Bret Hedican, widely known as a color analyst for the San Jose Sharks on their broadcasts, has recently left his position to pursue new opportunities.
Hedican will now join the Anaheim Ducks’ AHL affiliate, the San Diego Gulls, in a Player and Skill Development role. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the Sharks, where he had been a prominent figure for the past 14 years.
Hedican’s career with the San Jose Sharks began shortly after his retirement from playing professional hockey, offering him a seamless transition from the rink to the broadcasting booth.
Fans have appreciated his in-depth analysis and firsthand insights into the game, making him a beloved voice during Sharks’ games. His new role with the Ducks organization will allow him to return to the ice, a move he has expressed great excitement about.
This career shift brings a wave of curiosity about Hedican’s future projects and his impact on player development with the Ducks.
Known for his strong analytical skills and deep knowledge of hockey, Hedican’s contributions are anticipated to be significant in shaping future talent. For more details, check out his departure announcement.
Who Is Bret Hedican?
Bret Hedican is an American former professional ice hockey player. Having a career that spanned multiple teams in the NHL, he also worked as a broadcaster for the San Jose Sharks.
He is known for his skill on the ice and his contributions to hockey off the ice.
Where Did Bret Hedican Grow Up?
Bret Hedican grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota, United States. St. Paul, part of the Twin Cities along with Minneapolis, is known for its rich hockey culture.
This environment likely played a significant role in Hedican’s early interest and development in hockey.
He took up the sport at a young age and, driven by local support and facilities, his skills flourished.
Minneapolis-St. Paul is a significant hub for American hockey, producing numerous talented players. The region’s dedication to the sport provided Hedican with ample opportunities to hone his skills and advance his career.
Where Does Bret Hedican Live?
As of recent years, Bret Hedican resides in California. After his retirement from professional hockey, he continued to engage with the sport, notably through his role as a color analyst for the San Jose Sharks.
This position likely influenced his decision to settle in California.
Living in California allows Hedican to stay connected with the hockey community and enjoy a lifestyle suitable for his family. The state’s vibrant sports culture offers a supportive environment for his ongoing endeavors in hockey and broadcasting.
Who Is Bret Hedican Married To?
Bret Hedican is married to Kristi Yamaguchi, an Olympic gold medalist in figure skating. The couple met during the 1992 Winter Olympics, where they both represented the United States in their respective sports.
They married in 2000 and have two daughters together.
Kristi Yamaguchi is a celebrated figure in her own right, adding to the dynamic partnership she shares with Hedican. Together, they are involved in various charitable activities and community initiatives, often combining their love for sports with their desire to give back.
Their marriage is a prominent one in the sporting world, bringing together achievements from both hockey and figure skating.
Bret Hedican Hockey Career
Bret Hedican is a well-known figure in professional hockey, having played in the NHL and participated in international competitions. His career spans several teams and roles, including a Stanley Cup win and post-retirement coaching and broadcast career.
Where Did Bret Hedican Play College Hockey?
Bret Hedican attended St. Cloud State University where he played college hockey. During his time there, he developed his skills as a defenseman and gained the attention of NHL scouts.
Hedican played for the St. Cloud State Huskies and was a standout player, contributing significantly to the team’s performance. His college career set the stage for his future in professional hockey, providing a strong foundation for his skills and on-ice awareness.
Did Bret Hedican Play In The NHL?
Yes, Bret Hedican had an extensive NHL career. He played 17 seasons in the league, starting with the St. Louis Blues.
Hedican was then traded to the Vancouver Canucks, where he played for several seasons. He also had stints with the Florida Panthers, Carolina Hurricanes, and Anaheim Ducks.
He played over 1,000 games in the NHL and was an essential defenseman for his teams. One of the highlights of his career was winning the Stanley Cup with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2006.
Did Bret Hedican Coach College Hockey?
There is no record of Bret Hedican coaching college hockey. After his retirement, he transitioned into broadcasting rather than a coaching role at the college level. However, his extensive knowledge and experience in the sport would have made him a valuable coach had he chosen to pursue that path.
Did Bret Hedican Coach In The NHL?
Bret Hedican has not coached in the NHL, but he has taken on roles related to player development. For instance, he joined the Anaheim Ducks organization as part of their Player and Skill Development team.
