The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced that veteran sports broadcaster Ryan Leslie is joining the club as their new team host. Leslie spent more than a decade with Sportsnet, where he most recently served as the host of the Calgary Flames broadcasts. Between stints at Sportsnet, Leslie also worked as a digital host for the Flames. The Port Dover, Ontario native briefly worked in the Toronto market for Sportsnet around the time of the 2012 NHL lockout as well.
In a release by the Maple Leafs, the club says Leslie will be “providing unique insights, breaking news, and original features across the Leafs’ digital, broadcast, and social platforms". His work will span "pre-game and post-game coverage, player and coach interviews, and special behind-the-scenes access throughout the season".
In many respects, the position fills a void left when the Leafs parted ways with veteran broadcaster Paul Hendrick during the pandemic. Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving will be familiar with Leslie’s work, as they worked together in the Calgary market for years.
Leslie shared his enthusiasm in a release from the team, stating, “The opportunity to work with the Maple Leafs — an iconic franchise with a passionate fan base — is something I’m incredibly excited about. I can’t wait to share the stories of this team and help give fans a front-row seat to all the action”.
Leslie will join the Leafs ahead of the upcoming season, with training camp set to start next month.
Latest stories:
Maple Leafs Reportedly 'Still Keeping Tabs' On UFA Jack Roslovic As Training Camp Approaches