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Shoot the Puck
Winter Classic Recap, World Juniors, and Hockey Headlines
Join us on Shoot the Puck for an ice-cold episode! We're breaking down the Winter Classic highlights, dissecting the epic moments and unforgettable plays.
Update on the World Junior Championships – Team USA going for gold, and the emerging stars poised to make a mark in the NHL.
In the hot seat: Potential cities to host the 2025 Winter Classic. Explore the contenders, their hockey heritage, and what each city brings to the grand stage.
Witness the Edmonton Oilers' rebound and the factors driving their resurgence. Plus, a close look at Alex Ovechkin's pursuit of the all-time goal-scoring record. Can he make history?
Subscribe now to Shoot the Puck for your weekly hockey fix and stay ahead of the puck talk! 🎧🏒 #WinterClassic #WorldJuniors #OilersRebound #OvechkinWatch #ShootThePuck #HockeyTalk 🚨🔊
another solid winter classic. The game just seems to be growing out there and it's good to see the expansion markets that obviously the last two being las Vegas and Seattle, they really seem to, you know, have hockey in their blood out there. Hey everybody. Welcome back to this week's edition of Shoot the Puck, back from the holiday Break, Christmas, new Year's. We've got a new lease on life fresh and ready to go for 2024. Ready to rock and roll again. As usual, I'm your host, pat. Welcome back if you've been here before. If this is your first time, thanks for joining. Thanks for tuning in. Welcome, and uh, as always, uh, the brother Matt on the other end of the mic. Matthew, how are you my friend? After your refreshing holiday, I.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Howdy. Howdy, sir. How we doing? Yeah, it's uh, it's nice man. You know, bringing in the new year, watched the Winter Classic yesterday, so that was a good way to start off the new year. Um, but yeah, got through the holidays, like you said. Now everybody's back to business and, uh, you know, new Year's resolutions and starting off the New Year strong. So, yeah, that's what we're doing. Hockey strong baby.
Track 1:Here we are. Yep. Hockey Strong. Always loved the New Year. The, uh, winter Classic, starting off 2024 or the new year, I should say. Uh, with a bang. Uh, so this one was no different, although I didn't get to watch any of it. I was traveling with the fam. Um, I did not get to watch any, I saw some highlights and, uh, it looked pretty rocking. Uh, Matt you said you watched a little bit of before we hit record here, so, um, it looked pretty rocking. Seattle held up as the host city, so, uh, and it was a Seattle, uh, it was a cracking wind. Three, nothing. So I bet that was cool.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah, definitely. I was, uh, I was watching pretty much of it. Um, I was floating in between, I had both Dual screens going on with some college football.'cause a lot of bowl games were on yesterday, So I was uh, you know, flipping between both of those. But yeah, watched most of it. Um, I did watch the entrance. That was cool. Um, you know, being up in Seattle and they kind of had the outside of it look like wood, so I. Kind of resemblance. I mean, my take on it anyway was like an old pirate ship. I guess you want to, you know what I mean? Since like Seattle, Kraken, that whole kind of thing. And then they were throwing Fish like how they do up, how they do up in the Seattle market. They were throwing fish from one side in between the players as they were walking through the ice. So walking to the ice, uh, and oh my God, it was hilarious, but it was, uh, yeah, it was pretty neat to see and it was a cool, you know, really cool atmosphere and weather held out. Um, I think they said there was, you know, from what I was hearing, a little bit of glare, you know, at times and goalies were kind of having a hard time, uh, at certain points with the sun. But, um, but I think everything else worked out pretty well, so, yeah, looked like a great time and, uh, it was a good game.
Track 1:Yeah. So yeah, so always, uh, always a good time with the winter classics. So three, like I said, three, nothing shutout. So that was, uh, very interesting. And, uh, seems like the
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yep. First ever.
Track 1:are kind of on their, on the heels a little bit. They're on a little bit of the snide. That was, uh, they, yeah, they came out guns are blazing and they've kind of cooled off here in the last, uh, last couple of
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:last couple games. Yeah.
Track 1:yeah. Yeah, very, uh, very interesting. Um, just a couple of notes. It looks like it was the fifth, uh, shutout in the NHL outdoor game Space slash history, um, which I think is roughly 40 games. You know, in that time period. so um, so that was always, uh, always good to see there. Um, it looks like it was, oh, I wanna say, I think I saw a number. It's like 47,000 people, so that was, uh, kind of crazy. Or just over 40 to 7,000 people. So obviously played at the stadium where the Seattle Mariners play up there in, uh, obviously Seattle. Um,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Seattle. Yep.
Track 1:That's always good. Uh, retract, uh, the retractable roof was open 46 degrees, like you said. Some sun issues, but nothing too crazy. Um, you know, no rain, anything like that. So it, it seemed like a really decent, uh, weather game, um, for, you know, for the classics. So, cracking, uh, on a little bit of a upswing here, 15, 14, and nine. The last, uh, you know, as they're in their record and, um, You know, they've won five games, including an overtime win against My Flyers this past friday. So, uh, so they
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. Five game win streak, nine point streak.
Track 1:Yeah. Seven oh and two in their last nine games. So can't, uh, can't be too, uh, too sad about that. What's the goalie's name? Uh, for, uh, for Seattle. Um,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Uh, joey Dior.
