Heart. Grit. Perseverance. And playing every game like it could be your last.

On Episode 30 of The Mask & The Mic, Guy Hebert and Kent French welcome NHL veteran and former Anaheim Duck Sam Carrick for a conversation about what it truly takes to build—and sustain—a career in professional hockey.

Drafted in the fifth round by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2010, Sam reflects on the unforgettable experience of being selected by the team he grew up cheering for. But as his career progressed, he came to an important realization: if he wanted longevity in the NHL, he couldn't take a single day for granted. He had to approach every practice, every shift, and every opportunity like it might be his last.

That mentality would come to define his career.

Sam looks back on joining the Anaheim Ducks organization in 2017 and spending parts of eight seasons battling between the NHL and AHL with the Ducks and San Diego Gulls. He discusses the perseverance required to keep earning opportunities, his breakthrough 2021-22 season, and why signing a new two-year contract didn't mean he could finally take his foot off the gas.

He also reflects on the influence of Dallas Eakins, who coached Sam at multiple stops throughout his career and played an important role in his development as both a player and professional.

The conversation then turns to Sam's 2024 trade to the Edmonton Oilers, where he experienced the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time—and rode that opportunity all the way to the Stanley Cup Final. Sam shares what playoff hockey feels like from inside the locker room and what it's like playing alongside one of the greatest players in the game, Connor McDavid.

But an NHL career isn't lived by the player alone. Sam opens up about moving from city to city with his wife and three young boys, the sacrifices a hockey family makes behind the scenes, and the mentality required to remain an NHL player through trades, roster battles, and constant uncertainty.

After 14 years of professional hockey and nearly 400 NHL games, Sam is beginning his latest chapter with the Buffalo Sabres following a trade from the New York Rangers in March 2026. Now settled in Buffalo, he's balancing preparation for his first full season with the Sabres with another important role—hockey dad.

And finally, we head off the ice and into the Canadian woods.

Sam shares the story behind Carrick Brothers Maple, the family maple syrup business he operates with his three brothers. What began as a childhood tradition of tapping trees with their grandfather has grown into a thriving operation in South Algonquin, Ontario, with more than 46,000 taps producing maple syrup, maple water, maple cream, granulated maple sugar, and more.

From NHL locker rooms and the Stanley Cup Final to family, fatherhood, and the maple farm, Sam Carrick's story is ultimately about something much bigger than hockey:

Showing up. Doing the work. And earning your opportunity every single day.

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More than 2,000 NHL penalty minutes. One unforgettable nickname. And plenty of stories from the original Mighty Ducks.

On Episode 29 of The Mask & The Mic, Guy Hebert and Kent French welcome Guy's former Mighty Ducks of Anaheim teammate Stu Grimson, better known throughout the hockey world as “The Grim Reaper.”

Stu takes us back to the beginning of his professional career and the realization in the minor leagues that fighting—and his willingness to protect his teammates—might be his path to the NHL. He shares the story behind “The Grim Reaper” nickname, what it meant to embrace the role of an NHL enforcer, and the pride he took in knowing his teammates appreciated having him on their side.

Then Guy and Stu head down memory lane to the inaugural 1993-94 Mighty Ducks season. They reminisce about former teammates, life as employees of Disney, some of the unusual perks that came with it, and those unforgettable Mighty Ducks photo shoots—including dressing as pirates and posing aboard a pirate ship at Disneyland.

But there was also a very real price that came with being one of the NHL's most feared enforcers. Stu opens up about some of the toughest fights of his career, the opponents who tested him the most, the injuries he suffered, and the physical toll that years of fighting ultimately took on his body.

The guys also revisit the memorable 2001 Foundation for a Better Life commercial that showed hockey fans a very different side of “The Grim Reaper,” and Stu reflects on telling his full story in his memoir, The Grim Reaper: The Life and Career of a Reluctant Warrior.

It's a conversation filled with laughs, honesty, Mighty Ducks nostalgia, and a fascinating look inside one of hockey's most demanding roles—from the man who lived it.

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The NHL salary cap is going up—but so are the salaries of the league's biggest stars. How are teams supposed to fit everyone under the same cap?

On Episode 28 of The Mask & The Mic, Guy Hebert and Kent French take a closer look at the growing list of NHL Restricted Free Agents still waiting for new contracts, including Anaheim Ducks forward Cutter Gauthier.

With the NHL salary cap increasing this season and again next year, the guys discuss how the changing financial landscape is impacting roster construction across the league. Macklin Celebrini's new $18.8 million annual contract has reset the ceiling for the NHL's elite players, and Guy and Kent explore what that means for General Managers trying to keep multiple young stars together. For the Ducks, the challenge is particularly important as they work to fit Gauthier's next contract alongside Leo Carlsson's massive new deal.

The conversation then moves to baseball as Kent gives Guy a behind-the-scenes look at his recent stretch of double duty with the Angels, working both reporting and hosting responsibilities during a home series against the Texas Rangers. Kent describes what it's like watching a Major League Baseball game from the camera well and shares some of the unique perspectives that come with working so close to the action.

Then comes KISS Night at the Big A! The Angels are welcoming KISS legends Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley for a special celebration commemorating the 50th anniversary of KISS performing at Anaheim Stadium. The guys discuss the KISS-themed entertainment, fireworks, giveaways—and, naturally, whether Kent might get the opportunity to interview the rock legends and whether he should show up dressed for the occasion.

And finally, Guy does what Guy does best: talks golf.

This time, he's heading to Sherwood Country Club to play alongside auction winners from the Ducks Alumni Golf Tournament. Guy shares what it's like playing with fans who bid for the opportunity to tee it up with a former NHL goaltender and what makes these alumni golf events so much fun.

From NHL contracts and salary-cap strategy to baseball, KISS, and golf, Episode 28 is another wide-ranging conversation from The Mask & The Mic.

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What do Newport Harbor, the PGA Tour, the MLB Trade Deadline, and Ted Lasso have in common?

On Episode 27 of The Mask & The Mic, Guy Hebert and Kent French cast a wide net across the sports world—and even brainstorm a fun new idea for the future of the podcast. Could a future episode be filmed aboard a boat while cruising Newport Harbor? The guys discuss the possibility of taking The Mask & The Mic on location for a truly unique setting.

The conversation then turns to the PGA Tour as Guy catches Kent up on everything happening in the world of golf. They recap the Rocket Classic, discuss what happened to fan favorites like Rickie Fowler and Jordan Spieth, and look at the emergence of golf's next generation of stars. With the Wyndham Championship serving as the final event of the PGA Tour regular season, the guys explain what's at stake for players trying to qualify for the FedEx Cup Playoffs. They also spotlight Southern California native Jake Knapp, his impressive season, and where he currently sits in the FedEx Cup standings.

The discussion expands into why golf has become the sport of choice for so many professional athletes, musicians, actors, and business leaders. Guy and Kent share the story of actor Tom Holland hitting balls alongside Rory McIlroy and how even one of Hollywood's biggest stars couldn't help but marvel at the incredible skill of a world-class golfer.

Next, the focus shifts to Major League Baseball following one of the most significant trade deadlines in recent Angels history. The Los Angeles Angels took an aggressive approach, trading seven players and acquiring nine prospects in return. Guy and Kent break down the organization's dramatic philosophical shift, discuss several of the key prospects now entering the system, and examine what interim General Manager John Mozeliak's vision could mean for the franchise moving forward. They also tackle one of the biggest questions facing the organization: Where does Mike Trout fit into the Angels' future, and can the club build a winner around one of the greatest players of his generation?

To close the show, the guys revisit their excitement for the premiere of Ted Lasso Season 4 and laugh about the summer blockbuster movies they still haven't gotten around to seeing.

From golf and baseball to television and future podcast adventures, Episode 27 is another fun, wide-ranging conversation you won't want to miss.

🎙️ Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

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From blockbuster NHL contracts and MLB trade rumors to the return of one of television's most beloved shows, Episode 26 of The Mask & The Mic covers it all.

Guy Hebert and Kent French begin with breaking NHL news as San Jose Sharks superstar Macklin Celebrini signs a five-year extension worth an average annual value of $18.8 million, making him the NHL's highest-paid player when the contract takes effect. Coming just weeks after Leo Carlsson's historic offer sheet with the Anaheim Ducks, the guys discuss how the market for elite young talent has changed almost overnight and what it means for teams trying to build championship-caliber rosters under the salary cap.

The conversation continues with Connor Bedard's new five-year contract, Jason Robertson's surprising decision to remain with the Dallas Stars on a one-year deal rather than accept a long-term offer elsewhere, and what all of these contracts could mean for the Ducks as they work toward signing another cornerstone player in Cutter Gauthier.

Next, the focus shifts to Major League Baseball with the trade deadline rapidly approaching. Will the Los Angeles Angels buy, sell, or stand pat? Guy and Kent discuss the organization's options, the value of players drawing league-wide interest, and what the future could hold for Mike Trout as the franchise looks toward the next chapter.

To wrap things up, the guys step away from the playing field and into the world of entertainment with the return of Ted Lasso. As longtime fans who once dressed as Ted Lasso and Coach Beard for Halloween—and even appeared on set as the iconic duo—Guy and Kent share their excitement for Season 4, reflect on why the series has resonated with so many people, and explain why they're ready to "BELIEVE" once again.

From hockey contracts and baseball strategy to one of television's most inspiring shows, Episode 26 is another wide-ranging conversation that blends insight, perspective, and plenty of fun along the way.

🎧 Watch the full episode here on YouTube.

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🎙️ The Mask & The Mic Podcast | Episode 25 | Bobby Valentine

Few people in sports have lived a career as colorful, accomplished, and fascinating as Bobby Valentine.

On Episode 25 of The Mask & The Mic, Guy Hebert and Kent French welcome the legendary manager, broadcaster, author, entrepreneur, and recent inductee into the New York Mets Hall of Fame for a conversation that spans decades of baseball history—and far beyond.

Bobby begins by reflecting on what his induction into the Mets Hall of Fame means to him before taking us back to one of the most emotional periods in sports history. As manager of the New York Mets following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Bobby shares what it was like leading a clubhouse, helping players navigate unimaginable emotions, and representing a city searching for hope. He also recounts the unforgettable night President George W. Bush delivered the ceremonial first pitch when baseball returned to New York—a moment that remains one of the most iconic in American sports.

The stories continue as Bobby reflects on managing Hall of Famer Nolan Ryan, being in the dugout for one of Ryan's legendary no-hitters, and the lasting influence of Dodgers icon Tommy Lasorda, whose leadership style forever changed Bobby's perspective on managing people.

The conversation then takes a lighter turn as Bobby shares the story of meeting Frank Sinatra for the first time, discusses life beyond baseball, and even answers one of the most entertaining questions of the episode: Did he really invent the wrap sandwich?

As only Bobby Valentine can, the conversation moves effortlessly from baseball history to leadership, culture, food, music, and unforgettable stories from one of the most remarkable careers in sports.

If you love baseball, leadership, history, or simply great storytelling, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

🎧 Watch the full episode here on YouTube.

🎙️ Also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

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🎙️ The Mask & The Mic Podcast | Episode 24

The Anaheim Ducks made their decision...now the real work begins.

On Episode 24 of The Mask & The Mic, Guy Hebert and Kent French react to one of the biggest stories of the NHL offseason as the Anaheim Ducks officially matched the Philadelphia Flyers' five-year, $90 million offer sheet for restricted free agent Leo Carlsson.

What does this decision mean for the future of the franchise?

Guy and Kent break down why the Ducks chose to match the historic contract, what it means to make Leo Carlsson the NHL's highest-paid player, and the expectations that now come with wearing that distinction. They also discuss the next major priority for General Manager Pat Verbeek—signing fellow restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier—and how the Ducks can build the rest of the roster with limited salary cap flexibility.

With opportunities opening throughout the lineup, the conversation turns to Anaheim's highly regarded prospect pool and which young players could be ready to make the jump to the NHL. 

The guys also examine what comes next for the Philadelphia Flyers after their aggressive offer sheet strategy. With former Ducks Trevor Zegras and Jamie Drysdale now headed to salary arbitration, how much has the Carlsson contract changed the negotiating landscape around the league?

The discussion then shifts to the FIFA World Cup, where the action on the pitch has been matched by the incredible passion of fans from around the globe. Guy and Kent explore how the tournament continues to elevate soccer's popularity in the United States and what the long-term impact could be after the final whistle.

To close the episode, the focus turns to baseball. The Los Angeles Angels selected Huntington Beach High School standout Jared Grindlinger in the MLB Draft, adding one of the country's top two-way prospects to the organization. 

The guys also celebrate Mike Trout's selection to his 12th MLB All-Star Game and discuss what it will mean for the future Hall of Famer to play this year's Midsummer Classic just 45 minutes from his hometown of Millville, New Jersey.

