Writers Bloc

Follow Writers Bloc
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Jeff Blair. Stephen Brunt. Richard Deitsch. As long-time journalists they’ve all experienced writer’s block, but they never run out of things to say! Opinions, insight and analysis from three of the smartest sports observers in the country. Writers Bloc… sharp takes, not hot takes.

Sportsnet


    • May 20, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 56m AVG DURATION
    • 3,186 EPISODES


    More podcasts from Sportsnet

    Search for episodes from Writers Bloc with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Writers Bloc

    NBA Conference Finals Mayhem + Caleb Joseph

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 49:09


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up Wednesday morning with Ringer contributor Joe House. They discuss the Cavs' collapse, Kenny Atkinson's timeouts, and the Knicks' performance. Is Jalen Brunson emerging as a star? They ponder the Western Conference Finals, Victor Wembanyama's skills, and if he'll defy the trend of star players needing to lose first. After the break, they chat with former catcher Caleb Joseph (27:47) about a surprising experience before a game and the Blue Jays' struggles, particularly with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Finally, they recount the time Brent lost his passport. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Habs Rebuild Blueprint & Sin City Scrutiny with Gord Stellick

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 46:31


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning begin the second hour alongside Gord Stellick, former Maple Leafs GM and friend of the show! They discuss the Canadiens' rapid rise to the Eastern Conference Final, what has made their rebuild successful, and how it compares to Toronto's path over the past decade. They also examine how the flat cap may have impacted the Leafs, the long-term outlook for Montreal's core, and whether this run could resemble the Canadiens teams of the early 1990s. The conversation then shifts to the Vegas Golden Knights' decision to skip post-game media availability after reaching the conference finals, the league's response, and whether the organization is gaining a competitive edge by blocking Bruce Cassidy from interviewing elsewhere. Ben and Brent close the hour by reflecting on the Leafs' last decade. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Bronx Bombers Outpace Jays Bats + Knicks Historic Comeback in Game 1

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2026 52:04


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Wednesday morning by recapping the Blue Jays' loss to the Yankees. They get into the team's contact-heavy offence, lack of power, lineup construction, and whether injuries and replacement players are impacting their approach. They also break down Dylan Cease's outing, his control issues, and preview what to expect from Cam Schlittler on the mound today. After the break, the guys react to the Knicks' historic Game 1 comeback over the Cavs in the Eastern Conference Final, including James Harden's surprising defensive impact and how it shapes his playoff reputation. They also revisit the Raptors' seven-game series against Cleveland, debate whether anyone in the East can compete with the Spurs or Thunder, and ask whether Knicks fans are the NBA equivalent of Leafs fans. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Leafs' Coaching Search + PGA Championship Recap

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2026 47:21


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up the day with NHL insider Frank Seravalli. They discuss the Canadiens' surprising advancement to the Eastern Conference finals, their potential future, and the Leafs' standings in the Atlantic Division. They also touch on the Leafs' coaching search, including David Carle's interest, and compare the coaching roles at the Leafs and Denver University. Afterward, they highlight Aaron Rai's PGA Championship win and the trend of golfers wearing two gloves, closing with a report from the World Championships. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Leafs Front Office Shakeup + Jays Drop Series Opener in the Bronx

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2026 51:00


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the second hour by discussing the departures of Brandon Pridham and Derek Clancey from the Maple Leafs front office. They break down what the changes could mean for the team's offseason direction and coaching search, including speculation around David Carle and Bruce Cassidy. The boys also evaluate the Spurs' win in Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference Finals with thoughts on Victor Wembanyama's rapid rise and the challenge of rooting against him, even with Canadian star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the series. Later, MLB Network insider Jon Morosi (27:35) joins the show to chat about the Blue Jays' series against the Yankees. They dive into concerns surrounding Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer, the strength of New York's roster and rotation, the Y-Rod experiment, the state of Toronto's bullpen, and how the rest of the American League could impact the Jays' playoff outlook. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Allez Allez Allez! Canadiens Advance to Eastern Conference Final

