Canadian ice hockey player
POPULARITY
Things Discussed: Michigan vs Georgia recruitments revisited: things have definitely changed. We had to move heaven and Earth to get Will Johnson and that was a legacy. Sam shares a story that Harbaugh promised he was gonna be here and that got Will to pump the breaks on a USC-Ohio State decision. Remembering DJ Turner's recruitment. Yaxel? Is doing well at the combine. Think Michigan visit changed his mindset from "Michigan has to match" to "NBA has to match," but there's a very good chance that happens. Difference between early 2nd round and late 1st round isn't just money but end of the 1st round is where you find the best organizations, whereas early 2nd round could mean going to Phoenix. If a team promises they'll draft him in the late 1st he's gotta take it. If Yaxel comes: Big Ten PoY? In the conversation. Wolf-/Tonje-level impact. Forest view: plan on this happening every year, because one player can put you over the top and one way to get that one player is to get the best player in the country who's not in the NBA Draft. Speaking of best player in the country who's not in his draft…there's a LOT of positivity inside Michigan about Gavin McKenna. What does Gavin McKenna mean, non-hockey fans? He's the consensus #1 player in the Draft and in that tier with Connor McDavid, Eric Lindros, Mario Lemieux and Alexander Ovechkin where the franchise that gets him is instantly the team with that guy (Only tier higher than that is Crosby, Gretzky). Why is McKenna going to college? These guys used to play Canadian juniors, but that's a long season in a small town for money that Michigan could match, and for a player who's already guaranteed to be a top-5 pick there's no reason to slog through that when the Big Ten these days has higher competition. The example here is John Tavares, who was the CHL rookie of the year in 2005-06 and player of the year in 2006-07, and was the obvious #1 pick in the 2008 Draft then had to go back to the CHL for another year to no purpose. College gives that guy a step up in competition, a year in Ann Arbor instead of Oshawa, and the connections and future you get from association with a university. For us, that would make Michigan a focus of the hockey world for a year, and the rest of McKenna's career they'd be like "guy from Michigan." Meta discussion on last week's episode and politics based on the (overwhelmingly positive) responses we got from last week: We aren't planning to talk about partisan and identity politics that much going forward—there are certain instances when it's topical and we can't ignore it (e.g. Ono's departure), but mostly we choose to talk about ideas and values, and when they're not politicized nobody notices the politics. Penn State > Ohio State this year? We don't believe in Drew Allar. Ohio State's culture is clearly working for them.
Pittsburgh Penguins on NHL's All Quarter Century Team, Sidney Crosby at the IIHF Worlds, and Winnipeg's Cringe-y Cup Song 05/12/25Thanks to Sidney Crosby, Nathan McKinnon - and yes: Marc Andre Fleury!! - we've all got some exciting Team Canada hockey action to enjoy. With the Pittsburgh Penguins, Colorado Avalanche, and Minnesota Wild all having been eliminated from contention for this season's Stanley Cup, Team Canada's roster at the IIHF World Championships boasts some of the NHL's most beloved names.In lieu of further copy on the matter, here are some time codes and topics Jeff and Jordan discussed in this episode:02:37 - Crosby, Malkin, Fleury named to NHL's All Quarter Century Team08:05 - Sidney Crosby and Team Canada at the IIHF World Championships12:11 - Marc Andre Fleury and what retirement will look like18:38 - 2025 Stanley Cup Playoff picture and predictions26:41 - That God awful Winnipeg Jets Stanley Cup song28:46 - Jeff can't with the Oilers because…31:08 - ESPN's “This Is Hockey” video series33:55 - Plugging our music gigs! Special thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot SessionsHardboil by Blue Dot Sessions
It's FRIENDS AND RIVALS EPISODE 193 and this just in: the Islanders will pick first overall, so we will not have to wait long to hear the name of the first draft bust of 2025 to be called! Will they take another injury prone goalie or just a skater who will make Josh Ho Sang look like Mario Lemieux? We cover the amazing playoff action from round 1 and make our round 2 playoff predictions. Bettor advise: take the odds on the Capitals because why on Earth is Carolina the favorite? And don't miss the Tom's A Creep Final Four action on FRIENDDS AND RIVALS EPISODE 193!
