The Ray & Dregs Hockey Podcast

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.