Blades Uncut

Blades Uncut is back for its first episode of 2022, welcoming a familiar face to the podcast. Former assistant captain Darren Dietz jumps on to chat with Mitch and Les about a chaotic last month, which includes a move to the Russian capital. In mid-December, the now 28-year-old was dealt from Barys Astana to CSKA Moscow - the home of hockey in the Russian Empire. The burly defenceman has spent the last few weeks adjusting to his new life in Moscow, while also navigating a city of 16 million people. Dietz dives into the details of the trade, and the opportunities he now has with his new team. Plus, the Medicine Hat, AB product shares what it was like to capture the IIHF World Hockey Division 1-A Championship with Team Kazakhstan. Before signing off, the guys throw a few questions at Dietz from his time in Saskatoon, and share a few fan-submitted questions. 

The boys are back with Episode 46 of Blades Uncut, presented by Original 16, featuring a fan favourite goaltender from recent history. Logan Flodell donned the blue & gold for one season (2016-17), after he was dealt by the Spokane Chiefs, and he left a lasting impression in the organization. The Regina, SK product was named to the Eastern Conference 2nd All-Star team following his impressive 22-win campaign, which included several nods by the CHL along the way. "Flo" made several more stops in the WHL, playing for Swift Current and Lethbridge, before pursuing U-Sports with Acadia University four years ago. Now entering his third season with the Axemen, life is looking pretty good for Logan, both on and off the ice. Mitch and Les dive into his U-Sports career and some of the recent accolades he's received, and what it was like being dealt to the Blades in September of 2016. Prior to their chat with the Blades alumnus, the guys look back on several headlines from within the confines of the team, which includes calling up two rookies, and Egor Sidorov's flight overseas.

Blades Uncut is back with a bang, featuring two esteemed broadcasters (not named Mitch or Les) discussing the latest and greatest in the world of hockey. First up - Cam Moon of 630 CHED in Edmonton, the home of the Oilers. The guys discuss the hot start to the Oilers season, including the recent magic from Connor McDavid, and what it's like traveling from arena to arena, and covering one of the NHL's most enticing teams. This is Cam Moon's third time on Blades Uncut, and he always shares a few stories with Mitch and Les from his time as a Saskatoon Blades goaltender some 30 years ago. Later in the episode, Jon Keen, the voice of the Kamloops Blazers and host of the WHL Radio Show, jumps on to chat about the Western Conference, along with the chaotic weather experienced in the lower mainland of British Columbia. As always, Mitch and Les recap the last episode's trivia question, and present a new question to listeners on the topic of Nolan Maier's recent milestone. 

Former captain Chase Wouters continues to carve out an impressive hockey career as he begins his next chapter with the Vancouver Canucks organization. The career-Blade, who graduated from the WHL last season, has linked up with the Abbotsford Canucks for training camp after playing one NHL preseason game for Vancouver. He signed his first professional contract in July, three months after playing his final game in a Blades uniform. Today, Wouters lives in Abbotsford and is attending his first American Hockey League training camp. Mitch and Les welcome the former captain onto Blades Uncut for the third time, and discuss how his transition into professional hockey has gone, some of the finer moments from his days in junior, and what his future holds. The guys also recap opening weekend and dive into some of the details of the Blades home-and-home split.

Saskatoon Blades Training Camp, presented by Motion Fitness, is finally here! The 48-man roster is ready to take the ice from Thursday - Saturday in a quest for the illustrious Kirness Cup. Mitch and Les dive into the entire training camp roster and give their thoughts on who's attending and who to look out for. After revisiting last episode's trivia question, the boys welcome new assistant coach Dan DaSilva onto the podcast to talk shop. DaSilva, born and raised in Saskatoon, brings 15-years worth of professional playing experience to the bench, and was regarded as one of the fiercest goal-scorers from his days with the Portland Winter Hawks. Following their chat, Mitch and Les share some news regarding a former assistant captain and share a new trivia question for listeners.

Following the conclusion of the 2021 Hub Season, former Saskatoon Blade Wyatt McLeod said goodbye to junior hockey and hello to the professional ranks. The reliable blue-liner signed with the Utah Grizzlies of the ECHL and dressed in over a dozen regular-season games and a handful more in the playoffs. McLeod also spent time in Colorado skating with the Eagles — the AHL affiliate to the Colorado Avalanche. Since then, the 21-year-old has maintained his physical health in hopes of landing another pro contract, which he'll compete for later this fall. Mitch and Les discuss Wyatt's path through the professional ranks, and discover he's parted ways with the Avalanche organization and will be skating with a new team this fall. Considering it's been four weeks since the guys have last recorded an episode, there are lots to recap. Mitch and Les hash out the latest headlines in Blade City, discuss where you can find Saskatoon Blades hockey cards from the 2021 season, and announce a trivia question winner from the last episode.

The Brennan Sonne era begins. One week after the Maple Ridge, BC product was introduced as the Saskatoon Blades new head coach, Sonne joins Mitch and Les to talk shop in this week's episode of Blades Uncut, presented by Great Western Brewing Company. The 34-year-old dives into his junior career as a player, which took him to Everett, Red Deer, and Edmonton. Plus, he shares insight on his connection to Mitch Love, having coached with the former Blades bench boss in Everett, and provides Blades fans with a better understanding of the type of coaching style to expect. Sonne joins the Blades organization after spending the last four years in France as a head coach for one of the top teams in the professional ranks overseas. In what was a remarkably busy week for the Blades, the guys also dig into the recent signing of import forward Yegor Sidorov and what he could bring for the team. Colton Dach also becomes a hot topic of conversation after being drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks.

