Aaron Ekblad has been suspended 20 games for violating performance-enhancing substance rules, admitting he took something for injury recovery without consulting the Panthers' medical staff. The suspension means he'll miss Florida’s first two playoff games. Meanwhile, Brad Marchand met the media in full Panthers gear—something that still looks strange after his long career in Boston. He’s about a week or two away from returning from injury. In Ottawa, a revitalized Dylan Cozens is making an impact with his new team, scoring a game-winner against Detroit. The Columbus Blue Jackets, overcoming early-season tragedy, are writing an incredible story by pushing for the playoffs behind a high-scoring offence, though goaltending remains a concern. The Oilers’ inconsistency was on display in a loss to Buffalo, as their play lacks the spark needed to separate from opponents. In Toronto, Mitch Marner’s shootout winner helped the Leafs stay in the division race, but his contract situation remains a cloud over the team. Marner refused to waive his no-trade clause at the deadline, and his camp seems intent on testing free agency, which could backfire.

Then in Ask Ray & Dregs Anything, would Ray want to be an NHL GM at the trade deadline, the impact of major roster changes on chemistry, and the value of playing an entire career with one team.

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Big moves at the deadline: Mikko Rantanen heads to the Dallas Stars with an 8-year extension, Colorado loads up with Brock Nelson, Charlie Coyle, and Ryan Lindgren, and Winnipeg adds grit with Schenn and Tanev. The Oilers spend Evander Kane’s cap space, the Leafs strategically bolster their roster, and the Bruins embrace a rebuild. Vancouver stands pat on Brock Boeser, while Ottawa shakes things up by swapping Josh Norris for Dylan Cozens. Plenty to unpack as teams gear up for the playoff push!

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Chris Johnston joins Darren Dreger and Ryan Rishaug to check in on Canada’s NHL teams with the NHL Trade Deadline only 3 days away. From the Canucks' search for a speedy centre to Calgary’s trade deadline uncertainty, we break down each team’s outlook. The Oilers wait on Evander Kane’s injury status, Winnipeg eyes defensive upgrades, and the Senators push for a long-awaited playoff berth. Montreal’s hot streak creates tough decisions, while the Leafs weigh their options—big splash or smaller moves?

Plus, in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything we look at the Rantanen situation, rumblings out of Buffalo and who might surprise us on Friday!

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Quinn Hughes made a late return for the Canucks against LA and assisted on Conor Garland’s OT winner despite limited minutes. Vancouver and Calgary are expected to be combatants down the stretch for the final wildcard spot. The Kings’ OT point keeps them close to Edmonton, who are struggling and could need upgrades in all three phases before the trade deadline. Winnipeg extended their winning streak to 11 games with a scrappy win in Ottawa, showing signs of an elite team. Meanwhile, Seth Jones’ comments about Chicago’s struggles raise questions - with the contract he signed likely the biggest factor he remains on the team.

Then, we interview Ottawa Senators Heac Coach Travis Green to discuss overcoming injuries and early-season struggles to climb into playoff contention. A playoff berth is within reach... but the team has much loftier goals.

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The Winnipeg Jets continue to soar as Mark Scheifele’s OT winner cements his place atop the franchise's all-time goal-scoring list, while the Capitals mirror their consistency with Ovechkin netting a hat trick against the Oilers—now just 13 goals away from passing Gretzky. With the trade deadline looming, Seth Jones buzz is heating up, with Dallas and Florida in the mix as Chicago looks for roster players over picks. The Bruins face a delicate “retool” as they hover on the playoff fringe, while the Leafs appear all-in, targeting Brayden Schenn and/or Scott Laughton in a wide-open Eastern Conference race.

Also in this episode... Ask Ray and Dregs Anything!

