The Ray & Dregs Hockey Podcast

Sunday’s Tampa Bay vs Boston outdoor game delivered a true spectacle — great hockey weather, a goalie fight, and a wild Lightning comeback from four goals down — though not without controversy, as Boston bristled at the penalty disparity and power plays that swung momentum, even if, as Ray notes, the Bruins are among the league’s most-penalized teams. The game also raised Olympic questions with Anthony Cirelli injured and Brayden Point’s status looming, highlighting the rigidity of Olympic rosters where changes can’t be made once the tournament begins, prompting speculation about potential standby players flying to Italy, while Sam Bennett is banged up but expected to be fine and Zach Hyman’s name creeps into the conversation given his 50-goal-pace production and versatility. Meanwhile, Connor McDavid gave fans a rare, heartfelt glimpse into his mindset with his Players’ Tribune piece “Dear Canada,” a raw expression of his love for the game and a clear signal — especially to Oilers fans — of his desire to win a Stanley Cup in Edmonton. Barry Trotz announced he’ll step down as Nashville Predators GM at season’s end for family reasons, with the organization hoping to have a new GM in place by the draft, marking the first time in franchise history that neither Trotz nor David Poile will be involved. Plus, Ryan Rishaug checks in from Milano Cortina to talk facilities and schedule in advance of the Olympic Hockey tournaments.

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Artemi Panarin appears to be headed out of New York, with the Rangers reportedly shelving him through the Olympic break to protect the asset, and his no-trade clause giving him significant control as teams like LA, Washington, San Jose and possibly Dallas circle, with the expectation he wants an extension wherever he lands. In Toronto, the Leafs sit eight points out a wildcard position and face hard questions about whether it’s time for Brad Treliving to cut bait on depth pieces, with a critical western road trip looming. Ottawa, despite months of negative noise, has suddenly surged with statement wins over Vegas and Colorado, while the Avalanche’s recent skid feels like a natural correction ahead of a needed reset and healthier lineup. Meanwhile, Bryan Rust’s three-game suspension for elbowing Brock Boeser surprised some, with Ray arguing the length of penalty should be the standard for that type of play, regardless of a player’s reputation.

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The Edmonton Oilers made history with back-to-back hat tricks by defencemen; Bouchard and then Ekholm, the former now sits among the league’s top-scoring blueliners, after a typically slow start to the season. In Toronto, William Nylander was fined $5,000 for an ill-advised gesture toward a TV camera, a minor distraction but not enough to hide the Leafs’ returning inconsistency, raising questions about whether Brad Treliving needs to make a move with the Olympic break looming. Buffalo continues its surprising surge behind the league’s hottest goalie, Alex Lyon, forcing tough decisions on players like Alex Tuch as playoff hopes feel real for the first time in years. Winnipeg’s playoff fight hit another low after a 5–1 loss to Detroit, prompting a harsh postgame from Scott Arniel and renewed debate about whether the Jets should re-tool on the fly. Meanwhile, Vancouver’s injury woes deepen with Brock Boeser and Zeev Buium sidelined, in addition to growing concern that Thatcher Demko may be shut down to ensure he’s fully healthy for next season.

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Injuries to OEL, Brandon Carlo, and long-term absences like Chris Tanev have likely forced Brad Treliving’s hand in Toronto. Jackson Lacombe being named Seth Jones’ replacement on the United States Olympic Team may have raised some eyebrows—especially with Canada and Sweden delaying decisions—and sparked debate over why Lane Hutson wasn’t chosen instead. In New Jersey, Luke Hughes’ injury further complicates the New Jersey Devils season, potentially pushing Dougie Hamilton decisions to the deadline. The Anaheim Ducks appear back on track after a typical young-team swoon, while the San Jose Sharks continue their feel-good season after adding Kiefer Sherwood—though Ray cautions their defence may lag behind their forwards come playoff time. Buyers and sellers emerging in the West; Utah, Seattle, St. Louis, LA and Winnipeg all with big decisions to make.

Ask R&D wonders about Kelly McCrimmon’s risk tolerance and why the Edmonton Oilers can’t string together three wins.

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Vegas Golden Knights GM Kelly McCrimmon in conversation! A busy few days of trades saw Vegas land Rasmus Andersson from Calgary after extension issues steered the deal away from Boston, continuing the Golden Knights tradition of bold swings. Vancouver moved Kiefer Sherwood to San Jose for draft picks and depth, giving the Canucks five picks in the top 50, while the Sharks add energy and puck retrieval. In New York, Chris Drury told Rangers fans the plan is to re-tool, not rebuild, but trade protection for Panarin, Zibanejad, and Miller complicates matters, and Panarin appears unlikely to return on a new deal. Matthew Tkachuk had a wild first game back, highlighted by a heavy hit and a rare Bobrovsky versus Nedeljkovic goalie fight, while Florida faces a playoff squeeze without Barkov for the rest of the regular season.

Then, Kelly McCrimmon joins the show to discuss the return the Flames got for Andersson, the impact that injuries have had on their season, the importance of Mark Stone, and the coming circus around Mitch Marner’s return to Toronto.

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The New York Rangers’ problems deepened with an 8–4 loss to Ottawa, their fifth straight defeat and 30 goals against, with J.T. Miller carefully noting the Sens were “more ready to play.” Injuries to Igor Shesterkin and Adam Fox don’t mask bigger issues — the team lacks speed, the defence isn’t good enough, draft capital is thin. Restless fans at MSG are surely being heard by owner James Dolan, with Artemi Panarin’s expiring deal looming large. In New Jersey, Tom Fitzgerald owned the Devils’ struggles before an OT win over Seattle, a small but possible wake-up call as trade speculation around Dougie Hamilton continues. Buffalo stayed scorching hot, winning for the 14th time in 16 games while raising questions about Alex Tuch’s future and highlighting ongoing goaltending issues for the Philadelphia Flyers. Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames appear headed toward a rebuild, with trade chatter surrounding Rasmus Andersson, Nazem Kadri, and Blake Coleman, and a growing need to prioritize future returns.

Then, in Ask Ray & Dregs Anything... commish for a day, what else do broadcasters do while they're watching the game and colleagues on a desert island. Tough choices will be made!

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Brayden Point’s apparent leg injury has cast doubt over his Olympic availability with just a month to go, forcing Hockey Canada to game-plan potential replacements which will apparently be decided primarily by filling the same role as Point and there is an elite list of candidates. The Toronto Maple Leafs are surging with points in 10 straight, punctuated by an OT win in Colorado that snapped the Avs’ 17-game home win streak. The Eastern Conference is beginning to separate as hot streaks by Toronto, Tampa Bay, and Buffalo contrast sharply with the spiraling New York Rangers, whose brutal 10–2 loss underscored league-worst defensive play and looming roster uncertainty even for players with no-trade clauses. Coaching turmoil hit Columbus as the Columbus Blue Jackets fired Dean Evason after just 45 games and brought Rick Bowness out of retirement to stabilize a team undone by goaltending and late-game collapses, while the New Jersey Devils briefly quieted the noise by snapping a five-game skid with a road win in Minnesota amid ongoing debate over roster moves. Finally, renewed criticism of the NHL playoff format gained traction after Chris Mason highlighted how Western contenders are forced to eliminate each other early, a structure Ray argues undermines the regular season despite the league’s continued support of division-based seeding.

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Bizarre scenes in Chicago saw Jordan Binnington being told to leave the crease after giving up his 7th goal, but he stayed put as backup Joel Hofer was nowhere to be found. New Jersey’s 9–0 loss to the Islanders came despite dominating shots on goal, with Jacob Markstrom left in for all nine goals. There are bigger problems for the Devils than just this one terrible outcome. Winnipeg’s stunning 11-game skid has last season’s Presidents’ Trophy champs sitting dead last at the halfway mark, with Ray noting the roster aged into one of the league’s oldest and visibly slower teams, exposing depth issues beyond their top line. In Toronto, Auston Matthews has rediscovered his superstar form since Christmas, inspiring the room after a baffling 35-game slump and underscoring how much influence elite players quietly carry. Finally, the Islanders’ resurgence has put 19-year-old Matthew Schaefer in the spotlight; while one player rarely flips a team, this kid’s infectious energy has clearly lifted teammates even at 22 minutes a night, injecting a new, faster identity into the club.

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Former NHL coach Dallas Eakins steps in for Ray, as he and Dregs tip their caps to the David Branch & Bob Pulford who both passed away over the weekend. Pulford, the Hall-of-Famer who was a four-time Cup champ with Toronto and veteran of 800-plus NHL games behind the bench, and Branch, the OHL Commissioner who genuinely cared about shaping players into better young men. Then, we discuss Sweden's huge gold medal win at the World Juniors and support for Team Canada despite their much-discussed semifinal loss to Czechia. Eakins feeling that Canada always gets every opponent’s best, so no Hockey Canada summit needed. Discussion on how the NHL's current parity keeps fans invested, practice versus visualization, and how MacKinnon, McDavid, and Celebrini's elite seasons have the game is in great hands with stars who make everyone around them better.

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Brandon Hagel returns to the Lightning lineup. Mat Barzal gets 5 + a game for his slash on Marchment in defence of Schaefer. Canada captain Porter Martone earns unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after scoring an empty netter against Czechia. We're two days away from the Olympic Roster announcement. NHL standing parity. Sharks' Celebrini continues to produce. Oilers' Connor Ingram earns 3-straight starts. Leafs PP finds success - How much is credit to Steve Sullivan? Plus, Tim's Hockey Challenge updates and much more.

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An abbreviated Headlines looks at the Maple Leafs 4-0 loss to the Washington Capitals on Thursday night. Head Coach Craig Berube held very little back post game as the team looks for answers on the powerplay, but also in the compete and consistency categories.

