Sports in the Waiting Room

Chris feels overjoyed after calling his first Iona softball game for ESPN+. He then expresses his excitement over the first week of the Stanley Cup & NBA Playoffs, including playing “I Told You So” regarding the Warriors' and Timberwolves' fortunes, and how the NHL TV partners will fare. Finally, Chris takes on an NFL Draft highlighted by the historic slide of Shedeur Sanders.

Chris discusses the reasons for his extended absence, including three consecutive working Wednesdays, a month-long sickness, and his first (and hopefully last) panic attack. In the midst of all this came another year covering the Frozen Finals. Chris also discusses the extensive number of games he covered in hockey and otherwise as he moves toward the summer season. On the professional front, Chris makes picks for the established first round NBA & NHL series, highlights the MLB's efforts to celebrate Jackie Robinson Day, and recaps Tyron Smith & Logan Couture's underrated careers.

Chris makes his triumphant return by echoing a thrilling announcement by the Eastern Hockey League. He also offers his Super Bowl (not getting sued for saying it) prediction and a surprising take on the Dončić-AD trade. So don't be a Pat Hoberg and gamble everything away, listen to the episode.

Chris' NFL week recap features Bo Nix's case for Offensive ROY, the Chargers passing the eye test for a Super Bowl contender, and the Jets and Cowboys continuing to tumble into oblivion. It also discusses why the Brady-Manning trajectory favors Josh Allen right now, and how the Steelers continue to defy logic. This week's episode features a full breakdown of FBS standings and a way for Army to defy continued disrespect. Chris breaks down the early NBA Cup Action, the start of MLB Awards Week, and a seemingly premature firing in Boston.

Chris recaps the roads to the League Championship Series and his picks for the Fall Classic. He explains why Buck Showalter still deserves some credit for the Mets' success and how Jazz Chisholm has unknowingly hurt the Yankees this postseason. Chris breaks down the NFL week and the recurring trend for almost every winning team, while also taking three teams to task, most notably Jerry Jones' Dallas Cowboys. Lastly, this week also features several heartwarming tributes to the Gaudreau family as the Blue Jackets take home ice for the first time this season.

Chris picks the winners of the Wild Card Series, breaks down Aaron Judge & Shohei Ohtani's historic seasons, and lists the hypocrisies that have kept Pete Rose out of the Hall of Fame. This NFL week featured multiple blown calls in primetime, perhaps the most legitimate Commanders win of the year, and a Bronco win despite going under 100 passing yards. Chris also breaks down a league-altering Karl-Anthony Towns trade and how Dikembe Mutombo became so beloved.

Chris breaks down the NFL week by ripping into the Cincinnati Bengals defense more than Jaylen Daniels did, highlighting the impact of Mercury Morris despite the Dolphins' off-kilter week, and encapsulating the joy of New Yorkers. He skims a college week including big wins for Michigan and Tennessee, and a divisive move by UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka. Lastly, the MLB postseason is nearing and many teams have locked up spots, but Chris offers self-righteousness for the suffering people of Oakland.

Chris introduces a new and prideful segment proving points regarding the states of the New Orleans Saints & the Arizona Cardinals. His week two breakdown also emphasizes how important kickers really are, why the Chiefs have actually let people down off the field, and what league wide change resulted in lower passing numbers. Chris also skims the MLB standings, says why Adrian Wojnarowski's move isn't just a media ploy, and makes an important note about personal health in a private area.

Chris talks about the NFL's opening week, including why the Ravens should be concerned, how little the Giants offensive line improved, and why it's important to acknowledge all aspects of a complex Tyreek Hill case. Chris also breaks down why the Jets should relax, the personal impact of Ed Kranepool, the U.S. Open finishes, and much more.

Chris honors Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau and encapsulates what they meant to the game, their communities, and their family. Chris also discusses some secondary connections that allowed them to affect him personally.In other news, Chris breaks down the MLB standings (including Aaron Judge & Shohei Ohtani's historic paces), college football rankings, a not-so-star-studded U.S. Open, and a shocking week for the San Francisco 49ers.

Chris breaks down the importance of reaching for difficult goals before breaking down the 2024 Little League Classic. He demonstrates what makes the Mariners the perfect team to play in Williamsport next year, praises the benefit of the doubt given to tennis' world number one Jannik Sinner, and highlights the reasons the Vikings should finish last in the NFC North. This week also brings about the USMNT's hiring of Mauricio Pochettino, the Oilers' unwillingness to match two offer sheets, and the Liberty's continued blowout victories.