The boys are back with another flooded episode of Blades Uncut, this time chatting with Blades defenceman and newly named Team USA member Pasha Bocharov. After playing 16 games with Saskatoon in Regina's Hub Centre, the Escondido, CA product used his experience to his advantage to earn a spot on USA's national U18 squad, and will compete in the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup next month. Bocharov discusses the joy he felt after he found out he made the team, the challenges he faced in earning a spot, and the influence playing for the Blades season had on helping his development. Mitch and Les also welcome Dan Tencer, director of scouting for the Blades, to chat more about Bocharov, along with the two newest additions to the organization following last week's CHL Import Draft. 

The boys are back with an all-new episode of Blades Uncut, featuring the return of fan-favourite alumni and current member of the Winnipeg Jets organization, Nelson Nogier. The hometown boy is back in Saskatoon for a short off-season before heading back to Manitoba's capital this fall. He spent the majority of last season on the Jets taxi squad, and although he didn't suit up in any NHL games, he says training and practicing with the big guns has helped his development monumentally. Nogier is poised to contend for a full-time roster position in Winnipeg next season, and hopefully lead the Jets down another playoff run. Prior to their chat with Nogier, the guys recap a busy week in the WHL, including the announcement of the Blades home opener and pre-season schedule, along with the CHL Import Draft. The guys also look back on last episode's trivia question, and pose a new question for listeners to potentially win a $20 promo code to The Frozen Pond.

Time is ticking closer and closer to the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, and it seems to be a matter of 'when' Colton Dach will be chosen rather than 'if'. The former 1st rounder by the Saskatoon Blades is slotted at 19th among North American skaters on NHL Central Scouting's final rankings, making it a likely guarantee he'll be selected at some stage. Mitch and Les give the Fort Saskatchewan, AB product a call to hear how his preparation for the draft is going, and to get a sense of the attention he's receiving from teams leading up to the big day. The three also discuss the competitive sibling rivalry with older brother Kirby, and how life, in general, has been since leaving the Hub Centre in Regina at the end of April. In what was a busy week full of headlines, the guys also dive into two recent prospect signings by the Saskatoon Blades, along with the division honours received by goaltender Nolan Maier and leading scorer Kyle Crnkovic. After their chat with Colton, Mitch and Les share their opinions on the second-round playoff matchup between the Winnipeg Jets and Montreal Canadiens.

Blades Uncut, powered by Original 16, is back with another jam-packed episode featuring the latest in the local and national world of sports, along with an in-depth look into the life of a fan-favourite alumni. Josh Nicholls, who dressed in more than 300 career games in a Pacman sweater, calls in from his west-coast home and looks back on his five-year career in Saskatoon. Now 29-years-old, Nicholls reflects on the glory days of playing under head coach Lorne Molleken, the relationships he built in The Bridge City, and the numerous opportunities he's had thanks to his junior hockey career. Prior to their chat with the former assistant captain, Mitch and Les recap the last two weeks of headlines, including the recent acquisition of the Saskatchewan Rush by the Priestner Sports Corporation, and newly graduated defenceman Wyatt McLeod's signing with the AHL's Colorado Eagles. The guys also announce a new trivia question winner, and give their two cents on this week's PGA Championship at Kiawah Island in South Carolina.

Les Lazaruk is back from Regina, folks! The voice of the Blades joins host Mitch Bach inside the recording studios of CJWW Radio for the 36th episode of Blades Uncut, presented by Original 16, featuring Saskatoon Blades general manager Colin Priestner. Fresh off wrapping up his fifth season as GM of the team, Priestner dives into his level of satisfaction following the crew's 16-5-2-1 record in the 2021 campaign, and shares his thoughts on what next year's team might look like. The guys discuss the uncertainty surrounding power-forward Tristen Robins and whether he'll return to the club as a 20-year-old or stay with the San Jose Sharks organization, and also asks whether any 2001-born players are guaranteed to come back next season. Mitch and Les also chat all-things pop-culture with Priestner, such as his love for foreign tv shows, his history performing as a musician, and whether he has any summer trips planned this off-season with the family. The guys also recap last episode's trivia question which includes a winner, plus they present a new question for listeners, related to the illustrious career put together by three-year captain and graduated forward Chase Wouters. 

Mitch Bach and Les Lazaruk are back with another jam-packed episode of Blades Uncut, powered by Original 16, featuring leading rookie scorer Brandon Lisowsky as the main guest. Lisowsky is off to a great start to his WHL career, netting 15 points through his first 20 games, and working his way to the top line alongside captain Chase Wouters and alternate captain Caiden Daley. The former 1st round pick by Saskatoon dives into his experience living and playing in the Hub Centre environment, how he's been able to transition into major junior hockey so seamlessly, and what a typical day in isolation looks like. Prior to chatting with Lisowsky, Mitch and Les recap the last trivia question from Episode 34 which includes a funny story involving the winner. The guys also give their thoughts on the Blades position in the East Division, and what they need to do to catch up to the Brandon Wheat Kings in order to win the division pennant. 