Then, Ray and Dregs unveil their choices for the men's Olympic hockey rosters for both Team Canada and Team USA. Each team boasts an embarrassment of riches and yet, sometimes the answers seem so clear. Where will the differences lie?

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A rough Monday night raised player-safety and Olympic concerns, starting with Brandon Hagel’s injury from a forearm to the head by Seth Jones—a play that drew no supplemental discipline, frustrating Tampa Bay and leaving Ray concerned about the message it sends and future tensions. In Dallas, Team Canada hopeful Darcy Kuemper exited after being clipped by Mikko Rantanen in what most saw as a hockey play with an unfortunate result. Vancouver stunned the league by trading Quinn Hughes to Minnesota in a rare in-season blockbuster, choosing the youngest package—effectively four first-round assets—signalling a clear youth-driven re-tool and prompting a subtle jab from Hughes toward New Jersey. Edmonton also made waves, moving Stuart Skinner and Brett Kulak to Pittsburgh for Tristan Jarry, change for change sake perhaps, as Ray doesn't feel this provides real stability in goal, though Jarry has improved since time in the minors. Finally, Toronto remains a puzzle: sloppy play and an inability to handle pace—exposed again against an all-world Connor McDavid—highlight the Leafs’ need for a scoring winger amid tight cap constraints and asset management.

Plus, in Ask Ray & Dregs Anything: the Hughes haul, Central Division predictions and more!

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A string of missed hand-pass calls leading directly to goals has the rule under the microscope, raising questions about why hand passes are legal in the defensive zone but not the offensive one. In Winnipeg, Connor Hellebuyck is back on the ice and facing shots earlier than expected, though Ray cautions that practice movements aren’t the same as game movements—and the Jets still need scoring help. Chicago’s Spencer Knight bounced back from a rough outing with a shutout and even said he liked his previous game, while Colorado and Nashville’s shootout chaos saw Mackenzie Blackwood pulled by a concussion spotter after a Forsberg collision, forcing Scott Wedgwood in cold for a potential do-or-die attempt. Patrick Kane continues his climb toward becoming the highest-scoring American ever and also sits three goals shy of 500—remarkably doing it without a single shorthanded goal. And NBC's Jon Hamm Olympic promo has fans laughing, even as the gold-medal game’s 5:10 a.m. Pacific puck drop poses a challenge for western viewers.

In Ask Ray & Dregs Anything... How do they Jets play this season out? Which player has the most "punchable" face? And family getting chirped at school or on the streets.

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On-ice testing in Milan is set for early January, with the building's completion now targeted for Feb. 2. There are concerns about the ice quality during testing in a building that may not be 100% sealed, and frustration from NHL owners who built their schedule around the Olympic break. In Vancouver, Quinn Hughes trade chatter keeps escalating after he casually called Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald “Fitzy,” though Ray says that specific angle is nonsense even if a future trade might be real. The Devils look lost without Jack Hughes, and the ongoing speculation appears to be weighing on Quinn, who’s trying to do too much on a struggling Canucks team. Toronto grabbed a tight 2–0 win amid a wildly tight standings picture, but a messy melee might bring a suspension for Bobby McCann after a high slash on Bjorkstrand; Ray thinks it should be more than one game and continues to advocate for harsher discipline. Finally, Dregs’ informal poll of GMs rates Colorado and Dallas as the NHL’s model organizations, praised for consistent contention, strong drafting and front-office continuity rooted in past dynasty influences.

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Confirmation that Milan’s Olympic rink has been accidentally built three feet short—an odd mistake Ray says won’t affect roster decisions, though the NHLPA’s threat to pull players if construction isn’t finished is seen mostly as pressure to keep organizers on schedule. In St. Louis, Jordan Binnington was pulled after two goals on five shots, leading to a heated bench moment Ray felt should’ve stayed in the room, but the guys don’t think it harms his Olympic chances. Washington’s six-game heater continued with a 7–1 rout of San Jose, but they face a tough balance between supporting Ovechkin and protecting young assets. Rasmus Dahlin’s major on Trevor Zegras was the right call, and the review process—and Zegras’ growing maturity under Rick Tocchet—earned praise. A healthier Leafs squad is grinding out wins behind a heavy third line of Nick Roy, Dakota Joshua, and Bobby McMann, who drove the result against Florida, while the Panthers look far from last year’s Cup winners as Toronto continues its road trip.

Plus, in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything... should Brind'Amour have been considered for Team Canada? will Jay Woodcroft get another HC job? and a couple of amazing stories from Ray about coaches he ticked off.

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The Sharks have surprised the league by sitting in a wildcard spot 27 games in, powered by 20-year-olds Macklin Celebrini—now second in league scoring behind Nathan MacKinnon—and Will Smith, though Ray still sees Anaheim as slightly ahead with better defence, size, and young depth. Team Canada faces a looming Olympic question: with a month until selections, can Connor Bedard realistically be left off the roster, and shouldn’t he at least be one of the two extras over another depth checker? Meanwhile, new concerns surface about Milan’s Olympic rink reportedly being four feet smaller than NHL size, and Ray wonders how much it would affect play. Trivia of the week: Crosby has scored on 167 different goalies, Ovechkin on 186—so how many did Ray beat in his career? We may need to crowd-sourse the answer. Winnipeg continues to spiral without Connor Hellebuyck, getting torched 5–1 by Buffalo as poor secondary scoring may be forcing players to cheat offensively and worsening their defensive issues. In Toronto, the Leafs may be exploring trades despite limited assets, with Troy Stecher making the most of a fresh opportunity amid blueline injuries. And in Carolina, the Hurricanes’ three-goalie system rolls on, with Brandon Bussi now 7–1 while facing just 27 total shots in his last two outings thanks to the Canes’ suffocating puck control.

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Nikita Tolopilo stole the show for Vancouver with 37 saves in a last-minute start against the high-flying Ducks, whose fire-wagon style continues to delight fans and make coaches nervous. The Canucks also signalled they’re “open for business” on pending veteran UFAs. In Winnipeg, Scott Arniel says the Jets are “in a funk” in recent games without Connor Hellebuyck, highlighting the gap between good goaltending and elite. Toronto edged Columbus in OT with Matthews and company returning from injury, though Auston’s 24-plus minutes in his first game back raises some eyebrows. Joe Woll’s strong outing matters with no timetable for Stolarz's return. Edmonton suffered yet another home blowout, stuck in a defensive spiral where effort isn’t the issue—execution is. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay (five straight), Minnesota (six straight), and Colorado (one regulation loss by U.S. Thanksgiving) are rolling, with the Avs looking every bit like a wagon.

Plus, in Ask Ray & Dregs we discuss personal space between the benches, will Ovi chase 1000 and the effectiveness of "players-only" meetings.

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The state of Florida seems likely to remain a proving ground for anyone chasing the Cup. The Panthers' recent offensive outbursts are somewhat surprising considering their slew of injuries. Tampa Bay tops the division despite their own IR troubles and some individual slow starts. Nashville’s struggles continue, they can't seem to find an identity despite big-name signings. How long will Barry Trotz wait before he starts to shake things up? Plus, AJ Greer’s dangerous takedown on Trent Frederic, Mikko Rantanen’s costly misconducts and hit that sidelined Romanov, and Logan Cooley’s four-goal eruption highlighting Utah’s impressive young foundation.

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The Avalanche have won six straight and look every bit like a Stanley Cup favourite, Ray notes it feels like they are in a window right now with Makar's next deal 2 years away and last year’s bold overhaul in goal. Winnipeg extended captain Adam Lowry at five years times $5 million—a fair deal for a 32-year-old leader—though Ray is surprised by the league-wide trend of signing players into their age-36/37 seasons. The Oilers continue to struggle badly, losing to Washington amid alarming defensive breakdowns; despite criticism of the goaltending, Edmonton’s team play has been atrocious, they rank last in goals against and save percentage. The Rangers are dealing with backlash toward captain J.T. Miller after he appeared to quit on a play that led to Vegas’ 2–0 goal—an effort Ray compared to a preseason vibe and something New York fans won’t tolerate. Meanwhile, Patrick Roy was caught on a hot mic furious over Mikko Rantanen’s hit from behind on Alexander Romanov, who will miss significant time; Ray didn’t like the hit either and felt it warranted a suspension.

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Brad Treliving held a media availability in which he addressed the Leafs' inconsistency and lack of intensity. Could a change be on the horizon for his team? Florida's culture is the envy of the league. Brad Marchand riding an 11-game point streak. Is he a lock for Team Canada? Drew Doughty is out week-to-week as the Kings continue to grind. Jonathan Quick initiates a postgame brawl. Plus, how young is too young for youth ID skates? 

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Shane Pinto’s 4 X $7.5M extension in Ottawa earns praise as a fair, forward-looking deal for a rising centre and potential Team USA Olympian, even as the cap climbs toward $100M. In Toronto, the visiting Kings face a battered Leafs squad missing Anthony Stolarz and Auston Matthews, big voids for a team whose defensive commitment is again under scrutiny after back-to-back losses to Boston. Edmonton has rebounded with two OT wins—both courtesy of Jack Roslovic—though the play hasn’t looked right and the Oilers eagerly await Zach Hyman’s return. Boston’s surprising seven-game heater continues behind Pastrnak and an unexpected scoring surge from Morgan Geekie, while New Jersey rookie Simon Nemec stole headlines with a hat trick in a back-and-forth win over Chicago. Team Canada Olympic chatter centres on whether youngsters Bedard and Celebrini can both fit at the expense of veterans, weighing their experience against limited roles on the big stage. The Rangers erupted for a 7–3 win over Tampa as Vincent Trochek returned and a freshly shorn Artemi Panarin added four assists, though their bizarre home-ice struggles persist. The hockey world also mourns the passing of longtime Rangers writer Larry Brooks after a brief battle with cancer.

