NHL Wraparound Podcast
NHL Wraparound Podcast

NHL Wraparound Podcast

Neil Smith & Vic Morren

Overview
Episodes

Details

Breadth and depth. Contemporary and historical. Straight-forward and experienced. The NHL Wraparound podcast features Neil Smith, President-General Manager of the 1994 Stanley Cup Champion New York Rangers and longtime ESPN/NHL veteran Vic Morren sharing no-nonsense opinions on news and issues around the National Hockey League. Bringing decades of experience from their respective fields, Smith and Morren create a unique partnership that examines the NHL from multiple perspectives. Additionally, as hockey historians, the pair can delve into any topic in today’s game and enlighten the audience with connections to events from previous years. To truly appreciate where hockey stands today, one needs to understand its past. With 2024 marking the 30th anniversary of the Rangers last championship season, a special five-part series is planned to commemorate that magical run. Expect fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and special guests with particular focus on the GM who pushed all of his chips into the middle of the table amidst the most pressurized environments – and came out on top. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned fan, each episode of NHL Wraparound will leave you entertained and informed. Bio’s Neil S. Smith, highly regarded NHL executive, served as the President and General Manager of the 1994 Stanley Cup Champion New York Rangers. During his eleven years with the team, they achieved significant success, including three division titles, two Presidents’ Trophies, one Eastern Conference Championship, and a historic Stanley Cup victory—the franchise’s first in 54 years. Known for his expertise in professional sports franchise economics, Smith played a pivotal role in management decisions under four different Rangers owners.. His tenure saw iconic trades and acquisitions, including Hall of Famers Mark Messier and Wayne Gretzky, as well as successful drafts and free-agent signings. Starting as a pro scout, Smith's career highlights include the impactful 1989 draft for the Detroit Red Wings and bold trades that shaped NHL history. He briefly served as GM for the New York Islanders in 2006, later working as a consultant for the Dallas Stars, Pittsburgh Penguins, and the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. A Toronto native, Smith's hockey journey began in junior leagues before a distinguished college career at Western Michigan University. He has received numerous awards and distinctions, including induction into the University's Sports Hall of Fame in 1991. Vic Morren: Born in New York City close to the Old Madison Square Garden, Vic Morren has had hockey in his blood his entire life as a fan, player and television production manager. A graduate of William Paterson University, Morren skated for three seasons with the Pioneers hockey club and became the first statistical analyst to apply his craft to telecasts working New York Islanders and New Jersey Devils games from 1984-87. He co-authored two NHL-based statistics books within that span before moving to ESPN in 1987 and working the final season of the original deal the network had with the NHL. After departing in 1990, Morren worked as a studio producer for SportsChannel America’s NHL coverage and the 1992 Barcelona Olympics before returning to ESPN that fall where he worked all 12 seasons on the second ESPN/NHL deal and the first season of the most recent contract in 2021-22. Morren has also earned a Sports Emmy for his work on Sunday Night Football coverage in 2003. His relationship with Neil Smith dates back 33 years through their mutual friendship with the late ESPN/ABC commentator John Saunders. Morren looks forward to NHL Wraparound and collaborating with Smith with the goal to provide an experience of contemporary viewpoints, historical spin and an overall enriching podcast experience.

Recent Episodes

EP 17 Unbiased: With Former NHL Referee Dave Jackson
MAY 15, 2024
EP 17 Unbiased: With Former NHL Referee Dave Jackson

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 [email protected]


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 meigray.com and use the COUPON CODE WRAP10


www.ubs.com

 

NHL and UBS Financial Services Inc. are not affiliated. UBS Financial Services Inc. (UBS) is a sponsor of The Human Side of the Story.  No other affiliation, relationship or endorsement is made, suggested, intended or should be implied or inferred between UBS and Produce your Podcast, or any of the individuals or businesses, and/or their respective products and services appearing in this program.



