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Ron MacLean will return as the host of "Hockey Night in Canada," the show he anchored for nearly 30 years, for the 2016-17 season, Rogers Sportsnet announced Monday.

MacLean will host the first game of the weekly Saturday night doubleheader alongside panelists Elliotte Friedman, Kelly Hrudey and Nick Kypreos. David Amber, who has been on-air for "Hockey Night" since 2011, will take over as lead anchor for the broadcast's late game.
"The impact Ron has had on the game and in communities across the country is immeasurable. Hockey fans, young and old, have a deep connection with him," said Scott Moore, president of Sportsnet & NHL Properties, Rogers. "David is one of the top sports broadcasters in North America, with a long and impressive resume from both sides of the border. He's earned this coveted role. With Ron and David at the helm, it's the perfect mix for hockey's biggest night."
MacLean will continue to host the popular "Coach's Corner" segment with former NHL coach Don Cherry during the first intermission of the first game.
The change comes as George Stroumboulopoulos, who has anchored "Hockey Night in Canada" for the past two seasons, leaves to explore new creative opportunities.
"George is an extremely versatile and creative broadcaster and we value the contributions he made to 'Hockey Night in Canada.' We look forward to seeing what his next great project will be," Moore said. "We are continually evaluating and evolving our broadcasts to deliver the best experience for fans."
"Hockey Night in Canada" began as a radio program in 1931, then moved to CBC television in 1952. MacLean hosted "Hockey Night" from 1986 until 2014, when Stroumboulopoulos took over as the program moved from CBC to Sportsnet.