Plus, Ask Ray & Dregs Anything!

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A memorable Hall of Fame induction saw Duncan Keith thank his son for helping him rediscover his love of the game, Joe Thornton deliver an emotional speech, and a standout class featuring Zdeno Chara, Alex Mogilny, Brianna Decker, Jennifer Botterill, Danièle Sauvageau & Jack Parker. On the ice, the Oilers rebounded from a humiliating 9–1 loss to Colorado by storming back against Columbus, thanks to two brilliant Connor McDavid goals and Jack Roslovic’s OT winner, though their structural issues and Kris Knoblauch’s pointed post-game comments on goaltending (from Saturday) underline how far they still are from true contention. In Toronto, defensive lapses continue as the Leafs gave up three third-period breakaways in a loss to Boston. Craig Berube was visibly frustrated and the team's lack of speed is apparent as they search for answers. Meanwhile, Brad Marchand is having a stellar season with a five-game goal streak and nearing 1,000 points, stepping up for an injury-depleted Panthers lineup and strengthening his case for Team Canada.

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Alex Ovechkin scored his unprecedented 900th goal on Wednesday, alongside 138 game-winners and 324 power-play goals, while Sidney Crosby continues his unreal pace toward a 21st straight point-per-game season and Evgeni Malkin stands as the highest-scoring Russian ever. All reminders of how lucky we are to witness this era’s icons. Jordan Binnington briefly tried to stash Ovie’s milestone puck, a light moment amid bigger concerns for a Blues team that simply doesn’t look right. A bizarre OT winner in Minnesota saw a dislodged net factor into a good-goal ruling that, while correct by rule, raised questions about odd one-off scenarios. Steven Stamkos forced OT with a buzzer-beater but has struggled overall, something Ray attributes partly to Nashville's roster construction. In Calgary, Nazem Kadri’s 1,000th game came with a goal and a rare Flames win, though Ray remains unconvinced about their playoff hopes. Macklin Celebrini’s hot start continues to shine in San Jose, as the league’s 18-to-22-year-old wave surges and potentially affects Olympic rosters. And in Seattle, Ryan Winterton’s first NHL goal offered a touching moment as he plays while his brother battles cancer, with strong support from the Kraken organization.

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The Penguins dominated Toronto for 40 minutes before collapsing in the third, as the Leafs flipped the script despite continuing to look out of sorts. Even Craig Berube is flummoxed as to why his team can’t piece together 60 good minutes. In St. Louis, the Blues edged the Oilers late, overshadowing Connor McDavid becoming the 4th-fastest player ever to reach 1,100 points - though he didn’t record a shot on goal, a concerning trend for a player of his caliber on a roster that still feels a forward short. Winnipeg about to get a major boost with Adam Lowry’s return from hip surgery, the Jets have jumped out to another strong start, even after losing Ehlers and their captain on the shelf. Jonathan Toews’ faceoff dominance and unexpected scoring touch have also been revelations. Out West, the Kraken and Ducks are a surprising sight atop the Pacific division, with Seattle unbeaten at home and Anaheim’s young, fast core surging ahead of schedule. Meanwhile, Pierre-Luc Dubois’ serious injury leaves Washington in a bind: last season’s magic isn’t repeating, and the Caps may need to dip into their prospect pool to find a 2nd-line centre... if one is even available.

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The Leafs were doubled up by Columbus in a rough night all around—Cayden Primeau struggled and the team looked disjointed. The fellas discuss the ongoing conversation surrounding Easton Cowan’s development amid Toronto’s perennially high expectations. John Tavares quietly hit 500 goals amid the loss, a milestone Ray says is best celebrated later. Elsewhere, Brad Marchand took a leave from the Panthers to support a grieving family friend—an act of compassion reminding everyone what truly matters. Meanwhile, Ottawa, Utah, New Jersey, and Pittsburgh—all praised on the last pod—promptly lost in Tuesday’s Frozen Frenzy, with chaos in Pittsburgh including disallowed goals and Crosby’s mysterious misconduct. In Vancouver, hard skating drills raised eyebrows as Adam Foote tried to jumpstart a depleted lineup as he saw fit considering the team's limited practice time. Plus, extensions for Thomas Harley and Logan Cooley, both 8 years north of $10M per, signal the new going rate for emerging stars in a rising-cap era.

Then in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything... rapid fire featuring talking hockey on days off, impressive & underperforming teams, dog-doo conundrums and Hallowe'een hypotheticals.

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Sidney Crosby continues to defy time, powering Pittsburgh to third overall in the league and second in the Metro under new coach Dan Muse, whose fresh approach seems to have rejuvenated the group. The Devils and Mammoth have become early-season storylines, each riding impressive win streaks and strong goaltending—Utah’s Karel Vejmelka leads the league in victories, with Logan Cooley and Dylan Guenther driving the offence for new owner Ryan Smith’s surging franchise. New Jersey, meanwhile, keeps winning despite some major injuries, thanks to sharp special teams and depth scoring. In Ottawa, the Senators exploded for seven against Boston, with Drake Batherson stepping up in Brady Tkachuk’s absence and a lethal power play exposing a Bruins team in identity limbo. And finally, talk is heating up around Macklin Celebrini potentially cracking Team Canada’s Olympic roster—a debate fueled by his poise, preparation, and the growing feeling that he might just be “Crosby-lite.”

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Brad Marchand’s emotional return to Boston as a Florida Panther stole the night. Marchand drew a penalty on his first shift, assisted on the ensuing power-play goal, and was visibly moved during a heartfelt tribute video. The guys agree his number will one day be retired in Boston. Elsewhere, the Devils are rolling after a 5-2 win over the Leafs, with Hughes and Hischier leading a team that finally looks like the contender Ray expected last year. Toronto, meanwhile, looked big and slow, Anthony Stolarz allowed five goals one game after publicly calling out his team's performance, and Dregs wonders if Brad Treliving’s offseason tweaks may have backfired as the Leafs search for a second-line center and miss Mitch Marner badly. In Calgary, scoring has dried up despite Dustin Wolf’s strong play, while Montreal’s Ivan Demidov is emerging as a likely Calder Trophy candidate. In Buffalo, Colton Ellis’s debut win over Detroit capped a feel-good story for a goalie who’s battled through the minors to reach the NHL.

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Jonathan Toews scores his first as a Jet and shows he’s still got plenty left in the tank, while Mark Scheifele looks like a man on a mission to make Team Canada. In Vegas, Jack Eichel’s new contract hasn’t slowed him down one bit—he’s leading the league in points as the Golden Knights roll to the top of the Pacific. Vancouver’s dealing with tough injury news as Filip Chytil lands in concussion protocol after a heavy (and possibly late) Tom Wilson hit, and with Lekkerimäki also sidelined, the Canucks may be forced to hunt for centre help. In Toronto, Easton Cowan sits while Max Domi gets a top-line look, and goalie Anthony Stolarz’s public comments about defensive lapses & effort spark some chatter in the room. Meanwhile, in Edmonton, the Oilers head into Ottawa suffering through another sluggish start to a season, with Evan Bouchard struggling mightily and Connor McDavid looking surprisingly human so far.

Plus, Habs rookies, Dorofeyev, playoff salary cap and more in Ask Ray & Dregs Anything!

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The fellas dig in on NHL Headlines, starting with Chicago’s 8–3 win over St. Louis as Connor Bedard notched three assists in his 29th career multi-point game, showing signs he’s entering another level. Buffalo exploded for eight goals to beat Ottawa 8–4, easing early pressure but not fixing their deeper issues, while the Senators clearly miss Brady Tkachuk and may have Steve Staios working the phones. Florida’s injury list grows with Kulikov and Nosek out, but Bill Zito’s team remains resilient. The Rangers’ odd 0–3 home record without a goal at MSG highlights their top-heavy lineup, and in Toronto, rookie Easton Cowan earned his first NHL point alongside Auston Matthews. Ray also previews Oilers/Islanders, where No. 1 pick Matthew Schaefer has been an early bright spot for a New York team trying to avoid its first-ever 0–4 start.

Plus, in Ask Ray & Dregs Anything... Stu Skinner's leash, are the Hurricanes different and best & worst travel hubs.

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The Panthers are silencing doubters with a hot start despite key injuries to Barkov and Tkachuk. Nathan MacKinnon is near the top of the scoring race, thriving alongside Martin Nečas as Colorado expects important clashes with Dallas throughout the year... and faces looming cap questions with Cale Makar’s next deal. Newly paid stars like Eichel, Kaprizov, and Connor are backing up their contracts with strong starts, and Team USA is shaping up to be a powerhouse for the Olympics. In Montreal, Lane Hutson’s eight-year extension locks in another key piece of the Habs’ young core, while Buffalo languishes again at the bottom, leaving players like Dahlin and Tuch frustrated in a team without identity. Detroit, meanwhile, looks poised for a breakout behind its youthful lineup, and in Toronto, Craig Berube is calling for more consistency from William Nylander, drawing Ray’s comparison to the enigmatic Alex Kovalev.

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Jack Eichel inks an 8-year, $13.5M/year deal in Vegas, structured heavily with signing bonuses, while Kyle Connor lands an 8-year, $12M/year contract to stay in Winnipeg—a move the Jets had to make to retain one of their elite offensive weapons. In Edmonton, the Oilers stay active, adding Jack Roslovic on a 1-year “reset” deal and extending Mattias Ekholm for three more years, ensuring stability on the blue line. Ray shares notes from Pittsburgh’s perfect opening night, where Arturs Silovs earned a shutout and Crosby played with some large, new linemates. In Ask R&D Anything, the guys look ahead to milestones for Patrick Kane and Anze Kopitar, and discuss whether McDavid’s record-breaking speed bursts make him even harder to contain.

