsnet. This created a double transition – both to a new network and to pandemic broadcasting protocols. Despite these hurdles, his familiar voice provided continuity for fans during uncertain times.
NHL broadcasts during this period required innovative approaches. Empty arenas meant broadcasters needed to generate energy without crowd noise. Meanwhile, technical setups needed complete overhauls to maintain social distancing.
For Maple Leafs fans specifically, Cuthbert’s experienced play-by-play helped normalize the viewing experience. This was important during a period when nothing else about watching hockey felt normal.