Chris breaks down an American-dominated Olympics while trying to encapsulate the worst of an otherwise successful two weeks, including the controversy regarding Russian & Israeli athletes. He also discusses the Pedro Grifol firing, DeArica Hamby's lawsuit, and the retirement of a local and national hockey icon, all while expressing his passion for that job opening.

Chris sits with his New Jersey 87's & New Jersey Titans broadcast partner Anthony Di Paolo. Their conversation features their meeting at a 16-1 MLB playoff game, their broadcasting chemistry, and much more. They also go over their process for creating personal highlight reels, a good mini-tutorial for other young broadcasters.

Chris breaks down the Wimbledon Singles Finals and the UEFA Championship as part of a great day for Spain. He also discusses the greater impact of the Copa America gate storming and why the U.S. needs an outside voice to replace Gregg Berhalter. This week's episode also highlights MLB All-Star Week, the underrated impact of Joe Bryant and Monte Kiffin, and a recap of Joe Pavelski's career. Chris closes the episode by restating the podcast's purpose and adding its first (hopefully) permanent sign off.

Chris breaks down the impact of Willie Mays (including through secondhand accounts) and Jerry West, as well as the NBA & Stanley Cup Finals.

Chris breaks down the road to the Stanley Cup & NBA Finals, Joe Pavelski's impending retirement, and the two options for Shohei Ohtani's alibi.

Chris breaks down the fundamentals of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and the sloppiness of the Celtics-Pacers series so far, as well as the promise of the Timberwolves-Mavericks series. He also recaps the MLB week, Xander Schauffele's first major win, Scottie Scheffler's joy ride, and the life and career of Jim Otto.

Chris returns to break down the Stanley Cup & NBA playoffs, the historic implications behind Nikola Jokic's third MVP award, Caitlin Clark's career trajectory, and a questionable hire in Green Bay (not the Packers).

Chris recaps the 2024 Frozen Finals and gives thanks to the people who make the week so special. He follows sweet sentimentality by discussing his disastrous brackets and offering picks for the coming week. Chris evaluates Rajon Rondo's complicated history, shows how the Dodgers have copied the Braves, and examines the diverging paths of the New York ballclubs.

Chris closes winter by offering far too many brackets for both the men's and women's tournament, plus his thoughts on the alleged snubs. He also breaks down the career of Aaron Donald and highlights some of the difficult realities of hockey in discussing Chris Simon's passing.

Chris argues for the legitimacy of Caitlin Clark's record in spite of her detractors, but still pays respect to Pete Maravich. He also calls out the double standard in the public not discussing NBA advances between Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James' careers. Chris explains why and how the dunk contest can return to greatness, and questions the benefits of the NBA's venture into Abu Dhabi. He also breaks down the NHL trade deadline, MLB free agency, franchise tag time, and where Jason Kelce ranks among Eagles in the last 30 years.

Chris returns from his podcast hiatus to discuss his new work with the New Jersey Titans and continuing work with the 87's. He also glosses over the Super Bowl, his all-time NFL team, and where Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce sit amongst the league's best. This episode breaks down some NFL offseason news, Nathan McKinnon's historic streak, the NHL's backing of the Winnipeg Jets, and why court storming is not what it once was.

Chris discusses the road and the roadblocks that Michigan created for themselves en route to the National Championship. He also breaks down the NFL's week 18 & Black Monday, while picking the winners of Wild Card Weekend. This week, Chris asks why Seton Hall's men's basketball team is still not ranked and talks about the Marlins' next historic hire. Chris also uses a “hidden bonus track” to evaluate Nick Saban's surprising retirement.

Chris opens 2024 with a breakdown of the CFP Semifinals and a preview of the National Championship Game. He also tries to decipher what really happened between Taylor Decker and Brad Allen during the Lions-Cowboys game, and makes a bold prediction regarding the Arizona Cardinals. The year's opening episode also encompasses the vast goaltending difference at Seattle's Winter Classic, the importance of the PWHL's inaugural game, hot stove news, and what the Knicks-Raptors trade does for both sides.

Chris closes the year by explaining why the NFC should have an inferiority complex, offering his picks for the CFP Title Game, and evaluating Luka Doncic's record-breaking Christmas performance. He also says which team has no excuse not to win the 2024 World Series, and offers the closest comparison to Gordie Howe in this day and age.

Chris breaks down the meteoric rise of Tommy DeVito, his growth on his final drive against the Packers, and his family's success in keeping him humble while not overtly perpetuating stereotypes. Besides a thrilling NFL slate, this week features Shohei Ohtani's exorbitant payday, Juan Siri's trade to the Yankees, and the first NBA In-Season Championship Game.

