Spittin' Chiclets Episode 552: Featuring Doug Armstrong & Kevin Shattenkirk
Hosts: Ryan Whitney, Paul Bissonnette, Mike Grinnell
Guest Speakers: Doug Armstrong (General Manager, St. Louis Blues), Kevin Shattenkirk (Retired NHL Defenseman)
Release Date: April 1, 2025
1. Introduction
Ryan Whitney kicks off the episode amidst battling a sickness but showcases unwavering dedication by continuing the podcast. The hosts share humorous anecdotes about their recent travels and personal misadventures, setting a lighthearted tone for the episode.
2. Travel Troubles and Golf Fiascos
The hosts delve into the frustrations of frequent traveling, highlighting incidents like prolonged flight delays and uncomfortable situations on planes. Paul Bissonnette humorously attributes some of Ryan Whitney's ailments to possible food tampering by "foreplay guys," leading to a series of laughs and playful banter.
Notable Quote:
[02:10] Ryan Whitney: "I just fired myself up. Doesn't sound like I got that because I just fired myself up."
Additionally, their shared golf experiences reveal their irreverent approach to the sport, criticizing poorly maintained courses and sharing laughs over challenging gameplay.
3. NHL News and Insights
The conversation seamlessly transitions into NHL discussions, focusing on team performances, strategic trades, and standout players.
a. St. Louis Blues’ Strategic Moves
Doug Armstrong provides an in-depth analysis of the Blues' recent strategies, emphasizing the successful acquisition of players through offer sheets like Broberg and Holloway. He discusses the importance of building a young, dynamic core while maintaining depth within the team.
Notable Quote:
[77:59] Doug Armstrong: "We have a job to do for the St. Louis Blues organization... Find the players that can contribute immediately and in the future."
b. College Hockey Spotlight
The hosts spotlight emerging talents in college hockey, with Paul Bissonnette expressing excitement over players like Matt Davis. They discuss his exceptional performance, noting his impressive stats and potential transition to the NHL.
Notable Quote:
[12:57] Ryan Whitney: "The last year that the Boston Bruins and Detroit Red Wings didn't make the playoffs was 1967."
c. New Canadian NHL TV Deal
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the groundbreaking Canadian TV deal for the NHL, valued at approximately CAD $11 billion over 12 years. The hosts speculate on its implications, including potential partnerships with streaming giants like Amazon and the positive impact on the league's growth and player salaries.
4. Interview with Doug Armstrong
Doug Armstrong, the General Manager of the St. Louis Blues, shares his perspectives on team management, player development, and the intricacies of navigating NHL trades within salary cap constraints.
Key Discussion Points:
- Team Building: Emphasizing the blend of experienced veterans and promising young players to create a balanced roster.
- Trade Strategies: Balancing immediate team needs with long-term organizational goals, and the challenges posed by the rising salary cap.
- Leadership: The importance of strong on-ice leadership from players like Robert Thomas and maintaining team morale.
Notable Quote:
[79:22] Doug Armstrong: "My job is always to do what I think is best for the St. Louis Blues as an organization... Monty's track record made him a perfect fit."
5. Interview with Kevin Shattenkirk
Kevin Shattenkirk, a retired NHL defenseman, offers a nostalgic and insightful look into his career, from his early days with the New York Rangers to winning the Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Key Discussion Points:
- Career Journey: Transitioning between teams, dealing with trades, and the emotional aspects of leaving beloved locker rooms.
- Player Relationships: Reflecting on influential teammates and coaches, including the impact of Steve Monty on his career.
- Post-Retirement Plans: Exploring potential roles in broadcasting, media, or coaching, while cherishing the camaraderie built during his playing days.
Notable Quotes:
[121:08] Kevin Shattenkirk: "I'm happy with being around here and maybe trying to do something in broadcasting and media."
[156:00] Paul Bissonnette: "Shady, what a guy. What an amazing person. Hell of a career."
6. Player Highlights and Statistics
The hosts analyze standout performances from current NHL stars, including Leon Draisaitl and Sidney Crosby. They discuss Draisaitl's incredible goal-scoring streak and Crosby's enduring legacy in the league.
Notable Quote:
[13:06] Paul Bissonnette: "No fucking way. No way."
7. Concluding Remarks
The episode wraps up with reflections on the season's developments, upcoming games with playoff implications, and appreciative nods to the guests for their contributions and insights.
Final Thoughts:
The hosts express gratitude towards their guests, emphasizing the importance of strategic team management and the ever-evolving landscape of the NHL.
Overall Summary:
This episode of Spittin' Chiclets offers a blend of humor, personal stories, and deep dives into NHL strategies and player performances. With insightful interviews from Doug Armstrong and Kevin Shattenkirk, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of team dynamics, the impact of strategic trades, and the personal journeys of players within the high-stakes world of professional hockey. The hosts' engaging banter and the inclusion of notable quotes enhance the episode's appeal, making it a must-listen for hockey enthusiasts seeking both entertainment and expert analysis.