Track 1:Thank you, So that was crazy. 35 saves in a shutout guy was just a monster.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:yeah. He looked good.
Track 1:monster. So, um.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. If he look good.
Track 1:Yeah, he did. He really looked good. So took over for Philip Grau after Grau has that lower body injury on the 10th. So, uh, and they're basically rocking and rolling. So new, uh, new attendees got, uh, got a little bit of life in the cracking up there. But, uh, I did, uh, I did enjoy the whole entrance with the fish thing. That was really cool. That was a neat, uh, a neat little touch. So. Um, and like I said, the Golden knight's kind of a little bit on the slide. They lost five of the last, uh, six, so that's very, uh, interesting to see how they responded.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. A little bit of trouble.
Track 1:kind of on the Schneider a little bit. So yeah, always good. Uh, love the jerseys. I thought the jerseys were great. Um, I wasn't too sure about the jerseys going into'em, but I really I really like the Kraken jerseys. They seem a little. They had a little bit more flair to'em and it was,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. Yeah.
Track 1:So I always liked the custom jerseys that, uh, some of these special games bring out. So always, uh, always liked that kind of stuff. So I dunno. Matt, you have any notes on that or any kind of, uh, thoughts?
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Um, yeah, like I said, it was just a really neat atmosphere up in Seattle. And, um, yeah, Joey Decor, he looked real good yesterday and Seattle from what I was watching yesterday. They just looked like a step ahead of Vegas the whole time. Like Vegas could never really You know what I mean? Like kind of catch up with them. They were just like always a step behind and it looked a little sluggish and yeah, they're having some trouble right now. And, um, coming off that uh, Stanley Cup, now they're kind of, you know, slumping a little bit like you said, you know, lost what, five outta the last six. So, you know, who knows, maybe trade deadlines coming up. Maybe they'll try and make some moves, um, coming up. Or maybe they're just, you know, having a little bit of mid-season, you know, quarter slump and, uh, they'll get back into it now after the New Year's is done. Maybe they'll change up some schemes or, you know what I mean, whatever, and figure it out. I also did see, uh, uh, back to Joey Decor. I saw that he had, um, a really cool, uh, mask. Did you see it, pat? It was a base. He had like baseball Mariners, like legends, baseball cards, yeah. And he had like, somehow mangled in and it like really turned out to be really neat. But yeah, I thought that was pretty cool when I saw that.
Track 1:That was cool. That looked really cool. Um, but yeah I always liked the, anything custom is up my alley because I, that, that stuff is so cool to me. So I really appreciate any of the customization if you will, of anything, uh, that goes, uh, you know, against the grain, you know, if you will. So that was, um, that was awesome. So, yep. T-Mobile Park, obviously. Um, You know, a big win up there for that whole stadium and the city and you know, that sort of thing. So really, uh, really good times. It looked pretty cool. So that kind of got me thinking. I'm, I guess I'm a little curious on, uh, or just a. Kind of fun to think about some, uh, some host sites or where the Winter Classic and, you know, next year's gonna be 2025. So it's, uh, it's an interesting thought to kind of see where things are headed or whatnot. But I'm hearing you have. Like Wrigley Field is a possibility. So out there in Chicago,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Chicago. Yeah. Bedard.
Track 1:the pink, the big team for that is the Black Hawks, obviously. So possibly like a, you know, black hawks and blues, uh, you know, matchup going on there. The other one too would be like Ohio Stadium. So like, you know, Ohio State Bugeyes, where they play out there in Columbus. So possible
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. Columbus. Yeah.
Track 1:you know, blue Jackets being from the home city and some Red Wings maybe. Who knows? We'll see. Um, I think in the mix there, from what I'm, from what I'm reading, um, Uh, out there in Anaheim, the Angel Stadium. So like a ducks versus kings, which I think would be cool'cause they have a decent rivalry. The ducks versus kings out west. I think that would be cool. And, you know, loving all the duck stuff I wear a lot of violin gentlemen stuff, and they're from out Anaheim. Um, so they're at the ducks Games all the time. I follow their Instagram and their Twitter. They're posting all kinds of stuff from in the seats out there. So, uh, shout out to those guys. Half my wardrobe is from violin gentlemen, so always love that stuff. Um. So I, I feel like that would be a good one out there in, uh, out there in Anaheim. Uh, maybe, uh, maybe Spart, right? Spartan Stadium out there. Michigan State, east Lansing, right? So Red wings, like
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Very
Track 1:Rangers, something of that nature. That would be cool. Then you got the big one, right? Met MetLife. Right. So that's an East Rutherford, uh, Rangers, bruins, something of that nature. Um, you know,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. Rangers are hot now last couple years. So the, yeah, that could be huge and Yeah.
Track 1:Yep. Rangers are super high and I don't think these will happen, but they're fun to think about possibilities. So something like Arrowhead Stadium where the chiefs play. So like a blues stars kind of thing. I think that would be cool.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Something like that. Yeah. A little Midwest action. Yeah.
Track 1:And the kind of the granddaddy of'em all football stadium wise, freaking Lambo field. I think that would be so cool. Lambo for like, maybe like a Black Hawks and Red Wings. Um, you know, kind of match up, uh, the out there, that kind of thing. Uh, and then, uh, close to home here, right? Uh, little Brother Beaver Stadium, Penn State. That would be a good one too. Maybe penguins, flyers out in Penn State that'd be wild. So
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah.
