The FAN Pregame

Jeff Marek, host of The Jeff Marek Show and co-host of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, joins the show to discuss Mike Smith’s strong post-season play, the plethora of marquee head-to-head matchups in the Oilers-Avs series, Cale Makar’s greatness, and where Andrei Vasilevskiy fits on the Mount Rushmore of clutch playoff goaltenders. Later, JD and Ailish dive into the Castellanos curse and head to the text line to field comments and questions from listeners (26:39). 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 affiliate.

JD and Ailish discuss the Rangers’ dominant Game 7 win over the Hurricanes, the lack of drama in last night’s win-or-go-home matchup, the star power in the Oilers-Avalanche series, and the widespread intrigue surrounding McDavid vs. MacKinnon. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (25:56)!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 affiliate.

Russell Martin, former MLB catcher, four-time All-Star, and founder of Cruise Hard Seltzer, joins the show to discuss his formal retirement from baseball, his memories from the Blue Jays’ thrilling 2015 playoff run, the team’s infamous rivalry with the Texas Rangers, his prowess as a game caller behind the plate, the potential of transitioning into coaching, and his new seltzer company. Later, Blake joins JD and Ailish for the Wake and Rake, brought to you by Unibet! The crew tees up tonight’s Game 7 between the Rangers and Hurricanes. They also assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (26:02). 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 affiliate.

Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Drive Time, joins JD and Ailish to discuss the Blue Jays offence coming alive in Los Angeles, Jose Berrios’ rough outing on Sunday, concerns about Berrios’ struggles in May, Alejandro Kirk establishing himself as one of the Jays’ most trusted hitters, and why it might be wise to temper expectations for Gabriel Moreno. Later, Stan Van Gundy, former NBA head coach and current NBA on TNT analyst, weighs in on the Celtics’ Game 7 win over the Heat, Ime Udoka leading Boston the NBA Finals in his first year at the helm, and the slew of injuries across the league during the post-season (32:27). 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 affiliate.

JD and Ailish discuss the Blue Jays’ four-game sweep of the Angels, the team’s offensive resurgence and depth contributions, concerns about the viability of Ryan Borucki and Julian Merryweather in the bullpen, Jason Spezza’s retirement and foray into the Leafs’ front office, and the Celtics advancing to the NBA Finals with a thrilling Game 7 win over the Heat. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (34:40)!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 affiliate.

Xavier Scruggs, former MLB first baseman and current analyst for ESPN and MLB Network, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the lack of hype from national media surrounding Vlad vs. Shohei, Guerrero Jr.’s recent adjustments at the plate, and the Blue Jays’ right-handed-heavy lineup. Later, Rick Tocchet, former NHL forward, head coach, and current NHL on TNT analyst, stops by to chat about Blake Coleman’s disallowed goal, Connor McDavid elevating his game to new heights this post-season, the evolution of hockey culture south of the border, the Flames’ lack of defensive urgency throughout their series against Edmonton, and the pressure facing Colorado to close out the Blues on Friday night (24:07). 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 affiliate.

Nick Kypreos, former NHL forward and co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins the show to discuss Connor McDavid’s historic playoff run, the comparison between McDavid and Michael Jordan, and what comes next for the Flames after bowing out in Round 2. Later, it’s time for the Wake and Rake, brought to you by Unibet! JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting odds for tonight’s Blue Jays-Angels game and Celtics-Heat matchup (22:04). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Blue Jays’ 6-3 win over the Angels on Thursday, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. taking Shohei Ohtani deep for his second homer in as many games, George Springer setting the tone with a leadoff dinger, and Teoscar Hernandez’s absence from the lineup. Then, the team weighs in on the Golden State Warriors returning to the NBA Finals and Andrew Wiggins’ redemptive career arc (17:58). Afterwards, Canada Basketball CEO Michael Bartlett stops by to chat about the organization's vision for the senior men’s national team and Wiggins’ relationship with the program. Bartlett also reveals the preliminary list of athletes that have committed to Canada’s U-23 men’s and women’s teams for this summer’s GLOBL JAM tournament (26:51). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Oilers’ series-clinching OT win over the Flames in Game 5, Blake Coleman’s disallowed goal late in the third period for a “distinct kicking motion,” and Edmonton’s dominance throughout the series. Then, the team makes a special announcement about the launch of Blake’s new show, Jays Talk Plus (37:17). Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (41:58)!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 affiliate.