Blades Uncut, presented by Original 16 returns for its 34th episode, and the first recording in two weeks! Mitch Bach takes a deep dive into how the last few games have transpired and gives a complete stats update before welcoming the voice of the Blades Les Lazaruk onto the pod. The two chat the latest news in the WHL, and Les gives his thoughts on the recent slump the boys are dealing with. Defenceman Wyatt McLeod makes his return to Blades Uncut as well, and gives his thoughts on how life in the bubble is going. McLeod was traded from the Edmonton Oil Kings to Saskatoon in the off-season, and says it was a seamless transition onto the roster, which was made a little easier given the circumstances everyone is dealing with. The pending WHL graduate also gives his insight on the team's hot start, what a typical off-day looks like, and touches on a 'delicate' story involving associate coach Ryan Marsh from his days with the Oil Kings. Before wrapping up the episode, Mitch and Les share their predictions on the 2021 Masters, and place their bets on who will come away with the coveted green jacket on Sunday. 

Mitch Bach is back with an all-new episode of Blades Uncut, presented by Original 16, diving deep into Saskatoon's scorching hot start to the regular season. This is the first Uncut recording in two weeks — before the 24-game schedule began — so there is clearly a lot to look back on. Mitch's regular co-host, voice of the Blades Les Lazaruk, is bunking in Regina calling play-by-play for the team on 98 Cool FM, so Mitch was the lone host inside the recording booth. But not to be of disappointment to Blade City, Mitch rings up Les to get his two cents on the team's 6-0-1-0 start. After touching on a few topics, including a recap of last episodes trivia question, the guys welcome newcomer Blake Stevenson onto the pod. Stevenson is a new face in the Blades lockerroom, having spent his entire WHL career with the Tri-City Americans before a trade landed him in the Paris of the Prairies. The 2001-born forward is enjoying a tremendous start to the season, scoring four goals and four assists in seven games — sitting second in team scoring behind only Kyle Crnkovic. The guys chat with Stevenson about the chemistry the team has early on, how he's enjoying the change in scenery from south of the border, and what he's been up to in his downtime. After their chat with Stevenson, Mitch and Les present a new trivia question for listeners and preview Friday afternoon's contest against the Regina Pats.

After 368 long, tiring, painstaking, quarantine-filled, mask-wearing days, Blades hockey is ready to drop the puck. Saskatoon kicks off their 24-game regular season on Saturday, taking on the Swift Current Broncos from the confines of Regina's Hub Centre. This week's episode, presented by Original 16, takes a deep look into the 26 players representing the Blades during the entirety of the campaign, and reminds fans of the numerous ways they can be a part of the action - even if every game is taking place 2.5 hours away. Mitch and Les welcome returning forward Kyle Crnkovic to the podcast for the second time to discuss how the first week of practice has gone, expectations for the upcoming season, how the numerous new players are gelling with the returning veterans, and what living in Regina's bubble environment is like. Crnkovic will surely be relied upon to help drive offence this year, considering he led the Blades in assists last season, and averaged over a point per game. Following their chat with Crnkovic, the guys present a new trivia question to listeners and give an update to how Blades Uncut, presented by Original 16, will be recorded during the season. 

This week's episode of Blades Uncut takes a deep dive into the Hub Centre in Regina, bringing one player who's sure to be a difference-maker this season onto the podcast, along with the mastermind behind piecing together the Blades roster years in advance. Caiden Daley and Dan Tencer make their Uncut debuts this week, discussing the finer details of what fans should expect from within the bubble this season. Daley is one of three pending graduates of the WHL on the Blades roster, bringing unrivaled speed and hockey IQ onto the ice. He'll be greatly depended on this season, not just for his quickness and playmaking abilities, but also as a leader for the young crop of rookies set to make their WHL debuts. Daley also dives into his days playing for the Brandon Wheat Kings, and what it was like to be traded to Regina and Saskatoon in the same season. Following the conversation with the 20-year-old, Mitch and Les welcome Tencer on to discuss the preparation which went into piecing this year's team. Due to the strict limitations imposed by COVID, Tencer has had to recalibrate his way of scouting players, but says he's excited to see his hard work over the years come to fruition. He also gives his thoughts on 2020 WHL Bantam Draft picks Tanner Molendyk and Lukas Hansen, and gives his thoughts on the 2020 Bantam Draft's move to December.

The clock continues to tick closer and closer to the start of the 2020-21 regular season, and teams are piecing together the details ahead of puck-drop on March 12. This week's episode brings two esteemed guests onto the podcast — one of which making his fourth appearance, and the other giving listeners a peak from 'behind enemy lines' for the first time. Tristen Robins, the Blades leading scorer from last season, recently returned from Arizona, where he made his AHL debut for the San Jose Barracuda. Robins chats with Mitch and Les about his two games with the Sharks affiliate squad, what training and practicing as a pro is like, and how he's keeping busy ahead of the 24-game season with Saskatoon. After checking in with Tristen, the guys welcome Regina Pats head coach and Blades alumni Dave Struch onto the cast. Struch played four seasons in Saskatoon from the late 80's into the early 90's, and went on to play more than a decade of professional hockey in numerous markets. After retiring in the mid-2000's, the Flon Flon, MB product joined the Blades coaching staff as an assistant to Lorne Molleken, which was the beginning of a seven-year tenure with his old team. Struch is currently preparing for his third season as the Regina Pats head coach, and is working hard to prepare for what the next two months entail.

