The Suspendables

She's the greatest women's hockey player of all time, a Hockey Hall of Famer, an author, an Olympic softball player, Leafs executive and, oh yeah, we catch her the day before she begins her medical career and day one of her residency. Hayley Wickenheiser joins us this week! Jim spends a few days outlining Hayley's accomplishments and asks about all the hats she's worn in her career. They discuss different kinds of leadership. She and Russ get into their Olympic hockey memories, including the crazy parties in the village and which Olympic athletes could you always count on to have beer in their rooms. You won't believe what the Russian players would do for free beer. Hayley discussed the state of women's professional hockey and where she'd like to see it go. She talks about the books she's written and "This is Our Shot," the campaign she's involved in to crush COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Plus much, much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're joined this week by Sportsnet's Ken Reid - sportscaster, author and hockey card aficionado. Ken talks about his journey to landing his dream job. We get the lowdown on what mens league hockey looks like in Ken's hometown in Pictou, Nova Scotia. The guys get into all kinds of hockey talk, including a discussion about characters like Stephane Richer, Harold Ballard and Eddie Shack, who Ken wrote a recent book about. They talk about their personal TV bloopers over the years. Ken discusses his books about the NHL's one goal wonders and one game wonders. They also get into a discussion about their experiences with mental health issues. And the time, when he was a kid, that Ken bumped into Russ's mom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're joined by NHL trivia expert Liam Maguire - a hockey historian, a published author, radio host, TV personality and probably the biggest Habs' fan in the world Russ relives some Stanley cup Playoff memories. But Liam probably knows as much about Russ's hockey career as he does. Liam talks about Montreal Canadiens history and why they're regarded as an iconic franchise. An interesting story about Larry Robinson when he was just starting out. He also discusses the time he met Russ for the first time when the Leafs were in Montreal. Borje Salming saved Russ from getting into trouble that night. Liam did something special at the Montreal Forum that no one else ever did. And, back in the day, Russ spent a bit too much money on a fun night in a hotel room...and cheeseburgers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The boys offer up some thoughts on the Montreal Canadiens surprising playoff run so far. Russ spills the goods on Patrick Roy's pre-game good luck charm. The time Bob Gainey lost it on his goalie, Jon Casey The best 3 athletes Russ ever saw The time Russ pulled a fast one on teammate Mark Tinordi who tended to be tight with a buck Russ had a great night with the LA Rams...including his neighbour Andrew Whitworth along with Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp. Talking about the workout regimen of Russ's soon-to-be son-in-law Eric Kendricks, an all-pro with the Minnesota Vikings. Some further thoughts on Naomi Osaka withdrawing from another tournament. Russ feuded with Pat Burns but liked that he allowed the boys to have a couple of beers in the hotel the night before a game. Some classic stories of players breaking curfew Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A quick review of the Wendel Clark episode The fellas react after the Leafs' Game 7 loss to Montreal. Why did the Habs win? Who does Russ cheer for when his two former teams face each other? Who does all the talking during intermissions at playoff time and what do they say? The boys talk about tennis star Naomi Osaka who refused to talk to the media this week at The French Open. After round one, she gets fined and then withdraws. Russ talks about his bad experience with the Montreal media, some of whom turned on him after he missed 41 games due to injury. He also talks about his regret in going to the media with a trade demand. The playoffs are great for Canada because 1 of the final four will be a Canadian team Russ got #InOne over the weekend during/after a golf round with Mike Commodore The time that Jimmy played Russ' feisty voice mail over and over on his radio show The boys react to their pal, Wayne Gretzky, leaving the Oilers and going to the broadcast world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're joined today by former Toronto Maple Leafs captain Wendel Clark! Wendel and Russ reminisce about their days playing together in Toronto. Wendel talks about his childhood in Saskatchewan and why hockey won out over farming! A hilarious story about Bill Derlago Dave Lumley was always tight with a buck Memories of their head coaches Dan Maloney and John Brophy Russ always appreciated having such a talented linemate who was always the best bodyguard What made Gary Leeman one of the best athletes the boys have ever seen Why Wendel and Russ never minded the pressure of playing in Toronto Wendel has a hilarious response about the classic 1993 Western Final vs LA Clarkie had a good fighting history with Marty McSorley Why was Wendel so late to fighting in hockey? They discuss recent lawsuits by former junior hockey players who complain they were pushed into being fighters Wendel and Russ swap minor hockey coaching stories and Russ talks about Auston Matthews early greatness. The unique way that Wendel found out he was traded from Toronto after 9 years there. What Wendel thinks about the Leafs' playoff chances this spring Some high accolades for construction of the Winnipeg Jets Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ' daughter is named to the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition. The Stanley Cup Playoffs are upon us! The boys talk about some of the action so far. Russ, who played for both Toronto and Montreal, thinks the Leafs will win, but also reminds us that anything can happen in the playoffs, especially when you have Carey Price. Why is Toronto in a 54 year Stanley Cup drought? Russ shares some of his playoff memories. The time an NHL owner put $100,000 dollars on a table in his team's dressing room, saying the players can have it if they win. He feels like the young Leafs team of the 80s would have been a contender if the club hadn't been so impatient. Russ thinks Florida and Tampa Bay is going to be the best series of the entire playoffs. The boys discuss Sam Bennett's suspension for hitting from behind. If Russ were a coach, what would he be telling his team this time of year? Why is the Stanley Cup the hardest to win? Maybe too gruelling? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's our 100th episode!! Russ talks about the Gretzky interview and how the Great One told some stories he's never told before The boys answer some emails and Jim gives a shoutout to every listener ever Russ talks about the sports autographs business The boys get into the Capitals-Rangers mess, sparked by the suspendable Tom Wilson, along with the unprecedented Rangers' press release and the firing of top Ranger executives John Davidson and Jeff Gorton. Do NHL teams need to restore the enforcer role? The Seattle Kraken and their expansion draft The guys marvel at Connor McDavid's 100 points in 53 games Two NHL coaches — John Tortorella and Rick Tocchet — part company with their teams. Could one be Seattle-bound? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our special guest is Wayne Gretzky! Wayne has zero issues with anyone who wants to wear #99. He talks about how his parents completely wasted their money buying him braces Wayne shares many heartfelt and funny stories about his father, who passed away in March. He talks about why he would sneak home unannounced when he went to visit his parents He updates us on what his family is up to Wayne discusses how close he was to actually playing for Winnipeg instead of Edmonton And he vividly remembers the final game he played in Canada, a game in Ottawa Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week the guys talk about social media abuse is rampant and how one sport is taking serious action against it. Russ recalls how it felt getting booed by his home crowd in Montreal Then scoring a Game 7 overtime winner vs Hartford! Dealing with a fluke shoulder injury that changed everything in Montreal Jason Spezza led a player initiative to get Leaf players to pool their money to help out lesser paid AHL players in their organization. Russ remembers an amazing act of giving from an unlikely source Russ' old teammate, Patrick Roy wants back in the NHL... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The boys talk about the retirement of quarterback Alex Smith and his inspirational comeback from a shattered leg and multiple surgeries. Jim talks about his father's battle with Huntington's Disease. What it meant to Russ to be an NHL player. What Gordie Howe didn't like about the game. They discuss Columbus head coach John Tortorella making Max Domi a healthy scratch. Russ discusses other coaches, the coaching styles that most helped him and the styles that bothered him. The boys also discuss the amazing charity work Tortorella does. Russ used to write down his personal goals as an NHL player and shares a few of them with us. Patrick Marleau breaking Gordie Howe's NHL record for most games played Russ talks about his embarrassing moment with Patrick Marleau A little golf talk...Jim's story about billeting LPGA star Danielle Kang And Russ's club wouldn't let this superstar become an honorary member? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we get into our pet peeves, the things that really drive us crazy. Russ's favourite neighbour moves away...he was a Great One We talk about another great edition of The Masters, and how cool and humble Hideki Matsuyama is. Wait, how many hole in ones has Jack Nicklaus had? Our producer, Steve Warne (also a long time sports talk radio host), helps us break down the NHL trade deadline. Taylor Hall is traded to Boston. Why did he sign a one year deal with Buffalo in the first place? Toronto brings in Nick Foligno. A nice acquisition but was a first rounder too much? Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman pulls off an incredible deal that will really help their rebuild. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The boys discuss the Vancouver Canucks COVID outbreak this week and a few of their own thoughts on vaccines. The Texas Rangers home opener is allowed a full house for their home opener. Connor McDavid gets the maximum NHL fine for an elbowing penalty against Montreal. Wait, the maximum is only $5000??!! What's it like for players to live through the NHL trade deadline, whether they're on the block or not? Jim asks Russ to share some memories about his NHL draft day, going 7th overall to the Leafs in 1983. The early, crusty days of Darryl Sutter's return to Calgary The fun of playing NHL hockey in Los Angeles The boys both have great personal anecdotes about hanging with actor Tony Danza from “Taxi” and “Who's the Boss?” fame. The legend of Ray Ferraro and "Booze Can," the hilarious fictional character he played when he and Russ were teammates and roommates. Jim grills Russ on who the top 25 NHL players of all time are Possible list... 1. Gordie Howe 2. Wayne Gretzky 3. Bobby Orr 4. Mario Lemieux 5. Maurice “Rocket” Richard 6. Bobby Hull 7. Jean Beliveau 8. Mark Messier 9. Guy Lafleur 10. Doug Harvey 11. Martin Brodeur 12. Patrick Roy 13. Nicklas Lidstrom 14. Sidney Crosby 15. Terry Sawchuk 16. Ray Bourque 17. Steve Yzerman 18. Mike Bossy 19. Eddie Shore 20. Stan Mikita 21. Alex Ovechkin 22. Jaromir Jagr 23. Howie Morenz 24. Denis Potvin 25. Phil Esposito Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ has a theory on why Jimmy cannot sell his house in the hottest market ever. Jim talks about his days as a realtor and, during one showing, an embarrassing, painful episode After the Aaron Ekblad injury, Russ remembers some bad injuries he's witnessed, along with some of his own Has Russ ever witnessed a coach telling a player to go out and hurt an opponent? Which skill players in Russ's era were hardest to contain? Chris Chelios's story about constantly getting burned by Mario Lemieux Jim's mom's run-in with Mario Lemieux Dirty hits by guys like Tom Wilson and Milan Lucic Why did Russ lose his mind watching minor hockey in LA? The boys give their take on the NHL's dismissal of referee Tim Peel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ talks about a fundraiser for his friend... We discuss Thomas Hickey's incredible battle though adversity to play his first game for the Islanders in almost two years. How do you stay motivated on a hockey team that's already way out of the playoff race? They address Erik Karlsson's recent comments that he doesn't want to go through in San Jose what he went through in Ottawa. Russ's friend "MC" joins us to talk about a wild, and we mean WILD golf story with Russ at Pebble Beach that had a $200K calcutta and an incident that led to an arrest Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our special guest is Russ' former Leaf teammate, Gary Leeman. This week, the guys talk about: The time Pete Mahovlich stepped in to save Jimmy from a beating. What Gary is up to these days and where he's living Jimmy's memory of hanging with Gary in Truro Nova Scotia. Gary and Russ talk about staying involved with charity through NHL and Leafs alumni events The boys talk about their times together at Notre Dame And the decision to leave home to play prep school at Notre Dame Riding shotgun with Bryan Fogarty Memories, stories and impressions of former Leafs coach John Brophy Gary talks about Russ being traded for John Kordic and how that deal shouldn't have been allowed by the league. He talks about the Leafs deal to acquire two future hall of famers completely disrupted their rebuild Wait, HOW many Leafs players were smokers when Russ and Gary played??? Dark days in Calgary after Gary got hit in the head with a deflected Al MacInnis slap shot Why Gary switched his agent and orchestrated a trade out of Calgary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An emotional show this week as the boys discuss their friend, Walter Gretzky —Canada's Hockey Dad—who passed away last week at the age of 82. They discuss: Russ meeting Walter at the 1991 Canada Cup when he and Wayne played together for Team Canada. Walter had great sympathy at that tournament for 18 year old Eric Lindros. Going for walks and telling stories with Walter and his friend Charlie Henry. They discuss Wayne's amazing, emotional eulogy. How Walter was always inquisitive and genuinely wanted to get to know everyone. A great story of Walter's awkward encounter with another passenger while flying first-class and being excited to go see Wayne break Gordie Howe's all-time scoring record. How