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2026 50:12


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning begin with thoughts on the Montreal Canadiens advancing to the Eastern Conference Final. They break down Alex Newhook's overtime winner, what has made the Canadiens' rebuild so successful, how impressive Jakob Dobeš has been, the impact of Martin St. Louis behind the bench, and whether Montreal has a chance to upset the Hurricanes. The conversation also shifts to what the rise of both Montreal and Buffalo means for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the increasingly difficult path through the Atlantic Division. After the break, the guys react to the Blue Jays series-opening loss to the Yankees. They discuss concerns around Yariel Rodríguez and the bullpen, questionable late-game at-bats from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer, the team's need for rotation health, the surprise trade of Eric Lauer, and whether the Jays still hold an edge over New York. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Leafs' Next Steps + Jays Weekend Tee Up

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2026 46:58


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up the week with Sportsnet.ca's Luke Fox, discussing the Golden Knights' advancement to the conference finals and their chances against the Avalanche. They assess Mitch Marner's playoff performance and the media's access to the Knights post-win. The conversation shifts to Auston Matthews' future with the Leafs—his captaincy, long-term commitment, and the implications of his potential departure. They also touch on the Leafs' decision to part ways with Craig Berube and who might be the next coach. After the break, Sportsnet Blue Jays insider Shi Davidi (28:40) joins to preview the Tigers series, addressing the team's struggling bats, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s need for power, and optimism for the new bullpen. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Mitch Marner's Playoff Redemption + New Captain Canada

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2026 49:20


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open this episode with thoughts on the Golden Knights advancing to the Western Conference Finals behind a standout postseason from Mitch Marner. The boys take a closer look at his playoff redemption story and discuss how his success outside Toronto may reshape perceptions of his time with the Maple Leafs. The guys also react to John Tortorella declining to speak to the media after his team clinched a conference finals berth. Ben and Brent then break down the Canadiens dominating Game 5 victory over the Sabres, before debating if Nathan MacKinnon has surpassed Connor McDavid as the world's best player. The hour wraps with discussion around Sidney Crosby joining Team Canada at the World Championship without being named captain, potentially signaling a changing of the guard for Hockey Canada. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Jays Take on Tigers in Rivalry Weekend + Adam Stanley Live From PGA Championship!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2026 50:55


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Friday's show by previewing the Blue Jays "Rivalry Weekend" series in Detroit. The boys debate if the rivalry with the Tigers still resonates in Toronto, how realignment and divisional differences have affected it, and how the last 20 years of Blue Jays baseball might have looked in the AL Central instead of the AL East. They also break down Dylan Cease's strong start to his Blue Jays career, compare his long-term outlook and contract value to Tarik Skubal, and debate which pitcher they would rather build around. After the break, the hosts welcome Adam Stanley (29:55) to discuss the latest from the PGA Championship! They get into Garrick Higgo's unusual first-tee incident, course conditions at Aronimink Golf Club, and the performances of the Canadian golfers. They also examine whether Corey Conners can contend with improved putting, Jordan Spieth's chances of completing the career Grand Slam, and the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Jon Rahm and LIV Golf players. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Varsho Walks off in Grand Fashion + a New Era for the Leafs?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 48:07


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up Thursday morning with MLB Network and Amazon Prime host Adnan Virk. They discuss the Toronto Blue Jays' recent win and whether it felt like a must-win game. Adnan shares his thoughts on Dylan Cease's performance, concerns about Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Daulton Varsho's importance to the lineup. The conversation then shifts to the Leafs' decision to fire Craig Berube, with Adnan weighing in on the move and future coaching options. The discussion also touches on the Oilers firing Kris Knoblauch and which coaching job is more appealing. Finally, they welcome The Athletic's Joshua Kloke (26:57) to discuss the Leafs' coaching change, Auston Matthews' impact, and thoughts on the new stands at BMO Field ahead of the World Cup. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    The Search for a New Head Coach with Jason Bukala

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 47:54


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by reacting to Maple Leafs General Manager John Chayka's comments on the team's decision to part ways with Craig Berube. The boys debate how much responsibility Berube bears for last season, what the move says about Chayka's leadership, and what direction the team should take with its next head coach amid uncertainty surrounding Auston Matthews. Later, Sportsnet NHL analyst Jason Bukala (28:54) joins the show to discuss whether Berube's coaching style was the wrong fit for the roster, potential replacements behind the bench, and how drastically the upcoming draft could shape the team's future. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Cease Slams the Door, Varsho Sends 'Em Home