The countdown is on! The WHL received approval for the East Division to begin playing out of a Hub Center in Regina, bringing the five Saskatchewan-based teams and both Manitoba squads to the provincial capital. The 24-game regular season begins March 12, with rigorous quarantine and testing measures in place. Although a lot has yet to be decided on (game schedule, broadcast capabilities, roster announcements, etc), players and coaches throughout the prairies are thrilled to finally get back at it. This week's episode of Blades Uncut brings three esteemed guests onto the podcast. WHL Commissioner Ron Robison spares some time to chat all-things WHL, including the pending start-up of the Central Division, what players and coaches can expect in the 'hubble', and when we may have an announcement on the BC Division's potential start date. Blades captain Chase Wouters makes his return to the pod, expressing his excitement to close out his WHL the proper way (albeit under unusual circumstances). Finally, Blades associate coach Ryan Marsh makes his long-overdue debut on Uncut. Marsh, who's entering his third season on the Blades coaching staff, settles some so-called confusion spun from a story told by Wyatt McLeod on episode 26. Mitch and Les also dive into last week's and this week's trivia questions, and share some details of what listeners can expect on Blades Uncut in the coming weeks leading up to puck drop.

Wearing the Pacman for five seasons, and living out a legendary 15-year career in the NHL, Mike Green is hailed as one of the all-time greats in Saskatoon Blades history. The former captain has 267 WHL games under his belt to complement his 172 points, escalating immensely in his final year where he led all WHL defencemen in scoring with 66 points, and assists with 52. The Calgary, AB product battled through the trenches of a difficult 7-win campaign in 2003-04, and was part of the rebuilding squad which featured Lorne Molleken as head coach in 2004-05. The Washington Capitals noticed Green's knack for scoring and quick up-ice play in junior, selecting him 29th overall in the 2004 NHL Draft — the same draft which featured Alex Ovechkin taken with the number one pick. That was the beginning of a stellar professional career which stretched for one-and-a-half decades over three different organizations. He's a two-time finalist for the Norris Trophy for the NHL's best defenceman, and the only blue-liner to eclipse the 30-goal mark in a single season since the introduction of the salary cap. Following 10-years in the American capital, Green made the bold decision to sign as a free agent with Detroit in 2015, which gave him the opportunity to grow more as a leader. The 35-year-old announced his retirement in August of 2020 as a member of the Edmonton Oil Kings, intending to spend more time with his young family and direct his attention to other career opportunities in the future. Mitch and Les were thrilled to welcome Green onto Blades Uncut for the first time. The three look back at his days playing in Saskatoon, his fondest memories as a junior hockey player, and his rise as one of the best NHL defenceman of the modern era.

The long-overdue Blades Uncut debut for one of the greatest of all time, Paul Buczkowski, is finally here. The hometown boy of Saskatoon has his name inked into the franchise record books on multiple occasions, playing nearly 400 career games from the early-to-mid 1990s. Mitch and Les chat with Buczkowski for nearly an hour, reflecting on his playing days wearing the Pacman jersey, his favourite stories from traveling on the road, and where his career took him following junior hockey. Currently the head coach for the Saskatoon Outlaws AA U16 squad, the 45-year-old also dives into his transition from playing into coaching, and how the game has changed over the last few decades. Buczkowski has four kids; Tyson, who's eligible to be chosen in the upcoming WHL Bantam Draft, Madison, who most recently suited up for the Saskatoon Stars, and two twins who are also showing signs of living in their father's footsteps. Before welcoming Buczkowski on, Mitch and Les also discuss the recent approval for WHL hockey to drop the puck at the end of February, and whether a season is in sight for Saskatchewan-based teams. The guys also recap last week's trivia question before Les tries selling Mitch on a new show worth watching.

In this week's episode, Mitch and Les get the best of both worlds on the mic, welcoming Blades general manager Colin Priestner and newly acquired defenceman Wyatt McLeod. Priestner shook (digital) hands on a deal with the Edmonton Oil Kings on Monday, sending a conditional draft pick to Alberta's capital and receiving overage blue-liner McLeod. Priester gives a candid take on how the trade unfolded, and the role McLeod would fill in a COVID-shortened season. The seven-year GM also gives a candid take on some of his favourite trades, and a few that never panned out. Plus, Priestner gives his insight into the potential of playing a 24-game season, and shares a few funny stories from his experiences in other WHL buildings. Following their chat with the head honcho, Mitch and Les get McLeod's take on becoming a Blade, and how his off-season has treated him so far. McLeod, who's already being compared to former assistant captain Scott Walford, opens up about his road to the WHL, growing up in the small, northern-BC town of Dawson Creek, and playing his first game in Rogers Place.

