NHL Sideline Reporter Hailey Hunter Ousted From Job

NHL sideline reporter Hailey Hunter will not return to her position for the 2026-27 season, the network announced on Wednesday.

Hunter, who covers the Pittsburgh Penguins for the team's local TV network, will not return to her role next season. The Penguins and their TV network (SportsNet Pittsburgh) announced the decision on Wednesday evening, shortly after 6 p.m. E.T.

Josh Yohe, who covers the Penguins for The Athletic, confirmed the news on his X account.

"The Penguins and their TV network (SNP) have parted ways with rink side reporter Hailey Hunter," he shared.

Hunter had been with the network since the 2023-24 season. She's the daughter of a former NHL player and a former athlete herself. Hunter got into sports media after realizing that she wouldn't make it on the LPGA Tour.

The Ohio University graduate was quite a golfer, though.

"When I graduated, I was playing really well, but I found out it costs between $80,000 and $100,000, actually, to try playing in the tournaments. And you don't have time to have a full job because you're playing a full schedule. There's a couple of mini-tours, and if you work your way, there's thousands of girls going out, and only about 50 actually get their card," she told The Athletic.

Details of her departure are unclear at this time

It's unclear what led to Hunter's ousting from SportsNet Pittsburgh on Wednesday afternoon, as fans are left surprised.

"Woah! That's super interesting," Hunter Hodies, who covers the Penguins, wrote on X.

"Noooooooo. Why did @SNPittsburgh get rid of @TheHaileyHunter ? She was amazing. I will miss you Hailey (❤️ you always)," another fan wrote.

"Lame!" one fan added.

"And there it is, Pens fans…the one significant movement involving a vet this offseason…," another fan joked.

"She was good. Why?" one fan added.

Hunter has yet to officially address her departure from the broadcasting team. Stay tuned for the latest.

Copyright The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved

This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 3:13 PM.