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Connor McDavid sealed Canada’s 4-Nations victory with a thrilling overtime winner, drawing instant comparisons to Crosby’s 2010 Golden Goal—a poetic passing of the torch. Mitch Marner rose to the occasion, Jordan Binnington silenced critics and Nate MacKinnon earned MVP honours, showcasing his elite skating and scoring ability. Marchand’s postgame jab hinted at pregame bulletin-board material, likely fueled by the Tkachuk brothers’ comments. Young defensemen Thomas Harley and Jake Sanderson shined under pressure, making strong cases for Olympic roster spots. Meanwhile, injuries to key players could have lasting NHL implications, highlighting why teams remain cautious about international tournaments. And with the NHL Trade Deadline approaching, speculation swirls around the futures of Brayden Schenn and even Binnington—whose stock has certainly risen in the past 2 weeks.

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USA vs. Canada in the 4-Nations Face-Off championship is set for an intense rematch, but Team USA faces key health concerns: Charlie McAvoy is out, a major loss for their transition game, while Auston Matthews should suit up despite missing the Sweden game. The Tkachuk brothers, always the emotional core of Team USA, are unlikely to miss the final. Winning twice against the same team in international play is tough, but the teams are so close, the result could come down to a single break, miscue or save. USA seems to hold the edge in goal with Hellebuyck’s consistency over Binnington. Canada struggled late vs. Finland, some missed details highlighted just how small the margins will be in the final. Roster construction was naturally re-evaluated by fans and media after the physicality on Saturday; Tom Wilson or Hyman might have helped with the heavy lifting. Chemistry matters, and Canada seems to have found something with Stone and Point alongside McDavid. And then there’s Sidney Crosby—his clutch performance, capped with an emphatic celebration, reinforces his international legacy just as Jon Cooper stated.

In Ask Ray and Dregs Anything we talk about 4-Nations rule tweaks, Elias Petterssons's quiet tournament and Ray's rough stuff with his brothers-in-law.

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Sidney Crosby stole the show in the 4 Nations Face-Off opener on Wednesday evening with a three-point performance, earning praise from Jon Cooper and fellow players. His presence alone was impactful, but his play on the ice went above and beyond. Mitch Marner had a strong game, though his chemistry with Connor McDavid wasn’t seamless—both are puck carriers, so time will tell if they can click. Shea Theodore’s injury raises questions about defensive pairings, with Ray expecting Travis Sanheim to slot in alongside Drew Doughty. In net, Binnington allowed a questionable goal but redeemed himself with key saves late. Does he start Canada's 2nd game as well?

Then, TNT Analyst Darren Pang joins the fellas to discuss the incredible atmosphere in Montreal, Canada's dominant first 20 and some thoughts on the goaltenders.

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Crosby in, Quinn Hughes out. Doughty replaces Pietrangelo. Plenty of factors at play when it comes to players having to make these difficult decisions. Ray believes it will be an intense, competitive tournament, especially with an Olympic year looming. The Capitals, second in the NHL, should benefit from a full-team break, avoiding injury risks. Meanwhile, Leon Draisaitl’s scoring pace raises the question—can he hit 60 goals? Ray believes it’s within reach.

Plus, in Ask Ray and Dregs Anything: the Calder Trophy race heats up, speculation on Brock Boeser's future and getting the giggles while on the air.

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Four Nations face-off is just around the corner and potential injury replacements are top of mind as the status of Sidney Crosby, Quinn Hughes and others are unknown. NHL action continues through Sunday and injury replacements must be named by Monday, but Alex Pietrangelo’s spot remains open, with Kings brass pushing for Drew Doughty. Trade chatter is expected to heat up post-tournament, with Boston and St. Louis falling out of the playoff race—Brad Marchand and Brayden Schenn are rumoured trade candidates. Brock Nelson could also be on the move if the Islanders, despite recent success, decide to capitalize on interest, especially with Mathew Barzal injured. Meanwhile, Marcus Pettersson’s extension in Vancouver solidifies their blue line, adding to a strong defensive core under Jim Rutherford’s leadership.

Then, "Iron" Mike Keenan joins us to discuss writing his new book, trading Savard for Chelios as a young executive and divvying up minutes amongst a superstar-laden team for the '87 Canada Cup.

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