Mitch and Les are back with two esteemed guests in one suped-up episode of Blades Uncut. Cam Moon, who's making his second appearance on the podcast, is the newest member of the 630 CHED broadcast team in Edmonton, calling play-by-play for the Oilers. It's been a whirlwind 10 days for Moon, to say the least, who says the Oilers reached out to him initially and offered the position just three days later. The former Blades goaltender goes into detail with how the hiring process unfolded, his emotional transition to Edmonton, and the challenges which come with saying goodbye to the Red Deer Rebels after 22 years. Moon also discusses the slow start to the Oilers season, and shares his excitement over calling his first NHL game. Following their chat with Moon, the guys welcome Blades starting goaltender Nolan Maier onto the podcast for the first time. Maier, who's entering his fourth season between the pipes, chats about the challenges in dealing with a COVID-lengthened off-season, the emotions that came with the season suspension last March, his early days with the Blades, and winning gold at the 2018 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Outside their interviews, Mitch and Les discuss the early start to the NHL season, hammer out the details of their Flames vs. Jets wager, and dive into the latest in the world of golf.

A proud graduate of the Western Hockey League, and now entering his third season manning the bench for the Saskatoon Blades, Mitch Love is one of the most well respected, decorated coaches in the WHL. He's fresh off capturing a silver medal with Team Canada as an assistant coach at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships, following up his gold medal from the previous year. He's since returned to Saskatoon, working daily with the rest of his coaching staff to prepare for the upcoming WHL season. Mitch and Les welcome Love onto the podcast for the first time, and discuss what day-to-day operations look like, and his excitement in adding a few familiar faces to his coaching staff over the off-season. Love also digs into the finer details of the World Juniors before sharing a few memorable stories from his days with the Everett Silvertips. Finishing his WHL playing career with 901 penalty minutes, Love also reflects on his rugged play style, and what competing as an enforcer was like in the mid-2000's. Prior to their chat with Love, Mitch and Les open the floodgates on the NHL season, and place a bet on who will win the season series between the Calgary Flames and Winnipeg Jets.

New year, new episode! Mitch and Les are kicking off 2021 with a jam-packed episode featuring a newly minted professional for the San Jose Sharks, and a legendary NHL broadcaster. Tristen Robins inked a three-year, entry-level deal on New Years Day, and joins Mitch and Les over the phone from Chandler, AZ. The Clear Lake, MB native is in the desert training in his first NHL training camp with other Sharks prospects, including Prince Albert Raiders forward Ozzy Wiesblatt. He discusses the finer details which went into putting pen to paper, the work-ethic which is required to compete at the professional level, and the COVID restrictions which are in place in Arizona. Following their chat with Robins, the guys welcome TSN play-by-play commentator Dennis Beyak onto the pod. Beyak is currently readjusting to life outside the bubble, most recently calling games at the World Juniors. He's also eying up Winnipeg Jets training camp, seeing he's the lead broadcaster for all regionally televised games, but it's his history with the Blades which makes his story special and unique. Beyak was one of the first broadcasters for the Saskatoon Blades, and also spent nine years as the team's assistant general manager through the 1980's. He played an instrumental role in bringing the Memorial Cup Championship to Saskatoon in 1989, and was on the front-lines of a 'golden era' of Blades hockey which included the likes of Wendel Clark, Kelly Chase, and Kevin "Killer" Kaminski. Beyak relives some of his fondest memories with the organization and shares stories involving many of his former players. Plus, he dives into the outcome of this year's World Juniors, and shares his thoughts on the development of some current and former Blades.

It's the most wonderful time of the year, so to help you get into the Christmas spirit, we're unveiling the most wonderful moments from Blades Uncut in 2020. Mitch and Les are excited to unveil "Blades Uncut: Christmas Special" highlighting some of their favourite memories from the first 22 episodes of the podcast. They'll relive stories told by Kevin "Killer" Kaminski, Wendel Clark, Anton Khudobin, Riley McKay, Cam Moon, and many, many more. So light up the fireplace, brew up a hot cup of hot chocolate, hit play, and enjoy!

Natural, raw, goal-scoring talent was evident in Devin Setoguchi's early childhood, which made him a highly saude-after piece in the 2002 WHL Bantam Draft. He was taken by the Blades 5th overall — the first step towards reaching the NHL and living out a childhood dream. After two seasons in the WHL, Setoguchi was selected 8th overall in the 2005 NHL Draft by the San Jose Sharks — a draft class that included Sidney Crosby, Bobby Ryan, and Carey Price. In fact, San Jose traded up four spots to ensure the Setoguchi pick, which came before Anze Kopitar and T.J. Oshie. Needless to say, Setoguchi was a superstar in the making. He made his NHL debut as a teenager and was quickly thrown onto a line with Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau. His sophomore campaign saw him reach the 30-goal plateau and put up a career-high 65 points. What many people didn't see on the surface were early signs of alcoholism, which grew into a fierce addiction in the mid-2010's. On April 1st, 2015, Setoguchi made one of the most important phone calls of his life — reaching out to Dr. Brian Shaw, the co-founder of the NHL's substance abuse program, and entered rehab four days later. In this week's episode, Setoguchi relives the glory days of playing for the Blades, and shares details of the trade which sent him to BC's Peace Region. He also looks back on the 2005 NHL Draft, the excitement of playing in San Jose, and the turmoil which ultimately fuelled his addiction to alcohol. Today, Setoguchi, his wife, and two children reside in San Jose, CA and own/operate an F45 Training Centre. Outside of their chat with Setoguchi, Mitch and Les also discuss the local sports scene, the latest news in the World Juniors, and tease a special edition of Blades Uncut which will be released on Christmas Eve.