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On the day Connor McDavid signs a 2-year extension with the Edmonton Oilers (and Jake Walman for 7 years) we look at the powerhouses in the Pacific Division. Mitch Marner could be the ticket to put Vegas back into contention. Colorado and Dallas expected to slug it out in the Central (don't forget about Winnipeg). Tampa Bay looks to still be very much in the mix in the East... their rivalry with the Panthers will continue to be a big story throughout the season. Carolina looks to make a play to top the Metro with their offseason acquisitions... but are they built for the playoffs? We'll know a lot about the new-look Leafs in the first 20 games of the season. Plus, Ray & Dregs Stanley Cup predictions and more!

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The guys break down Luke Hughes’ 7x9M deal in New Jersey and how it sets the stage for future contracts like Lane Hutson’s in Montreal. They dive into NHL.com’s Super 16 rankings, with Vegas at #1, Edmonton sitting higher than Ray thinks they should be and Florida’s injury-driven slide. The Panthers lock up Niko Mikkola long-term after he flourished in Florida, while Carter Hart is expected to land in Vegas following his eligibility to sign. An NHL exec hints at possible expansion by 2–3 teams within three years, raising concerns about diluting the talent pool. Plus, the show reflects on the retirements of Eric Johnson, who leaves with a Cup and over 1,000 games, and Max Pacioretty, who finishes with 335 goals before moving into coaching at Michigan.

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This week the guys break down Kirill Kaprizov’s massive 8-year, $136M extension in Minnesota and what it means for any other impending extensions this year or next. Meanwhile, Anaheim bets long term on Mason McTavish with a 6-year pact that could set him up for another big payday at age 28. The Leafs lock in goalie Anthony Stolarz on a cap-friendly deal, banking on him staying healthy after a career-best season, and the Panthers face a brutal start with Aleksander Barkov out until April and Matthew Tkachuk sidelined for months. Plus, the Penguins give Marc-André Fleury a perfect sendoff with a one-day contract and preseason farewell, cementing his place as one of the game’s greats on and off the ice.

In Ask Ray and Dregs Anything, the fellas predict which non-playoff teams from last year make it to the postseason and opine on JT Miller's comments.

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On this episode, the guys break down the scrutiny in Edmonton over McDavid and Draisaitl having a rough night playing on the same line, why it’s not time to panic yet and where the team’s forward depth still looks thin without Zach Hyman. They touch on the lack of contract extensions for Edmonton’s Chris Knoblauch and Calgary’s Ryan Huska and whether Vancouver’s new coach Adam Foote brings a fresh perspective or a continuation of the Tocchet regime. The Senators look poised for another playoff run under Steve Staios and Josh Green after slashing 47 goals against last year, though the next step needs to be boosting their offence.

Then, Vancouver Canucks new bench boss Adam Foote joins the show to talk about settling into his new role, his belief of what Quinn Hughes' future with the team is, Demko’s return to health, Pettersson’s offseason work, and why Vancouver believes it has the pieces to close last season’s playoff gap.

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On this episode, the guys cover Alex Pietrangelo’s rehab in Vegas and his veiled suggestion that he might play again this season. Joe Woll takes a leave of absence from the Leafs and Alex Ovechkin enters his age-40 season with questions about how much he has left in the tank. They also look at PTOs around the league like Milan Lucic and Tyler Motte. How do the Montreal Canadiens make enough powerplay time for everyone after adding Noah Dobson to an already offensively gifted blue line. Plus, does Calgary has enough scoring punch, or could a Rasmus Andersson trade could be the key to adding more offense.

In Ask Ray & Dregs Anything, the guys the discuss the possibility of Connor McDavid trade, players who intimidate with their words and expectations for Gabe Landeskog.

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The boys are back! In our season premiere (beginning around 9:45), we look at Anze Kopitar preparing for a retirement tour after a Hall of Fame–worthy career, while big contract questions swirl around Kirill Kaprizov and Connor McDavid. Mitch Marner’s move to Vegas raises questions about fit and what the Golden Knights had to part with in order to fit him in, and in Toronto, Brad Treliving and Craig Berube face tough questions about replacing Marner’s production. We touch on Jonathan Toews in Winnipeg, the Jets’ looming Kyle Connor extension, and the future of Crosby, Malkin, and Letang in Pittsburgh as the Penguins try to stay competitive in the later years of their legends' careers.

Plus, Ask R&D Anything!

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A number of pre-deadline trades and signings took a little bit of the shine off of July 1, but the Rangers and Hurricanes swung a big deal that saw K'Andre Miller head to Carolina and then sign a big extension. Can Mitch Marner follow in Jack Eichel's path to finding another level to his game in Las Vegas? The Maple Leafs extended Matthew Knies and made a couple of trades but, much like Edmonton, they are left looking for scoring help to round out their top 6 forwards. The Edmonton Oilers cleared some cap space but also lost a number of players from last season without making a splash on Canada Day. The Vancouver Canucks surprised many by re-signing top UFA Brock Boeser, but some other moves may need to follow as they have a very crowded crease.

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The Sabres and Utah Mammoth kicked off pre-draft activity with a notable trade sending JJ Peterka to Utah for Michael Kesselring and Josh Doan, with Peterka then signing a 5-year extension. Buffalo’s next move may involve Bowan Byram, with several teams circling. Jamie Benn stays with Dallas on a 1-year deal, and their coaching search narrows to two candidates. Evander Kane heads to Vancouver for cap relief, likely filling a top-six role, while Trevor Zegras lands in Philly with low risk for the Flyers. The Leafs could eye Brad Marchand if Florida can’t re-sign him, though expectations should be realistic for the 37-year-old. Off the ice, future expansion is still a hot topic with Atlanta in the forefront of the chatter, a nearly-finalized CBA, and a possible 84-game season in '26-'27, though Ray would rather see more playoff games instead.

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The Oilers fell to the Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final for the second straight year, with Florida delivering near-perfect performances in Games 5 and 6 and showing superior depth, structure, and goaltending throughout the series. Injuries mounted on both sides, but Florida’s culture and cohesion carried them through, while Edmonton struggled without Zach Hyman and leaned too heavily on McDavid and Draisaitl, who couldn’t singlehandedly turn the tide. Sam Bennett earned the Conn Smythe with a historic playoff performance, and GM Bill Zito now faces the challenge of re-signing Bennett, Marchand, and Ekblad. Meanwhile, the Oilers enter a pivotal offseason with key extension talks looming for McDavid and Bouchard, major cap questions, and ongoing uncertainty in goal.

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The Oilers dropped Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final after a flat start and near-flawless performance from the Panthers, whose depth continues to shine, as each of their top 9 forwards now have 15 or more playoff points. Florida's relentless structure and experience, led by Brad Marchand and Sam Bennett, overwhelmed Edmonton, who sorely missed injured Zach Hyman. Evander Kane and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins struggled, and Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl still haven’t found their top gear in this series. The Oilers’ defensive pairings look fatigued, and goaltending remains a question heading into an elimination Game 6. The pressure is squarely on Edmonton's stars to respond or face another long offseason without a championship.

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The Oilers clawed back from a 3-0 first-period deficit to win Game 4 in overtime, marking the first comeback of its kind in Stanley Cup Final history. A strong pushback, a timely goalie switch to Calvin Pickard and a spark from veteran Corey Perry’s locker room speech helped shift momentum. Blue-liner Darnell Nurse bounced back with a standout performance, Leon Draisaitl’s greasy OT winner capped the effort and despite continued discipline issues from Evander Kane (and others), Edmonton may hold a slight edge in the now best-of-three series. Meanwhile, the Rangers shake up their core, trading Chris Kreider to Anaheim in a bid to retool.

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Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final unraveled early for the Oilers after a first-minute breakdown led to a Brad Marchand goal and spiralled into chaos, capped by a mercy pull for Stuart Skinner and a game full of penalties, missed assignments, and frustration. Evander Kane’s undisciplined play and a lack of composure across the roster derailed any chance at establishing a rhythm and the Panthers pounced on a discombobulated Edmonton team. Tensions boiled over late with line brawls and antics between benches—including Jake Walman’s water squirting and TNT's Brian Boucher catching stray splash damage. Florida, meanwhile, continues to show depth and composure, buoyed by standout performances from Sam Reinhart, Brad Marchand, and Sam Bennett, even as stars like Barkov and Tkachuk remain quiet offensively.

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Pete DeBoer was fired by the Dallas Stars just days after their playoff exit, despite three straight conference finals and a strong record—his handling of goalie Jake Oettinger and blunt postgame comments may have factored in. Meanwhile, Marco Sturm (Boston) and under-the-radar Dan Muse (Pittsburgh) landed head coaching jobs as the NHL’s hiring cycle continues. On the ice, the Oilers took Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final in OT with a picture-perfect team goal finished by Draisaitl, as captain Connor McDavid came alive late in the game. Sam Bennett’s controversial 1st period goal stood after a failed goalie interference challenge, and Edmonton’s depth—including Kapanen and a resurgent Kane—shined. Oh, and Leafs fans were split as Rory McIlroy repped the team at the Canadian Open, sparking more than a couple of "golf" chirps.

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The Stanley Cup Final rematch between the Panthers and Oilers will begin Wednesday after nearly a week-long layoff, giving players rest but leaving everyone itching to play. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl appear calmer and more mature under the bright lights and the pressure of expectations this playoff season. The Oilers appear confident, despite missing Zach Hyman, while Florida enters the Finals healthy and battle-tested. Goaltending could be pivotal, with Stuart Skinner now facing a crease-crashing Panthers team and Sergei Bobrovsky posing a tougher test for Oilers shooters. Coaching styles also clash: Maurice is philosophical and chatty, Knoblauch quiet and methodical. With deep lineups and playoff experience on both sides, who will the X-Factors be... and what are Ray & Dregs Stanley Cup Final predictions?

