Could the NHL really be heading back to Atlanta? In this edition of 32 Thoughts, Jeff and Elliotte expand on that question as an ownership group led by former NHLer Anson Carter has filed a request with the league for a third crack at professional hockey in the state of Georgia. Jeff and Elliotte then delve into the suddenly hot playoff races (16:25) and discuss why no team seems to want that second WC spot in the East (23:20). Next, how differently would the Sabres season have gone if they rolled with Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen from the start, and the early returns on the Bowen Byram trade are looking terrific (26:17). Later, the Calgary Flames might look to reduce Jacob Markstrom's workload (38:40) and Elliotte provides an update on the futures of Filip Hronek and Tyler Myers with the Vancouver Canucks (41:59). Finally, Jeff and Elliotte talk about the Flames signing Hunter Brzustewicz to a rare ELC for a third-round draft pick (47:53).

The guys answer your questions in the Montana’s Thought Line (55:39) and the fellas revisit Jeff's interview with Josh Ho-Sang who is returning to professional hockey in North America.

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This podcast was produced and mixed by Dominic Sramaty and hosted by Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman.

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