Broadcaster musical chairs

Blackhawks president John McDonough announced Tuesday that current TV play-by-play man Dan Kelly has been told he will not return next season.

Good riddance. Kelly was a St. Louis guy broadcasting a Chicago team. That's a bad fit. Kelly would always get excited when the opponent scored a goal against the Blackhawks. While Kelly rejoiced, I was busy throwing my remote control across the living room.

I don't expect the Blackhawks announcer to be a homer. Feel free to criticize the team when warranted, but Kelly seemed like he was a homer for THE OTHER TEAM. That's ridiculous.

Foley was the voice of the Blackhawks for 25 years. He never should have been let go in the first place. His contract with the Chicago Wolves expires as soon as that franchise concludes its playoff run. McDonough should be on the horn with Foley the day after that happens.

Put Pat Foley back where he belongs: Behind the microphone at Blackhawks games.

Meanwhile, the Bulls made some changes as well. TV broadcasters Tom Dore and Wayne Larrivee have been relieved of their duties. Radio play-by-play man Neil Funk will take over the same chores on the TV side. Chuck Swirsky returns to Chicago as the radio play-by-play man.

Johnny "Red" Kerr will be limited to pregame and halftime show duties. Red is a recognizable face for Chicago sports fans, but it will be good to get him off the regular broadcast. He's basically a giant cheerleader for the Bulls. He states the obvious, such as, "The Bulls can't buy a basket tonight." Yep, Red, we can figure that out on our own. Thanks.

Kerr's best role would be one of goodwill ambassador for the franchise. He's a good guy. People like the man. But he's lost his edge as a broadcaster.

Funk is solid and will excel in his new role. Still, I'm a little surprised they let BOTH Dore and Larrivee go. It will be interesting to see if more details about that decision come out later.