The Nintzel Wealth Partners:  https://advisors.ubs.com/nintzelwealthpartners/


What is the primary focus of The Nintzel Wealth Partners? You, and what matters most to you. We see our relationship as an ongoing, ever-evolving collaboration. We make no assumptions about your wealth until we thoroughly talk through your priorities and your concerns. As a multigenerational team, our advice is relevant to clients at any age. Each of us brings the knowledge we’ve gained from every type of market. Looking back, we believe our experience offers our clients the benefit of perspective. But we are also modern thinkers whose guidance reflects today’s realities.


We recognize that you place your trust in our ability to help you achieve your goals, to create the right opportunities for you and your family and to plan confidently for the future. To us, there’s no greater honor. And without question, there’s no greater responsibility.


Our mission is to provide quality strategies customized to your needs. Our goal is to be your primary source of financial advice. To this end, we concentrate our efforts on developing long-term relationships through a commitment to quality client service.


BIO:

Dave Jackson is a former NHL referee who now works as a lead rules analyst for ESPN. He has officiated 1,546 regular season games and 83 playoff matches, and has also officiated two All-Star Games (2002, 2018), and the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. Jackson is the sixth NHL referee to work 1,500 games, and the most tenured active referee.

Mentioned in this episode:

Save the Date for the VIP Kickoff Virtual Event celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the New York Rangers' historic Stanley Cup Win! This exclusive event, hosted by none other NHL Wraparound Podcast hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren, will be filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and celebration. Date: June 6th Time: 6:00 PM EDT Location: Zoom (Sent to you privately) Register: https://www.subscribepage.io/NHLWraparound

play-circle
57 MIN
EP 16 Bucci Strikes Again! Round Two Playoff Preview with John Buccigross
MAY 7, 2024
EP 16 Bucci Strikes Again! Round Two Playoff Preview with John Buccigross

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/

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=61555451139787


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 meigray.com and use the COUPON CODE WRAP10


www.ubs.com

 NHL and UBS Financial Services Inc. are not affiliated. UBS Financial Services Inc. (UBS) is a sponsor of The Human Side of the Story.  No other affiliation, relationship or endorsement is made, suggested, intended or should be implied or inferred between UBS and Produce your Podcast, or any of the individuals or businesses, and/or their respective products and services appearing in this program.


The Nintzel Wealth Partners:  https://advisors.ubs.com/nintzelwealthpartners/

What is the primary focus of The Nintzel Wealth Partners? You, and what matters most to you. We see our relationship as an ongoing, ever-evolving collaboration. We make no assumptions about your wealth until we thoroughly talk through your priorities and your concerns. As a multigenerational team, our advice is relevant to clients at any age. Each of us brings the knowledge we’ve gained from every type of market. Looking back, we believe our experience offers our clients the benefit of perspective. But we are also modern thinkers whose guidance reflects today’s realities.

We recognize that you place your trust in our ability to help you achieve your goals, to create the right opportunities for you and your family and to plan confidently for the future. To us, there’s no greater honor. And without question, there’s no greater responsibility.

Our mission is to provide quality strategies customized to your needs. Our goal is to be your primary source of financial advice. To this end, we concentrate our efforts on developing long-term relationships through a commitment to quality client service.


BIO:

John Buccigross is part of ESPN’s NHL team as a play-by-play commentator for select NHL games. He also hosts The Point, a weekly hockey-focused studio show on ESPN2. In addition, Buccigross is an occasional host of SportsCenter, a program he anchored on a regular basis prior to ESPN’s re-acquiring of NHL rights.