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 52:24


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Thursday morning celebrating the Blue Jays' 5-3 walk-off win to finally defeat the Tampa Bay Rays. The boys discuss Dylan Cease's dominant outing, what it means for the Blue Jays' pitching staff, Daulton Varsho's heroics in the tenth inning, and whether the offence may be turning a corner. Later, they break down the Colorado Avalanche advancing to the Western Conference Final, before shifting to the Cleveland Cavaliers' playoff run, the James Harden experience in Cleveland, and reports of LeBron James feeling disrespected by the Los Angeles Lakers. They close the hour with the Subaru golf report and a preview of the PGA Championship. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Auston Matthews' Future In Toronto + Jays Quarter Way Mark

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 47:56


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning close Wednesday's show with Nick Kypreos discussing his latest article on Auston Matthews and the Leafs. They explore concerns about his future in Toronto, the team's direction under Chayka, and reactions to the Golden Knights blocking Bruce Cassidy's interview for the Oilers position. After the break, Sportsnet's Dan Shulman (26:43) joins to analyze the Rays' dominance over the Blue Jays, the impact of injuries, and the current state of Vladdy's performance. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Sabres Draw Even in Montreal Duel + PGA Championship Preview with Brendon de Jonge

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 49:33


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by recapping the Buffalo Sabres tying their series with the Montreal Canadiens. They break down whether their comeback win signals a deeper playoff run, before discussing the Golden Knights taking a 3-2 series lead over the Ducks, Mitch Marner being held pointless in Game 5, and the ongoing speculation surrounding Auston Matthews' future and reported unhappiness. The conversation also touches on reports that the Golden Knights denied the Oilers permission to interview Bruce Cassidy, and the potential gamesmanship within the Pacific Division. Later, the guys are joined by former PGA player and Golf Channel contributor Brendon de Jonge (29:53) to discuss how Aronimink Golf Club is shaping up for the PGA Championship. They touch on Jordan Spieth's chances at a career Grand Slam, the Scottie Scheffler vs. Rory McIlroy debate, Rory's blister concerns, the future reintegration of LIV golfers, and some sleeper picks for the weekend. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Jays Fall Short in Extras + Wemby's Brilliance

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2026 51:28


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Wednesday's show by breaking down the Toronto Blue Jays extra-inning loss to the Tampa Bay Rays. They discuss the growing concerns around the team's lineup, particularly Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s ongoing struggles at the plate, and debate whether the offense can improve without Vladdy producing power. They also examine how much Alejandro Kirk's eventual return will help and how much trust Patrick Corbin has earned as the rotation gets healthier. Later, the conversation shifts to Victor Wembanyama's dominant Game 5 performance. Is he already the NBA's best player? The boys also get into Daryl Morey's departure from the Philadelphia 76ers and if the Toronto Raptors should have interest in him, before wrapping up the hour with a look at the underreported PGA Championship dinner and Rory McIlroy skipping the event due to a blister. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    What's Behind the Hurricanes' success + Adam Cimber!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 46:15


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning recap Tuesday morning with Victory Plus insider Frank Seravalli, discussing dirty plays in the league and Mitch Marner's playoff performance. They debate if Leafs fans are justified in their criticism and whether Marner's success in Vegas is tied to team dynamics. The conversation turns to predictions for the Hurricanes' chances this postseason and the coaching futures of Craig Berube and Kris Knoblauch. They then welcome former Blue Jays pitcher Adam Cimber (28:14), who shares insights on worrying about slow starts in the season and reflects on the 2021 Blue Jays, discussing surprises like Bo Bichette's departure. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Leafs Draft Options with Gord Stellick + Eric Lauer DFA'd

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 48:30


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning start the second hour alongside Gord Stellick, former Maple Leafs GM and friend of the show, to break down what has been a turbulent week in Leafs land. They touch on the front office changes, the team's offseason priorities, concerns about the defence, Craig Berube remaining behind the bench, and what the draft lottery win means for the franchise moving forward. They also discuss Mitch Marner and the lingering debate around his playoff legacy in Toronto. The conversation then shifts to the Toronto Blue Jays and their decision to DFA Eric Lauer, debating whether his criticism of manager John Schneider played a role beyond performance. The hour wraps with a look at controversial playoff moments across sports and reaction to LeBron James addressing his future after the Los Angeles Lakers were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Was last night his final NBA game? The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Kevin Gausman's 2000th K + Leafs Make First Move

