Why was Jeff Marek fired? Report highlights alleged reason for his Sportsnet departure

Jeff Marek, a staple at Sportsnet for over a decade as host of the popular hockey podcast "32 Thoughts" and a daily radio show, last appeared on the network's draft coverage on June 28, 2024. He missed the final episodes of his radio show before its summer hiatus the following week. This fueled speculation that something was amiss.

According to The Athletic, Marek was questioned by the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) and NHL security on allegations that he leaked information about which players teams were drafting moments before the picks were made public during the 2024 NHL Draft.

Marek allegedly provided insider information to his "friend," reported to be Mark Seidel, a former NHL scout who Marek has collaborated with in the past. During Sportsnet's draft coverage, Seidel accurately predicted several draft picks on social media. This prompted concerns that Marek had tipped him off.

Sharing such non-public information for financial gain, such as sports betting, is illegal. Sports leagues closely monitor social platforms during events like the draft to watch for integrity issues.

Even if no actual betting took place, Jeff Marek allegedly shared proprietary information with someone outside Sportsnet. This could likely put the network in a difficult position, given that Sportsnet has broadcast rights to the NHL through 2026.

Reporter Jonah Sigel broke the news in July that Marek and Sportsnet had parted ways. The network confirmed his departure but did not give a reason. The revelations point to Marek's alleged draft-night actions as the catalyst for his sudden exit.

Fans react to Jeff Marek's firing from Sportsnet

The sudden departure of popular hockey broadcaster Jeff Marek from Sportsnet has elicited strong reactions from fans online.

"Mind-boggling on why Marek would do this. There isn't any live betting on the NHL draft so it's not like him and his friend were going to profit here," one fan commented.

Another fan urged ESPN network to hire Jeff Marek, saying:

@ESPN hire him now for your NHL coverage. One of the best."

Here are some fan reactions:

"Reporters do it all the time in the nfl and mlb and NBA. Seravalli did it for the kraken expansion roster" one fan wrote on X.

"This is literally what Insiders are supposed to do". another fan wrote.

"NHL insider culture...if you're not first, you're last." a user wrote.

"This happens for literally every other sport with a draft." another user wrote.

With his sudden departure from Sportsnet after 13 years, Jeff Marek's loyal followers are lamenting the departure of one of the top NHL voices.