Writers Bloc

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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


    • Mar 23, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 57m AVG DURATION
    • 3,066 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Writers Bloc

    Leafs' Weekend + Blue Jays Contract Extensions with Jeff Blair

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 47:00


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning discuss the contract extensions for Ross Atkins and John Schneider—whether they're deserved and their confidence in the franchise's direction. They bring in Leafs writer Luke Fox to analyze the recent game against the Senators, the surprising number of Sens fans present, and Brad Treliving's plans for the Leafs. The conversation shifts to team culture and William Nylander's potential for leadership. Post-break, Jeff Blair (24:58) weighs in on the contract extensions, Schneider's impact, and concerns about player injuries and rotation depth for the Blue Jays. The expectations for Trey Yesavage and Eric Lauer's role are also explored. 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 Expectations vs. Reality + Blue Jays Roster Questions

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 50:33


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by welcoming Gord Stellick, former Maple Leafs GM and friend of show! They look back on what has been a disappointing Maple Leafs season and evaluate expectations vs. reality, front office decisions, roster depth, Craig Berube's performance, and the futures of Auston Matthews and William Nylander. After the break (32:03), they sift through the Blue Jays' 26-man roster ahead of Opening Day and consider the impact of limited positional versatility, before discussing MLB adjustments tied to ABS and roster height. They close with thoughts on the Raptors' back-to-back losses to the Nuggets and Suns and debate whether it changes perceptions of the team's ceiling. 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 Set Their Roster + Leafs Nightmare Continues

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 50:16


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the week by breaking down the Blue Jays' final roster decisions ahead of Opening Day. They take a closer look at Trey Yesavage starting the season on the IL and what that means for the rotation, early depth concerns, and overall outlook for the group. They also assess the bullpen with Eric Lauer shifting into the rotation, evaluate whether the lineup matches last year's level, consider the impact of reduced positional versatility, and set expectations for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in 2026. After the break, they shift to the Maple Leafs' weekend to forget. The boys highlight the apparent disconnect between the coaching staff and players, including the handling of Joseph Woll. They also examine William Nylander's season and question whether his production reflects his overall impact and if the team should consider moving him in the offseason. 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' Dreadful Season + Jays Rotation Troubles with Adnan Virk

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 46:15


    Brent Gunning and Zack Bodenstein wrap up the week with Jason Bukala, discussing the Edmonton Oilers' playoff chances without Leon Draisaitl and the impact of missing key players. They also analyze Matthew Schaffer's rookie season and the upcoming draft class. The conversation shifts to the Leafs, covering Auston Matthews' injury, Matthew Knies' market value, and Easton Cowan's ice time. After a break, they welcome Adnan Virk (25:57) to discuss the World Baseball Classic's success and the Blue Jays' rotation troubles, debating fan concerns and their approach to Trey Yesavage. 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.

    Blue Jays Hall of Excellence + Leafs Direction with Nick Kypreos

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 50:07


    Brent Gunning and Zack Bodenstien open the second hour by with focus on the Blue Jays. They chat about how the team is attracting new fans to the ballpark, from recent initiatives like their "Hall of Excellence" announcement with Buck Martinez set to be inducted, to broader factors like winning and overall fan experience, while comparing them to other Toronto teams. After the break, they're joined by Nick Kypreos (24:50) of Real Kyper & Bourne to further discuss Auston Matthews' surgery, his potential return timeline, and what it could mean for the Leafs' offseason plans, including the possibility of roster changes involving Matthew Knies and the team's leadership structure. The hour wraps up with a discussion on the enforcer code in the NHL. 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.

    Yesavage Lands on the IL + Matthews Goes Under the Knife

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 50:48


    Brent Gunning and Zack Bodenstien wrap up the week by reacting to Trey Yesavage being placed on the IL to start the season. The guys discuss the impact on the Blue Jays' rotation, what this means for the team's pitching depth, and their expectations heading into the year. After the break, they cover Auston Matthews' successful knee surgery and what it could mean for the team's offseason plans and his value. Finally, Brent and Zack dive into Elliotte Friedman's report on the possibility of the Maple Leafs moving on from Matthew Knies and what a potential trade could look like. 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.

