32 Thoughts: The Podcast Protection, Expansion & Change
Sep 21, 2026
Toronto’s preseason toughness sparks a conversation about rebuilding team culture, while Columbus faces pressure over Adam Fantilli’s contract and roster plans. NHL managers may be rethinking generous trade protection, and Houston and Austin expansion prospects meet resistance ahead of a key Board of Governors meeting. Plus, listeners weigh in on a possible schedule change, expansion draft puzzles, and new transaction rules.
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Toronto Is Rewiring Its Team Culture
- Toronto is trying to rebuild unity after last season’s criticism that players acted like “25 guys, 25 cabs.”
- Early preseason fights showed teammates stepping in for one another, signaling a deliberate cultural reset.
Shorter Preseason Forces Faster Decisions
- Shorter preseason schedules force teams to make roster decisions faster, leaving bubble players fewer chances to impress.
- St. Louis already appears ready to move surplus NHL-caliber depth because its bottom-six competition exceeds available spots.
Fantilli’s Contract Controls Columbus’ Puzzle
- Columbus needs Adam Fantilli’s contract number before deciding whether it can trade Kirill Marchenko.
- Marchenko’s unusually low $3.85 million salary makes replacing him without adding cap pressure especially difficult.