Chris breaks down the CFP committee's decision, why it's unfair (to more than just one program), and why the average fan is better off for it. He also discusses the Heisman finalists and one quarterback's surprising transfer. This week's episode comes with just five remaining in the NFL season, so it's time to break down the remaining schedules and playoff probabilities for several teams. Lastly, contrary to most media, Chris evaluates some baseball moves not related to Juan Soto or Shohei Ohtani.

Chris recaps the NFL week with more focus on each team's upcoming schedule and how realistic their chances of reaching the playoffs (or earning the number 1 pick) are. He also breaks down the CFP picture entering rivalry week, early hot stove news, and a first for baseball MVP's.

Chris sits down with the Lustgarten Foundation's senior coordinator of external and community relations - and his good friend - Dalton Allison. Their talk encapsulates how their time at Seton Hall University guided Dalton's career serving the community, how Covid actually helped their friendship, and the current exploits of Dalton's beloved New York Rangers.

Chris breaks down the historic run by the Texas Rangers to their first world championship and makes picks for baseball's awards season. He also discusses the week's managerial hires. On the gridiron, Chris delves into Josh McDaniels' firing, why the sign stealing scandal could be a black eye for more than just Michigan, and the complicated legacy of Bob Knight.

Chris breaks down the respective league championship series and questions a recurring theme regarding suspensions. He breaks down the WNBA Finals and the exceedingly impressive atmosphere of Barclays Center, and questions the standing of the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Chargers.

Chris breaks down the Damian Lillard deal & an NFL week where a luxury box far overshadowed a game. He also discusses the legacy of Brooks Robinson & how Cory Schneider helped him through his first professional experience in an NHL dressing room.

Chris recaps a week two featuring a questionable non-call in Detroit, a potentially season-saving comeback in the desert, and a devastating injury in Pittsburgh. He also highlights the unnecessary fan violence prevalent off the field in the Dolphins-Patriots & Colorado State-Colorado games, shares his thoughts on the Mel Tucker & Mike Babcock situations, and finds joy in celebrations of Adam Wainwright and (on a grander scale) Roberto Clemente.

Chris reasons why the teams at MetLife Stadium might not be doomed, but also how the stadium itself must be changed. He recaps a Saturday featuring Texas' revenge and Colorado's continued success, goes over the Mets' seemingly destined hire, and discusses the record victories of Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff.

Chris predicts an NFL season with likely Super Bowl picks and an unorthodox MVP candidate. He highlights the life and career of Gil Brandt, brags about knowing Deion Sanders' Buffaloes would succeed, and chronicles the Yankees' youthful resurgence. He also breaks down the FIBA Tournament and Nebraska volleyball's historic day.

This week, Chris sits down to discuss the bevy of NFL players going on the PUP list, even if they are physically able to perform. He expands on why Dak Prescott has the league's least job safety, why Josh Donaldson's Yankee marriage was doomed from the start, the uplifting story of JoAnne Carner, and the new start for women's hockey.

Chris discusses the historical aspect of Spain's World Cup victory. He breaks down Julio Rodriguez's record-setting week, James Harden's potentially tone-deaf comments, and the legacy of Buffalo Sabres play-by-play broadcaster Rick Jeanneret.

Chris breaks down the Ramirez-Anderson brawl and the Yankees' injury mismanagement, among the MLB briefs, as well as a Pro Football Ceremony long overdue for many of its inductees. He also addresses how many parties will actually be hurt by the moves from the PAC-12. Chris discusses part of what cost the USWNT and the detachment for many from this year's tournament, goes through some NHL briefs, and highlights Diana Taurasi's historic achievement.

Chris breaks down an MLB trade deadline that features some hard sellers like the Mets, Pirates, and Cardinals; major purchasers like the Rangers; and unsure teams like the Yankees. He also discusses the hardships that culminated in Domingo German's voluntary alcohol treatment, as well as hopefully his road to recovery, and how Framber Valdez's no-hitter epitomizes the homegrown talent in Houston. This episode tackles the Bengals' and Dolphins' depth charts, Tiger Woods' elevation to the PGA board, the response to Carli Lloyd's criticism of her old club, and more.