    Eric Smith on Raptors Win & Ken Pomeroy Previews NCAA Tournament!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 47:37


    Sho Alli and Zack Bodenstien wrap up Thursday morning with FAN 590's Eric Smith. They discuss RJ Barrett's season and contract prospects, the Raptors' playoff chances against the Cavaliers, and Darko Rajaković's coaching performance. They also consider the rotation adjustments for the postseason and the NBA's tanking issue. After the break, they welcome Ken Pomeroy (25:13) of KENPOM.com to explore his ranking formula, luck metric, and examine potential upsets in the tournament. They close the hour by engaging with listener texts. 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 Road Ahead with Sam Cosentino + Jays Final Roster Decisions with Ben Shulman

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 47:32


    Sho Alli and Zack Bodenstein begin the second hour by welcoming Sportsnet NHL analyst Sam Cosentino! The trio gauge their expectations for the Toronto Maple Leafs, including player evaluation, development decisions, and organizational responsibilities. They also compare the Leafs' approach to the Montreal Canadiens' rebuild and touch on Gavin McKenna's NCAA season and draft outlook. After the break, FAN 590 play-by-play voice Ben Shulman (25:35) joins to discuss José Berríos' injury, how it impacts the Blue Jays' rotation, and Trey Yesavage's development plan. The conversation also covers Blue Jays performances at the World Baseball Classic, offensive projections, and how the roster is shaping up heading into the new season. 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 Beat Up Bulls + Berríos' Timeline to Return

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 52:29


    Sho Alli and Zack Bodenstien open this morning's show recapping the Raptors' win over the Bulls. They discuss what the victory means in the grand scheme of the season, RJ Barrett's future and contract outlook, Jakob Poeltl's role and importance to the team, and how the Raptors might match up in a potential first-round series against the Cavaliers. After the break, the boys listen back to Blue Jays manager John Schneider's comments about José Berríos' injury and how it will impact the rotation. They wrap up with thoughts on the final days of spring training, as well as Kevin Gausman's 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 affiliates.

    World Baseball Classic Finals + Greg Wyshynski

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026 44:01


    Sho Alli and Zach Bodenstein welcome Sportsnet MLB reporter Shi Davidi to discuss takeaways from the tournament, the success for MLB, and the implications of a potential lockout. They analyze standout performances like Andrés Giménez for Venezuela and expectations for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The conversation shifts to Aaron Judge and his clutch performance. Afterward, ESPN's Greg Wyshynski (20:29) joins to talk about the U.S. gold medal goal's legacy and the World Cup of Hockey cities. They also discuss player safety and the role of stars like Connor McDavid in advocating for change. The morning wraps up with listener texts. 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-Bulls Preview + What Do the Leafs Have Left to Play For?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026 51:12


    Sho Alli and Zach Bodenstien open this hour by previewing the Raptors' trip to Chicago to face the Bulls. They share their expectations for the team's late-season push, before discussing Toronto's standing in the Eastern Conference and the impact of key contributors like RJ Barrett and a healthy Jakob Poeltl. The conversation shifts to the NFL briefly with thoughts on the Broncos trading for WR Jaylen Waddle. After the break, Sportsnet's Luke Fox (24:00) joins to break down the Maple Leafs' recent effort level, team toughness, and standout players during a disappointing stretch. They also touch on Doug Armstrong stepping down from roles with Team Canada and the St. Louis Blues, and speculate about a potential front office role with the Leafs. They wrap up by discussing George Parros' comments on the NHL's Department of Player Safety. 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.

    Venezuela Conquers the World + Leafs Go Down Swinging

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026 51:55


    Sho Alli and Zach Bodenstien open the program with thoughts on Venezuela's dramatic 3–2 win over Team USA to capture their first World Baseball Classic title! They highlight the significance of the victory and the tournament's overall impact on baseball's global reach, before getting into Aaron Judge's underwhelming performance in big moments. The boys zero in on the Blue Jays' at the tournament and discuss what it could mean for the upcoming MLB season, including standout performances from Andrés Giménez and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. After the break, they turn to the Maple Leafs' loss to the Islanders and chat about what can still be learned this season, the team's physicality, and whether Morgan Rielly's fight and Craig Berube's messaging signals progress. The conversation wraps with a look at the team's future, questioning Brad Treliving's role in a potential rebuild, the implications of the Doug Armstrong news for MLSE leadership, as well as George Parros' comments on player safety. 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.

    Evaluating the Department of Player Safety + State of the Raptors

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 47:52


    Brent Gunning and Sho Alli wrap up with NHL Insider Frank Seravalli, discussing the fallout from Auston Matthews' injury and potential Department of Player Safety changes. They also consider the Leafs' surprising performance without star players and the trade market for goaltenders, including Anthony Stolarz. The chat shifts to Bill Guerin's concerns about the playoff format and the struggles of Edmonton and Vegas. They discuss the World Cup of Hockey's host city selection and its legitimacy challenges. Finally, they analyze the Raptors' recent win (31:08) over the Pistons and what it means for their future, ending with thoughts on the World Baseball Classic final: which outcome is better for baseball, America or Venezuela? 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.

    James Paxton on Representing Canada + Joe Bowen Celebrates St. Paddy's!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 49:54


    Brent Gunning and Sho Alli open the second hour by speaking with James Paxton, Team Canada pitcher and former MLB All-Star. James shares what it was like representing Canada at the World Baseball Classic, as well as the team's historic progress and what's next for his career. They also discuss the mental side of pitching and the challenges of playing in major markets like New York and Boston. Later, they're joined by Maple Leafs broadcaster Joe Bowen (25:42), who reflects on the team's disappointing season, player development, coaching decisions, and what to watch for down the stretch and into next year. The hour wraps with a discussion about building a franchise from scratch and where top prospects like Matthew Schaefer might rank. 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.

    Venezuela Reaches WBC Final + Tkachuk Brothers on Gudas Incident

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 49:45


    Brent Gunning and Sho Alli kick off Tuesday morning with a look back on Venezuela's win over Italy to move onto the World Baseball Classic final! They discuss the game's competitiveness, the global impact of the tournament, and Venezuela's chances against Team USA. The conversation shifts to Kevin Gausman after being named as the Blue Jays' Opening Day starter and outline some expectations for his season. The boys also chat about the standout performances from the WBC including Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s play. After the break, they react to comments from the Tkachuk brothers on the Auston Matthews situation, consider whether it could be tampering, and hear from Elliotte Friedman on Brad Treliving's handling of the incident. The hour wraps with discussion on how the World Cup of Hockey can establish itself as a premier tournament. 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 Weekend Recap with Anthony Petrielli & Joshua Kloke

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 47:30


    Brent Gunning and Sho Alli conclude Monday's episode by chatting with Maple Leafs Hot Stove contributor Anthony Petrielli about the recent wins and the implications for the Leafs' goaltending situation. They discuss potential trades, the challenges of moving Anthony Stolarz, and whether the team has four viable goalies for next season. The conversation shifts to Auston Matthews' injury and the team's response, questioning if there's bias from the league against the Leafs. They then welcome Athletic writer Joshua Kloke (26:15) to reflect on the weekend's games and the significance of the results. Joshua shares thoughts on Matthews' injury and the team's lack of communication, pondering if there are deeper issues at play. The discussion wraps up with Joshua addressing Canada's new jersey and the team's expectations in the upcoming international window. 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.

    Oh My Groulx, Matthews Ripple Effects & Canada's Narrow WBC Loss

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 50:42


    Brent Gunning and Sho Alli begin the second hour alongside Gord Stellick, former Maple Leafs GM and friend of the show! The trio discuss Toronto's recent performance including Bo Groulx's strong showing, the team's response in the games following Auston Matthews' injury, and how the situation could affect the rest of the season and offseason approach. Later, MLB insider Jon Morosi (27:52) joins from Houston to recap Canada's close quarterfinal loss to the United States at the World Baseball Classic. The conversation also covers the tournament's strong atmosphere, impressive fan turnout, the upcoming Italy vs. Venezuela semifinal matchup, and the overall impact the event has had on the sport of baseball. 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.

    Matthews Injury Fallout + Raptors Overcome Pistons

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 50:28


    Brent Gunning and Sho Alli open Monday morning by looking back on the Maple Leafs' weekend. They highlight Benoit-Olivier Groulx's strong performance, before getting into the ongoing fallout from the Auston Matthews injury news, what it could mean for his future in Toronto, and how the team's recent play without him affects the narrative around the roster and expectations for the offseason. The conversation also touches on whether Brad Treliving and Craig Berube can improve the team moving forward. After the break, the guys discuss the Raptors' big win over the Pistons including the decision to go to Brandon Ingram late and the importance of Jakob Poeltl's health ahead of an upcoming road trip. They wrap up the hour with a recap of The Players Championship, focusing on Cameron Young's win over Matthew Fitzpatrick and the surprising final-round performance from Canadian Sudarshan Yellamaraju! 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 Lack of Response + Canada-USA Preview

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 39:23


    Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi are joined by Jason Bukala to discuss the Auston Matthews incident and the Leafs' lack of response. They explore the team's DNA, potential changes in coaching or management to boost passion, and whether this core is fixable. How should Matthews feel about his teammates' support? Afterward, MLB Network's Adnan Virk (28:50) joins to discuss Canada's quarterfinal matchup against America, their chances, and the implications for both teams. 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.

    Canada vs. USA Rivalry Renewed + Michael Grange's Raptors Report

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 49:28


    Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi begin the second hour by previewing Canada's World Baseball Classic quarterfinal against the United States. They break down how the Canadian roster matches up, what a successful start from Michael Soroka would look like, and James Paxton's impressive return from retirement. The guys also examine which Canadian hitters need to step up, what's at stake for the Americans, and the controversy around Team USA wearing Olympic hockey jerseys for the game and how Canada should respond. After the break, Sportsnet.ca Raptors reporter Michael Grange (29:07) joins the show to discuss the Jamal Shead incident and whether it reflects a lack of leadership or edge within the team. They explore whether the Raptors need a more aggressive presence to take the next step, if their fourth-quarter struggles stem from leadership issues or poor shooting, Immanuel Quickley's season and the expectations tied to his contract, and whether NBA fans are becoming desensitized to greatness given Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's performances. 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 But Fail to Respond + Raptors Take on the Suns

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 49:27


    Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi wrap up the week by recapping the Maple Leafs' victory over the Anaheim Ducks. They look into the fallout from the game including Auston Matthews' injury and the team's lack of response, along with the post-game comments from team leaders and ongoing questions about the group's toughness, cohesion, and mentality. They also discuss Radko Gudas' role in the incident, whether he could face supplemental discipline, and how the Leafs might respond in their next meeting with Anaheim. After the break, the guys preview the Raptors taking on the Suns, what's at stake for Toronto, and the disappointment over the team's lack of response to Jamal Shead on Wednesday, before wrapping up the hour with a first-round recap of The Players 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.

    Three Step Plan to Fix the Leafs + Josh Sargent!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 46:28


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up Thursday with Toronto Star writer and Leafs historian Damien Cox. They discuss how the Maple Leafs can return to playoff contention, the need for a president of hockey operations, and whether Brad Treliving deserves another chance. They also explore accountability within the front office, the implications of no-trade clauses, and potential leadership candidates. After the break, they welcome new TFC player Josh Sargent (24:38), who shares his excitement about joining the team, his impressions of Toronto, and the perception of MLS in Europe. He reflects on his World Cup experience and the budding rivalry in CONCACAF between Canada and the U.S. They conclude by previewing the Leafs' game against the Ducks tonight. 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.

    Jon Morosi Sets Up WBC Knockout Round + Players Championship Preview with Adam Stanley

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 49:37


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by welcoming MLB Network insider Jon Morosi to the show. They discuss the strong play of Team Italy and the impact the tournament is having on the global growth of baseball, before the conversation shifts to Canada reaching the quarterfinals. The boys take a look ahead to their matchup with the United States, discuss the potential significance of a Canadian victory, and examine the pressure on Team USA manager Mark DeRosa. After the break, Sportsnet's Adam Stanley (25:34) stops by to preview The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass. He shares his expectations for Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka in his return to the PGA Tour, what the tour might look like under new commissioner Brian Rolapp, and potential improvements to the PGA playoff format. 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.

    Canada Advances to WBC Quarterfinals + Raptors Lose a Tough One

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 51:35


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Thursday's show by discussing Canada's historic win over Cuba to advance the World Baseball Classic quarterfinals. They highlight the strong performances from Cal Quantrill, Owen Caissie, and James Paxton, while looking ahead to Canada's chances against the United States and the tournament favourites. After the break, they break down the Raptors' disappointing loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, the shift in the team's recent vibes, and the lack of response after Jamal Shead was hit late in the game. They close by reacting to Gary Bettman's comments on NHL parity, debating whether parity should be the league's goal, the value of dynasties, and how factors like taxes and weather affect competitive balance. 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.

    WBC Outlook with Shi Davidi + Raptors' Continued Struggles

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 47:23


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the final hour with Sportsnet's MLB reporter Shi Davidi, live from San Juan, Puerto Rico. They discuss Canada's win last night: does it align with the usual tournament pattern of unexpected victories and expected losses? As Canada faces Cuba today, what does success look like? They also evaluate Owen Caissie's performance and the effectiveness of 'Big Doctor' in yesterday's game. Shi shares his thoughts on Team Canada's pitching rotation and the tournament format. The conversation shifts to the Raptors, analyzing their struggles against top teams and what needs to change. Can Scottie Barnes become an MVP candidate? With two All-Stars, why do they still seem far from contention? What's the best path forward for the team? (27:22) 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 Path Forward with Luke Fox + Raptors Fail Another Test

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 48:58


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by discussing reports about Brad Treliving's future in Toronto. They debate how much responsibility he bears for the team's recent struggles and whether he deserves another chance to build the roster. They also consider Craig Berube's future with the team, the performance of the current roster during an eight-game losing streak, and which players might deserve sympathy. The conversation then shifts to the Raptors' poor fourth-quarter performance against the Houston Rockets and concerns about whether the team has reached its ceiling. The guys also touch on Bam Adebayo's 83-point game against the Wizards and how it compares to Kobe Bryant's famous 81-point performance. After the break, Sportsnet's Luke Fox (30:25) joins from Montreal to share his thoughts on the Leafs' recent play since the Olympics, the reports about Treliving potentially getting another opportunity to reshape the roster, Craig Berube's changing demeanor during the season, and how the rest of the season may unfold. 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 Lose Again + Canada Beats Puerto Rico in World Baseball Classic

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 51:56


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Wednesday morning breaking down the Maple Leafs' eighth straight loss. They look into the team's effort against the Montreal Canadiens, their history of slow starts, the draft implications of their recent play, and Bo Groulx's debut. They also talk about Jake McCabe standing up for Easton Cowan and what it might signal about the team's toughness moving forward. The conversation shifts to William Nylander's pregame comments and what they say about his mindset this season. The guys then move to the World Baseball Classic, highlighting Canada's win over Puerto Rico, Owen Caissie's hot hitting, and Canada's matchup today with Cuba. They also discuss Team USA's loss to Italy and the potential impact if the Americans were eliminated, including Mark DeRosa's confusion over tournament rules. Ben and Brent wrap up the show with a golf update, touching on Brooks Koepka's social habits and how they might affect his 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.

    Leafs-Canadiens Tee-Up with Frank Seravalli & Renaud Lavoie

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 47:44


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning welcome NHL Insider Frank Seravalli to discuss the future of the Leafs, exploring potential offseason changes, Auston Matthews' market value, and the trade deadline's inactivity. They then talk to TVA's Renaud Lavoie (29:34) about the Canadiens' lack of trades, new CBA impacts, and the team's outlook. They wrap up by comparing the Leafs' and Senators' futures. 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.

    NFL Free Agent Shuffle with Charles Davis + Ben Shulman's Jays Spring Storylines

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 46:25


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour with alongside Charles Davis, CBS NFL analyst and friend of the show! He shares his early impressions from NFL free agency, including the quarterback market featuring Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa, Malik Willis' new contract, Maxx Crosby's trade to the Baltimore Ravens, and Travis Kelce returning to Kansas City. Are the Patriots still the top dogs in the AFC? Before the break, the hosts listen back to Elliotte Friedman's comments about Tristan Jarry fighting his teammates at practice, and compare the outlook of the Oilers to the Maple Leafs. Later, they're joined by Ben Shulman (27:40), Blue Jays play-by-play voice and announcer for The Price Is Right Tonight, to talk about his experience on the show and share the latest from Blue Jays spring training. They dive into the roster balance in the outfield, the team's left-handed bats, the biggest question mark so far, and how the rotation is shaping up. 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.

    Best Case Scenarios for Leafs Rest of Season + Canada's WBC Outlook

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 53:28


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Tuesday morning forecasting what's ahead for the Maple Leafs this season as they prepare to face the Montreal Canadiens tonight. They guys discuss Auston Matthews' scoring struggles and whether the team might consider shutting him down, react to reports that the Canadiens and Leafs were close to a Matthew Knies trade, and debate what kind of return would have justified the deal. After Scott Laughton found the back of the net once again, Ben and Brent revisit the Leafs' return for him at the deadline. Later, they chat about Canada at the World Baseball Classic, before closing the hour with the golf report including the potential impact if Rory McIlroy were unable to defend his Masters title due to a lingering back 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.

    Leafs Deadline Recap + Matt Devlin on the Raptors Path Forward

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 47:32


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up the morning with Nick Kypreos from Real Kyper and Bourne. They discuss Kyper's insights from his chat with Brad Treliving, evaluating his deadline performance and implications for next season. They also explore the team's goals for the remainder of the year, the concept of tanking, and the fanbase's potential acceptance of it. As they transition to the offseason, they debate whether the team will undergo a full teardown or a rebuild. They then look at the NHL landscape and discuss the possibility of a new front office in Toronto, possibly bringing back a president of hockey operations. After the break, Matt Devlin (27:07), voice of the Raptors, shares his thoughts on the team's recent performance, their ability to compete against strong opponents, and expectations for the postseason. The episode wraps up with a review of Max Scherzer's spring debut and early season expectations. 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.

    Gord Stellick on Leafs Trades & Matthews' Future

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 49:13


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour alongside Gord Stellick, former Maple Leafs GM and friend of the show! They discuss Toronto's trade deadline moves, who deserves blame for the team's disappointing season, and Scott Laughton and Nic Roy both scoring in their debuts. They also debate the team's roster deployment under coach Craig Berube, concerns around Oliver Ekman-Larsson's deadline situation, and what the team has left to play for this season. The conversation then shifts to the surging Buffalo Sabres and the state of the Atlantic Division. After the break, they revisit comments from Elliotte Friedman about the future of Auston Matthews in Toronto, and share their view on if he would ever leave the franchise, the influence he holds within the organization, and the growing scrutiny surrounding his recent 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.

    State of the Leafs + Canada Falls to Panama

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 53:15


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the week by recapping the Maple Leafs' NHL trade deadline moves involving Scott Laughton, Bobby McMann, and Nick Roy. The guys discuss the team's asset management, coaching decisions, and the futures of Craig Berube and Brad Treliving in Toronto. They also cover Canada's loss to Panama at the World Baseball Classic and its impact on their chances to advance, the Raptors' win over the Mavericks and the team's ceiling, and Akshay Bhatia's Bay Hill Invitational win heading into the Players 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.

    Elliotte Friedman & Jason Bukala Tee Up Deadline Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 47:10


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning discuss trade deadline day with Sportsnet NHL analyst Jason Bukala. They explore the challenges faced by amateur scouting during the deadline, analyzing trades like John Carlson's move to the Ducks and what it means for both teams. They also consider what would make for a successful deadline for the Toronto Maple Leafs, the return for Nick Roy, and potential moves involving their UFA's. The conversation shifts to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman (24:44), who shares insights on Carlson's trade implications, the asking price for Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and the current winger market. They speculate on Bobby McMann's future and the likelihood of the Leafs opting for a retool versus a rebuild. Finally, they discuss which teams will be most active as the deadline approaches. 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.

    Deadline Goals in Toronto with David Amber

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 47:29


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning begin the second hour discussing what a successful trade deadline might look like for the Toronto Maple Leafs. They outline the many possibilities of moving pending UFAs, restocking the prospect pool, or extending Bobby McMann or Scott Laughton. They also consider how Colton Parayko vetoing a trade might hint at how situations like Morgan Rielly's could unfold and whether the pressures of playing in Toronto differ from other markets. Later, they welcome Sportsnet's David Amber (28:10) to share some of his favourite trade deadline memories. D.A. discusses how busy this year's deadline could be across the league, whether teams will prioritize volume over marquee names, potential sell-offs, Parayko turning down a move to Buffalo, and the value of acquiring a goalie. The hour wraps up with a look at the biggest issue facing the Oilers as they head into the stretch run. 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 Losing Streak Grows + Raptors Fail Another Test

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 53:10


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open trade deadline Friday by recapping the Maple Leafs' loss to the New York Rangers. The boys discuss how poor the group's effort looked, whether the team has tuned out the coach, and if Craig Berube's future behind the bench is in doubt. They also talk about Auston Matthews' 10-game goal-less drought and the Leafs' ongoing difficulty fitting Easton Cowan into the lineup. The conversation shifts to Toronto trading Nic Roy to Colorado and the first-round pick sent back in return, before reflecting on his time with the team. The guys also review notable trades from around the league, including the Capitals moving on from John Carlson. After the break, they turn to the Raptors' loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. They question the direction of the team, the sustainability of their season, and what steps are needed to improve. They close the hour with opening thoughts on the World Baseball Classic. 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 Deadline Needs + State of the Blues with Cam Janssen

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 46:01


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up Thursday by chatting with Anthony Petrielli from Leafs Notebook. They discuss whether the Leafs need to make more moves before the deadline, what additions could help them compete next season, and their goaltending situation. Anthony also addresses Auston Matthews' performance and the coaching staff's deployment decisions. After the break, former NHLer Cam Janssen (25:12) joins to talk about Colton Parayko's potential trade to Buffalo, the impact of using a no-move clause, and the possibility of Jordan Binnington being moved as well. They also discuss a possible front-office shakeup in St. Louis and Alex Steen's first year in charge. Ben and Brent conclude by speculating on Doug Armstrong's future if not with the Blues. 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 Should the Leafs Expect in Return at the Deadline?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 47:25


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour discussing reports that the Maple Leafs are seeking a first-round pick in return for Nick Roy. They boys debate whether that return is realistic and if the team should move him if the price isn't met. They also consider whether bigger roster moves are coming now or in the offseason, and whether they trust the current front office to execute them. Later, they welcome Michael Traikos of The Hockey News to reflect on past trade deadline coverage and share his expectations for this year: will it be active or relatively quiet? The trio dive into Toronto's asking price for Roy, the Oilers' recent moves, Buffalo's ongoing difficulty attracting players despite winning, and the status of the pending Colton Parayko trade. 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 Lose Penultimate Game Before Deadline + Oilers Make a Move

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 53:52


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Thursday morning by recapping the Maple Leafs' shootout loss to the Devils. They discuss the team's effort overall, Auston Matthews' scoring slump, Easton Cowan's inconsistent usage, Anthony Stolarz's recent play, and the discourse surrounding the latest healthy scratches. They also debate whether there's a disconnect between Brad Treliving and Craig Berube and what the path forward might be. After the break, they shift to the Oilers acquiring Jason Dickinson and Colton Dach from Chicago for Andrew Mangiapane and a first-round pick and question how it could impact Connor McDavid's window in Edmonton. Finally, the boys examine the situation in St. Louis after trading Colton Parayko to the Sabres. 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.

    Deadline Decisions: Leafs at a Crossroads

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 47:05


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the final hour of The FAN Morning Show, diving into a pivotal moment for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Frank Seravalli joins to break down potential moves at the trade deadline, how “no-trade lists” factor into deals, the Leafs' plan of attack, and whether Morgan Rielly could be on the move. Later, Jody Shelley (29:02) weighs in on the Leafs' losing streak, what's gone wrong this season, whether they'll be sellers, who tops the trade board in Toronto, and a look around the NHL. 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 on the Block + Michael Grange's Raptors Report

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 48:23


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off this hour looking ahead to Friday's NHL trade deadline. The boys chat about how the salary cap is impacting the market, if the Maple Leafs would consider moving Nic Roy, and the latest on Oliver Ekman-Larsson as trade rumours continue to swirl. Later, Sportsnet's Michael Grange (25:37) stops by to further break down the Raptors' 111-95 loss to the Knicks, capping off their third-straight year without a win over New York. Grange takes a closer look at Toronto's roster construction and evaluates how the team is positioned heading into the playoffs. 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 Remain Winless vs. Knicks + Advice From "Gramps"

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 51:19


    Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Wednesday by recapping the Raptors' tough loss to the New York Knicks. The discuss Toronto's ongoing struggles against New York, playoff concerns, rotation decisions, bench production, and the impact of Jakob Poeltl's health. They also question the team's competitiveness and focus. The conversation then shifts to the Vegas Golden Knights and whether their recent loss to another playoff team raises similar concerns. After the break, the hosts react to comments from John Schneider about his Game 6 exchange with Max Scherzer in the World Series. The boys look ahead to the 2026 season and share their thoughts on Scherzer's role in the rotation, the possibility of a six-man staff, and how to balance a roster loaded with starting pitching. 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.

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