Walter wasn't really a fan of the time Wayne bought him a brand new Cadillac. How he loved to take photos...and present them to people Emails from people touched by Walter's life. How Russ' wife, Paris, basically learned the rules of hockey from Walter's wife, Phyllis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week the boys relive some great stories and the Edmonton Oilers' dynasty of the 1980's. The time Jim moved in with Kevin. Memories of hitting golf balls off Jim's car Jim takes a week to list off Kevin accomplishments Kevin remembers his final year of playing, signing a 3 year deal with the Oilers, one year to play, two year to coach Kevin doesn't miss dealing with agents Some great memories about the Winter Olympic Hockey Tournament 2002 when Canada broke its 50 year gold medal drought. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ and Jim are joined this week by TSN Hockey host and author, James Duthie. The boys talk about Duthie's latest book Beauties: Hockey's Greatest Untold Stories. They zoom in on some fantastic stories about Luc Robitaille, Marc Bergevin, Gordie Howe, Darcy Tucker, Pat Quinn, Brian Kilrea and others. They discuss how TSN is pulling off hockey with all the safety challenges. Will the NHL be able to get all 56 games in this year? The night James dropped his lapel microphone on air and the hilarious scene when the camera went back to him. Why James probably won't get to be at Augusta for the Masters this year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jim quizzes Russ about the info his Wikipedia page What was Russ like as a kid? Russ talks about days on the school yard and life playing prep school hockey in Notre Dame in Saskatchewan He remembers his late father's promise Russ also talks about leaving home at 14. Was he homesick? He talked about his Hounds teammates Wendel Clark, Gary Leeman, Gord Kluzak and other ND players who made the NHL Russ tells a great story of when he realized he had at a chance to get to the show The unusual way Russ found out he'd made the 1991 Canada Cup…and he made it ahead of two NHL superstars. He remembers playing for Canada at the 1984 World Juniors and then heading straight to play at Olympics. So why were his older Team Canada teammates initially annoyed with him? Why did playing in a city like New York have advantages over playing in Montreal and Toronto? Russ tells a very emotional story about his dear friend Ron who recently passed away…and you won't believe the incredible thing Wayne Gretzky did for him. Is the NHL's intense schedule affecting the quality of the performances? Wait, Russ' dream foursome includes Winston Churchill? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jim crushes our producer Steve in NFL betting Russ lost on KC but he's happy for Tom Brady Russ shares Paris' perspective on what's it's like to be married to an NHL player? And what things are like after retirement? The Super Bowl streaker We're got some stories on how to talk your way into great sports tickets Stories of Russ facing off against his brother Geoff Why you can't chirp guys as much anymore Advice for young players before they enter the NHL Russ has a great story his brother tells about a run-in with last week's guest Marty McSorley and another where Dale Hunter wanted to kill Russ. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our good friend Marty McSorley joins us with some fantastic hockey stories this week: The former Edmonton Oiler, LA King, Boston Bruin, Pittsburgh Penguin, New York Ranger, and San Jose Shark talks about the time he fought his future teammate, Mark Messier and, after their majors, rushed out to wait for him outside the penalty box. Marty says when he was in a bad mood, he would warn opposing wingers - like Russ - that they probably shouldn't come flying up his side of the ice. The Oilers were a dynasty but they were also on the same page, on and off the ice. He discusses some of the wisdom he got from his former teammate and roommate Dave Semenko. Marty has a good (and hilarious) reason why he never minded when his coaches asked him to out and fight, even back in junior hockey. The fellas discuss how some players slide into long NHL careers because they were willing to adapt to different roles than they're used to. Russ has a funny story about his ill-fated decision to punch tough guy Behn Wilson in the face. Wilson was one of those tough guys that even the tough guys preferred not to face. Marty talks candidly about the infamous suspension. And when Russ gives Jimmy a hard time, Marty becomes a protector again and hits Russ with a hilarious chirp. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The boys review Kirk McLean's great visit to the show last week Russ is getting ready for his physical for Life Insurance - measuring out his next White Claw Parenting, trying to keep kids clear of trouble and Jim's memories of "the strap" Russ and Jim share facts and memories of former Toronto Maple Leafs' captain George Armstrong who passed away this week Russ is loving the NHL North, the all-Canadian division Blockbuster trade Patrik Laine for Pierre-Luc Dubois John Tortorella? Russ feels like he's played for tougher coaches How are NHL players different today in the area of respect? Russ tells us that NHL fame comes with a price The Packers strange call at the end of the NFC Championship Game Chirping guys can be fun but not everyone is on board with it Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former NHL goalie Kirk McLean - Russ' old Canucks' teammate - fills in for Russ as guest co-host today…. He talks about some of the differences in the game today versus his era. Kirk talks about the advancement in goaltending techniques: While today's butterfly technique is superior, he is concerned about injuries. The boys talk about how beautiful the facilities are at Rogers Place in Edmonton The guys get into the Tiger Woods Documentary on HBO. Kirk discusses the Courtnall family, their charity initiatives and which Courtnall brother had the best one-liners. Kirk has a story about jetting with Russ to a Vegas casino where Russ hit it big in blackjack They get into minor hockey memories and the madness of hardcore parents Kirk discusses his path to the NHL, draft day and when his NHL dream started to become real Kirk helped the Canucks get to Game 7 of the Stanley cup final in 1994 and talks about the experience Kirk is a member of the famous Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland and his horse won the Queens Plate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, some great stories from St Louis Blues analyst Darren Pang. Both Panger and Russ played junior hockey for Brian Kilrea and they swap some great stories about him. The guy's get into Panger's Chicago days, discussing Denis Savard and Doug Wilson, his contentious relationship with Mike Keenan and Panger's very unusual pre-game ritual. Russ gives some love to Neal Broten as a guy who should be in the Hall of Fame. Hear what Darren has to say when Russ declares what a great GM Panger would make. And you can't beat on-air bloopers... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the World Juniors wrapping up, this week the boys discuss the Canada-Russia hockey rivalry. You won't believe what happened when Russ and the Montreal Canadiens when they travelled to Russia for an exhibition game. Things got a little out of hand and what Brian Skrudland did to the Russian coach is absolutely wild! Russ isn't a big fan of Mike Milbury and he tells us why. The guys get into Russ' biggest NHL regret; a funny story about Pat Burns and a planned bag skate; Do players have more respect for coaches now or back when Russ played? Also James Duthie's new book, and what they did over the holidays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we discuss Canada's beat down of lesser hockey countries so far at the World Juniors. We look back at the amusing comments by the Swiss head coach a few years ago, knowing his squad had no shot when they faced Canada. We get into the emotional post-game speech this week by Houston Texans defensive end JJ Watt, who's worried about his teammates not seeing a tough season through with full effort. Russ talks about his golf round with Billy Bush. As the year draws to a close, we look at the NHL's best. By the way, what separates the true elite players from very good players? We also talk COVID and the Black Lives Matters movement and their dramatic effect on sports this year. Happy New Year, everyone! It doesn't exactly have a tough act to follow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ remembers some of his old coaches: the best, the worst, the one with the best motivational speech he ever heard and the one Russ believes put more players into the NHL than any other amateur coach. Jimmy tells a hilarious story about getting burned by former Hockey Night in Canada host Brian McFarlane. The boys talk about Russ' son Lawton who got his first professional goal on the weekend. Russ recalls his first goal and whether he keeps any NHL mementos. They get into the recent memorabilia theft at Walter Gretzky's home. Was Islander goalie Billy Smith as crazy as they say? What two games in his career made Russ most nervous beforehand? What was the key to Russ' high end skating speed? The boys also discuss Christmas during this weird time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, the boys discuss reports that the NHL plans to go with a 56 game schedule and an all-Canadian division. They get into life as a hockey parent, with an update on Russ' son as he breaks into pro hockey. The guys have some positive thoughts about Paul Coffey, who became the first defenceman to get 1000 assists, 25 years ago this week. They have some fun drinking stories and (look out, White Claw), Russ has a new go-to drink. The time Jim had Mario Lemieux over to his house where Jim's mom was quite taken with him. How does a hockey coach "lose the room?" Russ gives a specific NHL example he lived through. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ talks about another former Montreal Canadiens forward - enforcer Chris Nilan and his battles. The guys discuss the many negative temptations that are offered to pro athletes. The story of former Oiler Esa Tikkanen and his love of vodka. What's the toughest part about being a pro athlete? Wayne Gretzky's rookie card may be worth $1 million. The boys swap cool stories about former Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Russ recalls the night Team Canada head coach Brian Kilrea gave him the captaincy at the World Juniors. He also says the Leafs had a chance to hire Kilrea, the former Ottawa 67's coach - and he says they should have - but they didn't. They discuss all these celebrity, exhibition boxing matches. Russ has some interesting stories about John McEnroe and Caitlyn Jenner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we're joined by media consultant and longtime broadcast executive Mark Maheu. We discuss the evolution of the sports media landscape and where advertisers are spending their money. We get into the NHL's very lucrative TV deal with Rogers and whether the deal has been worth it so far. Russ tell a great story about radio legends Howard Stern and Rick Dees. They guys get into the story of Sarah Fuller who became the first woman to play in a Power Five conference football game. They also discuss the charity matches in golf and boxing from last weekend. Boxing: Mike Tyson vs Roy Jones Junior. Golf: Phil Mickelson and Charles Barkley vs Peyton Manning and Steph Curry. Russ remembers his days competing in the Battle of the Blades celebrity figure skating and what judge Brett Hull said to him when he eliminated him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The boys remember the fun (and the cold) at the first NHL Heritage Classic. Russ was playing on Montreal's alumni team and Jim was doing his standard Oiler gravy training. Not all NHL players love the soap operas, but Wayne Gretzky always did. Russ gives Jimmy the gears for getting dumped and his new obsession with online blackjack. A cool story - with a Leafs' connection - about how Russ got started in real estate. With people stuck at home during the pandemic, people are renewing old hobbies. So hockey cards and other sports collectibles are making a huge comeback. Joining us to talk about it is Mark Rubin, owner of American Legends Sports Collectibles in New York. www.amerlegends.com Mark even gives us the updated value of the 1986-87 O-Pee-Chee Russ Courtnall rookie card. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ has the house to himself and enjoys a lively Masters weekend of wine and cigars with former NHL players Shane O'Brien, Scottie Upshall. Russ and Jim discuss their pal, Dustin Johnson, winning his first Masters. What's the toughest sports championship to win? Cha-Ching! The NHL unveils new reverse retro jerseys. What's Russ' favourite all time NHL jersey and logo? Russ thinks players should never be blocks from participating in the World Juniors or Olympics. The importance of giving people second chances. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ and Jimmy are joined in this episode by 10 time Stanley Cup winner Larry Robinson! The boys discuss: Larry's grass roots in hockey growing up just outside Ottawa. The time Larry CRUSHED Russ in a game. What is was like playing for Scotty Bowman? The 3 on 3 overtimes and the one rule change that would make the NHL better and safer! Some of the best fights and bench clearing brawls Larry was ever involved in Having a second job to make ends meet...WHILE PLAYING FOR THE MONTREAL CANADIENS!! The Montreal teammate who was, by far, the biggest prankster. Who was Montreal's greatest rival during Larry's time there? Why winning a Cup as a head coach was as satisfying as winning as a player. He also gives us an update on his friend and teammate Guy LaFleur, who's battling cancer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ' wife surprises him by building him a new bar. Russ actually helped choose Team Canada's head coach for the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics. Jim has an awesome story about Wayne Gretzky who was the general manager of that squad. The boys chime in on Bobby Orr who took some serious flak this week for his strong support of Donald Trump. They talk about the NHL player who had a cannon of a shot and how he got it? The OHL is toying with the idea of banning bodychecking next season. What's up with that? You won't believe what pitcher Jon Lester did for Cubs' fans. Would an NHL 3 on 3 format be a good temporary format during COVID? Some nice stories about Joey Moss, Wayne Gretzky's pal and the longtime Oilers' dressing room attendant, who passed away this week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's episode, Russ talks about the PGA's Zozo Championship and the 4 day party in his backyard right on the 4th hole. The