Track 1:who
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah, that would be cool. Yeah, there's, yeah, there's decent amount of speculation going on. Um, just from the little bit, you know, tidbits that I read online, um, people are maybe seeing, like you said earlier, pat, like Blue Jackets versus Red Wings. Um, it's the jackets 25th year next year. So Ohio versus Michigan rivalry could, you know, like you said, could kind of piggyback off that. Um, but somebody else was saying here, interesting enough. 2026 is Ranger's Blackhawks, since it's both teams 100th. So they might wait another, you know what I mean, two years for that and have a real big. You know, Bedard gets in a couple years, Rangers are still gonna be hot, I'm sure with all the talent they still have. Um, so that might be interesting. But, um, yeah, Arrowhead, anywhere out Midwest now that they've been kind of toying with that. Like it used to be a very east coast thing right when it first started off. Because obviously I think weather, they were thinking for the majority'cause they didn't wanna take the risk. But I think with all the technology and all the stuff, the crew, that those guys keep that ice so Well, I think the only thing that you have to maybe, you know, is a factor is like when it really rains, like that's the only time that they can't really keep the ice to, you know what I mean? Like to. Too nice. Um, guys are slipping and sliding and then it just becomes a soupy mess. So we saw that years ago in, in, uh, Pittsburgh. So, uh, that's the only thing. But other than that, I think they can have the technology and yeah, those crews do amazing jobs with the ice, so yeah, it could be anywhere, but, um, yeah, it'll be interesting to see. I'm sure they'll announce that within, you know what I mean, the next couple months and we'll see.
Track 1:Yeah, it's very interesting to see, uh, you know, kind of fun to think about, uh, scenarios. So always, uh, always fun to look ahead and see who else, uh, we can give the matchup to and what makes sense to, uh, what makes sense. So, um, yeah, always a good, uh, winter classic. Always have fun, uh, watching that, you know, getting to eat some pork and sauerkraut on New Year's Day as their tradition goes. And then sitting down watching the old hockey game. So
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yes, sir.
Track 1:a always a good time. And another, uh, another solid winter classic. And, uh, the game just seems to be growing out there and it's good to see the expansion markets that obviously the last two being Las Vegas and Seattle, uh, they really seem to, you know, have the, uh, the, you know, the hockey in their blood out there. So it's always, uh, good to see hockey's taken on and, or actually they catch it on and, uh, uh, get some supports. Obviously 47,000 people. So always, uh, always nice to see
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah, it looked packed.
Track 1:It did. It really did.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah it looked, when I was watching, I was like, oh man, there's really not an empty seat in the house. And you know, you never know because Seattle's kind of new and you just don't know how it's gonna be. So I was kind of curious. I'm like, oh, maybe I'll see a couple holes here and there, but I didn't really see many man at all. It was packed and it, that place was bumping, so it was really nice to see.
Track 1:Yeah always cool. So yeah, so always good to see that. And then the other topic we had here was the, uh, give you a little update on the world juniors. So it's been about, uh, well since our last episode dropped, it's been about a week and they've been playing, um. Just about a week, actually. Uh, Tuesday to Tuesday. So we're recording this Tuesday the second. So, uh, they've been playing a week. Looks like the old USFA boys are steamrolling, uh, or at least, uh, you know, the first couple of games that they played, uh, really did, uh,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah.
Track 1:didn't take them long to make, uh, you know, short work out of who they were playing. So, um, always good to see that. Some really interesting Things have come from this particular, uh, uh, tournament, uh, this year around, or I should say this time around, uh, the big one being Canada is out. They lost, they're done, they're going home.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:they're donezo. Take the bus.
Track 1:Done. So, yeah, so that was
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Oh, man. Yeah heartbreaking fashion. How they lost, I don't know if you saw, but it was like 11 seconds left and it was just one of those, like, dude just kind of threw it to the net and it just five hole on the goalie and everybody like looked around and was like, what the hell man? I don't know if he was blocked by one of his own guys and just didn't see it or what, but it was like one of those freak like, you know what I mean? Like. You know, just whippers to the net and you're not really paying attention too fast and there it goes in between your legs. So yeah, it was a heartbreaker for Canada. But, um, yeah, s a's looking pretty good and they're, you know what I mean? They're in the top four, so.
Track 1:Yeah. Yeah. I find that, uh, like I said, I think, I don't think Canada had as strong a team this year as they did in past years. They were looking for the three-peat this year, and they're just not gonna find it, obviously, with them out. So, um, yeah, I don't think they had as strong a team this year as they had. So I think that kind of. kind of showed in this tournament. So, um, it'd be very interesting to see what happens in the next, uh, couple of days here as the US they take on, uh, Finland. I believe it's, is that game? I want to say,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. Uh, the fourth, both games are on
Track 1:Oh, so
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:uh, Sweden versus Yep. Yep. Um, Sweden versus Czechia and, uh, USA versus finland. So those are the, you know, the only four left.
Track 1:Yep. Yeah, that's awesome. So like I say, even though you know, the US is, like I said, kind of run through their competition, Finland's kind of got that like sneaky Sneaky good to'em. They've won two big games a row, um, come, coming into this game. So, um, obviously us, you know, being the powerhouse that they, you know, that they are, uh, they won today against Latvia, I think seven to two. Um, so they're,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yep. Seven, two.
Track 1:The other night, they, I forget who they beat the other night. It was 10 to 10 to two or 10 to one, um, the other night. So they've, they're basically a buzz saw, just, you know, rocking through
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Slovakia, they beat 10 to two. Just steam drove them. Yeah,
Track 1:So that'll be very interesting. So, um, but yeah, I think the Fins have got some decent, you know, players to'em, they play with structure. They're sound from what I've watched. They're, they seem sound, uh, defensively and they're not the biggest guys. They don't throw the body a whole lot, but it works. And, you know, the whole playing the cycle and, you know, board battles, all that kind of stuff, they do those things well. So I'm, uh, it'll be a good game, I think, uh, when that, when you know, when the time comes. So, um, but I think guys like, you know. Ryan Leonard and Gabe Perot and Will Smith and all those guys they really
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:All right.
Track 1:well. Uh, and they're just, again, you know, cutter Guttier is just unbelievable. When you watch him play, you're like, man, that guy's so good. Um, you know, just the depth that these guys have is just insane. The US kind of, I forget who it was. It might've been Slovakia before it got really outta hand, but it, there was a close game in the first period or two. And it really, they had a, uh, the US goalie, I think they have, I think they have three. I'm not sure which one it was. The goalie really had made some massive saves and it, you know, that game could have been 2, 3, 4, nothing. And, you know, the US would've been in panic mode. But, uh, the, um, uh, the goalie had some really good saves. It was really steady back there. So, um, you got some good goal 10 in the right places. And then, you know, it's only a matter of time before, before those guys start to score up front and, you know, kind of. Bring on the load. So, you know, Gavin Brinley was, is, you know, is hot and what's the other guy's name? Oh, the, um, the
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Ty was looking good too. The captain.
Track 1:Yes. Yeah, McGrory,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:looking great too.
Track 1:Um, got a couple goals. Uh, there was a couple hatties the other night in the ten two victory. I forget who had the Hattie. Um.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:well, I'm sure there's a few.
Track 1:Yeah, I think it was Jimmy Snugger. I think that's who it was. It had the Hattie, but the goalie
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Magdy had one that He was one of'em.
Track 1:Yeah. The goalie from the other, uh, match that I mentioned was, uh, Trey Augustine, I mean, from, for a good solid 10 minutes, the guy was standing on his head saving everything. It was just crazy to watch. So, and yes, I was up at 6:00 AM that morning, because my kids were up. So I was like, oh, let me throw this on.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:were watching
Track 1:it was, I was watching and that was cool.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Cool. Yeah, I'm excited to see, um, you know, USA again. Um, but obviously like they, the one game that they had trouble earlier, you know, a couple games back. One of the earlier games was against Czechia and, um, it was ended up being, we won four three in the shootout and, you know, they're one of the teams that are in the four. So, you know, you never know if we beat Finland and they take down Sweden. You know, we could end up seeing them again. Um, but who knows?'cause Sweden looks really good too. Um, I know they kind of snuck in at the last second as well, but they just look solid, man. Like I was watching some of their stuff and they have such a good scheme. And defensively they're just, they're solid. Uh, they don't really You know, they're not really big and strong and they don't come at you super aggressiveness wise, but they're just, man, they're fast and they can get by you in a quick if you don't, if you don't turn your head quick enough. So, that's, uh, you know, and obviously being in Sweden now, I'm sure those fans will, you know, really riled up and pulling for those guys. So, yeah, it'll be an interesting two games here and, uh, yeah, we'll find out Thursday. So see who goes to the championship.
Track 1:Yep. For those, so for those following at home, so Finland and the US they play at, uh, uh, one 30 Eastern Time, uh, here, seven 30 local time there, over there in Sweden. And then the other game is actually Sweden and Cheche like, like Matt, mentioned. So this is actually a rematch of last year's semi-final and Chechnya. they did, I believe it was two, one overtime, uh, they won, uh, out there. So little Swede, uh, revenge, uh, game going on here. So that'd be, uh, that'd be interesting.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:be
Track 1:See who kind of pulls out a nap. But yeah, I think Chet's got a good team and, um, hey, something, you know, things, a couple things, bounce their way and go, right. Uh, who knows? We'll see what, uh, see what that brings. So yeah, always a good game. So that game, Sweden and, um, cheche is 9:00 AM Eastern Time, so 9:00 AM uh, so they're the first one, first game, and then Finland US is the second game at, uh, one 30. So, uh, always,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Awesome.
Track 1:Looking forward, uh, to that. And then, um, yeah, after that, then it's, uh, you know, I find this time after the winter Classic and that sort of dies down in the world juniors, um, you know, dies down then it's really, you know, every point really counts, sort of in the NHL world. Um,'cause you really, you need every point you can.'cause before you know it, you know. The playoffs are here, and you're like, oh man. Like, you know, then it's really a crunch to be like, all right, who's got what, you know, who needs what to get in? How many points? And I need this person, I need this team to lose. And you know, this team's, you know, four points ahead, but the other team's got two games more than they do. It's just, it's a crazy numbers game. And it's a, um, it's really a shoot to the finish kind of thing. So that'll be hot and heavy here in the next couple of weeks.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah, absolutely. Um, especially with in the metro, like we've talked about before, just, you know, in, in our league, in our conference there, um, It's just tough, man. It's so, everybody's just neck and neck. Literally three teams at 40, you know, pit, um, devils Washington. They're all at 40 points. And then you got, you know, Islanders and fourth your flyers and third at 43 a piece, and then Carolina and second with 44 and Rangers at 51. You know, obviously the Rangers being top dog there, but I mean, they just haven't. A shitload of talent. So no surprise there. And they're just, they're looking real good. But yeah, you know, same old Bruins too as well. Top of the league. Florida's still looking good, so it's nice to see them doing well again. Um, obviously Colorado. Um, looks really good. And, uh, how about Edmonton? Man, Edmonton's one, I actually won. I watched that game the other night against the Kings. It went to the, went to a shootout and Edmonton won, and I think that was like their fourth or fifth win in a row. Now all of a sudden and looks like Mc, David's just ripping heaters, man. I mean, he is just Firing and making everything that's thrown in that bat, that net, you know? And, uh, he's looking hot, so I think he's got his boys rolling and I think now into this new year with all that early season trouble that they've had, um, I think he's turning it around. So, yeah. Um, it's gonna be very interesting, like you said, now it's time for trades and, you know, all the GMs to start thinking about their final season moves and seeing if they can get their teams into the playoff spots if they're not already. Um, and make some noise and yeah. See what this second half has to bring.
Track 1:I think it's gonna be madness.'cause there's so much parody in today's league. Like there really isn't a whole lot of like, oh, this team's in a dumpster fire. Like consistently dumpster fire, but yeah, it was only a matter of time before Edmonton kicked it into gear. Like, those guys are too good to. Be this bad for this long. Like there is
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Right.
Track 1:no way, I would've bet a paycheck on it that, you know, that there was no way they were staying down that long or being this bad, um, this long. So it's only a matter of time before they turned it around and got going. I mean, Conor mcd is one of the best players, if not the best player in the world. Uh, there's no way he's It's going through that long
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. Insane.
Track 1:just too good. Speaking of the Oilers, they're playing my flyers, uh, in about 15 minutes. So hoping I can, hoping my boys can get a, uh, get a win and a successful road trip out there. Um, they played, well. They played Edmonton tonight. They played Seattle. They played Calgary the other. Um, the other night. So they through a little western Canada, western US swing at the moment. So, yeah, we'll
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:West trip.
Track 1:what happens. But, uh, yeah, McDavid, dry sidal, I mean, all those guys, they're just too good. I they're definitely on the upswing. And I said that, I think I said this a couple weeks ago on a pod. They're gonna I think they're gonna make the playoffs. I really do. I think they've, once they get hot and they kind of figure it out, man, they're just, they're like, they're like a freaking hot knife through butter. They're gonna just mow everybody down. So, and that, we're starting to see that. So it'd be very interested to see what happens to Edmonton in the next couple of weeks. And M Davis just playing out of his mind. He's on another level and it's just, it's unbelievable. He's just one of my favorite people to watch.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah, him and dry saddle are looking like that one two punch again, man. And they have just been on a tear, um, this last like five, six game stretch. Um, yeah, they're now, they're, you know, back in fifth, 18, 15 and 1 37 points, and they only played 34 games. They're kind of on the lower. And of, uh, everybody else kind of in their conference that are up, you know, like Vegas and Seattle's got like 38 and Ducks in Calgary, 37, 36, you know, so they haven't played as many games. So yeah, if they get a couple more, you know, wins in there and the other guys don't, and yeah, they could keep creeping up those standings in, in that, uh, in that conference. So, yeah, we'll see. But those boys are hot right now. Also who else I really liked? Um, Dallas. I think dallas is kind of with some of the, you know, early season trouble too and all that who, you know, who blah, that they were kind of going through and identity. I feel like they were kind of looking for an identity and, um, yeah, they're sitting in third looking pretty good 2294 and, um. I don't know, man. They're just one of those like gritty teams, you know what I mean? Like nobody really talks about'em too much. And you know, they've kind of been on the back burner and they kind, I feel like people kind of forget about'em in a sense. Um, but now I feel like they're kind of sneaking in and like showing some people and turning some heads and seeing what, you know, They're like, Hey, we're here and we're not going anywhere. We're gonna stick at the top of this pack, just like Colorado and Winnipeg, and, uh, we're gonna be coming for you. So, yeah, it'll be interesting to seeing if they keep rolling, um, and see, uh, what the Western Conference is gonna start looking like.
Track 1:Yeah, I think McDavid gets lost a little bit out there in Edmonton. It's a smaller market. Um, yeah, it is Canada, but it's a smaller Canada market and I, so I think he kind of gets overshadowed, um, out there quite a bit. But like if he was playing in a bigger market, Chicago, Philly, Boston, you know, one of those, you know, uh, Detroit, right. One of those bigger, but he would, the coverage that guy would get, and just the eyeballs that of people that would see him play is just, is unbelievable. But I think he kind of gets a little lost out there in, in Western, you know, Canada and, um, but yeah he's making the best of it. And he's doing what he's doing and the guy he's just so fun to watch. Like, I could watch him, I could watch, even though, I mean Bedard obviously this is his rookie year. I could watch Bedard, that kid is just
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:It is looking great, man.
Track 1:I could watch him
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:been on a terror too.
Track 1:Um, postoc the things Postoc does with the puck is just, I can't even, can't, I, it makes my head spin. That guy is too good. Um, you know, so I could watch those guys literally play hockey all day and be completely satisfied with life. Those guys are just, they are next level. I just insane. So good. There's so much talent in this league right now and some of the talent that's up and coming, like some of you know, the world juniors that we talked about, right? The Gavin, uh, uh, Briley and the, uh, cutter er and the Will Smiths and Ryan Leonards and all those guys. The pipeline is just stacked. It is Unbelievably stacked with talent. So I'm really interested to see what happens in the next couple years as these guys start to get up here in the big boys leagues and just, I mean, everything is like, each class is like one-upping the next class. I mean, think about where what, where we were couple years ago, and then Zegers came into the league out there in Anaheim and he was all kinds of trick plays and like, he's just fun to, you know, it is fun to watch and it's just like Man, like these kids coming up, they're just one's better than the other. And this is so much
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:so much talent.
Track 1:talent. It's unbelievable.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah, absolutely. Um, I think Riss was one of the guys the other night. Last week that didn't he pull off the Michigan goal? Him and Bedard were in the SA in the same night. It was like, holy shit. Yeah. It was like literally like an hour apart. And it was like, I checked on ESPN, it was like another one, two in one night. And I'm like, what? But yeah, two young guys like you, just like you just mentioned, both of'em are just insanely talented and I feel like the kids that are coming up now are just and I'm sure you know, it's just with the times with anything, right? Like technology and just, you know, influences. And you know, these kids are starting at such a young age now because they have the world at their fingertips and they can just watch every video and every favorite player. And you're kind of getting like a combination of like everybody in one, in these new kids that they're so talented, you know what I mean? Like they have a little bit of everybody just because Yeah. But you know, everything's at their, you know, resources. So they're taking that And, you know, in the back alley and you know, up in Canada, these guys got ponds and, you know, dads are building all kinds of crazy stuff for'em. And they're starting off at, you know, probably 6, 7, 8, 9 years old,.So, um, maybe even a little younger, who knows? Um, I'm sure younger. Um, but yeah, it's just insane. And, uh, piggybacking on, you know, talent. The other night when I was watching that, uh, King's Edmonton game and went to the shootout, Edmonton scored. Two times in a row, and the king scored two times in a row. So both goalies were at the other end, like looking at each other. Even the announcers were like, oh my God, everything's going in the night. It was just like dry settle McDavid. And then on the other end it was like Dowdy and those guys were just firing back and forth. It went in like a good, jeez, six, seven minutes before, you know, Edmonton actually ended up winning it, but it was like, man, everything was ripping in the back of the net. And just like you said, man, these young kids coming in are just unbelievable. But man, how hell of a I, I watched Bedard quite a bit lately. All his highlights, um. And just that shot that he has is just wicked, man. I mean, it's just, it's so quick and go always can't even recognize it before. It's just in the back of the net. It's insane. But yeah, what a unique shot. But man, he's gonna be trouble if he keeps playing like this.
Track 1:Yeah it's wild. It's just crazy like I said, there's so much parody out there, there's so much, just so much talent. I can't even explain it. So yeah, I always looking to see what's around the corner and, what's next. And I, and me personally, I like, you know, I like the NHL draft as well. I think I kind of follow that, um, a little more closely than maybe just a regular fan. But I always like the NHL draft to see who's picking who. And you know, the insiders say, Hey, this or You know, and how the draft lottery goes and how those balls, you know, fall, if you will. And you know, the teams and what the strategy goes in. So I, you know, and it's nice to kind of have an idea of who's coming in the pipe and then they get drafted to whatever team, and then you're like, oh yeah, I've been following that player. Or, Hey, I have an idea of who this is and who's not Just a, you know, a, a nameless, faceless, you know, kid getting drafted, you know, in the top 10. Kind of thing. So, uh, always like, uh, that as well. So yeah, some real good hockey coming up here. Boys, uh, last in the, uh, I don't wanna say home stretch, but we're about, uh, you know, about halfway through the season, so, uh, which seems hard to believe'cause it feels like the season just started There we are sort halfway through it,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:All right.
Track 1:You know, kind of getting there almost halfway. Um, so yeah, so very interesting there. So, uh, Matt, you had some tidbits, uh, I think you have on the, uh, on the old list here for your buddy flower power.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah, he played his, uh, thousandth game the other night. Um, which was pretty neat. And he was, uh, you know, he's part of a special club man. Not many have done it. Um, so he joined, uh, Martin Brodo and Luongo and, uh, Patrick Wa as the only goalies in the NHL history to reach the thousandth game mark. And he's actually just, he's right, right behind, uh, Patrick Wa too. He's got 550 wins. Ws got 5 51 for second all time. So he'll be, you know, obviously he's still playing this year so I'm obviously gonna assume he'll get two more wins. Um, and he'll be second all time behind Brodo. And Brodo is up there. He's like almost got 700. So I'm not sure if flower power will catch him. I'm not sure, you know, if it's, this will be his last year. There's some speculation that he might. Right off into the sunset after this. But you know, who knows? Um, uh, but I also did see the other day, uh, some guy, did you see that there was like some kind of, some younger kid or whatever, I guess they played against the other night. He called him old, and then the next day he went and, uh, He was using a cane as his goalie stick
Track 1:I did
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:and he could use, so yeah, you know, you know, flour, he's always such a prankster and he takes everything with, you know, with a grain of salt. So he was just messing around back with it, but he was laughing his ass off. Um, but yeah, good for him, man. Just a world class guy. I, nobody talked about him before, but I always loved him and, uh, yeah. You know what I mean? Not many have, uh, got to the accomplishments that he's gotten to. So it's exciting to see. And, uh, if this is his last season. You know, God bless him and hope he, he has a great retirement, but I would love to see him as long as he's willing to play'cause I love me some flower man. He's a good guy.
Track 1:them. Yep. Always liked them for sure. Uh, and that, that's a hell of a list to be in some company with. I'll tell you that man. Some of those goalies and stuff are just unbelievable. But, um. Always, good to see flower and, um, you know, still doing his thing and, uh, still has a sense of humor about it. So that's always a fun, uh, a fun way to look at things. Anything else Matt?
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. Um, just some, yeah, some other penguin stuff. Uh, Crosby now has 16, 20 plus goal seasons, so he's having a strong year. Again, he's looking real solid and I'm glad to see he's still, you know what I mean? Rolling almost. Jeez. He's up there now too, so, um, it's just amazing what him and like Ovie and some of these other older guys that are still in the league, that they're still playing at such a high Just a high caliber level. It's amazing to see. Um, I know Ovi was, uh, he was on a little bit of a cold streak up until, you know, maybe like last week. I think he ripped in overtime winner, but yeah, it was like 12 games, something like that, that he didn't score. So kind of unusual for him. But I think the caps are going through a little bit of a, you know, little change to trying to bring in younger stuff. So I think he's kind of, you know, obviously he's still gonna shoot the puck like he always does. He rips him. But I think he's kind of just same thing, like tail end of his career, kind of just being there as more of like a mentor and.Trying to get this up and coming caps team rolling with him, you know what I mean? Before he rides off into the sunset too. So we'll see what happens there. And then, uh, yeah, the only other thing I had was, um, Letang, Chris, lat hanger man, the other night, I don't know if you saw against, uh, the Islanders I was flicking through. It was making dinner and I saw the first period was nothing. I'm like, all right. Second period I turn on, it's like six nothing. I'm like, what in the hell? And uh, yeah, it happened first three goals, second period. First three shots actually were three goals. So 1, 2, 3, off, three shots. And then, um, yeah, they just kept steamrolling and I think it was like under eight minutes. I think they scored all six and it was like insane. Insanely fast. And, but yeah. Tanger was, uh, he, uh, first, uh, NHL defenseman in history to record five assists. In one, um, one period. So that was pretty cool. He got, you know, player of the week and you know, he's up there. Five points in a, yeah, five points in a single period with his five assists. So yeah, it was pretty cool to see him still doing his thing too. And so as long as, you know, those guys can stay healthy, penguins are, you know, we talk about it. Up and down right now. Hopefully in this new year they'll get their guys together. I mean they won a couple here off in a row, maybe the last three or so. So, um, actually playing the caps right now, losing four one, unfortunately. So I'll see it's second period still, so we'll see what happens. The rest of that, I'll catch up after we get outta here, but yeah, a couple of those guys, man, a couple of those veterans are still doing the damn thing and hey man, I'll hold on to it as long as they're still willing to
Track 1:Yeah. As uh, yeah, as long as they can do it, hell see what happens. But then there was kind of re circling back to Obie for a second. There was some chatter that, you know, he was kind of having his eyes set on the On the, uh, the all time goals, uh, mark of, um, eight hundred and nine ninety four that, uh, Gretzky's got and, um, I think Ovy is like, he's close. He's got like eight 30 or eight 20 something. So he's super close and I, you know, now, you know, he's in that. A little bit of a drought, uh, here now, but um, yeah, who knows if he'll do it, uh, if he catches the great one or not. Um, but man the watching him kind of chase that and just be insanely good over these last, you know, what seems like a billion years he's been playing, man. It's just fun to watch. It's fun to watch that. It's fun to watch like him and SSID that came into the league at the same time. And there's always that conversation of Who's better, this, that, and the next and blah blah blah. It's just good to watch, you know, the competition go. And I just looking at it from a perspective of Avi's got 800 and some odd goals like that is just
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:8 29.
Track 1:It's bananas.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:just looked it up. He's at, yeah, he's at 8 29 and, uh, Gretzky's at eat 94.
Track 1:go. So he is
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:So
Track 1:some way? Something like that,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:yeah. So I mean, who knows man, if he finishes out the season, even with just, you know, um, you know, he's kind of having like a more average lower season this year so far. Who knows? He could get a hot streak real quick in this second half. You never know with him. So, um, yeah, but, you know, let's just say even if he only finishes with like another 15, 20 or whatever it is, or maybe even a little more, you know, that leaves him, if he plays next year, if he doesn't hang it up. You know, have a 30, 40 goal season, which is very well possible, you know, um, especially with how much he shoots. So.Yeah. And, you know, maybe that's a milestone. I'm sure he's obviously gotta be thinking about it. I mean, how can you not,you're only 60 something goes away from being all the time leader. I mean, that's gotta be floating in your head whether you wanna admit it or not. But, um, yeah, it'll be interesting to see if he, uh, but I haven't really heard too much chatter on retirement or anything. You know, from him as of he's not to my knowledge that he said anything. Um, so yeah, we'll see. And uh, if he does good for him, always respected him. You know, obviously back in those 20 15, 20 16, 20 14, 20 17, you know, that four or five years
Track 1:days.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:battling with, yeah. When we were battling with them and always, you know, a couple years we took them outta the first round when they were for the first seed and it was like, aha. Kind of got you a couple years in a row, but then. Yeah. Then after we won two years in a row, then 2018 they got us and that's the year they won the cup and he brought it home for, you know, the cap. So, um, yeah, it'd be interesting to see you. He's always such a good guy and uh, he's getting a little more gray. You can see it. And he's getting a little bit old man,
Track 1:odd to watch him get gray because you're like, man,
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah,
Track 1:he used to be just this young, you know, this young guy and just score goes at will. And now he like comes out there and it's like, man, who's the gray guy? Like, it's so
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. Old man winter coming out there, man.
Track 1:It's so weird. But, um.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yep.
Track 1:No. Always good Yeah I'm really interested to see if he can chase it and, uh, if he can get there and if he can, man, what a heck of a career. First, first ballot Hall of fame. No, no doubt. No doubt about it.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Oh yeah. Yeah. Not no brainer there. Yeah.
Track 1:brainer. Absolutely no brainer. So we'll see what happens. And, uh, you kind of see if he, a, he can get there and b, if he can kind of will the caps to, um, you know, to have a little more bite and be competitive and see where they land.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah. Yeah, absolutely. They've been kind of, uh, getting a little bit of the groove back and still sticking in, you know, middle of the pack and in the metro too. Um. Yeah, they're tied with, you know, a couple other teams like I mentioned earlier. So yeah, o be, I'm sure he will get his guys going. Second half, you know, veteran and leader, he is. So, you know, it'll be interesting to see what they do coming up in here in the next few months.
Track 1:For sure. Yep, for sure. So, uh, that was kind of it. Uh, some world junior talk some winter classic stuff, what we liked and you know, is that good for Seattle and the expansion team to see some, see hockey alive and well out there in the, uh, the Pacific Northwest. So just some tidbits I, you know, back and forth and, uh, some league chatter. So, uh, that was kind, it. That's all I had. Matt, do you have anything else?
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah, no, that was pretty much about it. Yeah. Just, you know, thanks for everybody tuning in again and, uh, you know, getting off the new year and as we keep, you know, steamrolling this thing along, trying to get, you know, in more Yeah. Information and just shooting the shit with people and keeping it, you know, people updated and hopefully, you know. More eyes and more ears. We'll tune in and, uh, yeah, we can keep bringing some good stuff in hockey news to the people. But yeah, it'll be interesting to see what USA does here in two days. Hopefully they'll squeeze into that final and bring one home for the boys and the juniors. And then, uh, yeah, a lot of games on tonight. 13 games on tonight. 13 games on Thursday. Um, this weekend, a bunch of games too. So now it's gonna, like we said, second half is starting to, you know, almost here, so, you know. Yeah. And trade deadline's coming up soon, so I'm thinking, you know, we'll probably touch on that within the next week or two. Um, see what's moving, see what's shaking, and uh, yeah, we'll keep everybody updated. Uh, you know, probably end, end of this week.
Track 1:Yeah, we'll go from there. I'm actually gonna watch hockey right after this. So see what the flyboys
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yep, me too.
Track 1:that's, uh, I'm off, so anybody needs me hit me up on Twitter.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:many games.
Track 1:I'll be watching the flyers So all good. So, alright everybody. Yeah. Thanks. Uh, thanks again for tuning in. We appreciate, uh, all the, uh, all the listeners here and coming to hang with us and listening to us to, you know, quote unquote juniors talk about hockey. So, uh, as always, remember to subscribe all your favorite platform. Of choice, uh, throw us a rating, uh, a review. All that stuff really messes with the algorithms and, uh, really gets us some more engagement. And, um, you know, kind of puts us to the front of the line, if you will. So, as always, the feed feedback always fuels the, uh, the hockey discussions here. So, uh, if you like, uh, something that we're doing, let us know. Uh, if you don't like something we're doing awesome, let us know. So we're very open to, uh, Ideas, criticisms, all that kind of stuff. So if you wanna hear something great, uh, let just, uh, certainly let us know. You can follow us on, uh, Twitter or x uh, and Instagram, uh, at, shoot the puck pod, uh, on both platforms. So, uh, come say hello and, uh, Matt does the Instagram, uh, for us, and I do the Twitter and the X stuff for us. So, uh, always, uh, you'll get one of us depending on which platform you, uh, you prefer. So, um.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:Yeah, for sure.
Track 1:I think that's about it. I appreciate everybody tuning in and we'll see everybody next week. Ciao.
matt_1_01-02-2024_202029:All righty. Peace.