 #NHL #Hockey #Podcast #Sports #Broadcasting #StanleyCup #Coaching #Media #Management #ESPN #TNT #Playoffs #Championships #NeilSmith #VicMorren #HockeyAnalysis #JohnBuccigross #BostonBruins #FloridaPanthers #VancouverCanucks #EdmontonOilers #ColoradoAvalanche  #DallasStars #NewYorkRangers #CarolinaHurricanes #BarryMelrose

Mentioned in this episode:

Save the Date for the VIP Kickoff Virtual Event celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the New York Rangers' historic Stanley Cup Win! This exclusive event, hosted by none other NHL Wraparound Podcast hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren, will be filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and celebration. Date: June 6th Time: 6:00 PM EDT Location: Zoom (Sent to you privately) Register: www.subscribepage.io/NHLWraparound

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61 MIN
Ep 15 Second in Command – A Discussion with NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly
APR 30, 2024
Ep 15 Second in Command – A Discussion with NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly

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: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 meigray.com and use the COUPON CODE WRAP10


DUER: Upgrade your wardrobe and order your own pair of DUER jeans today!

20% off code- https://shopduer.com/NHLFAN

www.ubs.com

NHL and UBS Financial Services Inc. are not affiliated. UBS Financial Services Inc. (UBS) is a sponsor of The Human Side of the Story.  No other affiliation, relationship or endorsement is made, suggested, intended or should be implied or inferred between UBS and Produce your Podcast, or any of the individuals or businesses, and/or their respective products and services appearing in this program.


The Nintzel Wealth Partners:  https://advisors.ubs.com/nintzelwealthpartners/

What is the primary focus of The Nintzel Wealth Partners? You, and what matters most to you. We see our relationship as an ongoing, ever-evolving collaboration. We make no assumptions about your wealth until we thoroughly talk through your priorities and your concerns. As a multigenerational team, our advice is relevant to clients at any age. Each of us brings the knowledge we’ve gained from every type of market. Looking back, we believe our experience offers our clients the benefit of perspective. But we are also modern thinkers whose guidance reflects today’s realities.


We recognize that you place your trust in our ability to help you achieve your goals, to create the right opportunities for you and your family and to plan confidently for the future. To us, there’s no greater honor. And without question, there’s no greater responsibility.


Our mission is to provide quality strategies customized to your needs. Our goal is to be your primary source of financial advice. To this end, we concentrate our efforts on developing long-term relationships through a commitment to quality client service.


BIO:

William "Bill" L. Daly III[1] (born May 1, 1964)[2] is an American attorney and the current deputy commissioner and chief legal officer of the National Hockey League (NHL) under Commissioner Gary Bettman. He is also a Hockey Hall of Fame board member and former NHL vice president and chief legal officer.[3] Before joining the NHL front office he worked for the New York law firm of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, LLP. He received his bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College and his J.D. degree from New York University School of Law.[4]

#NHL #Hockey #Podcast #Sports #Broadcasting #StanleyCup #Coaching #Media #Management #ESPN #TNT #Playoffs #Championships #NeilSmith #VicMorren  #BillDaly  #NHLDeputyCommissioner #Utah #ArizonaCoyotes #BobCole

Mentioned in this episode:

Save the Date for the VIP Kickoff Virtual Event celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the New York Rangers' historic Stanley Cup Win! This exclusive event, hosted by none other NHL Wraparound Podcast hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren, will be filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and celebration. Date: June 6th Time: 6:00 PM EDT Location: Zoom (Sent to you privately) Register: https://www.subscribepage.io/NHLWraparound

play-circle
58 MIN
EP 14 What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas? With George McPhee
APR 23, 2024
EP 14 What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas? With George McPhee

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


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 meigray.com and use the COUPON CODE WRAP10


DUER: Upgrade your wardrobe and order your own pair of DUER jeans today!

20% off code- 

https://shopduer.com/NHLFAN


www.ubs.com

 

NHL and UBS Financial Services Inc. are not affiliated. UBS Financial Services Inc. (UBS) is a sponsor of The Human Side of the Story.  No other affiliation, relationship or endorsement is made, suggested, intended or should be implied or inferred between UBS and Produce your Podcast, or any of the individuals or businesses, and/or their respective products and services appearing in this program.