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2026 51:37


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Tuesday's show by celebrating Kevin Gausman becoming the ninth active pitcher to reach 2,000 career strikeouts. The boys debate whether his résumé puts him on a Hall of Fame track, or rather the “Hall of Very Good.” They then break down the Rays' 8-5 win over the Blue Jays with thoughts on Tampa Bay's continued success against Toronto, Gausman's rough outing, the Jays' lack of walks, Eric Lauer being DFA'd, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s slow start. After the break, they discuss the Leafs' new front office choosing not to retain Shane Doan, Mats Sundin's comments about no-move clauses and what they could mean for Morgan Rielly's future. This hour wraps up with the latest golf report focusing on Jordan Spieth's pursuit of a career Grand Slam. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Are the Hurricanes for Real? + Jays at the Quarter Point

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 47:20


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning discuss the Carolina Hurricanes' strong postseason start, examining what sets this team apart from previous iterations and their competition in the Eastern Conference. They analyze the Sabres-Canadiens series, noting the intense rivalry and fan engagement. The hosts also react to Joel Embiid's comments on his season being a success despite the 76ers being swept by the Knicks, questioning his definition of success. They then cover Victor Wembanyama's ejection and potential suspension. After the break, Jeff Blair (27:30) joins to assess the Blue Jays' performance a quarter into the season, addressing offensive struggles, Vladdy's power issues, and the importance of Addison Barger and Trey Yesavage. Finally, Ben and Brent preview the Jays' upcoming games against the Rays. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Mitch Marner's Playoff Breakout + Jon Morosi!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 50:27


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by reacting to comments from John Tortorella about the playoff scrutiny surrounding Mitch Marner. They reflect on his breakout postseason with Vegas, the pressure of playing in Toronto, and what the success of former Leafs like Frederik Andersen says about the organization. Later, MLB Network insider Jon Morosi (26:52) joins the show to break down the Blue Jays weekend series against the Los Angeles Angels. They examine the team's offensive outlook, rotation depth, Addison Barger's importance, and whether the weak American League could help Toronto stay afloat despite a slow start. The conversation also returns to Marner's playoff performance and what it means for both him and the Maple Leafs moving forward. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Blue Jays Take Series + NBA Draft Lottery

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 51:08


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open a new week on The FAN Morning Show with a recap of the Blue Jays' series win over the Los Angeles Angels. They dive into the team's inconsistent offence, Addison Barger's electric return and subsequent absence on Sunday, Eric Lauer's struggles, and Spencer Miles stepping into the rotation. They also debate whether Vladimir Guerrero Jr. needs to provide more power for the lineup to succeed. Later, the guys shift to the NBA Draft Lottery and reflect on the Raptors losing out on the 5th overall pick. The boys wrap up with the golf report and a look at Alex Fitzpatrick's strong play. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Leafs Options + Blue Jays' Big Weekend

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 47:07


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning are joined by Sam McKee to discuss the Leafs winning the draft lottery and its impact on fans and the team's future. They consider potential picks like Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg and explore trading options. The conversation shifts to Adnan Virk (29:15), who shares his thoughts on the Flyers' struggles against the Hurricanes and the implications of the draft win for Leaf fans. They also analyze the American League, including the Yankees and Rays' dominance, the Blue Jays' recent sweep, and their playoff prospects. Finally, they highlight Kazuma Okamoto's impressive turnaround at the plate. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Shi Davidi's Jays-Angels Preview + Will Craig Berube Return?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 49:41


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open with thoughts on the future of Craig Berube behind the Maple Leafs bench. They debate whether a coaching changes unfairly shifts blame away from players and what factors could influence the team's decision moving forward. Later, Sportsnet's Shi Davidi (27:00) joins the show to break down the Blue Jays' struggles in Tampa Bay. He touches on the team's offensive drought, George Springer's slow start, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s power expectations, before highlighting Kazuma Okamoto's emergence. They also discuss Dylan Cease's importance to the rotation, whether the Jays should have pushed harder for Cody Bellinger in the offseason, and this weekend's pivotal series against the Angels. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Jays Begin Crucial Homestand + 'Canes Take Commanding Lead

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2026 50:12


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Friday morning by previewing the Blue Jays' upcoming series against the Los Angeles Angels. They break down the impact of this series amid Toronto's four-game losing streak, the pressure on the roster to turn things around, and Addison Barger's pending return. The guys also discuss the importance of getting stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer going offensively, expectations for Dylan Cease, and take a look at Mike Trout's season and where he stands at this stage of his career. Later, Ben and Brent compare the undefeated playoff runs of the Thunder and Hurricanes. They gauge Carolina's chances to finally break through for a championship and debate is anyone can realistically challenge OKC, before wrapping up with thoughts on Draymond Green's recent comments. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Deep Dive on Gavin McKenna with Willie Desjardins + Leafs Direction

