Episode 18 Simon Benoit

This feels like...the year. The year Edmonton makes a deep run to the Stanley Cup Finals. Connor McDavid has the look of a champion. Step one, get through the Los Angeles Kings. Luke Gazdic shares why he believes this Oilers team can be great, while former Kings Assistant General Manager Mike Futa counters with the LA perspective. The two talk game strategy, players to watch and analyze each team's strengths and weaknesses.

One of the best rivalries in hockey is renewed as two Original 6 teams clash in the first round. Yes, Toronto vs. Boston. Back at it again. History favours the Bruins but this a retooled Leafs lineup, that can match up skill wise and physically with any club. Luke Gazdic welcomes Bruins analyst Andrew Raycroft, who has played in both markets, to breakdown the series, what to expect in net, and who their pick is to advance.

Undrafted. But undeterred. Simon Benoit has battled every step of the way to get to the NHL. Now, he's the surprise standout on the Toronto Maple Leafs blueline, winning fans with his penchant for big hits and the big smile that lights up his face. Benoit sits down with his former San Diego Gulls teammate Luke Gazdic to reflect on his unlikely journey to "The Show". From his love of hockey, to his passion for milk, to his unique equipment habits, Benoit is just as authentic off the ice as he is on it.

Brady Leavold hit rock bottom. His hockey career tormented by addiction. Then he found hope in an unlikely place; prison. And he's emerged to share his story and help others facing similar challenges. He is living proof of his message...vulnerability is strength. 

From an uncertain future to an emerging star, Owen Tippett is having a breakout year with the Flyers.  The 24 year old opens up on the trade to Philadelphia that rejuvenated his career, playing under John Tortorella and why this team has exceeded expectations.

Not many players would jump on a podcast one day after getting suspended, but Erik Gudbranson did. And he gives his honest thoughts on the hit that started it all. After stints with 7 different teams, the Ottawa native has found a home in Columbus. Gudbranson takes us through some of his best career memories and looks back on his summer's training with Luke Gazdic.

One of the toughest guys in the league to play against, Ben Chiarot has been a force on D throughout his 10 years in the NHL. From his debut with Winnipeg, to his incredible run to the Stanley Cup Finals with the Montreal Canadiens, the 32 year old has seen it all. Now with the Detroit Red Wings, Chiarot reflects on his winding journey and also what he saw when his Jets teammate Dustin Byfuglien steamrolled Luke Gazdic with an infamous hit along the boards.

Producer Darren Winkler sits down with Luke Gazdic to dive into the current state of the Toronto Maple Leafs, whether the Edmonton Oilers have turned a corner and why the Los Angeles Kings are the best team in hockey right now.  Luke also elaborates on his time in Alberta and how Joey Moss made it that much more special. 

After an incredible run to the Stanley Cup Finals, Sam Reinhart is elevating his game to a new level this season. The 28 year old is on pace for career high totals across the board. Reinhart takes us through his climb to the top...from the pressures of being a high pick in Buffalo, to being traded in his prime, to finding his home in Florida.

After 12 NHL seasons, Luke Schenn was told he was no longer good enough to play in the show. Unclaimed on Waivers, he went to the minors for the first time. The easy thing would have been to retire. Instead, he evolved, learned new skills and grinded his way back. All the way to becoming a 2 time Stanley Cup Champion. Now in Nashville, the 34 year old takes us through his incredible redemption journey.