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The Florida Panthers are headed to their third straight Stanley Cup Final after rallying past Carolina in Game 5, continuing the state of Florida's Eastern Conference dominance. Carter Verhaeghe scored the winner, showcasing the value of patience and great scouting. An awkward handshake moment between coaches Paul Maurice and Rod Brind’Amour sparked debate about who belongs in the post-series tradition. In the West, the Oilers prepare for Game 5 against Dallas with Mattias Ekholm expected to return from injury but Zach Hyman is likely out for the remainder of the playoffs. Evander Kane and Corey Perry could see increased icetime to try and offset the loss of Hyman as they have both impressed so far in these playoffs. 'Tis the season for Conn Smythe chatter, a year with no clear favourite emerging, but McDavid, Bouchard, Barkov, and Tkachuk are all in the mix. Could a goalie surprise?

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The Oilers crushed the Dallas Stars 6-1 in Game 3, with Connor McDavid's late second-period goal shifting momentum after a strong Dallas frame. Coach Pete DeBoer admitted that moment deflated the Stars, who have allowed too many prime chances and seen several key forwards go quiet. Stuart Skinner has outplayed Jake Oettinger so far, especially in Game 3, and looks composed and confident. A missed puck-over-glass call on Brett Kulak turned into a pivotal non-penalty, while Petrovic's crushing hit sidelined Connor Brown. DeBoer gave a lukewarm endorsement of Oettinger’s play, as the series enters Edmonton’s window of dominance under Kris Knoblauch in Games 4–7 (16–2 over the last two seasons). Out East, Carolina is down 3–0 to Florida, and with their stars underperforming, hope is fading. Ray highlights Florida’s depth and how players like Forsling and Mikkola—once overlooked—are thriving. Team USA captured the World Hockey Championship, honouring Johnny Gaudreau with a jersey tribute for his dedication to representing his country.

Plus, the complaint department and talkative benches in Ask Ray & Dregs Anything.

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In Game 1 of the Western Final, the Oilers blew a 3–1 lead, taking three costly penalties that led to three Stars power play goals in a disastrous third period. Edmonton’s PK struggled and despite dominating early and looking faster, the Oilers were undone by Dallas’s depth, with Seguin and Duchene stepping up. In the East, Florida leads 1–0 after a chippy opener that saw Brad Marchand ejected after a shot from Gostisbehere sparked chaos. The Panthers look like the most complete team again, this year. Elsewhere, the Leafs have given the Islanders permission to speak with Brendan Shanahan, is the writing on the wall for the (current) Toronto exec on the expiring contract? In Winnipeg, the Jets want to keep pending UFA Ehlers, but he may test the market. And with John Tavares also approaching UFA status, questions remain about his future and whether the Leafs need to change course.

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The Toronto Maple Leafs were humiliated by a score of 6-1 in Game 7 by the Panthers, capping off a meek exit with back-to-back home losses by a combined score of 12-2. Auston Matthews called out the team’s lack of cohesion and effort, while Ray questions the accountability at the top. Florida’s energy and depth overwhelmed Toronto, with the Leafs’ bottom six offering little resistance. Joe Woll wasn’t to blame, but goaltending and mental resilience seemed to be lacking. Offseason questions loom large: Shanahan’s future, whether or not Marner or Tavares return and a team in need of serious reimagining. In the West, Dallas eliminated Winnipeg in emotional fashion, with Mark Scheifele being highly involved in the game, playing just hours after his father’s passing. The Oilers-Stars conference final rematch is set, a superb coaching matchup with both teams looking strong and storylines galore. Oilers have Ekholm still to return from injury and the Stars have some forwards who could still explode offensively.

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In an update to today's earlier episode, Ray and Dregs update the official announcements of Adam Foote to the Canucks and Rick Tocchet to the Flyers.

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The Stars look like a complete team, with deadline pickups Granlund, Ceci (and Rantanen, of course) making big impacts as they took a 3-1 series lead over Winnipeg, who have now lost 9 straight road playoff games. Edmonton will try to close out Vegas on Wednesday. They have a 3 games to 1 advantage after a dominant shutout win on Monday, with Stu Skinner stepping up and the Oilers continuing their trend of peaking in games 4-7 of playoff series. Florida vs. Toronto might look like a coin flip on paper, but Game 5 feels like a must-win for the Leafs. Marner and Matthews need to step up offensively, and Craig Berube might consider a Morgan Rielly return to the PP unit. Ken Holland is set to become GM of the LA Kings, opting to stay involved and in the West. Rick Tocchet is a hot coaching name, Seattle and Boston have interest, but Philly seems the most likely fit. Meanwhile, Vancouver is zeroing in on their next coach, with Manny Malhotra, Adam Foote, and Washington assistant Mitch Love in the mix.

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Dallas takes a 2-1 series lead over Winnipeg after a controversial and confounding winning goal that has the Jets fuming. Mason Marchment’s tap of an official sparks debate over discipline standards, while Mikko Rantanen continues his playoff dominance. The Leafs and Panthers got nasty in Game 3, with questions swirling around OEL’s hit, Domi’s late-game penalty, and whether Matthews is in his own head. Sergei Bobrovsky has locked in after a rough start, and Berube may consider shuffling Toronto’s lines. Stu Skinner gets the start again for the Oilers, who coughed up Game 3 with defensive misplays, while Vegas looks to seize momentum, possibly without Mark Stone. Plus, Game 4 between the Canes and Caps feels like a must-win for Washington, who must solve Carolina’s tight defensive structure and home-ice dominance in order to keep the series alive.

Plus, in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything... McDavid and Draisaitl - together or apart? The Berube effect on the Leafs and is one series simply lacking excitement?

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The Oilers earned a 2-0 series lead after winning a wild Game 2 OT thriller over Vegas, with McDavid and Draisaitl quiet until the game-winner, while depth continues to carry Edmonton. In Washington, Logan Thompson shut the door in the third to even the series with Carolina, who now head home to a rink where they’ve dominated all year. Toronto looks to take control of their series in Game 3 vs. Florida, with Nylander continuing his stellar play. Winnipeg hopes for a bounce-back in Game 2 against Dallas after a flat opener, while Mikko Rantanen stays red-hot for the Stars. Elsewhere, Joel Quenneville takes over as head coach in Anaheim, publicly owning his past failures in the 2010 Blackhawks scandal, and in New Jersey, Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald made it clear major roster changes are coming after a disappointing season.

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The Oilers continued their playoff surge with a 4-2 comeback win over Vegas in Game 1, led by Corey Perry’s momentum-shifting goal and dominant second-period play. The Leafs also took Game 1 against Florida, though controversy surrounds the unpenalized hit by Sam Bennett that concussed goalie Anthony Stolarz. Huge weekend Game 7s saw Winnipeg stun St. Louis with a buzzer-beater and double OT winner, while Dallas mounted a third-period comeback to eliminate Colorado, giving coach Pete DeBoer a record ninth straight Game 7 win. The LA Kings parted ways with GM Rob Blake after repeated playoff exits. Meanwhile, Crosby, MacKinnon, and Fleury are all set to join Team Canada at the World Championships in Sweden.

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The New York Rangers have hired Mike Sullivan as head coach in what’s expected to be one of the richest deals in NHL history. Tampa Bay’s elimination by Florida raises questions about Jon Cooper’s future with the team and speculation about other markets he might consider coaching in if a split were to happen. Edmonton bounced back from a tough start to their series to eliminate the Kings in six, but Ray isn’t convinced their current levle of play will be enough to get past Vegas. The Leafs closed out the Sens in 6 games thanks to Nylander’s clutch play and a bold move to elevate Pacioretty, who delivered the series-winner. Winnipeg faces St. Louis in Game 6 without Scheifele or Ehlers, and controversy still swirls around the hit that caused Scheifele’s injury. Meanwhile, Dallas and Colorado are headed for a can’t-miss Game 7, with Ray making a case for how the Avs could steal it on the road.

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The first round of the NHL playoffs is delivering big storylines on and off the ice. Rick Tocchet has reportedly turned down a 5-year contract offer from the Canucks, with the Flyers and Penguins believed to be circling, while Mike Sullivan looks as though he might land with the Rangers — and could command a massive $30M deal. Meanwhile, Aaron Ekblad was hit with a 2-game suspension for his forearm on Hagel, did the refs have other options to address it in-game?. On the ice, the Hurricanes rolled past the injury-riddled Devils and extended Taylor Hall, while the Oilers have flipped the script against the Kings with three straight wins. Ottawa blanked the Leafs 4-0 to force Game 6, as pressure mounts on Toronto’s stars. In Washington, the Caps are pushing to eliminate Montreal after a game-changing hit by Tom Wilson, and in Winnipeg, concern is growing over Connor Hellebuyck’s form as the Jets prepare for a pivotal Game 5 against a fast, loose Blues squad.

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The Canadiens showed great resilience in a Game 3 home win, though injuries to both starting goalies could hurt Montreal more than Washington. Tom Wilson and Josh Anderson sparked chaos with a fight on the Caps bench, while the Oilers edged the Kings in a wild game with Cal Pickard in net. Evander Kane’s strong playoff return helped Edmonton capitalize on a costly Kings challenge, could it be series-altering? Meanwhile, Brandon Hagel received a one-game suspension, Tkachuk and Gallagher lead Ray’s chirp rankings, Ottawa faces fines and elimination after some pregame shenanigans, and Winnipeg must regroup fast after a tough Game 3 loss.

