Devils' Subban to join ESPN as NHL analyst during playoffs

New Jersey Devils defenseman P.K. Subban (76) looks to make a pass during pregame warmups prior to a game against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden. Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

Devils defenseman P.K. Subban to join ESPN as NHL analyst throughout playoffs

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 6/9/21

Instead of taking the ice, it'll be lights, camera, action for P.K. Subban this summer.

The New Jersey Devils defenseman is joining ESPN as an NHL analyst throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs, according to Andrew Marchand of the New York Post. He'll make his debut on "SportsCenter" Wednesday night.

Subban will serve as an ESPN NHL analyst throughout the playoffs.
— Andrew Marchand (@AndrewMarchand) June 9, 2021

Subban is one of the most recognizable players in hockey right now. He'll undoubtedly be pursued as a potential analyst when he retires, especially if he does well in his stint with ESPN.

The 32-year-old will become a free agent after the 2021-22 season. He'll likely play beyond that point, but it's unclear.

Subban made a name for himself with the Montreal Canadiens from 2009-16, winning the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman during the 2012-13 campaign. He was then traded to the Nashville Predators, where he spent three seasons before joining the Devils.

In 44 games last season, the Ontario native scored five goals and 14 assists. The Devils missed the playoffs for the third consecutive season, allowing Subban to begin his television career.

ESPN will become a broadcast partner of the NHL next season. The company has already hired several high-profile analysts for the upcoming campaign, including Ray Ferraro, Brian Boucher, Kevin Weekes and Bob Wischusen, according to Marchand.

Veteran broadcasters Steve Levy and Sean McDonough are in the running to be the top hockey play-by-play choice for ESPN, Marchand previously reported.

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