NHL team forced to apologize for hot mic remark as announcer handed two-game ban

Dec 19, 2025 - 22:15

The number one rule in broadcasting is to always assume the mic is live.

Philadelphia Flyers play-by-play voice Tim Saunders learned that lesson the hard way.

Tim Saunders Radio announcer for the Philadelphia Flyers calls an NHL game against the Carolina Hurricanes — Saunders has been calling Flyers games since 1997

In the third period of Thursday night’s game against the Buffalo Sabres, Saunders sent the 97.5 The Fanatic broadcast to commercial during a television timeout.

Unbeknownst to the booth, the microphones and live feed were never turned off.

Believing the show had gone off the air for a commercial break, Saunders paused briefly before making the remark, saying, “While you’re down there, would you mind blowing me?”

Saunders was quickly made aware the broadcast hadn’t fully gone to commercial when his partner, Todd Fedoruk, spoke up.

“I think we’re still on the air, Tim,” Fedoruk said before an awkward laugh.

“No, we’re not, are we?” Saunders asked before more laughter. “Are we? Do you have us? Talk to me.”

By then, the damage was done, as a clip of the moment quickly spread online.

Once the clip circulated on social media, the Flyers moved quickly, releasing a joint statement with 97.5 The Fanatic on Friday morning that included an apology and a two-game suspension for the veteran broadcaster.

“We are aware of the inappropriate comment made during last night’s radio broadcast in the TV timeout of the Flyers-Sabres game,” the statement read.

“These remarks do not reflect the standards of conduct or values we expect from anyone associated with our organization.

The Flyers moved quickly over the incident involving Saunders

Sean Couturier #14 of the Philadelphia Flyers celebrates his goal during the second period against the Florida Panthers — The Flyers are 17-10-6 on the year

“Effectively immediately, the Flyers, along with our radio partners, 97.5 The Fanatic, have issued a two-game suspension while we address this matter with all parties involved. We take this matter very seriously, and sincerely apologize to our listeners, fans, and all those affected by these comments.”

As of Friday, Saunders hadn’t released a statement of his own or spoken publicly about the incident. His short suspension will likely be enough to settle things, though the remark itself is the last thing any professional sports team wants broadcast.

For Saunders, it’s a tough lesson learned on the job, a job he’s held for nearly three decades, dating back to 1997.

Nevertheless, you live and you learn.