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 47:07


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning discuss the impact of the Leafs' first overall pick with Toronto Star's Damien Cox. They contemplate how this affects the team's future, the potential for attracting talent like Gavin McKenna, and whether the Penguins' model offers a solid direction. Afterward, Medicine Hat Tigers' GM Willie Desjardins (24:29) shares insights on coaching McKenna and his readiness for the NHL. They analyze McKenna's growth, spotlight effects, and the challenges of transitioning from CHL to NHL. Finally, Ben and Brent outline their offseason hopes for the Leafs. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Options at First Overall with Jason Bukala

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 46:13


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning begin the second hour by examining the Maple Leafs' options with the rising salary cap and the first overall pick. They discuss the pressure facing the new front office led by Mats Sundin and John Chayka, debate whether the team should select Ivar Stenberg or Gavin McKenna, and explore the possibility of trading the pick. What could the decision reveal about Sundin's influence within the organization? Later, the hosts are joined by Jason Bukala (22:39), Sportsnet analyst and founder of The Pro Hockey Group, who explains why he currently views Stenberg as the stronger NHL-ready prospect The conversation covers Stenberg's game, his World Championship experience, McKenna's combine performance, roster fit, and what drafting Stenberg could signal about the Leafs' long-term direction. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Blue Jays Struggles at Plate Continue + Raptors Off-Season Priorities

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2026 54:07


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Thursday's show by breaking down the Blue Jays' sweep at the hands of the Rays. The guys break down the growing concerns about Toronto's slow start, struggling offence, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s lack of power. They also examine whether injuries, Addison Barger, and the rest of the AL's inconsistent play could help Toronto stay afloat, while previewing the importance of the upcoming Yankees series. The conversation then shifts to Patrick Corbin's strong outing and what it could mean for the pitching staff while José Berríos and Shane Bieber recover. Later, the guys react to Bobby Webster's postseason press conference, touching on the Raptors' future flexibility, and RJ Barrett's contract situation. They wrap up with thoughts on Masai Ujiri's new job in Dallas, Matt Boyd's injury mishap, and the potential impact of LIV Golf's decline on the sport. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg with Anthony Petrielli & Greg Wyshynski

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 45:40


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning welcome Maple Leaf notebook author Anthony Petrielli to discuss the Leafs winning the lottery. They explore whether the team should target their biggest need or the best player available, debating between Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg. They also discuss potential trade packages for the first overall pick, Craig Berube's coaching future, and Auston Matthews' reported unhappiness. Later, ESPN's Greg Wyshynski (25:44) shares insights from the lottery and suggests who the Leafs should draft, while addressing conspiracy theories about the process. The episode wraps up with reflections on how the first overall pick impacts Matthews' future in Toronto. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Lucky Number 12 with Sam Cosentino & Jon Morosi

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 50:32


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour chatting with NHL draft analyst Sam Cosentino. They break down the Maple Leafs winning the first overall pick, the top prospects in the class including Gavin McKenna and Ivar Stenberg, and consider whether Toronto should draft, trade back, or target defensive talent. They also take time to examine McKenna's readiness for the Toronto spotlight. Later, MLB and NHL Network's Jon Morosi (25:37) joins to share his perspective on the Leafs' pick. He assess McKenna's development, competition level, and potential as a top selection, before the hour wraps with a discussion about Tarik Skubal's surgery and its implications for him and the Tigers. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Leafs Win Draft Lottery + Tampa Continues to Torment Jays

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 51:50


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Wednesday by celebrating the Maple Leafs' first overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft! They discuss how the pick could impact the team's direction, whether to keep or trade the pick, what kind of return would justify moving it, and potential draft options like Gavin McKenna or Ivar Stenberg. How will the decision affect Auston Matthews' future? After the break, they shift to the Blue Jays' continued struggles in Tampa Bay following yesterday's 4-3 loss. They touch on Brandon Valenzuela's performance, the team's use of challenges, the importance of Alejandro Kirk's return, and Kazuma Okamoto's impressive adjustments and Rookie of the Year potential. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Leafs New Front Office + Jays' Struggles at the Trop