Ask R&D Anything looks at dealing with selfish players and stories of friendly fire injuries.

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Playoff intensity is here, and the storylines are already heating up. Travis Green's message to the Sens is undoubtedly to cool it with the penalties after gifting the Leafs too many powerplay chances—Ottawa looked solid 5-on-5, but inexperience showed. Mitch Marner led Toronto with 3 points in a one-sided opener. Carolina looked strong in their win over New Jersey, though injuries and a bizarre friendly-fire moment for the Devils are already concerns. Winnipeg rallied past a physical Blues team in game 1, an important opener for the Jets to win. LA’s home ice edge looms large against an Oilers squad still trying to find chemistry among injury returns. Montreal’s youth faces a tough, heavy Caps team, and Dallas struggled to keep pace with Colorado’s speed in Game 1.

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Ray & Dregs Playoff Preview! Leafs will be a tough out if their stars show up, but the Senators bring energy and strong goaltending. Montreal fought their way into the postseason and are healthier than top-seed Washington, who have shown incredible consistency all season. Florida’s health is a question mark, and Tampa enters with Vasilevskiy in top form. Carolina vs. New Jersey will be low-scoring, can Markstrom steal it for the Devils? Winnipeg is out for redemption, but the red-hot Blues could push them into deep waters. Edmonton faces LA for the fourth straight year, but Ekholm being out and the Kings’ home dominance could give them an edge. Colorado’s season-long roster turnover hasn’t slowed them one bit, expect a beauty in their series against Dallas. Vegas looks built for another run, can the resilient Minnesota Wild prove to be more than a speedbump on their road to the Stanley Cup?

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Injuries, rest and returns are a league-wide overarching theme as the regular season winds down. Connor McDavid made a surprise return in the Oilers' win over St. Louis, notching three assists including a key play on the game-winner. Edmonton isn’t the same without McDavid and Draisaitl, and getting healthy ahead of the playoffs is crucial. The Leafs dropped a rough one to the Panthers Tuesday, then bounced back against Tampa Bay behind a Matthew Knies hat trick on Wednesday, leading to much discussion about which Florida team the Leafs matchup better against. In Minnesota, a wild 8–7 OT win over the Sharks featured big returns from Kaprizov and Eriksson Ek, and what was probably Marc-Andre Fleury’s final home start. Vegas is also eyeing full health with Pietrangelo and Hague recovering, but Hertl and Eichel’s absences are causing concern up front.

Jason Strudwick joins to talk about getting up to game speed for players like Evander Kane and Gabe Landeskog, his concerns about the Oilers' goaltending and how Quinton Byfield could be a difference-maker in this year's playoffs.

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Alex Ovechkin makes history by scoring goal 895 with a signature power-play strike. Plenty of praise and serendipity surround the goal itself and the way the teams and the league handled its celebration. Winnipeg ends St. Louis’ franchise-record win streak in a potential playoff preview. Calgary stays alive in the playoff chase but they're in a tough spot; Minnesota's strength of schedule could seal the deal for the Wild. Kings and Oilers both lose—seeding likely set with one head-to-head matchup left. Rangers exposed by Tampa; Ray sees major summer changes ahead. Is a KHL 49-goal scorer worth a look back in the NHL?

In Ask Ray & Dregs Anything... does Ovie's game need to change now that he has the record and will he garner Hart Trophy consideration? Plus, desserts and pranksters!

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Alex Ovechkin is three goals away from the all-time goal scoring record, and with seven games left, Ray is confident he gets there. Chatfield’s takedown of McMichael received unanimous condemnation... but will receive nothing from the Department of Player Safety. St. Louis is on a 10-game win streak, likely securing a wild card spot, with Doug Armstrong’s offseason RFA moves proving key. Minnesota’s hopes for playoff success rest largely on Kaprizov and Brodin’s returns, but their impact is uncertain. Montreal, Ottawa, and New Jersey each have compelling storylines, from Suzuki’s leadership to Staios’ smart moves and Hughes’ lingering absence.

In Ask Ray and Dregs Anything: Can the Leafs upend the champs in a 7-game series? Which current injury will affect a team most? What's a stat you would like to see kept? And how much do GM's and coaches communicate during trade deadline time?

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The Jets have been the model of consistency, with their stars performing and Cole Perfetti emerging as a key piece. Trophy talk: Ray favours Draisaitl for the Hart Trophy as the league's only 50-goal scorer, while Hellebuyck’s case may be hindered by the sheer existence of the Vezina Trophy. Lane Hutson is now Ray’s Calder favourite over Celebrini. Niko Mikkola was fined $5,000 for a dying-seconds slapshot in the direction of Habs' David Savard, what's the likelihood of retaliation in the rematch? Ovechkin’s goal chase has extra cameras and plenty of hype, but Bettman and Gretzky won’t go on tour just yet. NCAA late-season signings! The Capitals inked Ryan Leonard, who may transition smoothly as a middle-six forward. The Blues signed Jimmy Snuggerud, who will debut vs. Detroit despite the potential pitfalls of tinkering with a winning lineup. 

Then, LA Kings head coach Jim Hiller dives into the Kings’ incredible home record, the impact of offseason additions, and how Adrian Kempe has become a true star. He also reflects on the challenges of taking over midseason, his respect for Kopitar and Doughty, and the looming playoff showdown with Edmonton.

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John Tortorella is out as Flyers head coach after a tough loss to Toronto and some telling post-game comments, with Brad Shaw stepping in as interim. The firing will spark fresh speculation about Rick Tocchet heading to the Flyers this summer, although his contract in Vancouver has a club option for next season. Meanwhile, the Canucks keep grinding out wins in an attempt to keep pace with St. Louis and Calgary in the standings. In Edmonton, injuries are piling up, with Stuart Skinner out again after a collision with Stars' forward Mikko Rantanen, fueling concerns over the team’s response. Ray is in Minnesota tracking Ovechkin’s historic goal chase, while the Leafs have some key matchups against Florida before the regular season winds up.

Plus, Chris Pronger joins the fellas to talk about his personal journey of self-improvement, when Torts may have "lost the room", how the Oilers should have handled their goalies getting bumped and his pick for the Norris Trophy.

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Goalie interference controversy returns. Islanders had a potential game-winner overturned in a must-win game against Columbus. Coach Patrick Roy didn’t hold back postgame, questioning the consistency of the rule. Jakob Chychrun secures an eight-year extension with Washington, solidifying his place on a competitive team. In Vancouver, Thatcher Demko’s return sparked a shootout win, raising hopes for a strong finish. With McDavid and Draisaitl sidelined, the Oilers risk losing ground in the division race.

In Ask Ray & Dregs Anything: The Keefe/Kovacevic controversy, how dangerous are teams that get hot late, and text messages that people weren't supposed to see.

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Auston Matthews and the Leafs get a big win over Colorado, showing signs of hitting their stride at the right time. Alex Ovechkin seems to be calling his shot in pursuit of the NHL's all-time goal record—should he avoid an empty-netter for history’s sake? Josh Anderson escaped a major injury thanks to cut-resistant gear, highlighting the evolution of player safety. In Montreal, Kent Hughes preaches patience in free agency, amid rumours about a dream scenario involving Sidney Crosby. Plus, updates on goalie interference reviews and the NHL’s decentralized draft in LA.

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Auston Matthews broke out with a 3-point night in a decisive Leafs win over the Flames, easing concerns about his recent quiet stretch. Line adjustments, including Max Domi at centre, seemed to helped spark the team. Meanwhile, at the GM meetings in Florida, discussions focused on video review consistency, cut-resistant gear, scoring trends, and the success of the Four Nations tournament. With NHL overtime already resolving most games in five minutes, extending it to ten remains uncertain. Plus, thoughts on Bob Boughner's insightful viewpoint on coaching during a playoff race.

Then, in Ask Ray & Dregs Anything... do NHL officials "send messages" to young players, how has Carolina overcome a tumultuous trade deadline and will offer sheet frequency tick up in the coming years?

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Ray & Dregs discuss a big wildcard battle in Calgary, in which Vancouver picked up two big points after Elias Pettersson scored a huge goal to force OT.

Montreal lose a tough one to the Kraken in OT. Slafkovsky scored two. Are we surprised the Canadiens are still in the mix?

Patrick Kane has a 5 pt night during an eventful game between Detroit and Buffalo.

GM meetings are next week and Ray has 3 ideas to bring to the table.

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Aaron Ekblad has been suspended 20 games for violating performance-enhancing substance rules, admitting he took something for injury recovery without consulting the Panthers' medical staff. The suspension means he'll miss Florida’s first two playoff games. Meanwhile, Brad Marchand met the media in full Panthers gear—something that still looks strange after his long career in Boston. He’s about a week or two away from returning from injury. In Ottawa, a revitalized Dylan Cozens is making an impact with his new team, scoring a game-winner against Detroit. The Columbus Blue Jackets, overcoming early-season tragedy, are writing an incredible story by pushing for the playoffs behind a high-scoring offence, though goaltending remains a concern. The Oilers’ inconsistency was on display in a loss to Buffalo, as their play lacks the spark needed to separate from opponents. In Toronto, Mitch Marner’s shootout winner helped the Leafs stay in the division race, but his contract situation remains a cloud over the team. Marner refused to waive his no-trade clause at the deadline, and his camp seems intent on testing free agency, which could backfire.

Then in Ask Ray & Dregs Anything, would Ray want to be an NHL GM at the trade deadline, the impact of major roster changes on chemistry, and the value of playing an entire career with one team.

