In the latest episode of the NHL podcast, Katie Gaus, Michael Traikos, and guest co-host Steve Warne dive deep into all the hot topics surrounding the league. From playoff predictions to controversial comments and surprising player performances, there’s a lot to unpack. Here’s a breakdown of what they discussed and why it matters to hockey fans everywhere.
Ranking the Top Eight Stanley Cup Contenders
The show kicks off with Steve Warne revealing his updated list of the top eight teams most likely to win the Stanley Cup. He shares why he picked these teams and defends some bold choices.
Michael Traikos follows up with his own Cup contenders list and explains his reasoning. A key disagreement comes when Steve leaves the Toronto Maple Leafs off his list, while Michael includes them. Steve explains why he doesn’t think the Leafs are strong enough to be in his top eight.
Who Just Missed the Cut?
The hosts also talk about teams that didn’t make the Cup contenders list but possibly could have if their playoff path was easier. Some strong teams might just be unlucky with the matchups they face early on.
Brady Tkachuk Injury Update
Ottawa Senators fans may be worried as coach Travis Green announced that captain Brady Tkachuk is dealing with an upper-body injury. He’s missed two games so far, and the team has labeled him “day-to-day.” The crew discusses how serious this could be and what it means for Ottawa’s playoff chances.
Scott Laughton Struggling with the Leafs
Toronto Maple Leafs center Scott Laughton hasn’t had the best start since being traded. With just two points and a team-worst minus-5 rating, the hosts debate if he fits well with Toronto or if the trade is already showing signs of trouble.
Best Trade Deadline Impact So Far
Next, the hosts discuss which trade deadline move has worked out best so far. Some players have quickly made a big impact with their new teams, helping them win key games down the stretch.
Massive NHL Broadcast Deal with Rogers
In big business news, the NHL has agreed to a huge 12-year deal worth $7.7 billion with Rogers Communications. The panel shares their thoughts on what this deal means for the future of broadcasting, fan experience, and league growth.
Wild Card Race: Blues vs Wild, Flames Falling Behind
Can the St. Louis Blues hold onto the first wild-card spot in the Western Conference? Will the Minnesota Wild catch up? And is it officially over for the Calgary Flames this season? The hosts give their predictions.
Patrick Roy’s Harsh Words for Duclair
Following a sixth straight loss for the New York Islanders, coach Patrick Roy publicly criticized Anthony Duclair. Was he right to call out his player like that? The discussion covers whether this is a coaching problem, a player issue, or both.
Toughest Arena to Win in During the Playoffs
Every year, certain NHL arenas are just tougher for visiting teams. The crew debates which building will be the hardest for away teams to win in this playoff season.
Chatfield vs McMichael: Was Justice Served?
Jalen Chatfield body-slammed Connor McMichael during a fight, but the NHL didn’t punish him. Was that the right call? The panel discusses whether the league got this one right or not.
Cale Makar Hits 30 Goals as a Defenseman
Cale Makar made history by becoming the first defenseman to score 30 goals in a season since Mike Green. The team discusses how special this is and who might be the next D-man to reach that milestone.
Ovechkin Chasing Gretzky’s Goal Record
Alexander Ovechkin is just three goals away from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goals record. With only two games left to do it, can Ovechkin make history? The hosts weigh in on whether he can tie or even beat Gretzky’s record in the same number of games.
This episode covers everything from playoff races and bold predictions to player struggles and off-ice drama. Whether it’s injury updates, hot trades, or record-breaking moments, Katie, Michael, and Steve give fans a lot to think about. As the NHL season nears its final stretch, every decision, performance, and injury could change how the playoffs unfold.