From blockbuster NHL contracts and roster building to international soccer and baseball's next generation, Episode 24 covers another exciting week across the sports world.

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One signature. One week. A decision that could reshape the future of the Anaheim Ducks—and perhaps the NHL.

On Episode 23 of The Mask & The Mic, Guy Hebert and Kent French take an in-depth, objective look at one of the biggest stories of the NHL offseason: restricted free agent Leo Carlsson's blockbuster offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers.

The five-year contract carries an average annual value of $18 million, making Carlsson the highest-paid player in the NHL should the deal become official. Now the Anaheim Ducks have seven days to make one of the most important decisions in franchise history: match the offer and commit to their young franchise center, or decline and receive four first-round draft picks as compensation.

Guy and Kent break down every angle of the situation—from the salary cap implications and roster construction to what matching the contract could mean for the Ducks' ability to sign another cornerstone player, Cutter Gauthier.

The story also carries another fascinating layer. Gauthier was originally drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers before requesting a trade and ultimately landing in Anaheim. Is this offer sheet simply business, or is there more to the story? The guys discuss why offer sheets remain one of the NHL's rarest management tools, why this case is different, and whether it could change how teams negotiate contracts with elite young talent going forward.

Drawing on their decades covering and working within the NHL, Guy and Kent examine the situation through the eyes of players, management, and the league itself—offering thoughtful analysis rather than speculation.

No matter what decision Anaheim ultimately makes, the ripple effects could be felt throughout the NHL for years to come.

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The NHL offseason is officially underway, and for the Anaheim Ducks, the future may have changed in just a few days.

On Episode 22 of The Mask & The Mic, Guy Hebert and Kent French break down one of the busiest weeks on the NHL calendar — the 2026 NHL Draft and the opening of free agency.

The conversation begins with a fascinating draft weekend for the Anaheim Ducks. Entering the draft with six selections and no first-round pick, Ducks General Manager Pat Verbeek orchestrated a series of moves that left Anaheim with nine total selections, including two first-round picks. Guy and Kent analyze the trades involving Owen Zellweger and Mason McTavish, discuss the prospects acquired, and examine the long-term vision Verbeek appears to be building.

The guys also take a closer look at several of Anaheim's newest draft picks and discuss which prospects could make an impact at the NHL level sooner rather than later.

With NHL Free Agency opening on July 1st, the focus shifts to improving the roster for another playoff run. Guy and Kent discuss potential free-agent targets, whether the Ducks should instead explore the trade market, and could a player like reigning Norris Trophy winner Zach Werenski be available.

The episode also tackles one of the biggest leadership questions facing the organization. With captain Radko Gudas' rights traded to the Florida Panthers, the Ducks will soon need a new captain. Guy shares firsthand insight into what wearing the "C" truly means in the NHL, the responsibilities that come with leading a locker room, and the qualities the Ducks should be looking for in their next captain.

From draft strategy and roster construction to leadership and free agency, Episode 22 takes you inside one of the most important weeks of the NHL offseason.

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What does it take to win a Stanley Cup? And what happens after the final horn sounds?

On Episode 21 of The Mask & The Mic, Guy Hebert and Kent French welcome former Anaheim Ducks forward Travis Moen, a key member of the Ducks' 2007 Stanley Cup Championship team.

Joining the show from his hometown of Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Travis reflects on one of the most memorable seasons in Anaheim Ducks history. He takes us behind the scenes of the 2007 championship run, sharing stories from the locker room, memories from the playoffs, and what made that team so special.

Travis discusses the leadership styles of Ducks legends Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne, and why the shutdown line he formed alongside Samuel Pahlsson and Rob Niedermayer became such an important piece of the Ducks' championship formula. From shutting down the opposition's top players to contributing timely offense, the trio earned a reputation as one of the most reliable lines in hockey.

Beyond the Stanley Cup memories, Travis opens up about life after hockey. Today, he is a farmer, business owner, hockey instructor, and family man. He talks about running Swift Hockey Co., teaching the next generation of players, and the lessons he learned during his NHL career that continue to shape the way he coaches young athletes—including his son, Carter.

This episode is filled with great hockey stories, leadership lessons, championship memories, and insight into what it means to build a meaningful life after professional sports.

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