NHL Wraparound Podcast

The Human Side of the Story discusses the career and life of Neil Armstrong, father of guest of the show, Blues President of Hockey Operations, Doug Armstrong.

Neil Smith and Vic Morren welcome St. Louis Blues President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Doug Armstrong to the show marking the return of weekly recordings and influential guests in the hockey world.

Other topics covered in the show include re-visiting the contract of Edmonton Oilers star Leon Draisaitl, the extension signed in Pittsburgh signed by captain Sidney Crosby, a couple of key injuries suffered by defensemen during the pre-season and Neil's "Burning Questions" from each division with the 2024-25 season fast approaching.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [03:22] - Neil and Doug Armstrong share stories about Doug's father, Hall-of-Fame linesman and, later, Montreal Canadiens scout, Neil Armstrong.
• [07:02] - A discussion on the offer sheets which lured Philip Broberg and forward Dylan Holloway from the Edmonton Oilers.
• [14:48] - The expectations of head coach Drew Bannister entering his first full season behind the Blues bench.
• [16:15] - Armstrong shares thoughts on how his Cup-winning coach Craig Berube will fare with a very different type of team in Toronto.
• [18:45] - With key defenseman Torey Krug likely to miss the entire season, Armstrong speaks about bolstering his backline - in particular the signing of Ryan Suter.
• [20:55] - After extending for two more seasons in his current duel roles, Armstrong talks about turning over the reigns to Alex Steen.
• [26:32] - Clarity on the Leon Draisaitl extention in Edmonton with Connor McDavid having two seasons remaining on his deal before becoming a UFA.
• [28:40] - Sidney Crosby extends in Pittsburgh leaving money on the table in order to give the club the opportunity to add stronger support players.
• [30:58] - Injury news on defensemen Ryan Lindgren (NYR) and Drew Doughty (LA).
• [34:17] - The contract saga of Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman.
• [37:24] - The New Jersey Devils have made notable changes behind the bench, in goal and on their blue line. How will it all mesh?
• [39:45] - A look at how the Nashville Predators profile has changed with the signings of Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault and Brady Skjei.
• [41:37] - Thoughts on potential impact on the Vancouver Canucks with number one goalie Thatcher Demko still recovering from a knee that has been nagging him since taking place in the opening game of the 2024 playoffs against Nashville.

[46:02] The Human Side of the Story discusses the career and life of Neil Armstrong, father of guest of the show, Blues President of Hockey Operations, Doug Armstrong.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• As he winds down his GM career with the St. Louis Blues, Doug Armstrong speaks about the construction of his team with Drew Bannister behind the bench for his first full season. Armstrong also shares why Alex Steen is the right man as his successor.
• Contracts, contract disputes, injuries and "Four Burning Questions" highlight an array of topics addressed as the 2024-25 season nears.

RESOURCE LINKS 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

#StLouisBlues #DougArmstrong #NeilArmstrongHockey #NHL #OfferSheets #PhilipBroberg #DylanHolloway #CraigBerube #DrewBannister #ToreyKrug #RyanSuter #AlexSteen #LeonDraistaitl #ConnorMcDavid #DarnellNurse #EvanBouchard #Edmonton Oilers #SidneyCrosby #KyleDubas #Pittsburgh Penguins #RyanLindgren #NYRangers #DrewDoughty #JeremySwayman #LinusUllmark #NewJersey Devils #Sheldon Keefe #JackHughes #DougieHamilton #NashvillePredators #StevenStamkos #JonathanMarchessault #BradySkjei #FilipForsberg #VancouverCanucks #ThatcherDemko #ArtursSilovs #NHLWraparound #NeilSmith #VicMorren

The Human Side of the Story discusses the the support of the hockey community in light of the Gaudreau tragedy. Neil provides his own personal perspective.

Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss the tragic passings of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau in a biking incident prior to Labor Day weekend. The show opens on this solemn note and concludes by noting how the hockey community supports its own in time of tragedy.

