Jeff and Elliotte discuss Matt Duchene’s comments about a return to play, potential playoff formats, possible hub cities, the draft, the lawsuit against the CHL, and play a little word association. Then they are joined by two guests.

Nate Thompson talks about staying mentally strong and surrounding himself with people who support him, playing in Canada versus a non-traditional U.S. market, the meaning of toughness, his time in Seattle with the Thunderbirds, and his thoughts on handshakes, scrums and kissing the Cup. 

Then Shane Doan joins the show to talk about his career, being drafted, almost playing with Jarome Iginla, fighting to keep the Coyotes in Arizona and the growth of the game in the U.S., meeting Auston Matthews for the first time, how he is as a hockey parent and what’s next in his professional journey.

31 Thoughts: The Podcast is presented by GMC Sierra trucks, complete with the World’s-First Six-function Multi-Pro Tailgate. GMC — we are professional grade. www.gmccanada.ca.

Music Outro: Marcos Valle – Summer Samba

Listen to all our Season 3 music on Spotify.

This episode is produced and sound designed by Amil Delic, and hosted by Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman.

Audio Credits: CBC, Fox Sports Ohio, NBC Sports and Sportsnet 590 The FAN.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.