Matt Marchese and Mike Futa drop the puck on this episode of The FAN Hockey Show recapping all the action from Tuesday night in the NHL, before getting into Jaccob Slavin's place among the league's best blue liners. ESPN's Arda Ocal (28:48) joins the conversation to discuss the need for a defensive defenceman award, how Brad Marchand fits with the Panthers, and which team has improved the most following the trade deadline. Sportsnet's Anna Dua (50:05) shares her take on the NHL's most improved squad, before diving into the playoff picture and the best rivalries in the league. John Mitchell (01:19:55), former NHLer and current Altitude TV analyst, wrap up today's show discussing the state of the Avalanche post-deadline, how the new pieces mesh with the lineup, and Nathan MacKinnon's influence in the room.

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.