As the 5th overall selection in 1991, Warrener was one of the very first players to be chosen by the Blades — back when the Shaunavon, SK product (or the rest of bantam-aged players for that matter) didn't have a clue what it was exactly. He's the first to admit it wasn't a dream for him to play for his favourite junior hockey team growing up, or even reach the NHL, saying naiveness steered any self-influenced pressure away. This, in turn, helped develop one of the Blades' most well-known, talented defenceman from the early to mid-90's, piling up 197 games before venturing into a 13-year NHL career. Warrener made the move to Florida as a 19-year-old — a team bounded together with youth and grit — and helped the Panthers reach its first Stanley Cup Final in 1996. Several years later, Warrener was traded to the Buffalo Sabres, where he made his second Cup Finals appearance in 1999, eventually bowing down to the Dallas Stars. Warrener's third and final conference championship came in the wild west as a member of the Calgary Flames in 2004. Led by the likes of captain Jarome Iginla and goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff, Calgary's magical run ended in Game 7 of the Final to Vincent Lecavalier and the Tampa Bay Lightning. Mitch and Les take a walk down memory lane with Rhett, reliving the glory days of his junior hockey career, his transition into the NHL, notable moments from his three trips to the Finals, and the numerous community initiatives he's been a part of. Mitch and Les also touch on the latest news regarding an NHL start date, whether or not we'll see Kirby Dach lace up for Team Canada at the World Juniors, and make mention of a furry community event driven by the Blades organization.

Living in Kazakhstan, and suiting up as one of the top defenders in the KHL, former Saskatoon Blades assistant captain Darren Dietz has seen all parts of the hockey world over the last decade. Undrafted in bantam, Dietz fought through tooth and nail to earn a spot on the Blades roster in 2009, back when Lorne Molleken was calling the shots as head coach. Drafted in the 5th round by the Montreal Canadiens in 2011, Dietz used his intense work ethic and leadership traits to open more doors in his hockey career following junior. He made a quick transition to the AHL with the Hamilton Bulldogs, and finally made his NHL debut in 2016, playing 13 games with the Habs. The bulk of Dietz success in hockey wouldn't come on North American soil, however. The Medicine Hat product made the difficult decision to commit to Barys Astana in the KHL to start the 2017-18 campaign. The risk paid off in an astounding way. Dietz put together an all-star worthy season, named the KHL's top defenceman after leading all blue-liners in goals, assists, and points. Calling in from 12 time-zones away, Dietz discusses the finer details of his hockey career, and how he went from one of junior hockey's most promising young stars, to an international star in Kazakhstan. Plus, Mitch and Les chat about life away from the rink overseas, and how the current COVID crisis is being handled in Europe. Mitch and Les also discuss the latest in the local hockey world, one Blade who's stepping up in the CHL Memorial eCup, and take a final look at whatever's growing on Mitch's upper lip.

Despite only spending 1.5 seasons with the Saskatoon Blades, former goaltender Cam Moon says his time in Blade City was sacred and memorable. He's a proud Blades alumni who wears his blue and gold colours wherever he goes, if even through his colourful personality. After graduating from the WHL in the early '90's, Moon enrolled in the Radio and Television program at NAIT in his hometown of Edmonton - the beginning of a 25-year career in broadcasting. He's most well-known as the play-by-play man for the Red Deer Rebels, which he's done since 1998. Recently, the 50-year-old has had a front-row seat for the World Junior Selection Camp, taking over play-by-play duties for Canada White vs. Canada Red scrimmages. Mitch and Les were thrilled to welcome Moon onto the podcast to hear more about his days as a Blade, the former teammates he's still close with today, and the strength Team Canada possesses heading into the World Juniors. The guys also discuss the latest news in the local sports world, details on the Hockey Harvest Lottery early bird deadline, and present a new trivia question for listeners!

Known as one of the greatest leaders in Saskatoon Blades history, Warren Peters wore the Pacman logo for five seasons, scoring 218 points in 330 career WHL games. The Saskatoon product went on to play 11 seasons in the AHL, along with time spent with the Calgary Flames, Dallas Stars, Minnesota Wild, and Pittsburgh Penguins organization. He retired following the 2014-15 season after capturing the Danish Championship with SonderjyskE, and has since settled down in Omaha, Nebraska with his wife and two kids. Mitch and Les chat with Warren about his playing days in his hometown, life as a professional hockey player, the former teammates he grew close with, and how life is treating him today. The guys also share the details behind opening a new storefront location in Midtown Plaza, give an update to the Hockey Harvest Lottery, and discuss Kirby Dach's immediate impact at Hockey Canada's World Junior Team Selection Camp.

A career Blade, turned into a grisly veteran of the NHL, Clarke Wilm combined his edgy playing style with finesse to chisel out a respectful hockey career that lasted more than three decades. Mitch and Les welcome Wilm onto the podcast to chat about his early days with the Saskatoon Blades, receiving the call from his favourite team, the Calgary Flames, in the 1995 NHL Entry Draft, and some of the fond memories he has from his professional career. The guys also welcome Blades director of business operations Tyler Wawryk onto the podcast to discuss the details of the Hockey Harvest Lottery, and touch on some recent news involving a current member of the team. Finally, Mitch and Les roundtable their picks to win The Masters, and where the future of the game of golf could be heading.

