CBC hockey commentator Don Cherry will address the nation on Saturday night about this week’s blockbuster NHL deal with Rogers Sportsnet.

CBC representatives say Cherry has decided to use Coach’s Corner on Hockey Night in Canada to say what he wants about this week’s 12-year, $5.2 billion deal.

Over the past few days, Cherry has refused to express an opinion about the deal and how it will affect him.

“I have no idea what’s going on,” Cherry told reporters. “I’m asking you guys, ‘Do I have a job?’ I can’t make a comment because I don’t know what’s going on.”

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This could be the most watched Coach’s Corner in memory, especially given the marquee matchup of the Maple Leafs and Canadiens in Montreal.

Cherry has told CBC executives that, at least for now, this will be the only time he will be addressing the agreement.

After the Rogers-NHL deal was reached, Rogers made a sub-licensing deal with the CBC that will keep Hockey Night in Canada on the air for four years.

After that, however, it’s widely speculated HNIC could fade to black.

The deal gives Rogers full control over the content, on-air talent and the creative direction of CBC’s flagship hockey program.

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