Sportsnet fires Elliotte Friedman's 32 Thoughts partner Jeff Marek

In a surpising turn of events, Jeff Marek, the podcast partner of Elliotte Friedman, has been released from his duties by Sportsnet.

Reports have confirmed that the experienced host has parted ways with Canada's top sports channel and the NHL's broadcasting rights holder in the country. The specific reasons behind Marek's departure remain unknown.

"Details are scarce but multiple sources tell me that for unconfirmed draft reasons , @JeffMarek will likely be no longer performing duties at Sportnet hockey. Details to follow. This would appear to include his podcast duties too," Jonah of yyzsportsmedia reported on X.

Notably, a representative from Sportsnet declined to disclose details concerning individual employee matters but confirmed Marek's separation from the Sportsnet team.

According to a report by Province, Marek departed Las Vegas following the initial round of the draft. Elliotte Friedman, co-host of the "32 Thoughts Podcast," conducted a post-draft podcast independently and mentioned Marenk's departure on a late-night flight.

Marek joined Sportsnet in 2011. He has been working with Elliotte Friedman on the "32 Thoughts Podcast" since 2018. It's worth noting that Marek is yet to comment on the inquiries related to his departure.

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Fans react to reports of Jeff Marek's departure from Sportsnet

The speculation and reports regarding Marek's departure from Sportsnet have stirred up a lot of chatter on social media, prompting NHL fans to take to platforms like X/Twitter to express their opinions and reactions.

One tweeted:

"If the rumors about Jeff Marek are true, this is just piss poor pathetic on Sportsnet. Marek is a class act and a gem to the hardcore hockey fan."

Another chimed in:

"Jeff Marek is not only tremendous at his job, but he’s also one of the most genuine and kind people I know."

"Marek is the best host in hockey. And he's also a true kind soul. Throughout my two battles with cancer, he always took the time to shoot me private notes of encouragement. If he indeed parted ways with Sportsnet, they lost a good one. And it is indeed their loss," One X user opined.

"If Jeff Marek isn’t hosting 32 Thoughts anymore how am I supposed to learn about dudes like Blinky McBarnes, OHL legend on the Brantford Wickets who played one (1) game in the show in 1978," wrote another user.

"No Marek on Sportsnet is genuinely going to suck. My most listened to show was 32 Thoughts, followed by the Jeff Marek show. This business sucks sometimes," commented another user.

"Marek is one the best people at Sportsnet. He makes everyone around him better," another opined.