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The most recognizable voice in hockey is on the phone talking about why the Toronto Maple Leafs lost Game 1 to the Boston Bruins in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.

“It’s the old phrase when you get to the playoffs,” said Bob Cole. “‘You better stay out of the penalty box,’ especially against a team like Boston. Or else they’re going to sting you.”

Cole, who sounds as if he’s in the middle of a broadcast, then added: “It’s a great time of year.”

And yet, for the 84-year-old, it has suddenly become the worst time of the year. For the first time in almost five decades, the legendary play-by-play announcer won’t be calling any playoff games. It’s a decision that caught Cole by surprise. And it’s a decision that he still doesn’t quite understand.

“I’ve been doing playoffs every year of my life in broadcasting. This is the first time that I’m not involved,” Cole said. “It’s difficult to live with the fact that I’m not working. I surely will miss not working the playoffs. That’s the best way I can say it.”