The Nintzel Wealth Partners:  https://advisors.ubs.com/nintzelwealthpartners/


What is the primary focus of The Nintzel Wealth Partners? You, and what matters most to you. We see our relationship as an ongoing, ever-evolving collaboration. We make no assumptions about your wealth until we thoroughly talk through your priorities and your concerns. As a multigenerational team, our advice is relevant to clients at any age. Each of us brings the knowledge we’ve gained from every type of market. Looking back, we believe our experience offers our clients the benefit of perspective. But we are also modern thinkers whose guidance reflects today’s realities.


We recognize that you place your trust in our ability to help you achieve your goals, to create the right opportunities for you and your family and to plan confidently for the future. To us, there’s no greater honor. And without question, there’s no greater responsibility.


Our mission is to provide quality strategies customized to your needs. Our goal is to be your primary source of financial advice. To this end, we concentrate our efforts on developing long-term relationships through a commitment to quality client service.


BIO:

George McPhee (born July 2, 1958) is a Canadian ice hockey executive and former player, currently serving as the president of hockey operations for the Vegas Golden Knights of the National Hockey League (NHL).[1] McPhee served as the general manager of the Washington Capitals and has also served as alternate governor, vice president and special assistant to the general manager of the New York Islanders. As a player, McPhee won the Hobey Baker Award in 1982 as the best NCAA men's ice hockey player, later playing for the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils.


: #NHL #Hockey #Podcast #Sports #Broadcasting #StanleyCup #Coaching #Media #Management #ESPN #TNT #Playoffs #Championships #NeilSmith #VicMorren #GeorgeMcphee #VegasGoldenKnights

Mentioned in this episode:

Save the Date for the VIP Kickoff Virtual Event celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the New York Rangers' historic Stanley Cup Win! This exclusive event, hosted by none other NHL Wraparound Podcast hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren, will be filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and celebration. Date: June 6th Time: 6:00 PM EDT Location: Zoom (Sent to you privately) Register: www.subscribepage.io/NHLWraparound

play-circle
53 MIN
Special Edition: Playoff Preview with John Buccigross
APR 19, 2024
Special Edition: Playoff Preview with John Buccigross

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: 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 meigray.com and use the COUPON CODE WRAP10


BIO:

John Buccigross is part of ESPN’s NHL team as a play-by-play commentator for select NHL games. He also hosts The Point, a weekly hockey-focused studio show on ESPN2. In addition, Buccigross is an occasional host of SportsCenter, a program he anchored on a regular basis prior to ESPN’s re-acquiring of NHL rights.

Buccigross joined the company as an ESPNEWS anchor in 1996, prior to the launch of the 24-hour sports news network. He was the primary host of NHL 2Night, ESPN2’s 30-minute program dedicated to hockey highlights and news from 1998-2004.

He currently serves as the play-by-play voice of the NCAA Hockey Championship (Frozen Four). “Bucci” also sometimes fills in as host of the nightly hockey highlights program In the Crease on ESPN+.

Before joining ESPN, Buccigross had been at WPRI-TV in Providence, R.I. He started as the station’s weekend sports anchor in 1994, and later was named weekday anchor. Before WPRI, Buccigross worked at a local news network, Cape 11 News, in Massachusetts from 1989 to 1994.

Buccigross also authored a book entitled,” Jonesy: Put Your Head Down and Skate: The Improbable Career of Keith Jones.”

Buccigross, a native of Pittsburgh, Pa., received a communications/theater arts degree from Heidelberg University.


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Mentioned in this episode:

Save the Date for the VIP Kickoff Virtual Event celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the New York Rangers' historic Stanley Cup Win! This exclusive event, hosted by none other NHL Wraparound Podcast hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren, will be filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and celebration. Date: June 6th Time: 6:00 PM EDT Location: Zoom (Sent to you privately) Register: www.subscribepage.io/NHLWraparound

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86 MIN