Brian Boucher is a distinguished American former professional ice hockey goaltender and current game analyst, known for his extensive career in the National Hockey League (NHL) and his insightful commentary on national broadcasts. Boucher was drafted 22nd overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1995 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut during the 1999–2000 season. He quickly established himself as a formidable goaltender, leading the league in goals against average (GAA) at 1.91 and helping the Flyers secure the Eastern Conference and Atlantic Division titles. His remarkable performance in the 2000 Stanley Cup playoffs included a memorable five-overtime victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins, solidifying his reputation as a clutch player.
After being traded to the Phoenix Coyotes in 2002, Boucher set the modern NHL record for the longest shutout streak at 332 minutes during the 2003–04 season. His tenure with the Coyotes showcased his exceptional skills, and he continued to play for several teams, including the Calgary Flames, Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus Blue Jackets, San Jose Sharks, and Carolina Hurricanes. Boucher’s career spanned 13 seasons, during which he became known for his resilience and ability to perform under pressure, particularly during the 2010 playoffs with the Flyers, where he played a crucial role in their run to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Following his retirement in 2013, Boucher transitioned to broadcasting, initially serving as a studio analyst for the Philadelphia Flyers on NBC Sports Philadelphia. His expertise and engaging commentary led to his promotion as the lead color commentator for the network in September 2023. Boucher’s analytical insights and deep understanding of the game have made him a respected voice in hockey commentary.
In addition to his role with NBC Sports, Boucher has contributed to NHL Network and joined ESPN/ABC for their NHL coverage starting in the 2021–22 season. Most recently, he has taken on the position of lead ice-level analyst at TNT, reuniting with former NBC colleagues. Boucher’s journey from a celebrated goaltender to a prominent analyst exemplifies his passion for hockey and his commitment to sharing the sport with fans.