This week's episode features not one but two guests — Kirby Dach, who's being loaned by the Chicago Blackhawks to skate at Hockey Canada's Junior Team Selection Camp, and newly hired assistant coach Tyler Dietrich. Dach chats with Mitch and Les about his excitement in potentially playing in the World Juniors, off-season training, and the mini-competitions he has against his brother and current Blade Colton. After chatting with Kirby, the guys welcome Tyler onto the podcast and discuss his decision to move to Saskatoon, his four-year career with Hockey Canada, and his connection as both a player and coach with Blades bench-boss Mitch Love. Mitch also recaps last week's trivia question and poses a new question, giving listeners the chance to win a $25 gift card to The Frozen Pond.

One of the greatest Blades of all time, if not the greatest, Wendel Clark jumps on in a special edition of Blades Uncut. Mitch and Les chat with the legend about his two seasons with the Blades, being the first overall selection in the 1985 NHL Entry Draft, his long-standing career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, and life since retiring in 2000. The guys also ask Clark about his gritty style of play in junior, and how he created a name for himself as a professional. Mitch and Les also present a new trivia question to listeners, and announce last week's trivia question winner. After touching on a few news items in the hockey world, the guys chit-chat about Halloween and discover Les's love for binge-watching TV shows.

Mitch and Les are back with another jam-packed episode of Blades Uncut, featuring former captain and member of the 500 PIM club Evan Fiala. The Clavet, SK product shares the details of the trade which brought him to Saskatoon after beginning his WHL career in Spokane, discusses some of his most memorable moments from his days wearing the Pacman, and how his hockey and education career has transformed at the University of Saskatchewan. The guys also speak with Blades director of business operations Tyler Wawryk on the likelihood of having fans in attendance once the WHL returns to play on January 8th, and potential seating plans which are currently being looked at. Mitch recaps last week's trivia question, and poses a new question, giving listeners a chance to snag a $25 gift card to The Frozen Pond.

The WHL is forging ahead with a January 8th start date for the regular season! This news headlines a jam-packed episode of Blades Uncut, featuring all the details of the WHL's major announcement, along with an in-depth, exclusive interview with former Blade and now Vancouver Canuck Braden Holtby. Mitch and Les discuss the likelihood of having fans spectate the WHL's return to play, the changes the WHL is implementing for the season's start, and send out a "winner winner chicken dinner" birthday shoutout to a young fan. After announcing a trivia question winner, the guys bring Holtby on to discuss his new contract with the Canucks, some of his fondest memories over his 10-year NHL career in Washington, and what it was like to play for the Blades in the mid-to-late 2000's.

After a busy two days of NHL Draft coverage, Mitch and Les return for a jam-packed episode featuring two guests. Moments after the San Jose Sharks drafted him 56th overall, Tristen Robins shares what receiving the call was like, and the family connection he has with the Sharks. After announcing last week's trivia question winner, former Blades assistant captain and Winnipeg Jets draftee Nelson Nogier chats with the guys. Mitch and Les also discuss the pending unrestricted free-agency scene, plans for the long weekend, and the chance of seeing Les create a new social media profile!

The guys are back with a special edition of Blades Uncut, featuring six different interviews and everything you need to know about the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, scheduled for October 6th and 7th. Rogers Sportsnet CHL analyst Sam Cosentino makes his Blades Uncut debut, dissecting the nitty-gritty of this year's draft, including which members of the Saskatoon Blades could hear their name called. The Blades have five players listed in NHL Central Scouting's final rankings, setting the stage for the five remaining interviews. Tristen Robins, ranked 86th, jumps on to discuss the attention he's received from various NHL teams and the likelihood of hearing his name called, plus defenceman Rhett Rhinehart (ranked 151st) and Aidan De La Gorgendiere (ranked 197th) chat about the popularity they've received among NHL brass and the roles they intend to take in the 2020-21 season with the Blades. Later on, speedy forward Kyle Crnkovic, listed 209th, chats about his off-season and whether he expects to be drafted by a team, and goaltender Koen MacInnes (ranked 22nd among N.A. goaltenders) chats about his offseason training regime and how last season prepared him for the workload next season may demand. Mitch and Les also recap last week's trivia question, complete with a new winner, and reveal a new question.

Former captain Wacey Rabbit is this week's guest on Blades Uncut, chatting everything from his time in Saskatoon, to becoming an ambassador for First Nations sports, and his roller-coaster professional career all over the world. Mitch and Les also discuss the latest in the NHL Playoffs involving Anton Khudobin of the Dallas Stars, announce a trivia contest winner, and tease a "special episode" of Blades Uncut which will launch in the coming weeks!

