Although remote broadcasts have decreased since the lifting of COVID restrictions, networks continue to utilize them occasionally. For TNT, Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs series between the St. Louis Blues and Winnipeg Jets was one such instance that caught viewer attention. During the game, it became evident that announcers John Forslund and Jennifer Botterill were not on-site in Winnipeg.
It does, begrudgingly, appear that John Forslund and Jennifer Botterill are calling the Winnipeg–St. Louis game remotely from TNT’s Atlanta studio today. https://t.co/RYPhFqafaG
— Braylon Breeze (@Braylon_Breeze) April 19, 2025
On the ice, Game 1 was thrilling; the Jets scored three goals in the third period to secure a 5-3 victory. However, despite the excitement, many fans watching on TNT felt the broadcast quality fell short, mainly due to the remote setup. Viewers expressed their dissatisfaction across social media.
Announcers calling games remotely is so lame, especially in the freaking playoffs. Would rather have TNT just show the Sportsnet feed. Brutal.
— Zach Halverson (@ZachHalverson) April 19, 2025
I’m sorry, but I find it very offensive that TNT, who I think is so much better top to bottom than ESPN, couldn’t send Forslund and Botterill to Winnipeg. Remote broadcasts are so bush. Especially in the playoffs. ESPN will at least send their announcers. Shame on you TNT.
— Michael Silvers (@msilvers1979) April 19, 2025
Horrible announcers at jets vs blues game on @NHL_On_TNT. Mans voice is so loud, woman can’t hear it..
oh well, only tuned in to boo Ryan Suter.— thetimeisnow (@CircusIsCalling) April 19, 2025
This TNT broadcast just has no energy. Crowd noise is super dampened too.
— Ryan Henkel (@RyanHenkel_) April 19, 2025
This is where I’ll give total props to ESPN. In four seasons with the NHL, they’ve called zero games remotely under normal circumstances (only did BOS–FLA from a studio due to Hurricane Milton). Even ESPN+ exclusive games — some in Canada, barely watched — are always on-site. https://t.co/02QHBbQnmk
— Braylon Breeze (@Braylon_Breeze) April 19, 2025
No more remote TV broadcasts for sports! https://t.co/h2Tvokx2HL
— Alex Micheletti (@AlexMicheletti) April 19, 2025