Blue Jays play-by-play voice Dan Shulman joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Blue Jays’ aggressive approach at the plate, how opposing teams are attacking Toronto’s lineup, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. going head-to-head against Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout, and the point in the schedule where the Jays might need to consider making roster changes. Craig MacTavish, former NHL forward, head coach and front office executive, stops by to chat about Connor McDavid elevating his game against Calgary, his growth as a leader, the pressure facing the Flames after their historic regular season, and Mike Smith’s success between the pipes (24:29). 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 affiliate.

Mark Messier, Hockey Hall of Famer, six-time Stanley Cup champion, and current ESPN analyst, joins the show to discuss the Oilers being on the brink of a berth in the conference finals, his personal experience competing in the Battle of Alberta, Connor McDavid’s torrid playoff production and his broader influence on the sport of hockey, and what lessons the Leafs can derive from their first round playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning. Later, it’s time for the Wake and Rake, presented by Unibet! JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Angels series opener and Game 5 between the Oilers and Flames. They also assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (24:20)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 affiliate.

MLB Network Insider Jon Morosi joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss MLB’s approach when it comes to marketing their top stars, the Blue Jays’ lack of balance within their lineup, why a seismic trade might not be in the cards for Toronto this season, and Charlie Montoyo’s job security. Afterwards, Jalen Harris, former Raptors second round pick and current guard for the Scarborough Shooting Stars of the CEBL, stops by to chat about his experience being teammates with J Cole, his journey back to the NBA, and his relationship with the Raptors (24:00)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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the St. Louis Blues’ thrilling 5-4 OT win over the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday and why Colorado might be susceptible to a series collapse. Afterwards, the team chats about the Celtics taking a 3-2 series lead over the Miami Heat, what lessons the Maple Leafs can take from Boston’s roster construct, and the pressure facing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. heading into this weekend’s four-game series against the Angels (18:42). Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (35:58). 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 affiliate.

Arden Zwelling, MLB columnist for Sportsnet.ca and co-host of the At The Letters podcast, stops by to discuss Teoscar Hernandez’s struggles since returning from the IL, Danny Jansen’s renewed confidence at the plate, and Gabriel Moreno’s timeline for a potential big league call up. Afterwards, Cassie Campbell-Pascall, two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and current Sportsnet and ESPN analyst, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to chat about Connor McDavid elevating his game to another level during the playoffs and the vibe in Calgary with the Flames on the brink of elimination (30:36). 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 affiliate.

Joaquin Gage, former NHL goalie and co-host of the 2 Guys and a Goalie podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Oilers' Game 4 win over the Flames, Edmonton squandering a 3-0 lead, Mike Smith’s viral gaffe, Jacob Markstrom’s regression after an outstanding first round against Dallas, and Connor McDavid’s dominance throughout the post-season. Later, the team tees up the betting lines for Game 5 of the NBA's Eastern Conference Finals between Miami and Boston and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (27:56). 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 affiliate.

Jeff Blair, co-host of Blair and Barker and Jays Talk, joins the show to discuss the Blue Jays' offence erupting for 8 runs in St. Louis on Tuesday, the team’s ongoing struggles with runners in scoring position, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s improved approach at the plate last night, his head-to-head matchup against Shohei Ohtani on Thursday, and Charlie Montoyo’s job security. Afterwards, JD, Blake and Ailish weigh in on Canada Basketball unveiling a new three-pillar plan for the Canadian men’s national team and the 14 athletes that have made a three-year commitment to the program (30:24). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Oilers’ 5-3 win over the Flames on Tuesday, Mike Smith’s viral moment after surrendering a goal to Rasmus Andersson from the opposing blue line, the Blue Jays’ bats coming alive against the Cardinals, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. ending his 15-game homer-less slump. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (35:53)!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 affiliate.

Justin Bourne, co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss Mark Giordano’s team-friendly extension, his role heading into next season, potential trade chips on the blue line, Tampa’s sweep of the Florida Panthers, and Connor McDavid’s brilliance during the playoffs. Later, the team heads back to the text line to field more comments and questions from listeners (34:14). 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 affiliate.

Carlos Pena, former MLB first baseman and current MLB Network analyst, joins the show to discuss Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s recent struggles at the plate, the role of a hitting coach at the big league level, and his personal experience overcoming slumps during his playing career. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Cardinals game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (28:52). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss Connor McDavid imposing his will on the Flames, the definitive gap between McDavid and Auston Matthews, and Evander Kane’s redemptive post-season run. Then, the crew chimes in on the Dallas Mavericks’ roster construction and need for a secondary star and the fallout from Nazem Kadri’s collision with Jordan Binnington (16:40). Later, the team heads to the text line to field comments and questions from listeners (36:52). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Blue Jays’ 7-3 loss to the Cardinals on Monday, the team's ongoing offensive woes, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s extended dry spell at the plate, Charlie Montoyo’s management of the bullpen, and his decision to pull Alek Manoah after eight innings on Saturday. Afterwards, the crew weighs in on Mark Giordano signing a two-year extension with the Maple Leafs, his willingness to take a hometown discount, and the next domino to fall on the Leafs’ blue line (25:12). Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (37:53)! 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 affiliate.