Destination And Subject: Kyle Dubas and Pittsburgh Penguins Commence Head Coach Search 05/05/25Rick Tocchet, David Carle, and others have been widely discussed as candidates to fill the vacancy Mike Sullivan left when he departed the Steel City. Jeff Taylor and Jordan DeFigio have at least one warm-to-hot take as to who might fit the bill behind the Pittsburgh Penguins' bench, especially while the team undergoes its nearly inevitable transitionary period.Sidney Crosby's agent, Pat Brisson told Pierre LeBrun this weekend that his client would be traveling to Sweden to participate in the IIHF Men's World Championships. What's more, Crosby's longtime teammate and dear friend Marc André Fleury will be making the trip as well, representing Team Canada alongside his old captain.Sid won't be Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia's sole ambassador in the tournament, though. Nathan McKinnon, newly unoccupied as his Avalanche were eliminated from contention in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, will dress beside Crosby and Fleury in Canada's locker room.WARNING This episode contains samples of Dr. Claw's voice. He's really scary. Ok, you've been warned.Special thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot SessionsHardboil by Blue Dot Sessions
Irish Goodbye: Mike Sullivan and Pittsburgh Penguins Part Ways 04/29/25You knew it was around the corner, but you still didn't see it coming: Mike Sullivan, two-time Stanley Cup-winning head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins is between jobs and the Pens are without a coach. Jordan DeFigio and Jeff Taylor offer their impressions and reactions to this massive news. Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
(00:00-18:38) Jamie Rivers checking in with us. What the Blues need to do to get back in this series. Third period has been the Blues' nemesis. The atmosphere at the Enterprise Center tomorrow night. Jets trying to get in Binner's kitchen. Story of Jamie playing against Mario Lemieux. The importance of scoring the first goal. Rump pats.(18:46-35:11) Doug can't keep his feet from moving. Oli Marmol talking about the offensive performance and Pallante and Matz on the mound. Needed this one. Nolan Gorman talking to The Cat postgame. Maypole celebration. They're not happy with the late puck drop in Minnesota. (35:21-58:56) Taylor Twellman joins the show talking about the dire situation STL City is in. Dealing with injuries in training. Fans still showing up. Just not scoring any goals. The ownership's need to spend money. But need more than just one player to fix this. Still 2-3 pieces away. Are there any needlepoint belts in Festus? Chairman has always been fashion forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
(00:00-18:38) Jamie Rivers checking in with us. What the Blues need to do to get back in this series. Third period has been the Blues' nemesis. The atmosphere at the Enterprise Center tomorrow night. Jets trying to get in Binner's kitchen. Story of Jamie playing against Mario Lemieux. The importance of scoring the first goal. Rump pats. (18:46-35:11) Doug can't keep his feet from moving. Oli Marmol talking about the offensive performance and Pallante and Matz on the mound. Needed this one. Nolan Gorman talking to The Cat postgame. Maypole celebration. They're not happy with the late puck drop in Minnesota. (35:21-58:56) Taylor Twellman joins the show talking about the dire situation STL City is in. Dealing with injuries in training. Fans still showing up. Just not scoring any goals. The ownership's need to spend money. But need more than just one player to fix this. Still 2-3 pieces away. Are there any needlepoint belts in Festus? Chairman has always been fashion forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Bittersweet Ending 04/21/25Jeff Taylor and Jordan DeFigio convene for a season's-end chat, at the tail end of the Penguins' 24-25 campaign. A resounding victory over Alex Ovechkin and the first place Capitals is bittersweet on the tongue, as the Pens best the Caps in game 82. Also in this episode: Joining Jeff for a lo-fi, impromptu interview recording here is Mike Kirkpatrick of Sreamin Yeti Designs. Visit Mike's IG page to check out his amazing graphic design work, including his original take on what eventually became the official logo of the NHL's 32nd franchise, the Seattle Kraken.Mike Kirkpatrick's Screamin Yeti Designs:https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/1012703238/screaminyeti-designs/Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot SessionsHardboil by Blue Dot SessionsIn Passage by Blue Dot Sessions
On his weekly Saturday Conversations podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes Penguins broadcaster Paul Steigerwald to tackle a range of hockey topics. Can coach Mike Sullivan's team sustain its late-season momentum into next season to give Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang and Evgeni Malkin a chance to return to the playoffs? How much should we believe in young players and prospects like Ville Koivunen, Rutger McGroarty and Sergei Murashov? And how much can GM Kyle Dubas accomplish with his slew of NHL draft picks in upcoming lotteries? Our duo tackles those topics, then looks back on Paul's career as a broadcaster. How did it come to be after he started as the team's director of marketing? What was his relationship with Mike Lange? And what are his memories of the late play-by-play legend? What are his favorite stories from past Stanley Cup runs? When does he plan to retire? And which players does he put on the Mount Rushmore of Penguins hockey next to names like Crosby, Mario Lemieux and Jaromir Jagr?
