Elliotte Friedman (born September 27, 1970) is a Toronto‑born Canadian sports journalist and one of hockey’s most trusted insiders
Since 2014 he’s reported for Sportsnet and appears on Hockey Night in Canada, while co‑hosting the hugely popular 32 Thoughts: The Podcast.
In 2025, Friedman has been central to reporting on NHL free agency, CBA talks, and marquee storylines like Connor McDavid’s next contract window and the futures of stars such as Mitch Marner and Mika Zibanejad.
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Table of Contents
Elliotte Friedman’s Biography
Elliotte Friedman, born on September 27, 1970, in Canada, is a prominent sports journalist well known for his work in hockey.1
As a reporter for Sportsnet and an insider for the NHL Network, Friedman has earned respect across the hockey community and beyond.
His role as a regular panelist on CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada has further cemented his position as one of the leading voices in sports journalism, particularly within the realm of ice hockey.
This article delves into Friedman’s life, career, and his significant contributions to sports media.
NYI and Maxim Tsyplakov avoid arbitration
2 x $2.25M
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) July 25, 2025
Early Life and Education
Friedman was born and raised in a middle-class Jewish household, which played a crucial role in shaping his identity and worldview.
From a young age, Friedman developed a passion for sports, and this interest grew as he pursued higher education at the University of Western Ontario.
While at university, Friedman became heavily involved in journalism, joining the student newspaper The Gazette.
His talent and dedication quickly propelled him from sports editor to editor-in-chief during the 1992-93 academic year.
His work with The Gazette laid the groundwork for what would become a highly successful career in sports journalism. Friedman’s time at university also honed his skills as a critical thinker and an effective communicator—both key traits in his profession.
Elliotte Friedman’s Broadcasting Career
From The Fan 590 to Sportsnet & HNIC
After his time at The Gazette, Friedman sought to transition into professional sports journalism.2
Early in his career, he took on various broadcasting roles, including work with The FAN 590 (now Sportsnet 590 The FAN), a prominent sports radio station in Toronto. His time there helped him develop a reputation as a knowledgeable and passionate sports broadcaster.
In the mid-1990s, Friedman’s profile continued to grow as he joined The Score, a Canadian sports network, where he covered a variety of sports, ranging from basketball to wrestling.
However, it was his growing focus on hockey that started to set him apart from his peers. His in-depth understanding of the sport and his ability to analyze games and report on player performances gained him recognition from both viewers and colleagues.
A Career-Defining Move to CBC and Sportsnet
In 2003, Friedman made a significant career move when he joined CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada, one of the most iconic hockey shows in the country.
At Hockey Night in Canada, he worked alongside some of the biggest names in the industry and quickly became a fixture on the show. His analysis and insider knowledge helped hockey fans gain a deeper understanding of the game, and his calm yet insightful commentary made him a fan favorite.
The year 2014 marked another pivotal moment in Friedman’s career. With Rogers Media securing exclusive rights to NHL broadcasts in Canada, Friedman transitioned to Sportsnet, where he became one of the network’s key reporters and analysts.
His role at Sportsnet expanded his reach within the hockey world, as he became a regular face for hockey news, player interviews, and in-depth analyses.
Friedman’s Influence Grows
Friedman’s expertise and reputation did not go unnoticed by the NHL itself. In addition to his work with Sportsnet, he became an insider for the NHL Network, a role that further amplified his status as one of the go-to sources for reliable hockey news.
Being an insider gave Friedman access to exclusive information about trades, player injuries, and team strategies, making him a crucial resource for fans, teams, and players alike.
As an insider, Friedman regularly breaks major stories and offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the operations of NHL teams. His ability to balance informative reporting with maintaining trust among the hockey community is a testament to his professionalism and work ethic.
Friedman’s presence on the NHL Network has made him an essential part of the modern hockey media landscape.
Journalistic Style: Objectivity, Integrity, and Passion
One of the key elements that sets Elliotte Friedman apart from many sports journalists is his adherence to journalistic integrity.