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 46:02


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up Tuesday morning with NHL insider Frank Seravalli. They discuss perceptions around a rigged draft lottery and the Leafs hiring Mats Sundin and John Chayka. Was the recruitment process genuine? How damaged is Chayka's reputation after his time in Arizona, and can he regain trust in the league? The conversation touches on parallels with Kyle Dubas's hiring. After the break, Blue Jays commentator Joe Siddall (25:54) joins to explore the team's struggles in Tampa Bay and the Rays' success despite low spending. They also discuss Vladdy's power, the status of Tyler Heineman, and the state of the AL East. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    The Chayka-Sundin Duo & NHL Draft Lottery Lookahead with Gord Stellick

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 48:37


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by welcoming Gord Stellick, former Maple Leafs GM and friend of the show! They discuss Toronto's new front office, the team's direction and how Mats Sundin fits into the equation. They also touch on John Chayka's second chance, how his past experience and age may influence his approach, and lessons from Stellick's own time as a young GM. The conversation wraps with thoughts on the importance of the draft lottery for the Leafs' future. After the break (28:00), Ben and Brent examine the odds of the Leafs keeping their first-round pick and run their own mock lottery! They also look at the overall strength of the draft, whether a high pick could contribute immediately, the team's biggest needs particularly on defence, and the speculation surrounding Auston Matthews' future. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Leafs Front Office Faces the Media + Jays Drop Opener at the Trop

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 53:03


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Tuesday with thoughts on yesterday's introduction of the new Toronto Maple Leafs leadership duo of John Chayka and Mats Sundin. They discuss their takeaways from the press conference, overall confidence in the team's direction, the structure of responsibilities, and what Sundin's role means for both the franchise and his legacy. They also discuss the outlook for Craig Berube behind the bench. Later, they shift to the Toronto Blue Jays 5-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays. The boys examine the team's ongoing struggles at Tropicana Field, the roster's inconsistent offense with runners in scoring position, and whether it's time to be concerned about Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s power numbers, before weighing the potential impact of certain players returning from injury. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Raptors Playoff Takeaways with David Blatt & Michael Grange

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 48:28


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up Monday morning with former Cavaliers coach and Team Canada consultant David Blatt. They discuss the Raptors' competitiveness, injury impacts, and confidence going forward. Blatt shares his thoughts on Darko Rajaković's impressive job this season and his former player LeBron James's longevity in the game. Next, the duo dives into the Leafs' front office announcement, expectations for the press conference, and what they want to hear from John Chayka. They then welcome Sportsnet Raptors reporter Michael Grange (25:22) to evaluate the Raptors' season, focusing on positives and lessons learned. They discuss Scottie Barnes's potential, Brandon Ingram's future, and continuity vs. change for the team. Key questions include the future for Collin Murray-Boyles and Jakob Poeltl, and the ceiling for CMB. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Maple Leafs Announce New Front Office with Luke Fox

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 47:49


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by reacting to the Maple Leafs' announcement of a new front office tandem featuring Mats Sundin and John Chayka. They break down how the partnership might function and what it signals for the team's direction, before touching on the Montreal Canadiens advancing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs despite managing just nine shots. Later, Sportsnet's Luke Fox joins the show to share insights on the Leafs hires, including the prior connection between Sundin and Chayka, Chayka's track record with the Arizona Coyotes, and Sundin's return to a front office role. He also weighs in on the team's roster outlook, potential changes, and what could come next behind the bench. The hour wraps with discussion of early second-round playoff storylines, including tough luck for Jon Cooper and the friendship between Chris Tanev and William Nylander. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Raptors Fall in Game 7 + Jays Spilt Series in the Twin Cities

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 51:50


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the week by recapping the Raptors' Game 7 loss in Cleveland. The boys discuss Darko Rajaković's pride in the team, key takeaways from the series, and whether individual performances stand out more than the team's overall showing. They break down Toronto's offensive struggles in the third quarter, evaluate Scottie Barnes' impact and long-term outlook, and reflect on the value of postseason experience for the Raptors' young core. The conversation also covers RJ Barrett's strong series, Brandon Ingram's fit and future with the team, and overall optimism moving forward. After the break, they shift to the Blue Jays' series split in Minnesota, highlighting Kazuma Okamoto's power surge, George Springer's health concerns, and a recent situation involving Tyler Heineman and John Schneider. They also discuss the impact of Alejandro Kirk's absence behind the plate and José Berríos' rehab setback. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Mats Sundin Potential Front Office Role + Game 6 Tee Up