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Big moves at the deadline: Mikko Rantanen heads to the Dallas Stars with an 8-year extension, Colorado loads up with Brock Nelson, Charlie Coyle, and Ryan Lindgren, and Winnipeg adds grit with Schenn and Tanev. The Oilers spend Evander Kane’s cap space, the Leafs strategically bolster their roster, and the Bruins embrace a rebuild. Vancouver stands pat on Brock Boeser, while Ottawa shakes things up by swapping Josh Norris for Dylan Cozens. Plenty to unpack as teams gear up for the playoff push!

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Chris Johnston joins Darren Dreger and Ryan Rishaug to check in on Canada’s NHL teams with the NHL Trade Deadline only 3 days away. From the Canucks' search for a speedy centre to Calgary’s trade deadline uncertainty, we break down each team’s outlook. The Oilers wait on Evander Kane’s injury status, Winnipeg eyes defensive upgrades, and the Senators push for a long-awaited playoff berth. Montreal’s hot streak creates tough decisions, while the Leafs weigh their options—big splash or smaller moves?

Plus, in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything we look at the Rantanen situation, rumblings out of Buffalo and who might surprise us on Friday!

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Quinn Hughes made a late return for the Canucks against LA and assisted on Conor Garland’s OT winner despite limited minutes. Vancouver and Calgary are expected to be combatants down the stretch for the final wildcard spot. The Kings’ OT point keeps them close to Edmonton, who are struggling and could need upgrades in all three phases before the trade deadline. Winnipeg extended their winning streak to 11 games with a scrappy win in Ottawa, showing signs of an elite team. Meanwhile, Seth Jones’ comments about Chicago’s struggles raise questions - with the contract he signed likely the biggest factor he remains on the team.

Then, we interview Ottawa Senators Heac Coach Travis Green to discuss overcoming injuries and early-season struggles to climb into playoff contention. A playoff berth is within reach... but the team has much loftier goals.

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The Winnipeg Jets continue to soar as Mark Scheifele’s OT winner cements his place atop the franchise's all-time goal-scoring list, while the Capitals mirror their consistency with Ovechkin netting a hat trick against the Oilers—now just 13 goals away from passing Gretzky. With the trade deadline looming, Seth Jones buzz is heating up, with Dallas and Florida in the mix as Chicago looks for roster players over picks. The Bruins face a delicate “retool” as they hover on the playoff fringe, while the Leafs appear all-in, targeting Brayden Schenn and/or Scott Laughton in a wide-open Eastern Conference race.

Also in this episode... Ask Ray and Dregs Anything!

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Connor McDavid sealed Canada’s 4-Nations victory with a thrilling overtime winner, drawing instant comparisons to Crosby’s 2010 Golden Goal—a poetic passing of the torch. Mitch Marner rose to the occasion, Jordan Binnington silenced critics and Nate MacKinnon earned MVP honours, showcasing his elite skating and scoring ability. Marchand’s postgame jab hinted at pregame bulletin-board material, likely fueled by the Tkachuk brothers’ comments. Young defensemen Thomas Harley and Jake Sanderson shined under pressure, making strong cases for Olympic roster spots. Meanwhile, injuries to key players could have lasting NHL implications, highlighting why teams remain cautious about international tournaments. And with the NHL Trade Deadline approaching, speculation swirls around the futures of Brayden Schenn and even Binnington—whose stock has certainly risen in the past 2 weeks.

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USA vs. Canada in the 4-Nations Face-Off championship is set for an intense rematch, but Team USA faces key health concerns: Charlie McAvoy is out, a major loss for their transition game, while Auston Matthews should suit up despite missing the Sweden game. The Tkachuk brothers, always the emotional core of Team USA, are unlikely to miss the final. Winning twice against the same team in international play is tough, but the teams are so close, the result could come down to a single break, miscue or save. USA seems to hold the edge in goal with Hellebuyck’s consistency over Binnington. Canada struggled late vs. Finland, some missed details highlighted just how small the margins will be in the final. Roster construction was naturally re-evaluated by fans and media after the physicality on Saturday; Tom Wilson or Hyman might have helped with the heavy lifting. Chemistry matters, and Canada seems to have found something with Stone and Point alongside McDavid. And then there’s Sidney Crosby—his clutch performance, capped with an emphatic celebration, reinforces his international legacy just as Jon Cooper stated.

In Ask Ray and Dregs Anything we talk about 4-Nations rule tweaks, Elias Petterssons's quiet tournament and Ray's rough stuff with his brothers-in-law.

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Sidney Crosby stole the show in the 4 Nations Face-Off opener on Wednesday evening with a three-point performance, earning praise from Jon Cooper and fellow players. His presence alone was impactful, but his play on the ice went above and beyond. Mitch Marner had a strong game, though his chemistry with Connor McDavid wasn’t seamless—both are puck carriers, so time will tell if they can click. Shea Theodore’s injury raises questions about defensive pairings, with Ray expecting Travis Sanheim to slot in alongside Drew Doughty. In net, Binnington allowed a questionable goal but redeemed himself with key saves late. Does he start Canada's 2nd game as well?

Then, TNT Analyst Darren Pang joins the fellas to discuss the incredible atmosphere in Montreal, Canada's dominant first 20 and some thoughts on the goaltenders.

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Crosby in, Quinn Hughes out. Doughty replaces Pietrangelo. Plenty of factors at play when it comes to players having to make these difficult decisions. Ray believes it will be an intense, competitive tournament, especially with an Olympic year looming. The Capitals, second in the NHL, should benefit from a full-team break, avoiding injury risks. Meanwhile, Leon Draisaitl’s scoring pace raises the question—can he hit 60 goals? Ray believes it’s within reach.

Plus, in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything: the Calder Trophy race heats up, speculation on Brock Boeser's future and getting the giggles while on the air.

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Four Nations face-off is just around the corner and potential injury replacements are top of mind as the status of Sidney Crosby, Quinn Hughes and others are unknown. NHL action continues through Sunday and injury replacements must be named by Monday, but Alex Pietrangelo’s spot remains open, with Kings brass pushing for Drew Doughty. Trade chatter is expected to heat up post-tournament, with Boston and St. Louis falling out of the playoff race—Brad Marchand and Brayden Schenn are rumoured trade candidates. Brock Nelson could also be on the move if the Islanders, despite recent success, decide to capitalize on interest, especially with Mathew Barzal injured. Meanwhile, Marcus Pettersson’s extension in Vancouver solidifies their blue line, adding to a strong defensive core under Jim Rutherford’s leadership.

Then, "Iron" Mike Keenan joins us to discuss writing his new book, trading Savard for Chelios as a young executive and divvying up minutes amongst a superstar-laden team for the '87 Canada Cup.

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Ryan Hartman gets a 10-game suspension for slamming Tim Stützle’s head into the ice, continuing a pattern of reckless play of which Ray Ferraro is not a fan. Major trades shake up the league, with JT Miller landing in New York, the Canucks still needing a centre, and Dallas using their ample cap space to add needed depth. The Flames and Flyers swap 4 forwards, while the Oilers look for a penalty killer, but is a goaltending upgrade also on the table? With the salary cap expected to rise above $113M in three years, this summer's UFAs like Marner, Tavares and Rantanen are set to cash in immediately.

In Ask Ray and Dregs Anything, we look at the Sens goaltending situation, referees on broadcasts and if Sid & Ovie might go into the HOF early.

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Drew Doughty returns to the Kings’ lineup, playing big minutes but shaking off some rust. The guys wonder how LA can keep Brandt Clarke in the mix and whether Doughty could replace Pietrangelo at 4-Nations. Mark Stone’s hit on Heiskanen sparks discussion, but Ray sees no need for extra discipline. The Canucks climb into a wildcard spot behind Demko and Hughes, though internal drama lingers. JT Miller sidesteps Rutherford’s blunt comments, while Brandon Saad’s contract termination hints at interest from contenders. Plus, Crosby delivers a vintage OT winner, keeping the Penguins’ playoff hopes alive.

Then, in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything, 4-Nations longshots, Ray and Cammi's cone of silence and worst travel partners!

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Breaking down the Mikko Rantanen trade, including his stated willingness to take a discount to stay in Colorado and the Avalanche’s future cap situation. Carolina gains a much-needed scoring boost, though questions about centre depth remain. The fellas question the Blackhawks involvement in the deal including what Kyle Davidson did or didn't know about the bigger deal. Imagine the speculation on a potential free-agency showdown this summer between Rantanen and Mitch Marner in the centre of the universe! The episode also touches on the Canucks’ ongoing turmoil despite recent wins and reports of internal tensions impacting their trade plans.

Then, TSN's Gord Miller joins to discuss Alex Pietrangelo pulling out of the 4-Nations Face-Off and if others may follow. Plus, a bigger picture look at the changing landscape of international hockey with the Olympics and a future World Cup of Hockey upcoming.

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Ray Ferraro and Darren Dreger break down the Oilers' dominant win in their rematch with the Canucks, where the hype fizzled, and Edmonton shone. Connor Garland entered as public enemy #1, but Corey Perry stole the spotlight with his classic antics and the Canucks failed to respond. Rick Tocchet called out his team’s discipline postgame, while Demko’s struggles and a tough matchup against the Caps loom. Elsewhere, Markstrom’s injury impacts the Devils & the 4-Nations Face-Off, Lowry’s absence raises questions for the Jets and Toews is likely off the board this season.

Then, Zach Hyman joins us to talk about ditching the bubble, the midseason grind, and the importance of playoff home ice. Plus, his new perspective on being a hockey franchise owner.

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McDavid and Myers each get 3 game suspensions, but were the infractions the same?Protecting superstars without giving them a free pass remains a challenge, especially in heated games like these. Canucks GM Patrik Allvin addressed speculation about Miller, Pettersson, and Tocchet, staying upfront but vague. The Jets’ big loss sparked frustration but might serve as a wake-up call, while the Leafs’ stars stepped up in a key win over Tampa. Meanwhile, young teams like Montreal and Ottawa are turning heads, and LA delivered an emotional tribute to first responders.