Bagpipes ft. Rob Rossi of The Athletic 04/16/25Rob Rossi, Pittsburgh Penguins beat writer and current senior staffer with The Athletic joins Jeff Taylor and Jordan DeFigio to share his vivid, heartfelt recollections of former Penguins general manager, the late Ray Shero.Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
In climbing, a false summit is a peak that appears to be the top but is actually lower than the true summit, which is still higher and farther away. In this episode, we explore the memorable Pittsburgh Penguins' 1988-89 season, in which they reached the second round of the playoffs but lost in a Game 7, setting the team back for another season before they finally became a true Stanley Cup contender.Get our Steelers-Ravens book here! E-Book | HardcoverConnect with the show:Visit us on the webFollow us on FacebookFollow us on Twitter
Pittsburgh Penguins: End Of The Road 04/11/25Heading into Newark, NJ for the final road game of their 2024-2025 campaign, the Pittsburgh Penguins will look to upset a very fast, very playoffs-bound Devils team. Even without star forward Jack Hughes the Devils have yet again managed to punch their ticket to Lord Stanley's fabled dance.Our hearts go out to the family of former Penguins GM, the late Ray Shero. Rest In Peace, Ray.Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
Alex Ovechkin scored 895 and Jay thinks what Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin have done has helped keep hockey relevant for a long time. No one thought this could be done. Bob and Jay both think Mario Lemieux would be the all-time goal scorer if he didn't get hurt. Sidney Crosby could end up being a top 5 goal scorer ever.
Hour 2 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: Alex Ovechkin scored 895 and Jay thinks what Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin have done has helped keep hockey relevant for a long time. Bob and Jay both think Mario Lemieux would be the all-time goal scorer if he didn't get hurt. Six of the nine hitters in the lineup last night were hitting under .200. Ian Rapoport thinks the draft could be a realistic deadline for Aaron Rodgers to sign, or the Steelers will draft a quarterback.
Meaningful Hockey 04/07/25The Pittsburgh Penguins have officially been eliminated from contention in the race to qualify for the 2024-2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. And with less than a handful of regular season games remaining on their schedule, the Penguins are at home tonight for the back half of a home-and-home matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks.Jeff and Jordan convene remotely for today's episode - doing their very best to keep their respective spiritual trains on their metaphorical tracks - as we all get ready for another Penguins-less NHL postseason. Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
Future Marker: Our 250th Episode featuring The Athletic's Josh Yohe 04/03/25Dear Listeners,It's hard to believe we've made it to our 250th episode.We're joined today by The Athletic's Josh Yohe, Pittsburgh Penguins beat reporter and one of our first proper guests. Josh is a fine example of someone who's become a good friend and a generous collaborator in this unrivaled U.S. hockey town.I started Fly Penguins Fly Podcast in the attic of the old Jersey City where I lived, along with my wife leading up to when we moved to Pittsburgh.I still get a thrill out of creating and posting each episode, especially at this time when the Pittsburgh Penguins are rebuilding, in preparation for what - hopefully - will be an exciting, successful new era of hockey in the Steel City.Thanks for listening, stay tuned as we continue to cover this hallowed franchise.All my best,Jeff TaylorProducer and Co-HostFly Penguins Fly PodcastLink to heartwarming clip of known St. Louis Blues fan, Laila Anderson scoring her first-ever goal in organized hockey:https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3vviSwunpd/?igsh=MW05ZHp2ejZmMzhoZQ==Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot SessionsHardboil by Blue Dot Sessions
Flying So Low(Fi) 04/01/25With Jordan otherwise occupied and Jeff busy on a work trip, today's offering is truly a solo dispatch, cobbled together from iPhone recordings and found musical pieces from old episodes. In short, a humbling final push to the big 250th episode, featuring Josh Yohe and coming at you tomorrow from the studio.Disclaimer: The audio quality of the majority of this episode is pretty darned poor. Traveling for work meant no way to get into an isolated space, so Jeff recorded this one (literally) out in the streets of Jersey City. Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot SessionsIn Passage by Blue Dot Sessions
Mr. Consistent: Sidney Crosby Grabs Gretzky's NHL Point-Per-Game Record! 03/27/25With an original working title of ‘Passenger Princess,' production/release of this episode was delayed until close to the start of this evening's road game versus the Sabres. And wouldn't ya know it? Just as I sat down to knock out the edit and get this one posted, Sidney Crosby does what he does best: Contribute to his team's offense. It was a beautiful goal, featuring many of Crosby's best attributes as an athlete and a teammate: On-ice awareness, positional intelligence, and a practiced ability to have quick hands, even from tough angles.The puck ended up on Sid's stick as he floated to the net front, and even though it was in-tight to his body, the captain managed to get a super-fast shot off, beating Billy Reimer high on the glove-side. Just incredible.From us here at Fly Penguins Fly Podcast: Congratulations to Sidney Crosby on a monumental achievement, as he passes Wayne Gretzky to possess the longest-ever season streak of point-per-game play in the NHL.Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Hardboil by Blue Dot SessionsKid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
Battle Jackets 03/21/25The Columbus Blue Jackets are fun to watch and they're in Pittsburgh tonight, taking on your Pittsburgh Penguins for the final time this season. While the Penguins' 2025 playoff hopes seem to have been dashed along the rocky shores of mediocrity, the Columbus club are still very much in-the-hunt for the Eastern Conference's second wildcard spot.Jordan may have found the deal of a lifetime on a vintage Sidney Crosby jersey, and both hosts - Jeff and Jordan - have music gigs tonight. All that and more, on ‘Battle Jackets,' our 247th episode - a mere three episodes away from our 250th installment. Thanks for listening!Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Hardboil by Blue Dot Sessions
With only slightly more than a handful of games remaining on the Pittsburgh Penguins' 2024-2025 schedule, all signs continue to point to their failing to reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for a third consecutive season. Still, this is no time to pout, Penguins fans. There is much to be excited about, if you're paying close enough attention - and let's face it, if you're listening to this podcast, chances are… you ARE.Jeff Taylor and Jordan DeFigio are both with you today, so buckle up and put on your hockey caps.Unpaid plug: Watch Season 4 of Shoresy. It's just smile-inducing AF, especially in the midst of so much geopolitical darkness.Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
Haze Of The Tank 03/11/25If you can see through the “haze” of the current disaster that is the Penguins' 2024-2025 NHL campaign, there are still things to be excited about. The Penguins have amassed quite a bevy of prospects and picks, and the picture only looks to improve as the Pens' front office turns its attentions to the upcoming NHL Entry Draft.Flying solo today, Jeff has a deal for you. Listen to the pod to find out what it is(n't).Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
Dr. Jay Calvert & Dr. Jason Berkley chat with Columbus Blue Jackets PxP voice, Steve Mears! The docs talk to Steve about his recent move from Pittsburgh to Columbus, his experience covering his 12th Stadium Series (Blue Jackets vs Red Wings), both teams' tribute to the Gaudreau brothers, Zach Werenski's bid for the Norris Trophy, the evolution of Adam Fantilli, the return of Boone Jenner, potential moves at the deadline, as well as the passing of the great Mike Lange and the great lessons he learned while sharing the mic in Pittsburgh. RIP to the legend Mike Lange!
The Pittsburgh Penguins' Kyle Dubas Staring Down The Deadline 03/06/25We're back! Jordan DeFigio returns from the Emerald Isle to discover the pot of gold all hockey fans hope to find at the end of their pre-deadline rainbows: A 5th Rd pick in the 2028 NHL draft, as well as Tommy Novak and Luke Schenn formerly of the Nashville Predators. Jeff and Jordan discuss tomorrow's NHL trade deadline and just what we might be able to expect from the Pittsburgh Penguins' General Manager, Kyle Dubas as he works the phones.sThanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
“Pittsburgh Penguins At The Trade Deadline” 03/04/25Sidney Crosby isn't going anywhere. Neither are Evgeny Malkin or Bryan Rust. Erik Karlsson? If there's a team with plenty of shutdown, stay-at-home defensemen and they're looking for an offensive spark on the backend, …MAYBE??Jeff is up late (again) and we're only ONE episode away from Jordan DeFigio rejoining our ranks after a well-deserved vacay. Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
I Left When It Was 3-0 Philly 02/28/25I left last night's Flyers @ Penguins game EARLY.We all make boneheaded decisions sometimes, and I break down last night's in this delightful solo podcast.Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Fly Penguins Fly Podcast is produced by Jeff Taylor.Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot Sessions
Up Late 02/25/25With Jordan DeFigio on vacation, Jeff Taylor is up super-late-night, flying solo with yinz. Thanks to Espresso A Mano, Pittsburgh's finest coffee roasters and cafe, for partnering with Fly Penguins Fly podcast. Visit an Espresso A Mano location near you:https://espressoamano.com/Thank you for listening!! Follow the podcast on X/Twitter: @penspodJeff Taylor: @penspod_JT // Jordan DeFigio: @fidgenewtonLETS GO PENS.JEFF TAYLOR + JORDAN DEFIGIOIntro/Outro music composed and recorded by Jeff TaylorMark Guiliana plays drums - thanks, Mark!Shane Taylor designed and delivered our artwork.To hire Shane for design work: shanetaylordesigns@gmail.com - tell him Fly Penguins Fly sent you.This episode includes portions of the following musical selections:Kid Kodi by Blue Dot SessionsIn Passage by Blue Dot Sessions
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman joined the show. Gary shared his memories of Mike Lange and the legacy he left in the game of hockey. The guys asked Gary about the success of the 4 Nations and the viewership that was brought in around the globe. Gary talked about great moments that were made and the high expectations that were met with the 4 Nations results. Gary brought up how momentum can be carried by the NHL following the success that was had over the last couple of weeks. The conversation got into how many different fields were reached by the 4 Nations. Gary discussed the wide-reach this could continue to build the game. Will Russia be added to the 4 Nations at some point? Gary walked the guys through what the role was for Mario Lemieux heading into the tournament and the reaction he received in Montreal. Gary still loves the All Star Game and sounds like he plans on keeping that around. Gary also got into the outdoor games that have seen a strong uptick in recent years. What does it mean to Gary that we are just 13 goals away from Alex Ovechkin passing Wayne Gretzky as the league's all-time goal scorer? Gary talked about how Sidney Crosby is a perfect representation of the game.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman joined the show. Gary shared his memories of Mike Lange and the legacy he left in the game of hockey. The guys asked Gary about the success of the 4 Nations and the viewership that was brought in around the globe. Gary talked about great moments that were made and the high expectations that were met with the 4 Nations results. Gary brought up how momentum can be carried by the NHL following the success that was had over the last couple of weeks. The conversation got into how many different fields were reached by the 4 Nations. Gary discussed the wide-reach this could continue to build the game. Will Russia be added to the 4 Nations at some point? Gary walked the guys through what the role was for Mario Lemieux heading into the tournament and the reaction he received in Montreal. Gary still loves the All Star Game and sounds like he plans on keeping that around. Gary also got into the outdoor games that have seen a strong uptick in recent years. What does it mean to Gary that we are just 13 goals away from Alex Ovechkin passing Wayne Gretzky as the league's all-time goal scorer? Gary talked about how Sidney Crosby is a perfect representation of the game. The guys reacted to the chat with Gary Bettman with some of their biggest takeaways from the 15+ minutes the NHL commissioner. PM Team Weekend Review.
Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey joins host Adam Bittner to react to the passing of legendary Penguins broadcaster Mike Lange late Wednesday night at the age of 76. What legacy does he leave the team, NHL and hockey community at large? What are some of Jason's best memories of getting to know Mike on a personal level over the years? What were some of his best moments on the mic? And why is he every bit a piece of franchise lore alongside on-ice heroes like Mario Lemieux, Jaromir Jagr, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin? Our duo tackles those poignant questions, then dives into some hockey talk about the U.S. vs. Canada championship match of the Four Nations Face-off. Can Penguins coach Mike Sullivan and his American team recreate their defensive magic from the first matchup over the weekend. Will there be more booing and fisticuffs? And has this tournament reminded the right people that Crosby remains every bit the face of hockey and Team Canada that Connor McDavid is? Then later, Adam and Jason ponder Penn State's College Football Playoff chances next season following Jason's column on the topic. Are the returns of Drew Allar, Nick Singleton, Kaytron Allen and Dani Dennis-Sutton enough to make this program a dominant force? Or will it need transfer additions at wide receiver like Devonte Ross and Kyron Hudson to make an impact to take a step forward from a crushing loss to Notre Dame in the CFP semifinals at the Orange Bowl last month? In the third segment, airing on the PG's new Pirates-focused channel, the topic is payrolls disparity in MLB and the need for a salary cap to even things out. Are tight spenders like the Pirates' Bob Nutting or free spending teams like the Dodgers, Yankees and Mets the sport's biggest problem? How much should revenue sharing be part of the conversation around payroll? And how much would transparency in these matters help quell fans' angst? Adam and Jason try to answer those questions, then weigh in on some baseball topics, including the first base situation amid Spencer Horwitz's injury. Is Nick Yorke a good fit as a replacement? Why is it the right move to keep Bryan Reynolds in the outfield? And what impact can Tommy Pham have on the clubhouse culture, starting with his relationship with Oneil Cruz?
Color commentator and former Penguins coach Eddie Olczyk joined the show. Eddie talked about his fond memories with Mike Lange and how grateful he was for Mike getting him into broadcasting. Eddie mimicked words of Bob Errey, telling the guys how popular Lange was with fans. He said Mike made him feel so comfortable in the broadcast booth. Edzo talked about the night Mario Lemieux came back and what a moment it was for Lange.
Former Penguin and color commentator Bob Errey joined the show. Bob reflected on the loss of one of his great friends, Mike Lange, and the sad nature of what this day brings. Bob talked about how popular Lange was with fans even among the star power that was on the roster. Bob talked about his travels with Lange and some of the craziness he'd get into on the road. Bob commented on how knowledgeable Mike was of the game despite never playing it. Bob said Lange was an incredible man. Color commentator and former Penguins coach Eddie Olczyk joined the show. Eddie talked about his fond memories with Mike Lange and how grateful he was for Mike getting him into broadcasting. Eddie mimicked words of Bob Errey, telling the guys how popular Lange was with fans. He said Mike made him feel so comfortable in the broadcast booth. Edzo talked about the night Mario Lemieux came back and what a moment it was for Lange. Former Penguins PXP voice Paul Steigerwald joined the show. Paul recalled a time in Calgary when a TV monitor fell on him while Mike Lange continued calling the game. Paul talked about the change that took place that put him on the TV side with Lange. Paul talked about the years and years of great play and how much Mike appreciated that, even if the team wasn't having the greatest year. He said one of the shining moments of Lange's work was informing the fans of others' greatness. He said Mike was always having fun, no matter what. Steigy reflected on the Penguins first Stanley Cup win in 1991. He described Lange as a special character in the world of hockey.
The 4 Nations Face-Off culminates on tomorrow night with Team USA vs Team Canada! So Dr. Jay Calvert & Dr. Jason Berkley got on the horn with Devils legend Ken Daneyko! The guys discuss the 4 Nations Face-Off so far, the Tkachuk brothers, predictions for the finale, the keys to his first Cup in '95, playing against Mario Lemieux, Ken's favorite players, the current state of the Devils, and Jason survives a flat tire on the LA freeways.
Sidney Crosby, Mario Lemieux and magic in Montreal! Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mikey and Bob sexy spreads calendar - Sidney Crosby... Mario Lemieux... CANADA!!! - We might end up being the sheriff at the George Straight concert this summer - Kennywood Facebook Comments - Granny teaches us how to unclog a toilet - Power Rank our Favorite Florida Stories - Have anything fun for the show or want to say hi... Listen on iHeartRadio click the little mic and leave us a talkback messageSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Jay Calvert & Dr. Jason Berkley chat with 5-time Stanley Cup Champion Grant Fuhr! Grant talks about his current role as color analyst for the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the AHL, the great year for the Firebirds, playing hockey in the desert, the window to win for the Oilers, the art of the coaching change, potential trades for the Oilers, a regression year for the Rangers, Kaapo Kakko to the Kraken, his favoirte players around the league, thoughts on the trapezoid, the 4 Nations Face-Off, and more!
Super Bowl & Baseball Season Kickoff:Mark is happy to see football season ending & baseball season beginningMat shares his excitement for baseball despite the cold in Canada.Spring Training & Player Movements:Discussion on Pete Alonso's contract situation with the Mets.Comparing Alonso's deal to Blake Snell's contract strategy.Mat's analysis of free agents and potential team fits: Alex Bregman to the Phillies, Nick Pivetta to the Orioles, Patrick Corbin to the Pirates, and more.Orioles' Pitching & Playoff Aspirations: Breakdown of Orioles rotation and potential improvements.How adding depth could strengthen their playoff chances.Veteran Signings & Impact on Teams: JD Martinez as a potential fit for the Rays.Justin Turner's possible role with the Reds.Jose Iglesias and Yasmani Grandal as solid veteran options for the Marlins.Mookie Betts' Leadership with the Dodgers: Mookie Warns team to stop thinking about the World Series. Take it 1 game at a time - the past is not a givenYankees entitlement attitude has proven crippling with poor performancMLB Draft Pick Trading Debate: Discussion on why MLB does not allow trading of most draft picks.How allowing trades could benefit small-market teams.Comparisons to other sports leagues where draft pick trading is commonWhy don't people want to watch the MLB draft selections WWF Draft spin the wheel – could be model for MLB lotteryFour Nations Cup & Hockey Talk: Mat shares insights on the Four Nations Cup in hockey.Recounts when Wayne Gretzky & Mario Lemieux played on the same lineCanada's performance and Nova Scotia's impact on the sport.Final Thoughts & Upcoming Baseball Season: Concerns over early injuries in spring training.Excitement for the season ahead.Mark's plans to watch the Rays in Tampa and a quick look at season ticket pricing.Follow Mat on Blue Sky at https://bsky.app/profile/matgermain.bsky.socialYou can find Mark on Blue Sky at https://bsky.app/profile/baseballbizondeck.bsky.socialSpecial thanks to XTaKeRuX for the music “Rocking Forward
Tyler Kennedy thinks Sid can play for four more years. Mario Lemieux made a surprise appearance at the 4 Nations Face-Off and Jay Caufield thinks it's a shame Mario is not around anymore. Mario's feelings are very clear on the current ownership. Jeff tells us how Pitt Athletics needs to continue to raise money and schools are going to have to hand out $20 million total for athletes.
Hear award-winning columnist Dejan Kovacevic's Daily Shots of Steelers, Penguins and Pirates -- three separate podcasts -- every weekday morning on the DK Pittsburgh Sports podcasting network, available on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/dkpghsports
Daily Faceoff Managing Editor, Matt Larkin joins Game Play to chat about the atmosphere at the Bell Centre, the level of intensity at the Four Nations Face-Off, Mitch Marner's ‘rollercoaster' performance, parallels between Mario Lemieux and Sidney Crosby, if Jordan Binnington should keep his starting job and more.
Amzing crowd at the Bell Centre, surprise appearance from Mario Lemieux, Mitch Marner hands Canada an OT win but lose Shea Theodore to injury.
Hour 4 with Bob Pompeani and Joe Starkey: Bob shares a story of how he interviewed Barry Bonds in spring training in his first 1-on-1 after Bonds and Jim Leyland's fight. Starkey almost broke the news Mario Lemieux was coming back to the Pens. Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated is reporting the Steelers could look at different options at quarterback and thinks this could lead to the Steelers acquiring Matthew Stafford or Aaron Rodgers. What is Justin Fields thinking?
Bob shares a story of how he interviewed Barry Bonds in spring training in his first 1-on-1 after Bonds and Jim Leyland's fight. Bob and Joe think back to when Mario Lemieux returned and the great story it was to cover it. Joe says it's the biggest sports story he ever covered and Joe almost was the first to break the story.
Fresh off the All-Star Classic, Dr. Jay Calvert & Dr. Jason Berkley give their takes on the Detroit Red Wings turnaround, surprise teamsat the halfway point, Wild Card likelies, Paul Bissonette's comments on Connor Bedard, and give their thoughts on the NHL's 4 Nations Face-Off! Is this good for hockey? Or just another gimmick to spark viewership?Let us know on IG @DrHockeyPodcast!
The Luka Doncic trade would be like the Penguins trading Mario Lemieux in his prime for Joe. The Pettersson and O'Connor trade to Vancouver on Friday is likely the start of a major selloff. Rickard Rakell is playing well and would bring a significant return.
On his new Saturday podcast, Post-Gazette sports columnist Jason Mackey welcomes longtime Pittsburgh sports broadcast and current Pirates public address announcer Guy Junker to tackle a range of topics. They start with fan frustration surrounding the Steelers. Is it at an all-time high after eight years without an NFL playoffs win? Has owner Art Rooney II's philosophy worn thin with his hardcore customers, particularly with regard to coach Mike Tomlin and the stability he represents? What can be done to fix the defense that faltered down the stretch, despite the presence of highly paid stars like T.J. Watt, Cam Heyward, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Patrick Queen and Alexi Highsmith? And what should happen at the QB position? Should GM Omar Khan pick the veteran presence of Russell Wilson? The mobility of Justin Fields? Or someone else entirely via the NFL draft or free agency? Our duo tackles those questions, then reflects on Guy's long career; his work with colleagues including Stan Savran and Bob Pompeani; and his many years on the popular Sportsbeat show. Later, Jason and Guy reflect on the latest with the Pirates and Penguins. Who's most to blame for the Penguins' recent struggles? Is it the Fenway Sports ownership group that has failed to live up to the success Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle had here? Is it past GMs including Jim Rutherford and Ron Hextall, whose moves are still hurting the roster today? Is it current GM Kyle Dubas and his disastrous deal with goalie Tristan Jarry? Or is it coach Mike Sullivan's inflexible game plans? And how will the franchise handle star Sidney Crosby moving forward. On the Pirates side, what we can expect from them in 2025? Can Ke'Bryan Hayes stay healthy at 3B? Does Oneil Cruz still have more upside, particularly as a power threat at the plate? How good can the young pitching staff led by Paul Skenes, Jared Jones and Mitch Keller be? And how can manager Derek Shelton fix this team's problems with fundamentals?
Join us for a special episode this week as we are joined by USA Hockey Hall of Famer Kevin Stevens, and his business partner Aaron James. Listen in as we discuss what it was like to be part of that legendary Penguins team with Mario Lemieux, and his career since then. We also discuss the power of addiction and how to combat it with Kevin, and Aaron James, who tragically lost his son to addiction. Kevin Stevens created a foundation for those struggling with addiction after treatment, and Aaron has built a Utah version. Find out how you can get help, or donate at https://www.powerforwardutah.com/ or https://www.powerforward25.com/
Are you ready to unlock the secrets of hockey greatness?
What does it take to coach the greatest hockey players of all time?In this unforgettable episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, the legendary Coach Mike Keenan joins Lee, Christie, and Mike to share wisdom from a career that spans decades, continents, and championships. From his Stanley Cup victory to managing icons like Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Mario Lemieux, Coach Keenan dives deep into the art and science of coaching, team culture, and the importance of developing young players with care and purpose.
Dr. Jay Calvert chats with NHL Legend Jay Caufield! The two Jay's discuss the up-and-down start to the 2024-25 season for the Pens, how Monday night's win over the Kings represents the blueprint the Pens need for the rest of the year, how the West Coast road trip could unite the team, the looming trade deadline, Matt Grzelcyk, PO Joseph, needing more out of Erik Karlsson, In Rust We Trust, tonight's game vs the Ducks, and the incredible work from the Mario Lemieux Foundation!
Dr. Jay Calvert & Dr. Jason Berkley chat with LA Kings Legend Jim Fox! The docs chat with Jim about the great year for the Kings, the incomparable Anze Kopitar, Joel Edmundson, their goaltending tandem Kuemper & Rittich, defensive adjustments, and the LA Hockey Legends Cruise!Check out the LA Hockey Legends Cruise! 7 nights on the Mexican Riviera with LA Hockey Legends Jim Fox, Bob Miller, Nick Nickson, Daryl Evans, Dave Taylor, Doug Smith, & Charlie Simmer!HERE: Cast.Tours/LaHockeyLegendsPrayers to everyone effected by the fires around Los Angeles.