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 45:51


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up the week with Toronto Star contributor and Leafs historian Damien Cox. They discuss Mats Sundin's possible post-playing career role, the potential hiring of both Sundin and John Chayka, and if the organization is handling this situation well. Trust in Sundin's judgment, organizational views on former players, and the influx of rumors are also explored. Afterward, NBA announcer Michael Grady (23:49) shares insights on the Cavs-Raptors series, the Raptors' future potential, James Harden's playoff reputation, and player health concerns, particularly regarding Scottie Barnes. Ben and Brent offer their predictions for Game 6. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    Raptors-Cavaliers Game 6 Preview + Captain Watch with Sam McKee

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 48:59


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour with a preview of tonight's Game 6 between the Raptors and Cavaliers. The boys discuss the latest update on Brandon Ingram ahead of tip-off and RJ Barrett's value during this playoff run. The conversation shifts to the Knicks' dominant win over the Hawks and how it affects the Eastern Conference outlook, along with the potential of a healthy 76ers team led by Joel Embiid. Later, they're joined by Sam McKee (23:22) of Real Kyper & Bourne and Leafs Talk to discuss which Canadian NHL markets should be concerned about their captain leaving, including thoughts on Auston Matthews and Connor McDavid's future, before sharing his perspective on the Maple Leafs' front office search. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Jays Lose Series Opener + Oilers Eliminated

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2026 50:58


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Friday by recapping the Blue Jays' series-opening loss to the Twins. The boys break down Kevin Gausman's outing, Joh Schneider's late-game decisions, the team's defensive performance, and confidence in the current lineup. They also discuss Daulton Varsho's upcoming free agency, what his market value might be, and how the Blue Jays could respond if he departs. After the break, they shift to the Oilers' playoff loss to the Ducks and assessing the level of disappointment in Edmonton, Connor McDavid's role and postgame comments, and the team's ongoing goaltending concerns. The conversation expands to Canadian team captains across the league, focusing on which franchises should be most concerned about their leadership situation, including speculation about McDavid's long-term future in Edmonton. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Raptors Game 5 Recap + Blue Jays Win Another Series

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 47:32


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning welcome MLB Network and Amazon hockey host Adnan Virk to discuss the Flyers' playoff progress and potential threats in the Eastern Conference. They touch on the Red Sox firing Alex Cora, the Phillies' struggles, and the impact of injuries on the Jays as they aim for the AL East. After the break, former Raptor Alvin Williams (23:46) joins to analyze Brandon Ingram's injury and its implications for the Raptors as they head into game 6. They wrap up with thoughts on Ingram's future impact. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

    What Went Wrong in Game 5 with Vivek Jacob

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 49:24


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour with more on the Raptors' Game 5 loss to the Cavaliers. The focusing on Brandon Ingram's second-quarter injury, whether the Raptors can succeed without him and what his postseason play says about his long-term role. The conversation shifts to the NHL playoffs, including the Canadiens nearing the second round, comparisons to the Maple Leafs' rebuild, Sidney Crosby's playoff exit, Mitch Marner's lack of 5-on-5 production, and Brady Tkachuk's comments about his future in Ottawa. After the break, Vivek Jacob (29:15) joins to analyze Ingram's injury, the Raptors' offensive struggles late in Game 5, and the team's tempo. He weighs in on Scottie Barnes' health, RJ Barrett's strong play, potential lineup adjustments, contributions from Jakob Poeltl and Collin Murray-Boyles, and if James Harden will return to peak playoff form. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Raptors Drop Pivotal Game 5 + Jays Complete Third-Straight Series Victory

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2026 51:41


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Thursday by recapping the Raptors' Game 5 loss to the Cavaliers. The boys break down the team's overall performance, fourth-quarter struggles, Scottie Barnes' impressive play through injury, and key contributions from Dennis Schröder and others, while also noting Collin Murray-Boyles' impact. They then react to Brandon Ingram's second-quarter exit, considering the implications of his absence and what it could mean for the team moving forward. After the break, they shift to the Blue Jays' third-straight series win over the Red Sox. The boys take a closer look at Boston's struggles, Toronto's improving offence, George Springer's return, standout performances from Ernie Clement and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and ongoing concerns behind the plate without Alejandro Kirk. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

    Claim Writers Bloc

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel