The Jeff Marek Show
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1112 episodes
Jeff kicks off the show with The Athletic’s Shayna Goldman as they recap Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final. They discuss how Connor McDavid has emerged as the favourite for the Conn Smythe, Bill Zito’s emotional reaction to the loss, what to expect in Game 6, and much more. Next up, Sportsnet’s Iain MacIntyre joins the program to discuss the Canucks locking defenceman Filip Hronek up long-term (31:00). Then, Ryan Leslie of Sportsnet stops by to discuss the Flames trading goaltender Jacob Markström to the New Jersey Devils and what the move means for Calgary going forward (50:45). Finally, newly appointed GM of the Carolina Hurricanes, Eric Tulsky chats about his career journey up to this point, what he looks for from his staff, his philosophy in running the Hurricanes, and much more (01:21:00)!
Jeff kicks off the show with St. Louis Blues General Manager and President of Hockey Operations, Doug Armstrong. They discuss the announcement last week regarding the succession plan for the GM job in St. Louis with Alexander Steen set to take over in 2026, before getting into the need for contending teams to have a Selke-calibre player on the roster, the latest on Pavel Buchnevich’s contract talks, the vision for the team going forward, and the Blues' goaltending. Next up, E.J. Hradek of NHL Network chats about the Oilers' hopes against the Panthers in Game 5 tonight and the confidence of each team heading into the contest (17:45). Later, newly appointed Head Coach of the San Jose Sharks, Ryan Warsofsky highlights the people who helped him get to this point, his coaching philosophy, and much more (34:34). Colorado Avalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon wraps up the program with his thoughts on the Avs' 2023-24 season, why Jonathan Drouin fit in so well with the team, how he approaches the off-season, the Stanley Cup Finals, and the international hockey tournaments on the horizon (49:20).
Jeff and Elliotte kick off the show teeing up Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final and what they expect ahead of the opening face-off tonight. They discuss what a Panthers win tonight would demonstrate to other NHL teams, Sergei Bobrovsky’s contract, and how a Cup would impact Aleksander Barkov's legacy. Next, the pair get into Chris Armstrong's role as Utah’s President of Hockey Operations and what's next for team's front office. Later, Jeff and Elliotte look into the NHL buyout window, which is set to open 48 hours after the Stanley Cup is awarded, and sift through potential buyout candidates including Jeff Skinner with the Buffalo Sabres. The duo wrap up today's show with a chat about Ryan Warsofsky taking over behind the bench in San Jose, Pascal Vincent being let go by the Blue Jackets, and who could be the next bench boss in Ohio.
Jeff kicks off the show with Bob Stauffer of Oilers Now as they recap Edmonton's blowout win over the Panthers in Game 4. They discuss the atmosphere at Rogers Place, Kris Knoblauch’s track record in the playoffs in his junior career, and the Oilers' penalty kill overshadowing their elite powerplay. Then, Jeff and Producer Matt Marchese discuss the Oilers' record 50/50 draw, the fallout from the Blue Jackets sweeping the Lightning in 2019, the path back into the series for Edmonton, Connor McDavid’s Conn Smythe chances, and more (17:35). Finally, the ‘Goalie Whisperer' Kevin Woodley joins the program (49:51). They discuss how Edmonton attacked Sergei Bobrovsky in Game 4, the Panthers netminder’s mentality after getting pulled, Stuart Skinner’s outstanding performance, and the future for Anthony Stolarz.
Jeff and Elliotte kick off the show discussing the Oilers' blowout performance in Game 4 to avoid a sweep in the Stanley Cup Finals. They weigh in on Matthew Tkachuk and Sam Bennett not skating at Panthers practice this morning, Connor McDavid breaking Wayne Gretzky’s playoff assist record, and if Sergei Bobrovsky could win the Conn Smythe. Then, the pair get into the records they thought will never be broken, if Evander Kane could return in Game 5, and Shania Twain’s performance in Edmonton. They end things off discussing the news and rumours around the league including the Senators' needs, the latest on Mitch Marner, and much more.
Jeff kicks off the show with Randy Moller of Bally Sports Florida to break down the scenes in Edmonton with Florida on the verge of their first Stanley Cup in franchise history. They discuss how Gustav Forsling fell to Florida on waivers, the comparison between Aleksander Barkov and Anze Kopitar, the lessons that Florida took from last seasons SCF loss to Vegas, and more. Then, the authors of ‘Deal With It: The Trades That Shocked the NHL and Changed Hockey’, Bruce and Evan Dowbiggin discuss how relationships between players and managers have changed over time, the Golden Knights' expansion draft, and much more (17:30). Later on, Utah HC General Manager Bill Armstrong joins the program to discuss the team releasing their temporary name and jerseys for their inaugural season, how ownership has handled the relocation, how the team will prepare for the offseason, how close his team is to contending, and his thoughts on Bill Zito and the Florida Panthers on the verge of a Stanley Cup (47:02). Jeff and Matt end things off discussing Utah’s jersey’s ahead of their first season.
Jeff and Elliotte kick off the show breaking down Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final with Edmonton being pushed to the brink. They discuss Oilers' performance in the loss, if it's time to do something more drastic, the lessons that teams can learn from the Panthers, Paul Maurice’s coaching career, and how the Cats have yet to be threatened throughout the playoffs. Later, the pair get into what they expect from Utah HC heading into the draft and off-season, teams ready to spend big money this summer, Kaapo Kakko’s 1-year contract extension with the Rangers and if his future will be in New York.
Jeff kicks off the show with Andy Strickland of the to discuss the big news out of St. Louis this morning. They discuss the Blues' succession plan for their front office, what Alex Steen brings with his new role, the team's core and their future between the pipes. Then, ESPN NHL rules analyst Dave Jackson joins the program to break down the officiating in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final and break down some of the most controversial whistles (19:40). The former NHL referee weighs in on how certain calls on the ice are determined behind the scenes, the lack of supplemental discipline for Leon Draisaitl following his hit on Aleksander Barkov, and how refs handle injuries on the ice. Later, PWHL Toronto forward Natalie Spooner stops by fresh off of being awarded the PWHL’s first MVP award (51:05). They discuss the overwhelming fan support she felt this season, the growth of international hockey, who the next emerging power is in women’s hockey, and the rehab process from her knee injury.
Jeff and Elliotte kick off the show discussing the Panthers' late flight into Edmonton last night, before moving on to the flurry of breaking news around the NHL this morning. They discuss the Blues making changes to the front office including Alexander Steen taking over as general manager in a couple of seasons, and weigh in on if we are entering a new phase of next generation of GM’s in the NHL. Later, they discuss the Sharks naming Ryan Warsofsky as their next head coach, Patrik Laine and the Blue Jackets working on a trade, and where he might end up. Jeff and Elliotte wrap up discussing the Hurricanes' plan to lock up Jaccob Slavin to a long-term extension, the latest on Mitch Marner and the Golden Knights, the latest from Oilers practice, and much more.
Jeff kicks off the show with Erin Ambrose, fresh off being named the first Defender of the Year in the PWHL. They discuss how her game has evolved since being the last recipient of the award in the CWHL, before getting into how she's adapted to the travel schedule of the PWHL, her injuries throughout the season, her goals for the next, how she expects the team to look in 2025, and her apparel collaboration with CCM. Later on, 2024 PWHL first overall pick Sarah Fillier joins the show (17:10). They discuss her thought process leading up to the PWHL draft and if she knew beforehand when her name would be called, who she knows on PWHL New York, her preparation for her rookie season as a pro athlete, and much more!
Live from Oilers practice, ESPN's Greg Wyshynski joins Jeff to discuss Darnell Nurse not being on the ice today, the Minnesota Wild’s jersey rumours, and the Oilers' performance over the first two games of the series. Next, the pair weigh in on Edmonton being in a similar situation to that of Florida in the SCF last year, the mood in the Panthers' locker room, if Sergei Bobrovsky is a Hall of Famer and why a Stanley Cup is all that stands in his way. Later, they get into Cap Friendly being purchased by the Washington Capitals, the Sabres presence in the SCF, Jim Nill being named GM of the Year, and much more!
Jeff and Elliotte kick things off discussing the reactions around the hockey world on the Capitals purchasing Cap Friendly. Then, they discuss the Panthers electing to stay in Florida for another day, the decision not to fine Leon Draisaitl following his hit on Aleksander Barkov, what to expect from the limping Oilers in Game 3, and more. Next, they circle back to Cap Friendly and break down Caps GM Brian MacLellan’s statement on his team's acquisition of the website, if other organizations knew this was coming, and if we can expect other clubs to purchase similar sites. The pair wrap up discussing Jake Guentzel’s name being linked to the Vancouver Canucks, the latest on Jacob Markström, and more.
Jeff kicks off the show with Shayna Goldman of The Athletic as they discuss the scrappy affair in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final last night including Aleksander Barkov’s injury, Aaron Ekblad’s WWE style headlock on Evan Bouchard, and the officiating in the contest. Later, the pair weigh in on how the Panthers defended against the Oilers' superstars, Cap Friendly, Eric Tulsky set to become the GM of the Hurricanes, and the PWHL Draft. Next up, Jason Gregor, host of stops by to discuss if there will be a suspension or a fine for Leon Draisaitl following his hit on Barkov, along with his other takeaways from the Oilers' first two Stanley Cup Final games (32:37). Later, Producer Matt Marchese joins the conversation to share Paul Maurice’s update on Barkov, Jim Nill winning the GM of the Year Award, and some rumours from around the NHL (49:45). Former NHL defenceman Jeff Chychrun wraps up the program with his thoughts on the Panthers' 2-0 lead over the Oilers, some of the memorable opponents from his own career, how the Cats' style of play has frustrated the Oilers, Gustav Forsling’s game, and his son’s NHL journey (01:22:00).
Jeff and Matt Marchese kick things off discussing Wayne Gretzky’s comments on the Sportsnet panel on Saturday night surrounding Aleksander Barkov being the best defensive forward in the NHL since Bryan Trottier. Later, the pair tee up Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final, before Sportsnet's Jason Bukala joins the show to recap the NHL Combine (17:40). Jeff and Jason discuss what he would look for when interviewing prospects, his takeaways at the combine, if Maklin Celebrini will return to school next year, the elite defensive prospects set to be picked high in the first round, expectations for Artyom Levshunov, and if there is a "Russian factor" this year. Later on, former NHL President, GM, and Head Coach, Doug MacLean looks back on his time coaching the Panthers to their first Stanley Cup Finals and his memories from that Cup run, before sharing more stories from his days in Florida (48:05).
Jeff and Elliotte kick things off recapping Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals and what to expect heading into Game 2 tonight. They discuss Sergei Bobrovsky’s Game 1 performance, his practice routine, how he has changed the narrative surrounding his game since his start in Philly, and more. Then, they discuss Elliotte’s report surrounding the salary cap website Cap Friendly, set to be purchased by the Washington Capitals. Later on, they discuss the rumours around the NHL starting to heat up surrounding the Hurricanes, John Tavares, and if there will be movement at the draft.
Matt Marchese kicks off the show with Scott Laughlin of Sirius XM NHL Radio as they tee up tomorrow’s Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals. They discuss media day, the size of the Oilers' championship window, what we need to see from Aleksander Barkov and Connor McDavid, and much more. Then, Mark Spector joins the show to discuss expectations for McDavid in his first Cup Final, Darnell Nurse’s defensive responsibilities, and how to get the most from Stuart Skinner (31:50). Later on, host of Jonathan Davis joins the show to discuss what to expect from the Panthers in the second consecutive Cup Finals appearance, how they have changed their game since last year, underrated x-factors from both the Oilers and Panthers, and more (49:56). Finally, Matt shares the latest from the Panthers at NHL Media day and breaks down some of the biggest news and notes around the league (01:25:41).
Matt Marchese kicks off the show with former NHL defenceman and current NHL Network analyst, Jason Demers. They discus his time playing with Aleksander Barkov and his training regiment, tee up the matchup between Connor McDavid and Barkov, and share how the Panthers are a different team then they were last year. Later, the pair get into discuss Aaron Ekblad’s growth over time and how he has developed his defensive abilities, before reflecting on his time playing with Joe Pavelski. Then, Sportsnet 650's Thomas Drance joins the show to discuss the coaching changes in Vancouver, the Sedin twins’ new roles in the organization, Jaroslav Svejkovský’s promotion behind the bench, what it will take to keep Filip Hronek with the Canucks, and more (29:37).
Jeff and Matt Marchese discuss some off-the-radar picks for which players could end up in unexpected spots on July 1st. They discuss other underrated factors that influence decisions for free agents including when players have children who play high level hockey. Then, Jackie Redmond of NHL Network and TNT joins the show to break down her predictions for the Stanley Cup Finals, before getting into the breakout performances in the playoffs and what to expect from each side's special teams units (16:24).
Jeff and ESPN's Greg Wyshynski kick off the show discussing the Oilers' keys to success in the Stanley Cup Finals against the Panthers. The pair weigh in on why reaching a Cup final with Edmonton is vindication for Ken Holland, the goaltending in the series, Leon Draisaitl’s future with the Oilers, and more. Later, they debate who will be the last man standing from the legendary 2003 NHL Entry Draft, if Joe Pavelski is a Hall of Famer, where he ranks amongst American born players, and what the summer has in store for the Dallas Stars.
Jeff and Elliotte kick off the show discussing Joe Pavelski’s career after hinting that he is likely going to retire. The pair look into who will be the last man standing from the 2002 and 2003 NHL Drafts, before throwing around some potential landing spots for pending UFA Jake Guentzel. Later, Jeff and Elliotte get into what the Sharks and Blackhawks will do to surround their young centers with elite talent, how the Rangers will approach Igor Shesterkin's contract negotiations, and what rookie Matt Rempe needs to work on this off-season. They wrap up today's episode with thoughts on the Hurricanes' plan for Martin Nečas, along with which teams have the assets that the team desires.
Jeff kicks off the show with Saginaw Spirit General Manager Dave Drinkell fresh off of a Memorial Cup victory! They discuss the key players he brought in to help Saginaw win the Cup, how ownership spared no expense to help the team host the event, the impact of being the first American OHL team to win the championship, and much more. Then, the first ever captain of the Florida Panthers and two-time Stanley Cup winner, Brian Skrudland joins the program (17:33). He reflects upon some of the most memorable stories from his career, his experience leading the Panthers to their first ever Cup final in franchise history, and the team’s impact on the Florida community. Later, they get into his time in the Panthers front office when they drafted Alex Barkov second overall, along with his time with the Habs, and more. Finally, Matt Marchese joins Jeff to go over their favourite Stanley Cup Finals memories, before reading your answers to today's Question of the Day (50:10)!
Jeff and Elliotte kick off the program discussing their favourite Stanley Cup Final memories. Then, they break down the latest coaching news around the league including Toronto’s search for Craig Berube’s staff, Nashville’s prospective bench, and where they expect some key assistants to end up. Later, the pair dive into the big name free agent defenders that could be on their way to Utah this off-season, what is next for Jacob Trouba and the Rangers, and what Igor Shesterkin’s next contract might look like. Jeff and Elliotte end things off discussing if the Stars can hang onto Chris Tanev, as well as if the veteran defender wants to stay in Dallas.
Jeff and Elliotte kick off the show breaking down how the Edmonton Oilers were able to overcome their abysmal start to the season and advance to the Stanley Cup Finals. They discuss what changed under Kris Knoblauch after Jay Woodcroft was dismissed, if the Rangers “gifted” Knoblauch to the Oilers, how the Oilers transformed their defensive game, and the group's special teams effort. Then, they discuss if we saw the last of Joe Pavelski in the NHL, before moving on to how the Oilers stack up against the Florida Panthers. They discuss Skinner’s play throughout the postseason, the Cats' defence, and much more!
Jeff kicks off the show with former Edmonton Oiler and current Sportsnet analyst, Luke Gazdic, as they discuss the Oilers advancing to the Stanley Cup Finals, Kris Knoblauch’s calculated tactics, how the ice time has been split, the best game of Stuart Skinner’s career, the Star's performance in the playoffs and what's next for the team following their conference finals loss. Then, Florida Panthers General Manager Bill Zito stops by to discuss the moves he made to build the Panthers into contenders, the roster’s similarities to the 2011 Cup-winning Bruins squad, and much more (30:30). Later on, Vince Mercogliano of USA Today joins the program to chat about his time covering Kris Knoblauch in Hartford, what Igor Shesterkin’s next contract will look like, Kaapo Kakko and Jacob Trouba’s future in New York, and what's ahead for the Rangers this summer (49:47).
Jeff kicks off the show with Brian Lawton of NHL Network as they recap last night’s Game 5 between Florida and New York. They take a behind the scenes look at how the Panthers organization operates on all fronts, before discussing the pressures of being drafted first overall and what's behind Alexis Lafrenière's breakout this season. Then, Matt Marchese joins the conversation to chat about the optimism surrounding Chris Tanev's availability tonight, the media being a important medium for former players who want to get into coaching or management, and potential names for Utah's NHL franchise (32:02). Later, NHL Network's Mike Kelly shares his analytic project on Wayne Gretzky at the Canada Cup, highlighting the dominance of the Smythe Division in the 80’s and Gretzky’s knowledge of goaltending, before diving into the the Stanley Cup Playoffs and what the numbers say about Evan Bouchard (49:56). Former first overall draft pick and Panthers analyst Ed Jovanovski wraps up today's program with his takeaways from last night’s big win for the Panthers, along with why Bill Zito’s squad blooms in the playoffs, Anton Lundell’s development, and how the Panthers can retain their pending free agents (01:20:40).
Jeff Marek and Shayna Goldman of The Athletic kick things off discussing their takeaways from last night’s Game 4 between the Stars and Oilers, Darnell Nurse’s bounce back, and Evan Bouchard’s elite play throughout the playoffs. Later on, they recap last night’s first ever PWHL Final which saw Minnesota beat Boston in Game 5! Then, newly appointed President, General Manager and Alternate Governor of the Columbus Blue Jackets, Don Waddell joins the program (32:21). They discuss his decision to join Columbus, his draft philosophy, what we can expect Rick Nash’s role to be going forward, and the players he tried to pry out of Columbus while managing in Carolina. Next up, after capturing the Walter Cup last night, PWHL Minnesota GM Natalie Darwitz looks back on her team's ‘brief’ win in Game 4, how important first overall pick Taylor Heise has been for the team, and the Sophie Jacques trade (50:09). Later on, Jeff and Matt Marchese discuss the broader impact the PWHL's growth will have on women's hockey, the future between the pipes in Columbus, the Oilers' play short-handed, and Kris Knoblauch’s tactics behind the bench (01:19:20). Jeff concludes today's episode reflecting on the life and legacy of legendary FAN590 personality and radio programmer, Bob Mackowycz Sr.
Jeff kicks off the show with Senior Vice President of the PWHL, Jayna Hefford! The pair discuss the league's groundbreaking inaugural season, tonight's Game 5 with the Walter Cup set to be handed out for the first time, Alina Muller’s rise to stardom, what’s next for the PWHL, potential expansion, and more! Then, Alison Lukan of ROOT SPORTS joins the show to discuss the Kraken announcing Dan Bylsma as their new head coach, her takeaways from his introductory press conference, and if we should expect a promotion for Jessica Campbell with Coachella Valley (17:20). Next, Matt Marchese checks in to reflect upon some legendary fights from previous decades, before Curtis Pashelka of Bay Area News Group stops by(45:08)! He weighs in on the Sharks signing top prospect Will Smith to an entry-level contract, if San Jose winning the first overall pick helped influence Smith’s decision to turn pro, and what else we can expect from Mike Grier this off-season. Jeff and Matt wrap up today's program debating the pros and cons of both Smith and Macklin Celebrini joining the Sharks next season, along with Darnell Nurse’s ‘sour’ media scrum today.
Jeff kicks off the show with ESPN's Greg Wyshynski with a recap of last night’s Game 4 between the Rangers and Panthers including why fans felt robbed of a penalty shot in overtime. Next, they discuss whether or not Darnell Nurse will play tonight and how he has looked throughout the series, along with what makes Edmonton such a “maddening” team to watch. Later, the pair share their takeaways from the Devils' press conference yesterday announcing Sheldon Keefe as their new head coach, before looking at some of the other candidates the team spoke too, the expectations for New Jersey's new bench boss and if his style of coaching will mesh with the established core.
Jeff kicks off the show with Sportsnet’s Sam Cosentino to discuss the Memorial Cup in Saginaw. They discuss what it means for Moose Jaw to make it to Saginaw, NHL Draft eligible prospects to keep an eye out for, if London is the favourite, and Michael Misa’s play, before getting into the 2024 NHL Draft and who Chicago will take after trading up to the second overall pick. Then, fresh off of his introductory press conference, New Jersey Devils Head Coach Sheldon Keefe joins the program (19:32)! They discuss how the Devils job opportunity came to be, if he considered taking some time away from coaching, his use of analytics and how he prepares for games, the in-demand players within the Devils' roster, and his experience coaching the Maple Leafs. Later on, Matt Marchese joins the conversation to discuss what to expect from Keefe in New Jersey with the Devils' plethora of young talent (52:30). Jeff and Matt also go over what the Predators have targeted in potential trades, the big moves the Kings have made in recent years, last night's Western Conference Final and what to expect in Game 4 between the Rangers and Panthers.
Jeff and Elliotte kick things off breaking down last night’s whirlwind Game 3 between the Stars and Oilers. They discuss return of Roope Hintz and Adam Henrique to their respective lineups, Jason Robertson’s hat trick, Stuart Skinner’s performance, and much more. Next, the pair weigh in on some of the big coaching news around hockey including Dan Bylsma set to be introduced as the new head coach of the Kraken, if Jessica Campbell could take over as head coach in Coachella Valley, and the Devils officially introducing Sheldon Keefe. They end things off teeing up Game 4 in the Eastern Conference Finals.
