In just his first season behind the mic for Devils broadcasts on MSG, Don La Greca is doing more than holding his own-he’s carving out a place in the hearts of New Jersey hockey fans. When his hiring was first announced, plenty of fans weren’t sure what to expect.
Known more for his fiery takes on The Michael Kay Show than for calling hockey games, La Greca’s move to the booth raised eyebrows. But several months into the job, it’s clear: this was a gamble that’s paying off.
Let’s be honest-following in the footsteps of Devils broadcasting royalty is no easy task. From 1983 to 2022, the franchise was spoiled with some of the most recognizable voices in hockey.
Mike “Doc” Emrick set the gold standard with his unmatched energy and storytelling. Gary Thorne brought a smooth, commanding presence.
And Steve Cangialosi, who held the mic for over a decade, gave fans consistency and credibility during a pivotal stretch in team history.
So when Cangialosi stepped away in 2022 after 11 seasons, the transition was always going to be tricky. Bill Spaulding stepped in and brought professionalism, but the spark that made Devils broadcasts feel like must-watch TV wasn’t quite the same. That’s not a knock on Spaulding-it’s just tough to follow legends.
Enter Don La Greca.
Known more for his animated sports radio persona than his play-by-play chops, La Greca had fans wondering whether MSG was taking a risk for the sake of personality. But what’s become clear is that La Greca brings something that can’t be taught: genuine passion.
That passion is evident every night he’s on the call. Yes, he’s had a few early-season hiccups-mispronounced names, the occasional misidentification-but that’s part of the learning curve.
More importantly, he’s not hiding behind the mic. La Greca is transparent.
If the Devils are underperforming, he says it. If they’re buzzing and playing up to their potential, he’s the first to give them credit.
And then there’s his signature call: “Put a pitchfork in this one.” It’s quickly become a fan favorite.
It’s catchy, it’s unique, and it’s got that perfect blend of Jersey attitude and hockey grit. In a season where every point matters in a tightly packed Eastern Conference, hearing that line after a win hits just a little bit harder.
La Greca also brings a level of emotional investment that resonates with fans. You can hear it in his voice-he cares. That kind of authenticity can’t be faked, and it’s why more and more Devils faithful are starting to see him not just as a fill-in, but as a potential long-term voice of the team.
He’s not trying to be Doc. He’s not trying to be Thorne or Cangialosi.
He’s being Don La Greca-and that’s working. With each game, he’s building chemistry with the fan base, adding color and character to the broadcast, and making Devils hockey feel alive on TV again.
If the team starts stacking wins and makes a run, you can bet that “put a pitchfork in this one” will echo through living rooms across New Jersey. And if La Greca keeps trending the way he is, Devils fans might just find themselves with a new voice to call their own for years to come.