In Ask Ray & Dregs Anything, we discuss if Matthews’ lacrosse goal attempt was tougher because of the rolling puck? Plus, how do (or should) veterans handle a potential Pettersson-Miller conflict?

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Connor McDavid surpasses Jari Kurri on the Oilers' all-time points list while Edmonton remains red-hot since late November, but will 97's wallet be lighter for his elbow on Marcus Johansson? The Bruins face big decisions as Cam Neely weighs buying versus retooling, with playoff pressure mounting. Meanwhile, Todd McLennan holds nothing back after Detroit's win streak is ended by San Jose, and the sliding Leafs face a stretch without John Tavares, while Winnipeg discovers unexpected depth in Adam Lowry. 

Then, in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything: How much do IR players interact with the rest of the team? What's your fantasy location for an outdoor game? Who or what get's credit for the Caps amazing season? Rapid fire and more!

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John Klingberg is drawing interest from Toronto, Ottawa, and Edmonton, with up to seven teams potentially in the mix. While he’s likely looking at a league-minimum deal, teams will need to weigh the cost of creating a roster spot for him. Plus, Auston Matthews and Linus Ullmark face tough decisions about their participation in the Four Nations Faceoff tournament due to injury concerns. Dean Evason and the Blue Jackets are surprising playoff contenders, while Seattle sits 10 points out of a Wildcard and faces major roster questions.

Then, Darcy Kuemper reflects on battling LA's recent playoff foes from Edmonton this season, the challenges of being traded mid-season vs. offseason, and how Drew Doughty’s leadership raises team competitiveness. He also shares personal moments, including his wife’s thoughtful gift commemorating his Stanley Cup win.

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Connor Bedard starred with a goal and assist in Chicago's streak-busting win over Colorado, while Boston's struggles continued with five straight losses, sparking "Fire Sweeney" chants. The Devils limp into MSG after losing 4 of 5, while Carolina's inconsistency leaves the Metro wide open. Comparing Rod Brind’Amour and Craig Berube’s coaching philosophies, which both highlight work ethic and consistency. In the East, a tight wildcard race sees the Sabres just 7 points out despite being in last place, while in the West, Dallas battles Colorado for Central supremacy as Vegas maintains a slim Pacific lead.

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In Headlines: Montreal's recent surge has them in a wildcard spot, driven by strong performances from Suzuki and Hutson, raising questions about the Habs' playoff potential. Vancouver continues to battle inconsistency, with key players returning but trade speculation looming. Top teams like Vegas and Winnipeg are eyeing upgrades, while Scott Laughton’s availability could spark interest from contenders like Toronto. The Hurricanes may quietly make a big move, and San Jose is expected to shake things up. 

In ask Ray and Dregs Anything, the fellas discuss team chemistry, Leon Draisaitl’s MVP case, and playoff dark horses, with Detroit and Ottawa drawing attention in the East.

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Time Hortons Headlines: Leafs' Matthews will miss his 15th of the season, 6th straight game. The Kings have a shutout win over the Devils. Avalanche are clawing up for 2nd in the Central division as they win 5 in a row. Blackwood signs 5 year extension. Gamble or good investment? Dallas PP struggles. The Blackhawks underwhelm at the Winter Classic.

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The Predators and Rangers continue to struggle, with Nashville sitting 30th in the NHL and New York 26th, both falling short of expectations. Weekend hits saw Timo Meier and Tyler Bertuzzi ejected for dangerous plays, sparking debate over penalty enforcement. Injuries to Quinn Hughes and Elias Pettersson raise questions about Vancouver’s trade urgency. The Dallas Stars face a $100K fine for violating CBA rules with a Boxing Day skate. As the Winter Classic approaches, focus shifts to USA vs. Canada at the World Juniors, with both teams looking to rebound from surprising losses.

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With Ray Ferraro vacationing overseas, Gord Miller sits in with Darren Dreger to discuss NYR in a rut; team scoring is way down and their top tier players have a higher level of excellence to achieve. Thoughts on the Matt Rempe suspension and his future in the league. Jets looking elite again as they take down the Leafs. Plus: 4-Nations snubs playing well, Canuck drama extended and Gord's musings on the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships.

Then, a special Ask Gord and Dregs Anything talks World Junior memories and how media folks handle (potentially) testy personal relationships with players and management.

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Ray and Dregs review some recent trades as the NHL hits the holiday roster freeze. Habs and Preds swap right-handed defenders. Shakeup for Nashville? Habs setting up another move? Kappo Kakko finds a new home in Seattle, big opportunity for him there with Jordan Eberle out. Sabres are willing to move a top player but what should they be looking for in return. Celebrating the warrior spirit in players like Zach Hyman and Brady Tkachuk, who both contributed on Thursday night despite being worse for wear.

Then, Devils bench boss Sheldon Keefe joins the fellas to reveal new details about his career journey from Toronto to New Jersey, coaching bright, young players in both cities and to talk about his infamous fight with Ray Ferraro and how another TSN personality factored into the dispute.

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Ray Ferraro and Darren Dreger break down a wild Stanley Cup Final rematch which saw the Panthers again outlast the Oilers in an exciting but mistake-filled affair. Evan Bouchard's tough night started early and Zach Hyman showed a ton of grit after taking a puck to the nose and returning. Kiefer Sherwood with a natural hat trick for the Canucks but it was trade rumours that were the bigger story of the day for Vancouver. Reaction to Buffalo Sabres owner Terry Pegula unconventionally joining the team on the road in Montreal. Speculation Tavares' next contract/role with the Leafs.

Then in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything, broadcast game prep and sleep-in stories!

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Ray and Dregs put a wrap on the BOG meetings in Florida this week. Is a playoff salary cap coming? Tax equalization and promoting the league worldwide also created some constructive chatter. 30 games into the season and league-wide parity is more obvious than ever, is that better than the alternative? Discussing the relevancy of some Maple Leaf analytics pointing in the wrong direction. Plus, Canucks coach Rick Tocchet's testy exchange with a reporter over Elias Pettersson.

Then, the fellas are joined by Winnipeg Jets TV analyst Kevin Sawyer to discuss his position when things got tense against the Bruins, how Adam Lowry carries himself as captain and a couple of great stories about running goalies and Ray's pristine tool collection.

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Usually subdued BOG meetings upended by Sens owner Michael Andlauer's "soft-tampering" charges in the direction of the New York Rangers. NYR have their own problems as struggles on the ice continue with a loss to the Blackhawks. The Avalanche have completely revamped their goaltending tandem in a 10 day stretch. Kings are the hottest team in the league, what will their upcoming 7-game road trip tell us? Preparations are already underway for Ovie to become the league's all time leading goal scorer!!

Ryan Rishaug stirs from his slumber to host Ask Ray and Dregs Anything. This all-travel edition delivers some laughs and useful travel tips. No wait, just laughs.

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Ray Ferraro and Darren Dreger dissect Team Canada's officially announced 4 Nations Face-Off roster. Surprises & snubs, plus the choices that were made and why. Comparing to Team USA and who might have an advantage in a short format tournament.

Then, we are joined in conversation by Team USA and Minnesota Wild GM Bill Guerin to discuss what's being called the best American team ever assembled; why they will gameplan around the players that they have and not the other way around and his long relationship with the Tkachuk brothers.

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Ray and Dregs on the hot topics of the week. Rangers have lost 6 of 7, Chytil and Panarin ride some pine... feels like it could all be connected to the very public trade rumours surrounding the team. The New Jersey Devils are healthy and thriving with offseason size added to their depth of skill, and now goaltending is a strength as well. Jiricek trade and Team USA roster will get more attention with Bill Guerin as our guest on Thursday's episode... but today, the projected roster for Team Canada takes the spotlight. Who do the fellas think will make the cut?

Then, in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything, is the Sharks rebuild ahead of schedule? And how have the Canucks managed to bank points with all the injury issues that have affected them so far this season?

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In Headlines, Ray and Dregs look at how Paul Maurice's non-bag-skate technique seemed to pay off the the Florida Panthers. Then, some weird games on Wednesday; Ottawa wins with 11 shots for, Charlie Lindgren scores an own goal for the ages and Dallas lays an egg against the struggling Blackhawks. Plus, new coach bumps in Boston and St. Louis and some tough love in Montreal.

Then, our interview with Flames GM Craig Conroy looks at how some early success seemed to galvanize the roster, positive play from their unproven goalie tandem and the excitement of a new arena on the way that already has shovels in the ground.

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That didn't take long! Ray and Dregs discuss Jim Montgomery being named the new HC of the St. Louis Blues only 5 days after being dismissed by the Boston Bruins. How might Drew Bannister be feeling? Is Todd McLellan the next man up? Ebbs and flows of a season are apparent as the Florida Panthers are now 1-5 in their last 6. Bad vibes in Ottawa as the Sens continue to struggle and the fans are rightfully growing restless. Should Quinn Hughes have received a major penalty and which players/teams have been the biggest surprise on the first quarter of the season?

In Ask Ray and Dregs Anything, we look at faceoff ejections, shootout moves and the behind-the-scenes machinations of hiring and firing coaches.

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Ray Ferraro and Darren Dreger discuss Zach Whitecloud's hit on Matthew Knies and the ensuing chaos and controversy. Bruins fired head coach Jim Montgomery on Tuesday, but there's plenty of blame to go around in Beantown. Are seats getting hot in Nashville and Detroit after lacklustre starts continue for both teams? Checking in on JT Miller's situation and Ovie's injury status.

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