Bill Daly, the Deputy Commissioner of the NHL joins Neil and Vic on an in depth discussion in Episode 15. Daly discusses the relocation of the Arizona Coyotes to Utah, highlighting the complexities of finding a long-term arena solution and the unexpected rejection of a public referendum for a new arena in Tempe, Arizona. He explains the transitional plan, which allows the team's owner to reactivate the franchise if a suitable arena is built.

The episode also focuses on the league's use of video review technology, addressing concerns over its application and the potential for future expansion in its use. Additionally, Daly touches on the future of NHL broadcasting, specifically the role of streaming services and new deals, like the NHL's streaming with Amazon in Canada, in the evolution of how fans consume hockey content.

The conversation encapsulates not only the current state of the NHL but also gives insight into its future direction in team management, technology, and media. Concluding with the Human side of the story of Bill Daly and the Canadian legend Bob Cole

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [01:21] One Timer Segment: Deep Dives into the future of the Tampa Bay Lightning and the magic of playoff overtime
• [06:24] Exclusive Interview: Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly
• [06:53] The Intriguing Utah Situation: A Comprehensive Breakdown
• [14:45] Exploring the Future: NHL Expansion and Technological Advances
• [25:25] Exploring the Intricacies of NHL Video Review and Goaltender Interference
• [30:31] The Evolution of Video Review in Hockey: From Controversial Calls to Technological Limits
• [34:31] Future of NHL Broadcasts: The Shift Towards Streaming Platforms
• [38:40] The High Turnover of NHL Head Coaches
• [41:09] The Impact of the Salary Cap on NHL Coaching Changes
• [45:25] Lindy Ruff's Return to Buffalo
• [48:07] Human Side of the Story Bill Daly
• [53:08] Celebrating the Legacy of Bob Cole: A Voice That Defined Hockey Broadcasting

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Arizona Coyotes have been facing challenges finding a long-term arena solution, leading to their eviction from Gila River Arena. Efforts to build a state-of-the-art arena in Tempe faced a setback when a public referendum failed, prompting the team to explore alternatives.
• The NHL remains at 32 teams, with potential future expansions discussed but not imminent. The league's U.S. footprint is smaller than other major professional sports leagues, allowing room for potential growth in North American markets.
• Video review in NHL games is focused on maintaining a balance between accuracy and preserving the human element of the game. The evolution of broadcasting, including streaming platforms like Amazon, reflects ongoing changes in how fans consume NHL content.

RESOURCE LINKS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:

Hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren, along with special guest George McPhee, President of Hockey Operations for the Vegas Golden Knights, discuss the NHL playoff scenario, team dynamics, and franchise movements. They reflect on the historical and recent team relocations within the NHL, offering a glimpse into the impact on communities and individuals involved.

George McPhee shares his extensive career journey, from his playing days to becoming a Stanley Cup champion, giving listeners an in-depth look at the trials and achievements encountered along the way.

The episode also touches on the upcoming move of the Arizona Coyotes to Salt Lake City, exploring the challenges and opportunities of introducing NHL hockey to new markets. Emotional anecdotes from McPhee's personal experience with the Stanley Cup highlight the profound connections people have with the sport.

Additionally, discussions on team strategy, player injuries, and the anticipation for the defense of the Stanley Cup by the Vegas Golden Knights provide a comprehensive overview of the current NHL landscape.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [01:29] The Playoff Debate: Structure and Strategy
• [05:56] George McPhee from career highlights to Stanley Cup victory
• [18:26] The emotional journey of winning the Stanley Cup
• [19:21] Reflections on career and life beyond the rink
• [23:51] The unforgettable Stanley Cup moments
• [27:22] The unconventional success of Vegas in the NHL
• [28:41] Addressing salary cap and player injury controversies
• [31:24] Strategic acquisitions and team dynamics
• [33:24] Goalkeeping strategy and playoff preparations
• [34:58] Reflecting on Alex Ovechkin's legendary career
• [37:37] George McPhee's family and hockey journey
• [41:38] The emotional impact of NHL franchise relocations

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• George McPhee's personal journey in the NHL, reflecting on his experiences from being a player to becoming an executive, and finally celebrating a Stanley Cup victory with the Vegas Golden Knights.
• The complexities of managing an NHL team, including navigating salary caps and making strategic player acquisitions.
• The emotional and logistical challenges of franchise relocations for players, management, and fans, highlighting the impact on communities left behind and the difficulties faced by those moving to a new city.

RESOURCE LINKS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558685344275

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Special guest John Buccigross Long-time studio host and Play-by-Play man for the NHL on ESPN joins us to cover the Stanley Cup Playoff Preview Show. Focus is on the teams strengths, weaknesses, and key factors that could influence the outcomes, such as coaching styles, player performances, and injuries.

Predictions for each series and in depth discussion on the New York Rangers vs. Washington Capitals, Carolina Hurricanes vs. New York Islanders, Florida Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Lightning, Boston Bruins vs. Toronto Maple Leafs, and Winnipeg Jets vs. Colorado Avalanche. Potential upsets, and standout players are shared alongside the analysis of team structures, and goaltending merits. They end with rapid fire questions and who they are predicting to win the Stanley Cup.

So buckle up, hockey fans and don’t miss this action packed episode!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [02:10] Rangers vs. Capitals: Strategies and Expectations
• [12:09] Carolina vs. Islanders: Analyzing Strengths and Weaknesses
• [19:37] Panthers vs. Lightning: A Battle of Skill vs. Grit
• [27:55] Bruins vs. Maple Leafs: A Historic Rivalry Rekindled
• [39:40] Jets vs. Avalanche: Analyzing the Central Division Showdown
• [43:44] The Great Goalie Debate: Hellebuyck vs. Georgiev
• [44:30] Colorado's Determination and Goaltending Dilemma
• [48:22] Vegas Golden Knights: From Champions to Underdogs
• [49:00] Dallas Stars: A Deep Dive into Their Strengths
• [56:14] Vancouver vs. Nashville: An Intriguing Matchup
• [01:04:12] LA Kings vs. Edmonton Oilers: A Tough Battle Ahead
• [01:12:59] Playoff Predictions and Final Thoughts

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Across different playoff series, strategic matchups are crucial. For example, in the Carolina-Islanders series, Carolina's strong special teams, particularly their power play, could pose a significant challenge for the Islanders' weaker penalty-killing unit.
• Some series, like Florida vs. Tampa Bay, showcase a clash of styles. Florida's physicality and depth against Tampa Bay's skill and playoff experience create an intriguing matchup. The outcome might hinge on factors like power play success and bottom-six contributions.
• The coaches' influence on their respective teams is significant, particularly in terms of adapting strategies and motivating players. Knobloch's structural changes with the Oilers improved defensive numbers and goaltending, showcasing the impact a new coach can have mid-season.
• The path to the Stanley Cup Finals is critical. Teams like Edmonton and Florida are favored due to their potentially favorable matchups in the early rounds, providing them with a smoother path to the Conference Finals.
• Players who could unexpectedly shine in the playoffs, like Michael McCarran of Nashville or Tomasz Hurdl of Vegas, could significantly impact their teams' playoff runs. Identifying these potential breakout performers adds an element of unpredictability to the postseason.

RESOURCE LINKS

John Buccigross Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buccigross/

John Buccigross Website- https://www.bucciot.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: