“The waiting is over! The New York Rangers are the Stanley Cup champions! And this one will last a lifetime,” exclaimed the 77-year-old play-by-play announcer Sam Rosen when the New York Rangers lifted the Stanley Cup on one summer night of 1994. The iconic voice of the MSG Networks for over 40 years now, Rosen will broadcast this season for one last time, after which marks an end to his glorious journey in the broadcast booth.

While earning a well-deserved place in the Hockey Hall of Fame, Rosen was honored with many awards and accolades. After all, he has been a prominent figure in hockey, making his voice synonymous with iconic moments at ESPN broadcasts in the 80s to boxing for MSG Networks. And then the Stanley Cup Finals on NHL Radio, with a few NFL games on Fox for over two decades, Rosen has just built a legacy. But with the legend retiring soon, questions and concerns loom for who is going to replace him. Well, replace, in itself is a big word here, but just for the reference of stating—Who will be the next iconic voice of the Rangers?

Who would fill Sam Rosen’s void/voice?

With a talent pool in the Met Area that matches any, the search for the next one is endless, but the real question is, who should take over the reins? After all, who could possibly step into Rosen’s legacy? The answer is simple, and it’s been right under our noses all along—Kenny Albert! Only sportscaster to do play-by-play for all four major professional sports leagues in the United States and Canada, Albert himself is a great voice when it comes to capturing the excitement and intensity of any game.

No auditions needed, no lengthy process, and MSG Networks boss Andrea Greenberg already knew who could be the perfect fit. Albert has been covering the Rangers on the radio all the while, alongside his trusted partner, Dave Maloney. “If it is Kenny, I don’t think there will be any issue of maintaining that presence. But it won’t be Sam,” Maloney said. Having been a staple of Rangers’ radio broadcasts for years, Albert has showcased his ability to handle the pressure and excitement of the job. Plus, his experience with NBC and TNT broadcasts adds to the fact that he does a great job!

Rosen’s infectious enthusiasm and deep love for the game were highlighted by his counterpart, Joe Micheletti, who noted his energy in the booth that never waned, even during the harsh times. “And let’s face it: ’94 aside, he saw some dark times,” Micheletti said. Now, with Rosen stepping down and Albert being the potential successor, concerns raise over who could be other candidates who top the list of Rosen’s successors, matching his thrill and excitement in voice for every game he ever broadcasted.

Sam Rosen’s replacement list is lengthy!

As the search begins, many prominent names have found their place on the list. While there’s Albert for sure, there are other top broadcasters and suggestions made by fans and critics on the internet who could fill the missing vibe. Amidst all the discussions, there has been an intriguing suggestion of an AI hologram to replace Rosen, but alongside an AI hologram of John Davidson! Can you believe it? While it would be a great creative idea, but with a lack of personal touch and genuine energy that Rosen brought to the table, isn’t it?

However, there’s also a proposal for Steve Valiquette, the studio analyst for the MSG Networks, to step in this new form. Fans want him to be seen as a color analyst with his sharp insights and charismatic presence! Now this could certainly cheer up the broadcast and the overall excitement, rather than his play-by-play duties. Finally, there were more names, like Bob Wischusen and Don LaGreca. Wischusen— the basketball voice? Probably because he seems to bring a level of credibility with his experience across many sports. And LaGreca? Well, he is already a renowned name in the Rangers’ family, so he could be a strong contender. Right?

But wait, there’s a very strong preference against Micheletti too. While Albert seems to be the clear choice to take over Rosen’s room, Micheletti is a great one! Given that he is familiar with the team and has an undeniable chemistry with the Rangers’ fanbase! Now, that can catch a lot of attention. Rangers’ fans, this one could be for you all! Micheletti’s could be a compelling voice. But as of now, Albert tops the list among all these fellow successors and could fill up the gap soon. Who do you think could have been the right choice? Let us know!

Top Comment by NYR FAN

Marc did the radio back in the day. Kenny brings similar tools but without the baggage!

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