This offseason, Charles Barkley charmed hockey fans who want to steal him from the NBA. The love is mutual, as Chuck has attachments within the NHL community too. Some memorable moments between Sir Charles and the NHL media have included the irreplaceable Christine Simpson. So he was as shocked as fans were when Simpson ended a three-decade run at SportsNet mere weeks before the NHL season began. Simpson’s not a sportscasting free agent looking for a new broadcast home. But she leaves a big void at SportsNet.

Barkley, not a social media enthusiast, directly reached out to Toronto Sun’s Steve Simmons to comment on the matter. “I’m disappointed,” Barkley said over the phonecall. “I’m disappointed for my friend. She’s a tremendous talent and a just a wonderful person and a great friend.”

Simpson, whose brothers were NHL pros, said on X, “As my time at Sportsnet comes to an end I can’t help but feel grateful for my experience.” She further wrote, “Since we went to air in ‘98 it’s been my absolute privilege to cover the NHL. Meeting so many men and women in the game and sharing their stories brought me more joy than you can imagine.”

SportsNet confirmed her exit and thanked her for being a “pioneer.” However, the reason behind this move was not specified. Even Chuck said, “I don’t know the circumstances of what happened.” Regardless, fans believe she was let go and slammed SportsNet for removing their fave. Barkley seemingly agrees that this wasn’t Simpson’s decision. “I think she has to be in shock.”

Barkley, who cancelled retirement, is confident though that this isn’t the last we see of her. “But I do know this: To have a Canadian woman talking about hockey with her connections has to be a bonus for any network. Any network would be wise to hire her.”

So many point out that the NHL and Simpson’s situations are looking a lot like what’s going on at the NBA. Charles Barkley decided to stay where he is but there’s no telling what’s to come.

Charles Barkley and Christine Simpson’s situations identical

Charles Barkley and Christine Simpson have been friends for 20 years through Wayne Gretzky. He’s talked hockey in multiple interviews with Simpson. And when he talks about Canada, he brings up Simpson in the conversation.

She’s the latest cut in a series of SportsNet veterans getting the pink slip. But on the speculation of ageism, Barkley said, “I can’t answer that question personally because I don’t know,” before saying, “I don’t talk about s– I don’t know about. All I can tell you is I’m surprised and disappointed for her and for those watching.”

Ageism is not a factor worrying Barkley and the Inside the NBA crew. Chuck, Shaq, Ernie, and Kenny are the most in-demand NBA media veterans despite TNT losing the NBA. They’re currently on a crossroads as Turner figures out what’s next. Meanwhile Amazon, NBC, and ESPN officially declared their interest in this group.

Amazon is especially intent on building its sports library with veterans. It is eyeing the NHL media rights next and fans love the idea of Christine Simpson heading to the streaming giant. How it turns out remains to be seen.