Blue Jays play-by-play voice Dan Shulman stops by to discuss how opposing teams have adjusted their approach against Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Joey Votto’s level of resonance with Canadian baseball fans, his Hall of Fame candidacy, and why this weekend’s matchup against Cincinnati could be a trap series for the Blue Jays. Later, Colby Armstrong, former NHL forward and current Sportsnet analyst, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to chat about the Penguins’ off-season priorities, whether Evgeni Malkin or Kris Letang will re-sign in Pittsburgh, and the Leafs’ ongoing search for a killer instinct (25:48). 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 affiliate.

Mike Commodore, former NHL defenceman, 2006 Stanley Cup champion, and current hockey analyst for Sportsnet 960, joins the show to discuss the unique intensity and aura that comes with playing in the Battle of Alberta, Calgary’s wild Game 1 win over Edmonton, the pressure and excitement that stems from playing in a Canadian market, and why Leafs fans should remain optimistic about the team’s future. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Reds game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (24:10).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 affiliate.

Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Drive Time, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss Joey Votto’s legacy and his place in Canadian baseball lore, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s lack of production despite his current 15-game hitting streak, concerns about the Blue Jays’ bullpen depth, and Tiger Woods’ struggles on Day 1 of the PGA Championship. Later, the team weighs in on the Celtics’ Game 2 win over the Heat and what lessons the Raptors can derive from Boston’s style of play (38:27).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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the level of urgency for the Blue Jays heading into their weekend series against the Reds and whether the Jays can capitalize on a golden opportunity to ignite their offence. Afterwards, the team chimes in on the Lightning claiming a 2-0 series lead over the Florida Panthers and the contrast in tone between Bruins President Cam Neely during his season-ending address and that of Brendan Shanahan and Kyle Dubas (24:22). Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List, headlined by rapper J Cole joining the Scarborough Shooting Stars of the CEBL (38:20). 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 affiliate.

David Samson, former MLB executive and host of the Nothing Personal podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss why Juan Soto isn't a likely trade candidate for the Blue Jays, how MLB front offices typically determine when to explore the trade market, potential left-handed bats that could become available this summer, and MLB's deadened ball theory. Later, the team breaks into a spirited debate about their favourite variety of apples, how the outcome of the Tampa-Florida series might impact fans’ view of this year's Leafs playoff exit, and the most appealing Stanley Cup Final matchup (38:14). 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 affiliate.

Ben Nicholson-Smith, MLB editor for Sportsnet and co-host of the At The Letters podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Blue Jays’ early-season offensive woes, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s recent dip in extra-base hits, Teoscar Hernandez’s struggles since returning to the lineup, Juan Soto’s trade value around baseball, and the absence of swing-and-miss ability in the Jays’ bullpen. Afterwards, Sam McKee, co-host of The Golf Show, stops by to offer his favourite bets for this weekend’s PGA Championship. The team also assembles their daily Wake and Rake parlay (27:14). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Flames’ 9-6 win over the Oilers in Game 1 of their much-anticipated second round series, the lack of defensive structure from both teams, and the overall sloppiness in the game. Joe House, host of The Ringer's Fairway Rollin’ podcast, joins the show to chat about the PGA Championship, Tiger Woods’ chances this week at Southern Hills, Phil Mickelson’s continued absence from the Tour and his tarnished reputation, Jordan Spieth’s quest for the career grand slam, and his dream NBA Finals matchup (25:15). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss ESPN’s Buster Olney reporting that the Blue Jays might be interested in trading for Juan Soto, the organization’s continued desire to supplement their lineup with a quality left-handed bat, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s lack of meaningful production despite his career-best 15-game hit streak. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (31:47)!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 affiliate.

Justin Bourne, co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins JD, Blake and Ailish for the hour to discuss the disconnect between the Leafs’ front office and the fan base, the sense of apathy that was displayed by Brendan Shanahan and Kyle Dubas during yesterday’s season-ending press conference, and the notion that this year’s playoff exit was “different.” Later, the crew weighs in on how Dubas should approach this off-season and what realistic changes can be made to the roster (38:12). 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 affiliate.

