Jeff and Elliotte get back into their home studios for a marathon episode covering all sorts of topics after a couple of podcast-free weeks. They discuss the new NHL CBA, the negotiation process, what a flat cap will mean for teams across the league and recent COVID-19 comments by Jonathan Toews.

Then they shift to what’s happening with the Canadiens, whether this is the last chance for the current iteration of the Flames, the Canucks’ complicated off-season, how some coaches could be no-shows for the playoffs and the addition of “unfit to play” to the NHL’s injury jargon.

And then the fun continues with two guests. Penguins GM Jim Rutherford discusses how his team is feeling ahead of training camp and its matchup with Montreal, the CBA impact, adding personalities to the locker room and if he’ll be in Toronto for the re-start. And new Devils coach Lindy Ruff talks about how his coaching style has evolved, being the first coach hired via Zoom, getting to know his players digitally, ping pong, TikTok and more.

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: Stuck On Planet Earth – Ghosts On The Radio

Check out their debut record “Beautiful Nowhere” on all streaming platforms: https://www.stuckonplanetearth.com/

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

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.