32 Thoughts: The Podcast

Matthew Schaefer, a top prospect for the 2025 NHL draft and recipient of the CHL Top Prospect Award, shares his journey from the Erie Otters. He discusses the emotional and physical challenges faced as a young athlete, balancing pressures with the support of family and teammates. Schaefer emphasizes the importance of resilience and personal connections in sports. Conversations also touch on pre-draft speculation and team dynamics, providing fans with insights into the strategic maneuvers as the NHL offseason approaches.

The hosts dive into Connor McDavid's drive for team success and the need for stability in the Oilers' lineup. They analyze the Dallas Stars' strategic offseason moves, including significant trades and the contract situations of key players. The urgency of NHL free agency looms as discussions heat up on various unrestricted free agents, including Tavares and Besser. The interplay of player contracts and market dynamics is likened to the housing market, with humorous insights along the way. Listeners are treated to a blend of analysis and entertaining anecdotes throughout.

The Florida Panthers celebrate their Stanley Cup victory, marking a 32-year drought for Canada. Insights into 'servant leadership' reveal how teamwork drives the Panthers' success. Emotional reflections from players capture the high stakes of playoffs. A standout four-goal game sparks debates about player legacies. Tensions around Olympic roster exclusions unveil contract concerns. The impact of trades and player relationships is explored, punctuated by a tribute to a respected agent in the hockey community. Nostalgia shines through as they discuss playoff penalties and trade history.

The Florida Panthers are on the brink of back-to-back championships after a dominant Game 5 against the Edmonton Oilers. Discussions include trade rumors surrounding players like JJ Peterka and the potential impacts of free agency, specifically with Mitch Marner and Nikolaj Ehlers. The hosts also share lighthearted tales of Panthers' superstitions, like their ice cream rituals for good luck. As tensions continue to rise in the Stanley Cup and Calder Cup finals, the intricate dynamics of player trades and performances take center stage.

In a thrilling recap, the Edmonton Oilers pull off an overtime win that ties the series, thanks to Leon Dreisaitl's clutch performance. They dive into trades, notably Chris Kreider to the Ducks, and explore team strategies amid a landscape of rumors, including the potential sale of the Pittsburgh Penguins. The spotlight also shines on Elias Pettersson's commitment to the Canucks as they navigate trade talks. Plus, an intriguing look at dual-sport NHL prospect Mason West and light-hearted banter surrounding player rivalries keeps the conversation entertaining.

Dive into the chaos of Game 3 as the Oilers face a disappointing loss to the Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final. Discover potential rule changes suggested by players and get insights on the Scouting Combine, including updates on young talents and team strategies. Hear reflections on the retirement of a hockey legend and the peculiar questions teams pose during draft interviews. Finally, enjoy some light-hearted banter about tanning tips and predictions for the next playoff clash.

Stuart Skinner, the calm and communicative goaltender for the Edmonton Oilers, joins to discuss the pressures of playing in high-stakes games. He shares insights on maintaining focus amidst chaos and the grounding techniques that help him excel. The conversation delves into the dynamics of the current playoff series and the emotional rollercoaster of being a goaltender. Skinner also reflects on balancing personal and professional life, revealing how family support underpins his resilience in the sport.

Join Brad Marchand, the skilled left winger and captain of the Boston Bruins, and Steve Mayer, the creative force behind NHL's content and events, as they dive into the electrifying Stanley Cup Final. They chat about the thrilling strategies of the Oilers and Panthers. Marchand shares insights on the intense dynamics of the playoffs while Mayer discusses innovative fan experiences and evolving NHL awards. Expect humor, personal anecdotes, and a touch of intrigue about an anonymous voicemail that has everyone guessing!

In this edition of 32 Thoughts, Kyle Bukauskas and Elliotte Friedman look ahead to the Stanley Cup Final between the Edmonton Oilers and the Florida Panthers.In the second half of the podcast, Kyle and Elliotte sit down with several people from media day in Edmonton. Hear from Panthers Head Coach Paul Maurice (18:38), Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky (30:34), Oilers forward Corey Perry (38:14), and Oilers forward Connor McDavid (46:35).Email the podcast at 32thoughts@sportsnet.ca or call the Thought Line at 1-833-311-3232 and leave us a voicemail.This podcast was produced and mixed by Dominic Sramaty and hosted by Elliotte Friedman & Kyle Bukauskas.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates

The hosts dive into the buzz surrounding the 2025 NHL Draft Combine in Buffalo, where all eyes are on team strategies, player negotiations, and coaching vacancies. They discuss the league's evolving award unveilings and the implications of NCAA eligibility for CHL players. The Dallas Stars' exit interviews and the treatment of Jake Oettinger spark interesting insights. As trade rumors swirl, fan debates ignite over player mobility and recruitment challenges, making this a hot spot for hockey gossip!