Dave Jackson, former NHL referee and current ESPN Rules Analyst, joins Neil and Vic to discuss the intensity of playoff hockey, the role and challenges of officials, and the evolution of the two-man officiating system.

They explore video review complexities and the subjective nature of certain calls. Critiquing the rules like hand passing in the defensive zone and puck-over-glass penalties, while Jackson suggests reforms, such as allowing hand passes across all areas of the ice. They also discuss simplifying offside reviews and adjusting instigator penalties to reduce fighting.

Debate on the Toronto Maple Leafs' salary cap management and coaching decisions, discussing the trend of firing coaches without clear improvements. Concluding with the Human Side of the Story on fan emotion swings in the second round.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:41] Spotlight on unexpected Playoff Heroes
• [01:46] One Timers: Analyzing playoff team dynamics
• [05:40] Referee Insights with Dave Jackson
• [14:23] The rigorous life of NHL Officials
• [17:43] Evolution of NHL officiating and rules analysis
• [29:20] Debating hockey rules and penalties
• [30:10] Expanding the hand pass rule
• [31:37] Controversy of puck over glass and goal scoring rules
• [35:10] Offside rule revisions and the impact on the game
• [37:47] Addressing open ice hits and instigator penalties
• [43:50] Navigating the Maple Leafs' coaching and salary cap challenges
• [50:48] Human Side of the Story: Fan Emotions

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Stanley Cup playoffs are highly competitive due to the evenly matched teams, with no clear dominant "super team."
• Goaltender interference is a complex and subjective area of officiating, with video review adding another layer of judgment.
• NHL referees undergo rigorous physical and mental preparation to handle the demands of officiating games, including the transition to a two-man system.
• Fans experience intense emotions, ranging from elation to despair, based on their team's performance in the playoffs.

Send questions or comments to NHLWraparound@gmail.com

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/

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John Buccigross, Long-time studio host and Play-by-Play man for the NHL on ESPN, is back for round two of the Stanley Cup playoffs. They provide detailed analysis and predictions for each series, including team matchups and key players to watch.

Throughout the episode, insights into coaching strategies, player performances, and potential outcomes of the playoffs are shared, alongside personal anecdotes and memories of working with Melrose.

The Human Side of the Story also pays tribute to Barry Melrose, a beloved figure in hockey broadcasting who recently retired due to Parkinson's disease.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [01:17] Playoff formats and matchups
• [03:13] The Saga of the Toronto Maple Leafs: Analysis and Future Prospects
• [05:36] Round One Recap and Round Two Predictions with John Buccigross
• [07:17] Rangers vs. Hurricanes
• [18:00] Bruins vs. Panthers
• [29:28] Dallas vs. Colorado
• [31:51] Analyzing key players and strategies
• [33:14] Goalie Showdown: Georgiev vs. Oettinger
• [42:53] Vancouver vs. Edmonton
• [52:45] The Human Side: Saluting Barry Melrose

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The discussion shifts to the Toronto Maple Leafs, focusing on their perennial playoff struggles and financial challenges. With significant salary cap commitments to key players, questions arise about potential roster changes and the team's direction moving forward.
• Peter DeBoer's coaching resilience is highlighted, with emphasis on his ability to quickly bounce back from job losses in the NHL. Despite being fired mid-season, he was hired by another team during the same season, showcasing his consistent employment and ability to command respect in the hockey world.
• Heartfelt tribute to Barry Melrose, a former NHL player and coach turned broadcaster, who retired due to Parkinson's disease. Melrose's impact on hockey, both as a player and a broadcaster, is acknowledged, emphasizing his quick wit, humor, and iconic presence in hockey broadcasting.

Barry Melrose/BucciOT: https://www.bucciot.com/

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/

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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/

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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/

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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:

The final week of the NHL regular season is here and the intense competition for playoff spots, particularly focusing on the battle among five teams for the last two spots in the Eastern Conference.

The episode features an insightful interview with Ken Holland, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager of the Edmonton Oilers, discussing various aspects of his career, player development, and the Oilers' playoff prospects.

Neil and Vic also explore whether teams actually need an elite goaltender to win the Stanley Cup, considering recent trends, and share their thoughts on the goalie tandems across the league.

The episode concludes with The Human Side of the Story: Ken Holland, inducted into the Hall of Fame and former general manager of the Detroit Red Wings, and the tribute to David Carle, celebrating his success as the University of Denver's head coach and his remarkable journey in hockey.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:41] The Playoff Race Heats Up: Insights and Predictions
• [01:54] One Timers: Hot Takes on NHL Stars and Playoff Drama
• [03:57] The Arizona Coyotes Saga: Sale, Relocation, and Future Prospects
• [07:32] Special Guest Ken Holland GM for the Edmonton Oilers
• [08:04] Ken Holland's Career
• [16:52] The Edmonton Oilers' Season
• [24:17] Reclamation Projects and Building a Competitive Team
• [28:25] Player Motivations and Team Dynamics
• [29:49] Playoff Preparations and Strategies
• [30:53] The Importance of Health and Depth in Playoff Success
• [34:14] Connor McDavid’s Health Status and Historic Milestones
• [36:31] Stu Skinner's Rise and Team Goaltending Strategy
• [42:18] Reflecting on a Storied Career
• [49:40] The Evolution of Goaltending and Playoff Dynamics
• [55:33] Human Side of the Story- Ken Holland's Path to Success

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Ken Holland shares a personal anecdote about his transition from playing hockey to scouting and eventually becoming a successful general manager, highlighting the unpredictability and resilience required in the sports industry.
• The Oilers aimed to bolster their roster depth, particularly upfront, and on defense, through strategic acquisitions like Adam Henrique, Sam Carrick, and Troy Stecher, alongside earlier signing Corey Perry, to enhance their playoff prospects.
• With only Corey Perry having won a Stanley Cup on the current roster, and a few others having played in the finals, the Oilers recognize the value of playoff experience and leadership, aiming to build a well-rounded team capable of making a deep playoff run.