The body of the show focuses on Neil's most improved teams during the off-season heading into the 2024-25 campaign. While some teams are obvious based on the discussions in the "Summer Cooler" series, others may take some listeners and viewers by surprise.

Another key point of discussion notes Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl re-signing with the club for an NHL-record $14 million per season for eight years effective 2025-2026. Conversely, with Connor McDavid's deal expiring in two years, is GM Stan Bowman boxed into a similar corner back to his days in Chicago when Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews occupied almost a third of the Blackhawks salary cap?

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [0:56] - Opening thoughts on the passing of Columbus Blue Jackets star Johnny Gaudreau and this brother Matthew
• [2:35] - Neil's most improved team during the off-season - The Nashville Predators
• [4:10] - Second on the list: the New Jersey Devils
• [6:00] - The Vancouver Canucks have replaced a couple of important players and are primed to contend in the West
• [8:10] - Two offer sheets change the outlook for the St. Louis Blues
• [10:10] - The Chicago Blackhawks additions have given reasons for optimism in the Windy City
• [11:53] - The Utah Hockey Club has bolstered their defense after their move from the desert and earn an honorable mention
• [13:25] - Leon Draisaitl is under contract through 2032-33. However, with Connor McDavid's deal ending in two years, are the Oilers committing too much of their salary cap to two players?

[17:45] The Human Side of the Story discusses the the support of the hockey community in light of the Gaudreau tragedy. Neil provides his own personal perspective.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Hockey is no stranger to unexpected loss. The loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau has left a hole in the hockey community heading into training camp.
• Several teams stand out to Neil as having improved the most during the season in relation to how they finished 2023-24.
• One superstar is locked up long-term in Edmonton but with a Connor McDavid deal coming up, are the Oilers going to begin leaving themselves short when it comes to spending on the supporting cast?

RESOURCE LINKS 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss the Pacific Division, offering a detailed analysis of each team's offseason moves, challenges, and prospects for the upcoming NHL season. From the dominant Edmonton Oilers to the rebuilding San Jose Sharks, they discuss player signings, coaching changes, and the overall landscape of the division. 

The episode covers all eight teams in the Pacific Division: Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks, Los Angeles Kings, Vegas Golden Knights, Calgary Flames, Seattle Kraken, Anaheim Ducks, and San Jose Sharks. The episode also highlights key player movements, the impact of injuries, and the potential for each team to make a playoff run.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [01:39] - Discussion on Edmonton Oilers' offseason moves and key player departures, key player additions and salary cap challenges
• [9:47] - Vancouver Canucks' offseason analysis and their potential for the upcoming season
• [16:15] - Breakdown of the LA Kings’ offseason changes and expectations for the season
• [23:36] - Discussion on Vegas Golden Knights' roster challenges and injury impact
• [28:48] - Calgary Flames' rebuild process and key player signings
• [34:04] - Seattle Kraken’s new coaching staff and chances of playoff contention
• [43:27] - San Jose Sharks' outlook with new head coach Ryan Warsofsky and the arrival of top prospect Malcolm Celebrini

[48:36] Human Side of Coaching in the Pacific Division

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• The Oilers face significant challenges managing their salary cap while retaining star players like Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid.
• The Canucks are one of the most complete teams in the Pacific Division, but their success hinges on their goaltending situation.
• The Golden Knights might struggle this season due to key losses and salary cap constraints, despite their strong core players.
• The Sharks are in full rebuild mode, with the focus on the development of their young star, Malcolm Celebrini, under a new head coach.

RESOURCE LINKS 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

SPONSORSHIP:

GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparound

At Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary results.

Hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren analyze the Central Division's eight teams, covering key offseason moves, signings, and prospects for the upcoming season. They discuss the Dallas Stars' aging roster, the Winnipeg Jets' challenges after significant player departures, and the Colorado Avalanche's defensive uncertainties. The Nashville Predators' bold signings under GM Barry Trotz are highlighted, alongside the St. Louis Blues' surprising offer sheet acquisitions. The Minnesota Wild's salary cap struggles, the Utah Hockey Club's fresh start, and the Chicago Blackhawks' rebuilding efforts are also examined, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the division. Additionally, the hosts share a heartfelt segment on the "Human Side of the Story," reflecting on Joe Pavelski's retirement and his impactful career in the NHL.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [01:35] - Dallas Stars: Analysis of the Stars' offseason moves and challenges with an aging roster
• [04:15] - Peter DeBoer's Playoff Woes: Discussion on DeBoer’s postseason struggles and the potential closing window for the Stars
• [09:07] - Winnipeg Jets Offseason changes and the challenges of maintaining competitiveness
• [18:20] - Colorado Avalanche Key signings and the impact of Gabriel Landeskog’s potential return
• [23:04] - Nashville Predators Barry Trotz’s bold offseason moves and the team’s outlook
• [31:46] - St. Louis Blues Surprising offseason acquisitions and the team’s playoff aspirations
• [37:20] - Minnesota Wild Challenges with salary cap constraints and limited offseason activity
• [45:40] - Utah Hockey Club the new team on the block and their potential to shake things up in the Central Division
• [45:45] - Chicago Blackhawks rebuilding process and the impact of new signings on the team’s future
• [49:44] - Human Side of the Story on Joe Pavelski's retirement and his impactful career

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• The Stars face a pivotal season with a roster that is getting older. Key players like Joe Pavelski have retired, and the team needs to find a balance between veteran experience and young talent.
• Barry Trotz is making his mark as GM with aggressive signings, including Steven Stamkos, signaling that the Predators are serious about contending in the upcoming season.
• The Blues made several unexpected moves, including offer sheets to Edmonton players, signaling their intention to return to playoff contention.
• With new signings and the continued development of Connor Bedard, the Blackhawks are looking to move past their rebuilding phase and become competitive again.

RESOURCE LINKS 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

SPONSORSHIP:

GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparound

At Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary results.

The Human Side of the story on the recently retired NHL star Joe Pavelski. The episode highlights Pavelski's impressive career, despite being drafted in the seventh round. The hosts reflect on his journey from the USHL to becoming a standout player for the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars. They discuss his potential candidacy for the Hockey Hall of Fame, emphasizing his leadership, toughness, and exceptional skill in deflecting pucks. The episode also features a segment on Peter DeBoer's remarkable Game 7 coaching record. 

Sponsored by the Game 7 Group, the episode wraps up with listener engagement details and a teaser for the upcoming Pacific Division analysis.

TIMESTAMP:

• [00:50] Discussion on Peter DeBoer's Game 7 Record (8-0)
• [01:30] Introduction to Joe Pavelski's Career
• [02:05] Joe Pavelski's Early Career and Draft Details
• [03:00] Pavelski's Time with the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars
• [03:30] Career Stats: 1,332 Games, 1,068 Points
• [03:45] Analysis of Pavelski's Playing Style and Leadership
• [04:30] Reflection on Pavelski's Potential Hall of Fame Induction
• [04:50] Vic Morren on Pavelski's Toughness and Puck Deflection Skills
• [05:00] Closing Remarks and Tribute to Joe Pavelski's Career
• [05:10] Thanks to Game 7 Group for Sponsorship

SPONSOR:

GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparound

At Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary results.

This Human Side of the Story focuses on the lasting legacy of the Patrick family in the NHL, from Lester Patrick's early contributions to Chris Patrick's current role as GM of the Washington Capitals. Neil and Vic explore how this family's influence has spanned over a century and discuss the potential for future successes under Chris Patrick. The episode ends with a teaser for the next discussion on the Central Division.

