The Athletic Hockey Show Which Thanksgiving bubble teams will actually make the playoffs?
Dec 1, 2025
Julian McKenzie, a hockey journalist and author, joins the discussion on the Eastern Conference playoff race while sharing insights about his upcoming book, 'Black Aces: Essential Stories from Hockey's Black Trailblazers.' The conversation covers the Thanksgiving bubble rule, identifying which teams are likely to make the playoffs and which may falter. McKenzie also shares fascinating anecdotes about trailblazers like Anson Carter and Herb Carnegie, and discusses the challenges they faced in their careers, emphasizing the importance of their legacy in hockey.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Colorado's Unmatched Dominance
- Colorado are the league's clear dominant team with overwhelming underlying numbers and goal differential.
- Their pace makes them a singular tier above even other elite teams like Dallas and Minnesota.
Wild Goaltending Turns A Team
- Minnesota's recent form and the Wallstedt-Gustafsson tandem have transformed them into a top-tier club.
- Wallstedt's pedigree suggests his hot start is sustainable more than a typical short-term fluke.
Anaheim's Surprise Regular-Season Rise
- Anaheim's rise is the season's surprise, showing they can beat the Golden Knights and lead the Pacific.
- Their chaotic style raises questions about playoff viability despite regular-season success.