Chris brings out his inner child for MLB All-Star Week and points out the similarities between first overall draft pick Paul Skenes and All-Star starter Gerrit Cole. He also goes over the Tigers' combined no-hitter and Allisen Corpuz's historic U.S. Open win. However, this week also marks the resignation of PGA Tour board member Randall Stephenson in protest of the LIV Alliance, the Senate hearing regarding said alliance, and Pat Fitzgerald's firing from Northwestern amid hazing allegations. The NBA also makes two significant and overdue rule changes and Chris breaks down what's left on NHL free agency.

Chris discusses how Domingo German's perfect game turns back baseball's clock on the field, but also opens a conversation about his complicated history, particularly in the light of Jimmy Cordero's suspension. He also recaps the early portion of the NHL free agency period, including impressive budgeting by Chris Drury, talks about Columbus' multi-faceted hire, and gives a brief look into this year's draft. The holiday week also marks early NBA free agency, Michelle Wie West's retirement, and Joey Chestnut's weather-delayed return to caloric glory.

Chris describes his reasoning and plan for monetizing the podcast in the coming weeks before breaking down a Hockey Hall of Fame class that stacked with goaltenders and players whose inductions are long overdue. He also recaps the week of NHL deals, featuring the Devils' furthering in cup contention, and which players dominated awards season. This week's episode marks the NBA Draft and movements for Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and Kristaps Porzingis, a mature admission by Rob Manfred, and the sudden passing of Ryan Mallett.

Chris highlights the first-time champions Nuggets & Golden Knights, including the remarkable statistical performances of Nikola Jokic & Jonathan Marchessault, and how Las Vegas moved through tragedy to find perhaps the city's finest moment. This week also marks the hirings of Peter Laviolette & Ryan Huska, as well as a potentially culture-changing move by the Flyers. Chris speaks even more honestly about the PGA-LIV situation in the wake of Jay Monahan's medical leave and further player frustration, and ponders whether there is actually one GOAT of men's tennis despite Novak Djokovic's record-breaking French Open win.

Chris breaks down the NBA & NHL second round series and explains how the Toronto Maple Leafs can repeat history.

Chris predicts a Stanley Cup playoff round that features the perhaps surprising absences of the Bruins, Lightning, Avalanche, Rangers, and Wild. He also picks second round winners in the NBA, affected greatly by injury-stricken Miami's upset of Milwaukee. This episode mentions some NFL transactions, including in the Chiefs' backfield.

Chris returns and discusses his experience at this year's Frozen Finals and starting in production with the Jersey Shore BlueClaws. He also makes picks for the first round of the Stanley Cup & NBA playoffs and visits the historic precursors to the Rays' win streak. This week's highlights include Jalen Hurts' record-breaking contract and Damar Hamlin's courageous decision to return to the playing field.

In anticipation of missing a show week for the EHL's Frozen Finals in Providence, Chris reveals his bracket through the Elite Eight of the men's basketball tournament. He also goes through the vast majority of signings to begin the NFL's free agency window, points out how Bud Grant just got tougher with age, and gives a quick recap of the World Baseball Classic to this point.

Chris breaks down the several last-minute NHL deals that didn't make it into last week's show. He examines how the Ritchie brothers & Jonathan Quick deals show hockey is still a business, and why now is actually the perfect time, if any, for a hockey player to get hurt. In the NFL, this week marks franchise tag deadlines, most notably for the Ravens & Giants. Chris discusses how the Giants didn't quite overpay Daniel Jones as much as you think, and how the reason for the late Jerry Richardson to sell the Panthers will overshadow his tenure. Chris also looks at how parity has grown in women's college basketball as South Carolina enters the NCAA Tournament at 32-0.

Chris breaks down a handful of NFL releases and a hectic NHL trade deadline, including the retirement of influential Predators GM David Poile, the Blues & Capitals clearing house, and Patrick Kane's granted wish. He also discusses a couple of the league's suspensions, as well as Linus Ullmark's cherry on top of the Vezina, and the rare company Damian Lillard has joined.

Chris highlights the remarkable lives of Tim McCarver and Red McCombs. He also discusses the week's NBA news, including Jacque Vaughn's well-earned extension, and multiple moves before the NHL trade deadline, such as Ryan O'Reilly's jump to Toronto. Chris also tries to understand the rules that went into the NASCAR overtime victory for Ricky Stenhouse, Jr.

This week, Chris breaks down the surprising improvements and suggestions for what can still be done to make the Pro Bowl Games & NHL All-Star Game better. He also discusses the impact of Bobby Beathard & A.J. Green, evaluates the Chiefs & Eagles by position, highlights LeBron James' record-setting evening, and focuses on the Nets ending a potentially toxic relationship with Kyrie Irving.