Timestamps:

• [01:05] - Introduction to the Human Side of the Story segment, sponsored by Game 7 Group.
• [02:00] - Overview of the Patrick family's legacy in the NHL.
• [03:35] - Discussion on Chris Patrick's potential as the next Stanley Cup-winning GM.
• [04:20] - Episode conclusion and preview of the next episode on the Central Division.

RESOURCE LINKS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

SPONSORSHIP:

GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparound

At Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary results.

Neil Smith and Vic Morren dissect the Metropolitan Division, analyzing team performances, key signings, and future prospects for the New York Rangers, Carolina Hurricanes, New York Islanders, Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, New Jersey Devils, and Columbus Blue Jackets.

Highlights include discussions on team strategies, player trades, and how off-season activities might impact the upcoming season. The episode also touches on team-building strategies and the legacy of the Patrick family in the NHL. The hosts end the segment with a look ahead to their discussion on the Central Division in the next episode.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [00:37] Summer Cooler Series: Metropolitan Division Overview
• [02:28] New York Rangers Offseason Moves and Challenges
• [09:42] Carolina Hurricanes Roster Changes and Prospects
• [13:57] New York Islanders Struggles and Signings
• [19:35] Washington Capitals Confounding Moves and Future Outlook
• [27:34] Pittsburgh Penguins Aging Roster and Dubious Decisions
• [31:24] Pittsburgh Penguins A Season of Uncertainty
• [32:55] Jake Guentzel's Trade Fallout
• [33:45] Sidney Crosby's Future with the Penguins
• [35:46] Philadelphia Flyers Rebuilding Phase
• [38:35] John Tortorella's Impact on the Flyers
• [43:06] New Jersey Devils Offseason Moves and Expectations
• [47:58] Columbus Blue Jackets Struggles and Changes
• [56:50] The Patrick Family Legacy in the NHL
• [59:05] Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• The Rangers face internal challenges with team chemistry and leadership following the loss of key players and potential unrest with captain Jacob Trouba.
• Carolina's goaltending remains a significant question mark, and the loss of key defensemen could impact their playoff chances.
• The Washington Capitals seem stuck between a rebuild and competing to support Alex Ovechkin's quest to break the goal-scoring record.
• The New Jersey Devils are poised for a significant bounce-back season with strong off-season acquisitions and new leadership under coach Sheldon Keefe.

RESOURCE LINKS 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

SPONSORSHIP:

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GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparound

At Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary results.

 #NHL #Hockey #Podcast #Sports #Broadcasting #StanleyCup #Coaching #Media #Management #ESPN #TNT #Playoffs #Championships #NeilSmith #VicMorren #CarolinaHurricanes #ColumbusBlueJackets #NewJerseyDevils #NewYorkIslanders #NewYorkRangers #PhiladelphiaFlyers #PittsburghPenguins #WashingtonCapitals #LesterPatrick #FrankPatrick #Craig Patrick #Dick Patrick #Muzz Patrick, #Lynn Patrick #Chris Patrick

This episode of the Human Side of the Story pays tribute to recently passed hockey community members, including Ottawa Senators assistant coach Bob Jones, NHL Hall of Famer Borje Salming, and former Calgary Flames assistant GM Chris Snow, all of whom passed away due to ALS. Tune in to stay informed and updated on NHL action, and don’t forget to subscribe.

• [00:00] Introduction to NHL Wraparound Podcast
• [00:35] Game7 Group: Building Winning Teams
• [02:01] Tribute to Bob Jones and Other Hockey Legends
• [04:10] Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

RESOURCE LINKS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

NHL Wraparound Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

NHL Wraparound Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

NHL Wraparound Facebook::https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

SPONSORSHIP:

GAME 7 GROUP- www.gamesevengroup.com/nhlwraparound

At Game Seven Group, we specialize in transforming individuals into cohesive teams through our team-building events, coaching, and speaking. We believe every team has the potential to achieve extraordinary results.