This role involves working with younger players and helping them improve their skills. It represents a shift from broadcasting to a more hands-on role in mentoring and developing future NHL talent. His NHL experience and expertise make him well-suited for this position.
Bret Hedican Professional Broadcasting Career
Bret Hedican has built a prominent broadcasting career after his time as a professional hockey player. Below, we explore various aspects of his work, significant partners, and future prospects.
What Network Has Bret Hedican Previously Worked For?
Bret Hedican has been associated with several broadcasting networks. He worked as a color commentator for the San Jose Sharks on NBC Sports California. He also provided analysis on both TV and radio.
Hedican’s in-depth knowledge of hockey made him a valuable part of the Sharks broadcast team. He served in this role for many years, providing fans with insightful commentary and pre-game analysis.
What Network Is Bret Hedican Currently Working For?
Recently, Bret Hedican left his long-time position with the San Jose Sharks to join the Anaheim Ducks organization. He now works in a Player and Skill Development role, as reported by The Hockey News.
This career shift marks a significant move from broadcasting to a more hands-on coaching and development position.
Who Is Bret Hedican Broadcast Partner?
During his time with the San Jose Sharks, Hedican primarily worked alongside Dan Rusanowsky and Randy Hahn. He collaborated with them to deliver engaging and informative commentary.
Hedican’s chemistry with these partners contributed to a dynamic broadcast team that resonated with hockey fans.
Does Bret Hedican Want To Cover The NHL?
Bret Hedican has expressed his desire to stay involved in the NHL. While his new role focuses on player development, his passion for the game suggests he could return to broadcasting in the future. Throughout his career, his contributions to hockey have shown his dedication to the sport, whether on the ice or behind the microphone.
What Are Bret Hedican Future Prospects?
In his current role with the Anaheim Ducks, Hedican is poised to make a significant impact in player development. This position allows him to leverage his extensive experience as an NHL player.
Whether he returns to broadcasting or continues to focus on player development, his future in hockey looks promising and diverse.
Bret Hedican Major Achievements And Awards
During his broadcasting career, Bret Hedican has been highly regarded for his expertise and insight. He has not only covered NHL games but also various hockey events.
His background as a former NHL defenseman provided a unique perspective that enriched broadcasts. Hedican’s broad knowledge made him a respected figure in sports media.
Similar Announcers To Bret Hedican
Similar sports announcers include Drew Remenda and Joe Beninati. Like Hedican, these professionals have backgrounds in hockey and offer detailed, expert commentary. Their ability to break down plays and provide in-depth analysis is comparable to Hedican’s style, making them popular among fans.
Does Bret Hedican Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Yes, Bret Hedican is available for private speaking engagements. His experience as both a player and broadcaster makes him a sought-after speaker.
He often shares insights about his career, teamwork, and the intricacies of professional hockey. These engagements allow him to connect with fans and professionals alike.
Does Bret Hedican Have A Podcast?
As of now, Bret Hedican does not host his own podcast. However, he has been a guest on various hockey-related podcasts where he shares his expert opinions and personal stories.
His appearances offer fans a chance to hear his thoughts on current hockey trends and memorable moments from his career.
What Is Bret Hedican Net Worth?
Bret Hedican has built substantial wealth through his career, both as a professional ice hockey player and a studio analyst for the San Jose Sharks at NBC Sports California.
How Much Is Bret Hedican’s Contract For?
Bret Hedican’s NHL career earnings are significant. Over his entire hockey career, he has earned a total of $23,480,786.
When adjusted for inflation, these earnings are equivalent to $39,501,461 in today’s dollars. This places him at rank #675 among NHL players in career earnings.
His prestigious earnings reflect his status as a top-tier player and a Stanley Cup champion.
How Much Does Bret Hedican Make In Salary Per Year?
As a studio analyst for the San Jose Sharks at NBC Sports California, Bret Hedican earns an annual salary of $82,690. This income adds to his overall net worth, reflecting his continued involvement in professional hockey even after his retirement from active playing.
Combining his analyst salary with his past career earnings, Bret Hedican’s net worth is substantial, showcasing his successful transition from athlete to media professional.