Throughout his career, Friedman has been known for his objectivity and fair reporting. In a field where bias can sometimes seep into analysis, Friedman’s approach has always been based on facts and well-researched insights.
His reporting style is direct yet thoughtful, allowing viewers to grasp the complexities of the game without feeling overwhelmed.
Friedman’s passion for sports journalism goes beyond merely reporting scores and analyzing plays. He often digs deeper into the stories of players, coaches, and teams, providing context and humanizing those who participate in the sport.
This ability to tell stories that go beyond the surface has earned him not just respect from his peers, but a loyal fan base that trusts his perspectives.
Key Moments in Friedman’s Reporting Career
Over the years, Friedman has covered numerous key moments in NHL history, from major player trades to the Stanley Cup Finals. He has also provided in-depth coverage of significant off-ice developments, such as changes in league rules, labor negotiations, and the business side of the NHL.
His reporting on the 2012–13 NHL lockout, for instance, was widely regarded as some of the best coverage of that complex issue.
In addition to his work on national television, Friedman has become a trusted voice on social media platforms like Twitter, where he regularly engages with fans and provides real-time updates on breaking news.
His ability to use multiple platforms to communicate with his audience speaks to his adaptability in a rapidly changing media landscape.
Elliotte Friedman’s Awards and Recognition
Friedman’s contributions to sports journalism have not gone unnoticed. Over the course of his career, he has received multiple accolades for his work.3
In 2011, he won the Gemini Award for Best Sports Reporting, an honor that recognized his exceptional work in covering sports.
He was also nominated for several other awards, including Canadian Screen Awards, for his contributions to broadcasting and journalism.
His impact on sports journalism goes beyond awards, however. For aspiring journalists, Friedman is an example of how hard work, passion, and integrity can pave the way for a successful career in a highly competitive industry.
Beyond Hockey: Other Interests and Contributions
- While Friedman is best known for his work in hockey, his sports knowledge extends beyond the rink. Throughout his career, he has covered other sports such as basketball, football, and the Olympics.
- His ability to seamlessly shift between different sports demonstrates his versatility as a journalist. He also has a passion for storytelling outside of sports, with interests in politics, history, and broader societal issues, often drawing on these topics to add depth to his analyses.
- Moreover, Friedman has become a mentor to young journalists, offering advice on navigating the challenges of the profession.
- He regularly speaks at media events and has contributed to journalism education by sharing insights on how to succeed in the evolving world of sports media.
- As Elliotte Friedman continues to thrive in his role at Sportsnet and the NHL Network, his future in sports journalism looks bright.
- His commitment to delivering quality sports coverage, coupled with his evolving role as a trusted insider, ensures that he will remain a prominent figure in the industry for years to come.
- Friedman’s adaptability is one of his greatest strengths. As the media landscape continues to evolve, he has shown an ability to embrace new technologies and platforms while staying true to the core principles of journalism.
- Whether through traditional television broadcasts, podcasts, or social media, Friedman will continue to be a leading voice in sports journalism.
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Elliotte Friedman: Net Worth in 2025
Elliotte Friedman, one of the most respected sports journalists in North America, has built an impressive career over the past three decades.
As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $1.5 million, a testament to his dedication and versatility in the sports media industry.
His financial success has come through years of hard work, strategic career moves, and consistent presence in sports reporting, particularly in the world of hockey.
Elliotte Friedman’s estimated net worth of $1.5 million in 2025 reflects not just his financial success, but also his influence in the world of sports journalism.
From his early days at The Fan 590 to his current role at Sportsnet, Friedman has continually evolved and adapted to the changing media landscape. His ability to diversify his income through various media formats, endorsements, and public appearances has contributed to his financial standing.
More importantly, his dedication to delivering high-quality sports reporting has left a lasting impact on the industry, ensuring that his legacy will endure for years to come.