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

SPONSORSHIP:

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Hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss the latest developments as the regular NHL season nears its end, analyzing the playoff prospects for both the Eastern and Western Conferences.

Special guest Nick Kypreos provides insights into the New York Rangers' chances in the playoffs and discusses the ongoing drought of Canadian teams not winning the Stanley Cup.

The episode also touches on the Dallas Stars' strengths, Artemi Panarin's playoff performance expectations, and the underdog status of teams like the Vancouver Canucks.

In addition, the hosts explore the human Side of hockey, from the everyday lives of players and their families to the reality that referees, too, are susceptible to the game's physical dangers.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [01:35] One Timers: Playoff teams change from 2023 & Dallas primed to top Western Conference
• [05:31] Exploring the Rangers' Playoff Prospects with Nick Kypreos
• [07:00] New York Rangers' current team and its potential compared to their 1994 Stanley Cup-winning team.
• [08:00] Nick Kypreos discusses the New York Rangers' chances in the playoffs and compares them to other teams.
• [09:21] Discussion about the Rangers' playing style and their potential success in the playoffs.
• [12:09] Artemi Panarin's performance in the playoffs and his importance to the Rangers.
• [16:57] Conversation shifts to identifying a key player (a "horse") for the Rangers in the playoffs.
• [17:27] Evaluation of Matt Rempe's potential impact on the Rangers' playoff lineup.
• [22:09] Canadian Teams' Stanley Cup Drought Discussion.
• [29:53] Insights into the Vancouver Canucks and Winnipeg Jets.
• [36:03] Discussion about Evander Kane needing to step up for the Edmonton Oilers.
• [39:18] Nick Kypreos mentions his work with Sportsnet and Hockey Night in Canada.
• [41:28] Reflecting on the Human Side of the Story - players are people too.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Nick discusses the current New York Rangers team, expressing optimism about their potential to compete for the Stanley Cup. Despite acknowledging the presence of strong teams like the Vegas Golden Knights, he believes the Rangers have the talent, depth, and toughness to be contenders.
• Player Focus: The discussion highlights Artemi Panarin's significance for the Rangers' playoff prospects. Nick stresses the need for leadership and character growth in players like Panarin, alongside the importance of consistency from Chris Kreider.
• Playoff Strategy: The conversation also touches on the strategic decisions needed for playoff success, including the balance between lateral passing and straight-line attacks.
• The human aspect of professional hockey, emphasizing the personal lives and emotions of players underneath their uniforms, shedding light on the impact of career-related events on the players and their families.

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:

Episode 11 features an engaging interview with Craig Laughlin, a Washington Capitals TV analyst, exploring his career, insights on the Capitals' performance, and stories about Alexander Ovechkin. The hosts also address the recent controversy involving Zach Hyman's 50-goal milestone achievement and the debate on the influence of privilege in reaching NHL success.

Reflections on missed story opportunities and critiques of John Hines' risky overtime goalie pulls, noting the subsequent loss nullifying initial gains. They discuss the rarity and necessity of such moves in NHL history.

Shifting to Zach Hyman's milestone, criticism of his privileged background arises, but Neil dismisses it, stressing character and talent as key to NHL success. The dialogue concludes with recognition of diverse paths to NHL achievement and acknowledgment of Hyman's accomplishments.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [00:45] One Timers: Potential Award Winners and MVP Discussions
• [05:05] Special Guest Craig Laughlin: A Deep Dive into His Career and Insights
• [14:40] Analyzing the Washington Capitals: Challenges and Triumphs
• [21:45] The Future of the Capitals: Goaltending Dynamics and Playoff Prospects
• [23:54] Analyzing the Capitals' Path to the Playoffs
• [25:49] The Capitals' Strategy and Key Players
• [27:27] Future Prospects and Rebuilding the Team
• [29:01] Special Focus: Ryan Leonard's Potential Impact
• [31:20] Ovechkin's Legacy and Fun Stories
• [35:03] The Art of Broadcasting and Love for Hockey
• [38:26] Debating Pulling Goalie Strategies in Overtime
• [42:52] Human side of the Story -Zach Hyman's Milestone and the Debate on Privilege

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Washington Capitals' performance and prospects for the playoffs, with a focus on their remaining schedule and the potential outcomes for the team in the Metropolitan division.
• The impact of injuries on key players such as Nicklas Backstrom and TJ Oshie, as well as the coaching staff's ability to adapt and integrate young players into the team's lineup.
• Goaltending dynamics of the Washington Capitals, particularly the performance of goaltenders Darcy Kuemper and Charlie Lindgren, and their contributions to the team's success.

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

SPONSORSHIP:

MeiGray is your source for Game-Worn jerseys. Head to MeiGray.com to get your collection started today. Get real, get it from MeiGray.

https://www.MeiGray.com/

https://MeiGrayauctions.com/

NHL Wraparound guests can take 10 percent off any hockey jersey when they order at