guys get into the story of Mitchell Miller, an 18 year old draft Arizona Coyotes draft pick. He and the Coyotes are under fire after news broke this week about Miller's horrible, violent, and racist behaviour toward a developmentally-delayed black classmate back in Grade 8. Jim has a hilarious tale of revenge involving sports owner Bill Comrie, founder of The Brick Furniture chain. Russ hates to see a good cigar wasted The boys talk about the possibility of the NHL going with an all-Canadian division to get them through COVID. Russ tells us which NHL goalie got burned with "The Credit Card Game." He also gets into what it's like to be traded and the emotions that go with that. and he briefly reveals his frustration with current California state politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ is hosting a party at his place while a PGA event is going on just a few feet away. With NHL Free agency in full swing, Russ talks about his experiences as a free agent. Russ was at a family dinner at a high end restaurant when the champion Lakers walked in. This week is the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Canadiens firing GM Serge Savard and Coach Jacques Demers. They brought in Rejean Houle as GM and Mario Tremblay as Head Coach. How much did all that change the course of history for the Montreal Canadiens? TV Ratings are down in all sports, even though COVID is keeping more people home. Russ' daughter Ally is a model in SI's Swim Search. Russ gives some examples of crazy hockey parents, including one who probably felt terrible after his son paid for his actions. Why there might not be a Tim Horton's coffee shop chain if not for Harold Ballard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Arizona Coyotes head coach Rick Tocchet joins us and crushes it with some amazing stories. The time he and Cam Neely drank with actor Dennis Leary and got an amazing, unique souvenir out of it How Craig Berube, when he was still an enforcer, had an amazing strategy for slowing down opponents who started running around How Rick got a MAJOR surprise when he tried to console Paul Coffey Memories of Dale Hawerchuk and playing in the 1987 Canada Cup Rick played with AND coached with Wayne Gretzky. He talks about what he was like as a coach and how one of Gretzky's fun, motivational techniques went very, very wrong Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode, Both Jim and Russ have hilarious stories about encounters with NHL Commissioner Garry Bettman. Russ has a guy in mind who should be actually handing out the Stanley Cup instead of Bettman. With the NHL draft being held this week, Russ looks back on his NHL draft memories when he was taken 7th overall. The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League is adding much harsher penalties to players who fight. Russ says there might be consequences if the NHL ever goes that direction and those pushing for it should be careful what they wish for. And it's listener appreciation day with lots of emails. Uh, Jim finally checked the show email account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do Pat Flatley, Shane Churla, Ryan Walter, Gary Bettman, Bill Gates, Joe Montana, and Rick Bowness all have in common? They all made their way into the podcast ! Russ made Churla cry. Jimmy got man handled by Mariah Carey’s security team. Pound for pound Kenny Linesman was the toughest guy out there. Wait til you hear Jon Coopers background. What are all those coaches doing behind the bench and upstairs? Russ says there are too many of them. Jerome doesn’t know how to gamble. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, Jim and Russ look back at Canada's incredible roster the 1987 Canada Cup. Russ has a hilarious story about a buddy who pranked him making him think he'd been invited to play for that team. Russ' Revenge was sweet. Russ is not very programming or computer savvy. Not much for meetings either. Alex Ovechkin likes the celly maybe a little too much? Pat Maroon is a great guy with a great goal celebration. Russ isn't a fan of those Carolina Hurricane post game cellys. Russ has some great memories of making 1991 Team Canada and found out he'd made the team from an unlikely source. The guy he beat out! Jimmy keeps the prank stories coming with some beauties between Gord Miller and Chris Cuthbert. We discuss the NHL's Soviet invasion. Why does Russ think the conditions at the US Open are a joke? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rusty may have a dilemma. He played for Dallas and Tampa coach Jon Cooper is a friend but what an interesting story he is. What are guys like come playoffs? Russ used to hang with a First Lady. Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians blames Tom Brady for some mistakes during their opening game loss… Did he do the right thing? Serge Savard had something to say about behaviour during the anthem. How is the NHL going to handle social injustice in months and years to come. There are lap dances that happened in the locker room? What!!!! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A guy wins $15 million this week! Let’s talk about that ! Jimmy says the money just keeps going up and up and up in the sports world and will keep going. Russ says, "Not so fast, partner." A lot of people say Courtnall’s friend Steve Nash getting the NBA head job in Brooklyn is unfair. Rusty absolutely disagrees The head coach of the Dallas Stars says nobody has any idea how absolutely difficult it is to play with Covid restrictions. A drop dead funny interview with an old timer and the crazy stuff they did back in the old days of being a pro hockey player. If Russ knows anything’s, it’s this...Ray Whitney should be the next GM in Phoenix Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The boys talk about the impenetrable bond that hockey players have and when the chips are down they’ll do anything for a guy. Russ read his own press clippings one day and then took on the the poor reporter who wrote the story. There are 2 days in Courtnall’s life that completely changed the course of his future. If you could pick, what sport would you want your kid to play? What’s the hardest thing a pro athlete has to deal with when he makes the big leagues ? A bar...a pool table...lots of drinks...what could possibly go wrong ? Rusty weighs in on dirty hits...you’ll learn something here. Jimmy tries to high roll it at a bar in LA. Other names that come up on the show...Wayne Gretzky, Wendel Clark, Kevin Lowe, Edmonton Oilers, White Claw, Matthew Tkachuk, Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan, Calgary Flames, LA Kings, Pat Burns, Mackenzie Hughes, Fed Ex Cup, PGA Golf, Guy Carbonneau, Montreal Canadiens Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rusty has a friend! Steve Lowery drops in and talks about his days on the tour, winning 3 times - all playoff victories! He still loves the game but thinks there should be some changes. Some hilarious antics by Payne Stewart and the best mispronunciation of a name ever! You’re gonna love the rule he has with the regular foursome he plays with. Playing in the days of Tiger Woods. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Playoffs baby! Russ gives us his thoughts and picks. Is Covid going to change Russ’s life after things calm down? What’s it like watching hockey with guys who played in the NHL? What lengths have people gone to trying to meet their favourite player and...what have players done beyond the call of duty to surprise fans? Russ will get you tickets for any game you want! Russ had a chat with Shaquille O’Neal about fighting. Jimmy out for a stroll late one night...more like early one morning...with longtime New Jersey Devil defenceman Ken Daneyko. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s with all the coaches behind the bench? Russ isn’t sure what they do. What happens inside the room when a player is off his game? Slow down rookie or it’ll cost you! Playoffs aren’t quite up to speed yet with enough grit. Russ talks about growing up without a father. Jimmy and Russ both think sports shouldn’t be used as a platform for social injustice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Leaf Eddie Shack passes away. Russ tell some stories about him. Russ talks about his first NHL fight and it was against a superstar What will the level of play be like in the Stanley Cup Playoffs? Why goalies are all different but some are a little "out there". NHL players tend to invest in restaurant and horses. New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton is a big hit with Russ who shares a hilarious story Russ has some interesting thoughts on John Tortorella and Scotty Bowman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ shows up with a surprise guest. Former MLB star and 2 time World Series Champion Pat Burrell. Burrell tells us stuff he’s never told anyone before. The boys tackle many questions from listeners. Which ump/ref did you hate? The fights they had. Trouble they got in breaking curfew. Why did they retire? Drinking during games! How they handled members of the media they didn’t like. Endorsement deals. Would you rather have a championship ring or be in The Hall of Fame ? And tons of other stuff! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Russ describes an incredible story about a Habs teammate who showed to practice badly hungover. You won't believe what Pat Burns did about it. The boys talk NHL coaching and Russ tells some great stories about run-ins with 3 of his former NHL head coaches, saying that one of them was a jerk to him. Another one actually slashed his players when they were slacking at practice. Russ remembers the feeling of being just 2 victories away winning the Stanley Cup. Why Russ wasn't exactly at his best when he played his first NHL game A great, hilarious add-on to Russ' story about the family having a picnic on the 13th green at his home course. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.