MSG Networks makes shocking change to New Jersey Devils broadcasts

MSG Networks announced they are making yet another change to their New Jersey Devils broadcasts after major changes before the 2024-25 season. Don LaGreca, who's famous for his work on ESPN New York radio, will take over as play-by-play.
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New Jersey Devils fans had a whole new setup to get used to in 2024-25. Former Devils captain Bryce Salvador was getting a bigger role in the broadcast on MSG Networks, and Erika Wachter was replaced by Rachel Herzog. Devils fans have been used to changes on the broadcast after a few decades of stability. This season, the most prevalent voice on the broadcast is changing.

As confirmed by an MSG Networks press release, Don LaGreca, the former drive-time radio partner to New York Yankees play-by-play voice Michael Kay, will take over as the broadcast voice of the New Jersey Devils. He replaces Bill Spaulding, who took the job after Steve Cangialosi stepped down in 2022.

LaGreca is a lifelong Devils fan despite his dalliance working with the New York Rangers radio broadcasts. He mentioned in the press release that it was a dream to be the voice of the team that got him into hockey.

LaGreca told the New York Post that he plans to continue working his daily radio show with Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg. It will bring new eyes and ears to the Devils' broadcasts. Those who love listening to LaGreca on the radio will be curious about Devils hockey. It can be a way to drive new fans to the broadcast.

Don LaGreca takes over as New Jersey Devils' play-by-play broadcaster

We do have to mention Bill Spaulding who was an incredible representation of the passion of Devils fans. He brought a certain voice to each play that felt correct. He wasn't a homer and called it like it is, whether the Devils weren't playing up to their talent level or if there was something we might be missing on the ice. He was clearly learning more each game and got better with each broadcast.

It's a bittersweet day for Devils fans. Spaulding had become a part of our nightly routine 90+ times per year. He was the voice of our favorite team. LaGreca is beloved in the New York area. It's a New Jersey guy calling New Jersey hockey. Most importantly, LaGreca was raised to be a Devils fan. However, we want to spend a moment talking about how much we loved Spaulding's work.

The press release only revealed that Ken Daneyko would returned as the color commentator on the broadcasts. No word on any further changes to the broadcast.

For now, we must embrace LaGreca in the new role and give him grace as he eases into the job. The 57-year-old has been working towards this role his entire life, and we have seen his passion boil over on his radio show. We look forward to that passion for the next era of Devils hockey.