Tony Twist spent two seasons with the Saskatoon Blades in the 1980's, and used his tough-as-nails approach to not only bring energy to the game, but win the hearts of fans throughout Western Canada. The Prince George, BC native went on to have a lengthy NHL career, racking up over 1100 penalty minutes, and dropping the gloves routinely with guys like Bob Probert, Mike Peluso, and many more. Mitch and Les welcomed Twister on for a fun chat, reminiscing of his junior hockey days and some of the fond memories he has from his NHL career. The guys also recap a busy week in the local sports scene, along with the latest on Anton Khudobin's surging performance for the Dallas Stars. Plus, they put forth a new trivia question with a twist.

The guys are back with a jam-packed episode featuring two esteemed guests this week. After Mitch and Les recap some recent WHL news, along with the latest on several alumni, they welcome long-time legendary broadcaster Chris Cuthbert onto the pod to chat about the NHL playoffs. Later on, arguably the Blades greatest coach of all-time, Lorne Molleken, is welcomed on to share some of his favourite memories from his 13 years with the team. Mitch and Les also announce a new trivia question winner, and present a new question to the listeners.

Mitch and Les are back this week with a special episode, chatting with former Blades tough guy Kevin "Killer" Kaminski, who racked up 823 penalty minutes in his WHL career. Most of those were dealt with his gloves off, but thanks to his knack of scoring goals at a high pace, Killer earned a 3rd round selection by the Minnesota North Stars. He then went on to play more than 100 NHL games, spent with Minnesota, Quebec, and most notable the Washington Capitals. Killer goes into detail on some of his most memorable fights, and some of his fond memories of playing with the Blades. Mitch and Les also touch on alumni news, declare a winner from last week's trivia question, and present a new question to the listeners.

Les returns from another holiday and catches up with Mitch about his week away from the radio booth. The guys discuss Nolan Kneen's signing in the ECHL, and former Blades captain Mike Green's retirement from the NHL. Later on, Mitch and Les bring captain Chase Wouters onto the podcast to discuss his offseason, heading into September without a hockey season, his leadership traits and answers some fan-submitted questions. After the interview, Mitch takes a deep dive into Les's vast collection of signature goal calls, questioning the origin and reason behind each call. The two finish up the episode by announcing a social media contest winner, and introduce a new trivia question.

He's become one of the NHL's most marketable players, collecting six points in nine playoff games, and becoming a catalyst for the Chicago Blackhawks. Kirby Dach continues to turn heads at just 19-years-old, giving Blades fans plenty of reason to get excited this post-season. The former Blades forward opens up about his uncharacteristic journey to the NHL and how learning from veterans Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane has helped his development. Kirby also answers several fan-submitted questions, and discusses what life inside the NHL's bubble is like. Mitch and Tyler also welcome Global Saskatoon's Ryan Flaherty onto the podcast for the first time to discuss the local sports landscape and how other sports leagues are overcoming the hardship of the pandemic.

This week's episode is packed full of NHL playoff content. Mitch welcomes Les back onto the podcast after a week on holidays, and chat with long-time NHL broadcaster and sports aficionado Peter Loubardias about this year's post-season. Loubardias dissects the Calgary Flames vs. Dallas Stars series, and how Calgary has been able to generate early post-season success. Following their chat with Lou, the guys welcome Dallas Stars goaltender and former Blade Anton Khudobin onto Blades Uncut, and chat about life inside the 'bubble', competing in this year's playoffs, and the great times living and playing in Saskatoon. Mitch also recaps last week's trivia question and presents a new question for Blade City!

This week's episode features a special guest host in lue of Les Lazaruk's vacation. Tyler Wawryk makes his Blades Uncut debut alongside Mitch Bach to chat about the league's decision to push the regular season start date to December 4th. The two also recap the NHL's first week of action which includes some spectacular work by former Blade Kirby Dach of the Chicago Blackhawks. Freshly graduated from the WHL, Riley McKay jumps on the pod to talk about farm life in Swan River, MB as well as signing his pro contract with the Rockford IceHogs. Mitch and Ty wrap it up with a new trivia question and some golf talk.

Mitch and Les are back for a special episode of Blades Uncut ahead of the August Long Weekend. The guys discuss the recent NHL exhibition play and recap both of last week's trivia questions (including the winners). Former captain and career Blade Nick Zajac jumps on later to tell some stories of his time in Saskatoon, where his life is at right now, the memories he has playing with the team and where his career took him after playing in the WHL. Mitch and Les wrap it up with a birthday shout-out, and a new trivia question!

Mitch and Les welcome Blades leading scorer Tristen Robins onto the podcast, discussing his surging second half of last season, and his likelihood of hearing his name called in this year's NHL Entry Draft. Robins also fields some questions from listeners, and chats about his off-season training regime. Prior to the chat with Robins, Mitch and Les take a deeper look into the Blades alumni competing for roster spots ahead of the NHL's Return to Play, and some of the other stories in the sports world. Plus, the guys have a new trivia question, giving you a chance to head home with Blades merch!

Welcome to Blades Uncut! A new, digital way for Blade City to connect to their favourite WHL team! In episode 1, host Mitch Bach is joined by voice of the Blades Les Lazaruk to talk the recent developments in the WHL and NHL. Graduated assistant captain Scott Walford also jumps on the pod to discuss his recent commitment to McGill University, the emotional ride involved with saying goodbye to his career under extreme circumstances, and how his off-season has gone so far. Mitch and Les wrap up the episode by looking back on a few recent social media contests, and propose the first trivia question. Stay tuned for episode 2 next week!