Caleb Joseph, former MLB catcher and current Blue Jays radio analyst, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss Jose Berrios’ effective use of his two-seam fastball on Tuesday night, the unique deception on his pitches, Alejandro Kirk’s improvement as a game-caller behind the dish, Yusei Kikuchi’s refined arsenal, and how Pete Walker’s work with Robbie Ray has influenced Kikuchi’s growth this season. Later, the team tees up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Mariners series finale and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (27:58). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish weigh in on the Blue Jays’ 3-0 shutout win over the Mariners on Tuesday, Jose Berrios notching his best outing of the season, Alejandro Kirk’s improved skill set behind the plate, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s current home run drought. Sean McIndoe, senior NHL writer for The Athletic and founder of Down Goes Brown, joins the show to discuss his cathartic post-mortem piece on the Leafs’ season, the consternation among Leaf fans regarding Brendan Shanahan and Kyle Dubas’ season-ending media address, and why Toronto can only be judged on playoff success (27:14). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss their takeaways from the Maple Leafs’ season-ending exit interviews, the messaging from Brendan Shanahan and Kyle Dubas, and the prevailing sentiment about how the team will navigate this off-season. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (32:46)!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 affiliate.

Steve Dangle, hockey YouTuber and host of The Steve Dangle Podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to share his thoughts on if the Leafs should run it back next season, William Nylander being a possible trade chip this summer, Jack Campbell’s free agency situation, and whether Kyle Dubas will alter his roster-building philosophy. Later, the team heads back to the text line to field more comments from listeners (24:36). 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 affiliate.

Jake Arrieta, former Cy Young Award winner, 2016 World Series champion, and co-host of the Starting 9 podcast, joins the show to discuss his foray into the media world, his experience being teammates with Kevin Gausman in Baltimore and his emergence as an ace, the characteristics that make a great pitching coach, and why he’s confident the Blue Jays will be firmly entrenched in the AL playoff picture. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Mariners game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (25:40). 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 affiliate.

Sportsnet hockey reporter Luke Fox stops by to discuss his biggest curiosities heading into today’s Maple Leafs season-ending media availabilities, questions about the team’s roster construction, Kyle Dubas’ loyalty to Sheldon Keefe, and why this organization should be judged on the basis of competing for a championship and not simply winning a playoff round. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish head to the text line to field comments and questions from listeners (24:52).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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Blue Jays’ 6-2 win over the Mariners on Monday, Yusei Kikuchi delivering another effective start, Pete Walker’s influence on Kikuchi’s improved mechanics, and the Blue Jays’ injury-plagued bullpen. Afterwards, with the help of some truth serum, the team chats about what questions they would like to have answered during today's Maple Leafs exit interviews. (27:48). Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (41:55)!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 affiliate.

Elliotte Friedman, NHL Insider for Sportsnet and co-host of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the consternation among Leaf fans following another first round playoff exit, John Tavares' role heading into next season, the possibility of Mitch Marner moving over to the centre position, the likelihood of Kyle Dubas returning as GM for at least one more year, Justin Holl being a likely trade candidate this summer, and Jack Campbell's impending free agent negotiations. Afterwards, Kris Versteeg, former NHL forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion, stops by to share his thoughts on why Sheldon Keefe was outcoached by Jon Cooper and the Leafs' inability to dispatch of a vulnerable-looking Lightning team (27:04).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 affiliate.

Nick Kypreos, former NHL forward and co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss the Maple Leafs' improved style of play this post-season, the lingering holes in their lineup, the team's confounding cap situation, if Toronto should run it back, Nick Paul's emergence as a difference-maker for Tampa, Sheldon Keefe's job security, and the pressure facing the Leafs' front office to find playoff success with only two years remaining on Auston Matthews' existing contract. Afterwards, Ailish recounts her experience playing in a charity hockey tournament with former NHLers over the weekend (32:00). Then, the team tees up the betting lines for tonight’s Blue Jays-Mariners game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (38:30)!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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish share their positive takeaways from the Leafs’ first round series, including Jack Campbell’s strong play, Mitch Marner exorcising his past playoff demons, and Jason Spezza’s leadership. Afterwards, the team dives into their negative observations, ranging from the Leafs’ inconsistent depth contributions to John Tavares’ revolving door of linemates (19:29). Later, the crew chats about the Blue Jays dropping two of three against Tampa and the team’s ongoing offensive struggles. They also weigh in on the Suns’ blowout loss to Dallas in Game 7 and Giannis Antetokounmpo bowing out against the Celtics to end Milwaukee’s title reign (37:08). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Maple Leafs’ Game 7 loss against Tampa, whether the Leafs should run it back next season, Sheldon Keefe’s future and the merits of a possible coaching change, and Kyle Dubas’ job security. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (40:59)!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 affiliate.