Diversifying Income Streams: Play-by-Play Announcing and Freelancing
In addition to his broadcasting work, Friedman diversified his income by taking on play-by-play announcing roles for various sports, including the Toronto Raptors in the NBA and the Toronto Blue Jays in MLB.
These opportunities not only provided additional revenue but also expanded his versatility as a sports reporter. Play-by-play announcing requires a different skill set than studio work, and Friedman’s ability to excel in both areas showcased his adaptability and value to networks.
Moreover, Friedman has written freelance articles for several high-profile publications, including The Globe and Mail and National Post. Freelancing allowed him to share his sports expertise with a broader audience while earning additional income.
His written contributions focused primarily on hockey but often branched out into other sports and sports business topics. This multifaceted approach to journalism—covering radio, TV, live sports, and print—allowed Friedman to cultivate multiple revenue streams, contributing significantly to his net worth.
Elliotte Friedman: Social Media
In recent years, Friedman has capitalized on the rise of digital media and podcasts as platforms for sports journalism.
He co-hosts the popular “32 Thoughts: The Podcast” alongside Jeff Marek, where the two discuss the latest happenings in the NHL, offer insights on players and teams, and engage with fans.
Podcasts have become a new revenue stream for journalists, and Friedman’s ability to transition to this medium has been a significant asset. The podcast generates income through sponsorships, advertisements, and potentially subscriptions, adding another layer to his financial portfolio.
Endorsements and Brand Collaborations
As a recognizable face in Canadian sports media, Elliotte Friedman has also attracted endorsement opportunities.
Though not as commonly associated with endorsements as athletes, top-tier journalists like Friedman can still benefit from collaborations with brands, particularly those related to sports and media.
These partnerships, often involving media appearances, guest speaking, or promotional work, have added to Friedman’s overall income.
Public Speaking and Industry Events
Friedman’s expertise in hockey and his broader understanding of sports have made him a sought-after speaker at various events.
He has participated in industry panels, sports conferences, and charity events, where his insights are valued by both professionals and fans. Public speaking engagements often come with substantial fees, especially for well-known figures like Friedman.
These events not only contribute financially but also enhance his personal brand, keeping him relevant in an ever-evolving media landscape.
Elliotte Friedman: Anniversary
Elliotte Friedman shared some adorable moments with his wife on their 15th anniversary.
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Real Estate and Investments
Like many high-profile professionals, Elliotte Friedman has likely invested in real estate or other ventures.
While specific details about his personal investments are not widely publicized, it is common for individuals with a substantial income to diversify their portfolios through property investments or other financial ventures.
Real estate, in particular, is a popular choice for many in the public eye, as it provides a stable and often appreciating asset over time.
Contributions to Sports Journalism
Beyond his financial success, Friedman’s contributions to sports journalism cannot be understated. He has consistently provided accurate, insightful, and timely reporting, especially in the high-stakes world of NHL coverage.
His work ethic, integrity, and commitment to the craft have earned him the respect of colleagues, athletes, and fans alike.
Friedman’s influence extends beyond just reporting scores or breaking news—he offers in-depth analysis and helps shape the narrative around important sports stories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Elliotte Friedman?
A Canadian NHL insider and Sportsnet reporter known for breaking news, deep columns (32 Thoughts), and co‑hosting 32 Thoughts: The Podcast.
2. How old is Elliotte Friedman?
Born September 27, 1970, he will turn 55 on September 27, 2025.4
3. What’s the latest Elliotte Friedman reported in 2025?
Highlights include NHL/NHLPA CBA progress, Connor McDavid’s contract window, Ducks–Trevor Zegras trade talks, and Rangers–Mika Zibanejad deliberations. 5
4. Did Elliotte Friedman work outside hockey?
Yes. He’s covered CFL, Olympics, Raptors, Blue Jays, and more, and briefly commentated on Olympic swimming/diving in 2016.
5. Why is Elliotte Friedman so influential?
Accuracy, sourcing depth, and his willingness to explain the “why” behind NHL decisions (cap, CBA, offer‑sheet math) make his reports agenda‑setting.6
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