The Human Side of the Story discusses the the support of the hockey community in light of the Gaudreau tragedy. Neil provides his own personal perspective.

Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss the tragic passings of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau in a biking incident prior to Labor Day weekend. The show opens on this solemn note and concludes by noting how the hockey community supports its own in time of tragedy. The body of the show focuses on Neil's most improved teams during the off-season heading into the 2024-25 campaign. While some teams are obvious based on the discussions in the "Summer Cooler" series, others may take some listeners and...

Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss the Pacific Division, offering a detailed analysis of each team's offseason moves, challenges, and prospects for the upcoming NHL season. From the dominant Edmonton Oilers to the rebuilding San Jose Sharks, they discuss player signings, coaching changes, and the overall landscape of the division.  The episode covers all eight teams in the Pacific Division: Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks, Los Angeles Kings, Vegas Golden Knights, Calgary Flames, Seattle...

The Human Side of the story on the recently retired NHL star Joe Pavelski. The episode highlights Pavelski's impressive career, despite being drafted in the seventh round. The hosts reflect on his journey from the USHL to becoming a standout player for the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars. They discuss his potential candidacy for the Hockey Hall of Fame, emphasizing his leadership, toughness, and exceptional skill in deflecting pucks. The episode also features a segment on Peter DeBoer's...

Hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren analyze the Central Division's eight teams, covering key offseason moves, signings, and prospects for the upcoming season. They discuss the Dallas Stars' aging roster, the Winnipeg Jets' challenges after significant player departures, and the Colorado Avalanche's defensive uncertainties. The Nashville Predators' bold signings under GM Barry Trotz are highlighted, alongside the St. Louis Blues' surprising offer sheet acquisitions. The Minnesota Wild's salary cap...

This Human Side of the Story focuses on the lasting legacy of the Patrick family in the NHL, from Lester Patrick's early contributions to Chris Patrick's current role as GM of the Washington Capitals. Neil and Vic explore how this family's influence has spanned over a century and discuss the potential for future successes under Chris Patrick. The episode ends with a teaser for the next discussion on the Central Division. Timestamps: [01:05] - Introduction to the Human Side of the Story...

Neil Smith and Vic Morren dissect the Metropolitan Division, analyzing team performances, key signings, and future prospects for the New York Rangers, Carolina Hurricanes, New York Islanders, Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, New Jersey Devils, and Columbus Blue Jackets. Highlights include discussions on team strategies, player trades, and how off-season activities might impact the upcoming season. The episode also touches on team-building strategies and the...

This episode of the Human Side of the Story pays tribute to recently passed hockey community members, including Ottawa Senators assistant coach Bob Jones, NHL Hall of Famer Borje Salming, and former Calgary Flames assistant GM Chris Snow, all of whom passed away due to ALS. Tune in to stay informed and updated on NHL action, and don’t forget to subscribe. [00:00] Introduction to NHL Wraparound Podcast[00:35] Game7 Group: Building Winning Teams[02:01] Tribute to Bob Jones and Other Hockey...

In this episode of the NHL Wraparound podcast, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren bring their extensive NHL expertise to analyze the Atlantic Division. Covering team developments, trades, free agent movements, and key player performances, the focus is on the Florida Panthers, Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Tampa Bay Lightning.  Additionally, they explore the challenges faced by the Detroit Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, Ottawa Senators, and Montreal Canadiens in breaking through to the...

Neil and Vic discuss the importance of a fun and accountable team culture. Neil contrasts his experience with the 1994 New York Rangers with Bill Zito's recent success with the Florida Panthers, highlighting different strategies for team building, including the use of free agency, intelligent trades, and seizing opportunities on waivers. The episode concludes by outlining upcoming analyses on player movements and rosters for the 2025 season. [00:00] Introduction to NHL Wraparound...

Neil Smith and Vic Morren are joined by Philadelphia Flyers' President of Hockey Operations, Keith Jones, and championship team-building expert, Lee Elias, to discuss team building and culture in the NHL. Jones shares his experiences with the Flyers and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive team culture. The episode also features insights from Lee Elias, CEO of Hockey Wraparound, on the significance of team dynamics and leadership. The hosts explore how effective team building...

They discuss the recent NHL draft, highlighting Macklin Celebrini's first overall selection by the San Jose Sharks. The episode dives into what newly drafted players can expect, including development camps and the transition to adult life and professional hockey. Additionally, there is a spotlight on the Game 7 Group, which helps build cohesive teams. The hosts encourage listeners to stay tuned for offseason content and insights into all 32 NHL teams leading up to training...

Special guest Mike Santos from Team 33 offers insights into the challenges of free agency and the importance of preparing for the draft and free agent negotiations. They provide in-depth analysis of the NHL offseason, discussing notable player movements, team strategies, and free agency developments.  Key topics include Jessica Campbell's historic appointment as the first female assistant coach in NHL history, the intricacies of the NHL calendar, and the financial implications of tax-free...

In this episode of the Human Side of the Story, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss the impressive coaching career of Paul Maurice, who recently led the Florida Panthers to win the Stanley Cup after 26 years of coaching. They provide an in-depth look at Maurice's career, his journey from the OHL to various NHL teams, and the support he received from influential figures like Peter Karmanos and Jim Rutherford. The episode highlights the importance of teamwork and offers insights into the...

Special guest Craig MacTavish is back to join hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren to discuss the Florida Panthers' victory in the 2024 Stanley Cup, highlighting the decisive Game 7th against the Edmonton Oilers. They analyze the Panthers' effective strategies and the Oilers' struggles, noting the Panthers' strong forechecking and puck control.  The human side of the story features Paul Maurice's coaching career, detailing his journey from a junior player to a Stanley Cup-winning coach. Neil and...

On the Human Side of the Story with hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren they discuss the importance of leadership and team bonding in the NHL, featuring insights from Boston Bruins head coach, Jim Montgomery.  They highlight Montgomery's recovery journey and his remarkable coaching career after overcoming personal struggles with alcohol. The episode also delves into Montgomery's successful college hockey career at the University of Maine, where he led the team to a national...

Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss the upcoming Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers. They are joined by special guest Jim Montgomery, head coach of the Boston Bruins, who shares insights into the Panthers' resilience..  Montgomery also discusses his own team's performance, key players, and the importance of leadership and team culture. Additionally, he reflects on his personal struggles and triumphs, providing a heartfelt perspective on...

Neil Smith and Vic Morren present the fifth and final episode of the '1990 Forever' series, commemorating the 1994 New York Rangers' Stanley Cup victory, along with special guest Barry Meisel. Featuring perspectives from  players, team personnel, media, and fans, the episode reflects on the emotional impact and lasting significance of the championship that ended a 54-year championship drought. Contributions include stories from players and key figures from the '94 team, insights from...

Adam Graves, Brian Leetch, and Mark Messier join Hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren, commemorating the 30th anniversary of the New York Rangers' 1994 Stanley Cup Championship. The conversation covers key moments leading to the final, including the expectation playing upstart Vancouver coming off the epic Eastern Conference Final against the New Jersey Devils. Personal anecdotes and reflections highlight the importance of confidence, experience, and the bond between the team and its fans.  The...

The Human Side of the story discusses the leadership qualities of Stanley Cup captains Connor McDavid and Aleksander Barkov, the impact of injuries on players like Jacob Trouba and Adam Fox, and the dedication of athletes during playoffs. The episode also highlights the NHL's trailblazing efforts in broadcasting games with sign language for the deaf community. Sponsored by the Game 7 group, the podcast emphasizes team dynamics and offers exclusive incentives for listeners. Fans are...

Episode 3 in the NY Rangers 30th Anniversary Special series . We hear insights from goaltender Mike Richter and left wing Stéphane Matteau, join hosts Neil and Vic to analyze the 1994 Eastern Conference Final against the New Jersey Devils. They highlight pivotal moments such as Mark Messier's Game Six guarantee and Matteau's double-overtime goal in Game Seven.  This episode revisits the unforgettable moments that led to one of the greatest playoff series in NHL history. Relive the highs, the...

Neil Smith and Vic Morren discuss the upcoming Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers. Joined by Eddie Olczyk from TNT, the trio provides analysis, predictions, and insights on the series. They discuss topics such as the significance of touching the conference trophy, head coaching experiences, and previous playoff performances.  The episode also includes a fun segment with the podcast mascot AJ predicting the winner of the Stanley Cup, discussions on player...

Neil Smith, President and General Manager of the 1994 Stanley Cup Champion New York Rangers, along with ESPN NHL veteran Vic Morren are joined by Hall of Fame defenseman Kevin Lowe and two-way forward Steve Larmer, they recap the road to the Eastern Conference Final.  The discussion highlights key moments from the Rangers' series against the New York Islanders and Washington Capitals, emphasizing the players' experiences, the importance of special teams, and critical saves by goaltender Mike...

Human Side of the Story-  Rick Bowness , a veteran bench boss with 38 years of NHL experience. They discuss Bowness’  illustrious career as both player and coach in the NHL, his significant contributions to various teams, and his journey from being drafted in 1975 to his latest roles.  Additionally, Vic shares an unforgettable memory from the 1987 Stanley Cup Finals, recounting a thrilling game between the Oilers and Flyers. The episode concludes with a nod to the series commemorating the...

Neil Smith, President and General Manager of the 1994 Stanley Cup Champion New York Rangers, along with ESPN NHL veteran Vic Morren, are joined by goaltender Glenn Healy and MSG color analyst John Davidson as they reflect on the thrilling journey to their historic victory. They reminisce about the dramatic trade deadline decisions, the influence of iconic players such as Mark Messier and Mike Richter, and the acceptance of roles by various team members.  Personal anecdotes, key moments in...