James Mirtle, NHL scribe for The Athletic, weighs in on John Tavares’ body language after last night’s overtime loss, the potential fallout if the Leafs lose Game 7, Toronto’s tortured history of failing to close out a playoff series, and whether Saturday night’s game will determine the fate of Sheldon Keefe and Kyle Dubas. Afterwards, JD, Blake and Ailish head to the text line to gauge the temperature of Leafs Nation ahead of Game 7 (23:38). 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 affiliate.

Anthony Stewart, former NHL forward and current Sportsnet analyst, joins the show to discuss Alex Kerfoot coming under siege after his shaky performance in Game 6, why the Leafs should be optimistic about their chances in Game 7, Jack Campbell’s strong body of work in this series, and Jason Spezza adopting a key leadership role on this team. Later, JD and Blake set the betting lines for Ailish’s participation in a charity hockey tournament this weekend. The team also tees up the odds for tonight’s Blue Jays-Rays game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (22:53)!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 affiliate.

Frank Seravalli, NHL Insider and President of Hockey Content for DailyFaceoff.com, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss how the Leafs' performance in this series has changed peoples' perception about the team's core group, what a potential Game 7 loss would mean for Toronto's off-season, and Auston Matthews being a finalist for the Hart Trophy. Later, Jackie Redmond, studio host for NHL Network and rinkside reporter for the NHL on TNT, stops by to chat about why she's confident that the Leafs can get the job done in Game 7, Toronto's improved maturity in high-leverage situations, and the playoff bracket lining up favourably for the winner of this series (25:39). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish discuss the Maple Leafs’ 4-3 overtime loss to the Lightning in Game 6, the Leafs’ strong response after falling behind 2-0, Toronto’s psyche heading into Game 7, the emotional roller-coaster that comes with being a Leafs fan, and the officiating in last night’s game. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List, including Joel Embiid’s criticism of James Harden following the 76ers’ elimination from the playoffs (39:02) 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 affiliate.

Craig Simpson, former NHL forward, two-time Stanley Cup champion, and current Sportsnet analyst, shares his thoughts on whether the Leafs can finally get over the hump, how killer instinct actually manifests itself in a playoff game, William Nylander’s turnaround in this series, and how Tampa’s championship pedigree might impact Game 6. Later, Dan Shulman, voice of the Blue Jays, stops by to chat about Jose Berrios’ outing against the Yankees on Wednesday, Toronto’s scuffling offence, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. showing signs of frustration, and MLB’s deadened ball crisis (24:02). 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 affiliate.

Former Maple Leafs forward Steve Thomas joins the show to discuss Toronto's depth contributions against Tampa, John Tavares getting off the schneid in Game 5, Jason Spezza’s leadership, and why Game 6 might be the Leafs’ best opportunity to close out this series. Later, JD, Blake and Ailish tee up the betting lines for tonight’s Leafs-Lightning game and assemble their daily Wake and Rake parlay (26:44). 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 affiliate.

Jeff Marek, host of The Jeff Marek Show and co-host of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss Jack Campbell battling through adversity in Game 5, Victor Hedman asserting himself as the best defenceman in the NHL, and this series being an audit on the Leafs’ vision and approach. Afterwards, on the heels of CM Punk sporting a John Tavares jersey on Long Island last night, the team breaks into a spirited debate about which sports jersey would generate the biggest heel reaction at a wrestling event in Toronto (20:44). Later, Hunter Pence, former MLB outfielder and two-time World Series champion, stops by to chat about his experience playing with Kevin Gausman in San Francisco, his emergence as an elite starter, and the Jays’ ceiling this season (31:03). 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 affiliate.

JD, Blake and Ailish weigh in on the Blue Jays dropping back-to-back games in the Bronx, the team’s continued struggles at the plate, and Jose Berrios’ inconsistency on the mound. Afterwards, the crew discusses if the Leafs can activate their killer instinct in Game 6, where tonight’s game falls on the must-win scale, and the importance of having a good start. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (37:52)!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 affiliate.

Kris Versteeg, former NHL forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion, joins JD, Blake and Ailish to discuss William Nylander emerging as an offensive catalyst for the Leafs in Game 5, Justin Holl's gritty performance on the blue line, Toronto's susceptibility to slow starts, and Mitch Marner's ability to take over games with his skill and IQ. Later, the team chats about Jon Cooper’s comments following Game 5 and his unwillingness to give the Leafs any credit in this series (34:00). 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 affiliate.