WGN Radio

Chicago Blackhawks hockey will continue to air on WGN AM 720 through the 2023-24 season, thanks to a five-year extension with the Tribune Media news/talk station.

John McDonough, president and CEO of the National Hockey League 2015 Stanley Cup champions, announced the new broadcast rights agreement Thursday on Steve Cochran’s morning show. WGN has been radio home of the Blackhawks since 2008.

“I’m not sure there will even be radio in 2024, but if there is, it will probably be going to other planets,” McDonough joked with Cochran.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed. John Wiedeman continues as play-by-play announcer, with Troy Murray as color analyst and Judd Sirott as studio host.

“The Chicago Blackhawks take great pride in the strong relationship we have developed with WGN Radio over the last eight years,” McDonough said in a statement. “Today’s announcement is yet another example of the special partnership that our players, coaches, executives and front office have with the entire staff at WGN Radio. We’ve had the great fortune of sharing many historic moments together and look forward to continuing to call WGN Radio the home of Chicago Blackhawks hockey.”

Jimmy deCastro, president and general manager of WGN, said in a statement: “Many, myself included, believe that WGN Radio and the Chicago Blackhawks have the best partnership in sports. This renewal is testament to that. It’s an honor to formally extend this relationship and we look forward to celebrating many more Blackhawks wins with our WGN Radio listeners.”

Added Larry Wert, Tribune Media president of broadcast media: “We’re excited WGN Radio will bring Chicago Blackhawks play-by-play to Chicagoland and fans everywhere for years to come. Blackhawks hockey fandom continues to grow exponentially and we’re thrilled that WGN Radio and TV can contribute to and be a part of it.”