Front-runner revealed in odds to replace Don Cherry on HNIC

The end of an era came to Hockey Night in Canada when Sportsnet made the decision to fire Don Cherry last week. 

Cherry started a new chapter on Tuesday as Grapes is reviving his classic “Grapevine” radio show, but this time as a podcast.

However on HNIC, his seat remains vacated and everyone is wondering who will be chosen to fill it. 

According to sports betting writer Alex Moretto of The Score, oddsmakers have identified the likeliest list of replacements with Brian Burke as the front-runner to take over the show: 

The former Calder Cup champion and NHL general manager has been on the Sportsnet panel for a second season now and has a similar an old-school hockey mind to Cherry. And we know he can be just as controversial. While more open minded of several topics, the 64-year-old Burke could pull it off on several levels, even looks! 

“While Cherry’s look was defined by his vibrant suits, Burke’s style resembles that of an exhausted politician following a grueling campaign. His grey, slicked-back hair detracts from his often disheveled attire - shirt buttons undone, tie draped around his shoulders. Describe it however you like, but Burke certainly has an unmistakable look.”

The name of the segment would have to change, seeing that Cherry was a two-time Stanley Cup finalist as the head coach of the Boston Bruins, as well as a Jack Adams Award winner.

While Burke leads the oddsmakers over colleagues Elliotte Friedman, Chris Johnston and Colby Armstrong, Moretto suggests another candidate that will please fans across the league. 

Paul Bissonnette should be considered for the job, he who’s been quite vocal on social media and able to unite people in sports. 

“He believes hockey should be played a certain way and despite having grown up in the new age, he respects the old-school mentality that personalities like Cherry and Burke have fought to preserve. The former Pittsburgh Penguins draft pick has an infectious personality and is a terrific ambassador for the game, much like Cherry was.”

So, who is more suited for the job? Who is your pick?