CBC had great broadcasters in the 1980s, the best in the industry, as there were not many private broadcasters sucking away talent.
Plus, overlooked, was the TIME the broadcasters had to talk before face offs. Nowadays the NHL rules demand quick faceoffs to speed up the game. But back then a third period one-goal lead/deficit or overtime play would have plenty of buildup, with camera work detail of benches and coaches giving you a real sense of the moment!
Nowadays CBC is much less griping, with lesser broadcasters, more commercials, less time to discuss situations and see line change prep. It's now: zip zip zip highlight play. Zip zip zip highlight play. It doesn't even feel like one is at a game anymore. Watching broadcasts is just following the puck awaiting the next highlight.
Enjoy an old great game (a regular season tilt, so you can watch it without knowing the final score beforehand). Enjoy!
Bob Cole at his play-by-play best. Harry Neale has plenty of time for his quality commentary.