Flyers suspend announcer Tim Saunders, radio partner two games after hot-mic remarks during Flyers-Sabres game
Team apologizes; Saunders has not publicly commented as of Friday afternoon; incident follows a season with on-air gaffes in the NHL
The Philadelphia Flyers announced Friday that broadcaster Tim Saunders and their radio partner, 97.5 The Fanatic, have been suspended for two games following an off-color remark caught on a hot microphone during Thursday's game against the Buffalo Sabres. The incident occurred during the TV timeout in the third period, when Saunders and color commentator Stu Fedoruk appeared to be unaware they were still on the air. The team said the remarks do not reflect the standards of conduct expected from anyone affiliated with the organization and emphasized that the suspension is effective immediately.
According to a transcript published by CrossingBroad.com, Saunders can be heard saying, "Now they're going to take the TV timeout," and, "We’ll take it as well, seven (minutes) gone in the third, it’s 3-2 Buffalo on the Philadelphia Flyers broadcast network." There was a roughly 10-second pause during which Fedoruk checked under the desk in the booth. After the pause, Saunders said, "While you're down there, would you mind blowing me?" Fedoruk replied, "I think we’re still on the air, Tim," prompting nervous laughter. Saunders pressed with, "No, we’re not, are we?" and asked, "Are we?" "Do you have us? Talk to me." The exchange appeared to unfold while the broadcast team believed they were off the mic, according to the transcript.
After the game, the Flyers issued a public apology on social media, saying, "We are aware of the inappropriate comment made during last night’s radio broadcast in the TV timeout of the Flyers-Sabres game. These remarks do not reflect the standards of conduct or values we expect from anyone associated with our organization." The statement added that, effective immediately, the Flyers, along with their radio partners, have issued a two-game suspension and will address the 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."
Tim Saunders had not publicly commented on the incident as of Friday afternoon. He is not the only NHL broadcaster to attract criticism for on-air remarks this season; in February, Buffalo Sabres rinkside reporter Rob Ray dropped an expletive after being hit in the face by a puck during a live broadcast, underscoring ongoing concerns about conduct on air.
The Flyers’ decision to suspend Saunders and the radio partner reflects an ongoing emphasis on professional standards within the league’s broadcasting ecosystem. While the league has a broad audience, teams have increasingly moved to respond swiftly when off-color or inappropriate remarks surface in live game coverage. The two-game suspension serves as the latest data point in a broader discussion about accountability in sports media coverage, particularly as broadcasts blend traditional radio, television, and digital platforms.
Officials from the Flyers indicated the team will use the suspension to conduct a broader review with its broadcast partners and staff to reinforce guidelines for on-air conduct. The move also aligns with the organization’s stated commitment to fans, players, and all audiences who rely on professional, respectful communication during games. As for Saunders, the next steps in his career with the organization will likely be clarified after discussions with team leadership and the radio partner.
Overall, the incident stands as a reminder of the heightened scrutiny on live sports broadcasts and the consequences teams are willing to enforce when comments fall short of public expectations.