Spittin’ Chiclets Episode 558: Featuring Kevin Hayes

Release Date: April 28, 2025
Hosts: Ryan Whitney, Paul Bissonnette, Rear Admiral Mike Grinelli
Guest: Kevin Hayes
Podcast: Spittin’ Chiclets by Barstool Sports

Introduction and Setting the Stage

In Episode 558 of Spittin’ Chiclets, hosts Ryan Whitney, Paul Bissonnette, and Rear Admiral (R.A.) Mike Grinnelli dive deep into the whirlwind of the 2025 NHL playoffs. Back from a hiatus since last year's playoffs, the trio brings their characteristic outspoken and irreverent opinions to dissect the most thrilling and chaotic moments unfolding in the league.

Notable Quote:

• Ryan Whitney [00:27]: "The playoffs are on crack."

Edmonton Oilers vs. Los Angeles Kings: A Roller Coaster of Emotions

The hosts kick off the episode by analyzing the intense series between the Edmonton Oilers and the Los Angeles Kings. They highlight the unprecedented comeback efforts by the Oilers, who have defied odds by tying the series despite being dominated in four games.

Key Discussions:

• Refereeing Controversies: The decision to challenge a play involving Evander Kane sparked heated debates. Whitney criticizes the call, stating, "[02:51] It's hard to really blame him because... we got a power play. What are they thinking?"

• Goaltending Decisions: The strategic moves between goalies Picard and Skinner are scrutinized. Grinnelli expresses frustration over the Kings' goalie selections, noting Skinner's struggles.

• Player Performances: Evan Bouchard's offensive prowess is lauded despite his defensive shortcomings. Whitney marvels at Bouchard's impact, remarking, "[17:15] He's the guy. He is second all-time in points per game by a defenseman in NHL history, beside Bobby Orr."

Notable Quotes:

• R.A. Mike Grinnelli [02:21]: "Hockey is on a heater."
• Paul Vincent [04:11]: "We could get one. We might get one."

Montreal Canadiens vs. Washington Capitals: Tom Wilson's Impact

The focus shifts to the electrifying series between the Montreal Canadiens and the Washington Capitals. Tom Wilson's aggressive play, including a controversial hit on Ferguson Carrier, becomes a pivotal point of discussion.

Key Discussions:

• Tom Wilson's Hits: The hit on Carrier, which led to Vasilevsky's altered performance, is dissected. Grinnelli defends Wilson's actions, stating, "[33:00] If Matt rent a delivered that hit to Sidney Crosby… he'd get a minimum 15."

• Bench Brawls: A bench fight between Anderson and Wilson is recounted, highlighting the escalating tensions and their implications on the series.

• Goaltender Injuries: Both goalies in a single game sustaining injuries underscored the high-stakes nature of playoff hockey.

Notable Quotes:

• R.A. Mike Grinnelli [30:56]: "If you're playing against those guys, you have to be extra cautious."
• Ryan Whitney [37:07]: "Tom Wilson changed the entire series."

St. Louis Blues vs. Winnipeg Jets: Coaching and Momentum

The hosts evaluate the St. Louis Blues' performance against the Winnipeg Jets, emphasizing the Blues' resilience and the Jets' inability to secure crucial wins on the road.

Key Discussions:

• Goalie Performance: The Blues' reliance on Logan Thompson is critiqued, with Grinnelli expressing doubts about his consistency.

• Team Momentum: Despite dominating the series initially, St. Louis shows signs of vulnerability, potentially altering their playoff trajectory.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Whitney [47:55]: "I think St. Louis has all the momentum and they're going to win this series."
• Paul Vincent [50:13]: "Vegas is dead, it's over."

Minnesota Wild vs. Colorado Avalanche: A Battle of Skill and Strategy

The episode delves into the exhilarating matchup between the Minnesota Wild and the Colorado Avalanche, highlighting standout performances and strategic plays that have defined the series.

Key Discussions:

• Player Highlights: Gabriel Landeskog's inspiring return and impactful goals are celebrated. Grinnelli praises his resilience, "[72:11] He's a stallion. He's an oiler."

• Coaching Strategies: The Avalanche's aggressive and fast-paced style contrasts with the Wild's structured play, influencing the series' outcome.

• Goaltending Excellence: Both goalies showcase exceptional performances, making critical saves that have kept the series intensely competitive.

Notable Quotes:

• R.A. Mike Grinnelli [75:17]: "He can get the job done. He's a gamer."
• Kevin Hayes [80:10]: "If you're looking for any positives, his play is definitely a positive."

Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Ottawa Senators: Resilience Under Pressure

The hosts discuss the Toronto Maple Leafs' nail-biting series against the Ottawa Senators, where Toronto holds a 3:1 series lead despite several overtime bouts.

Key Discussions:

• Star Performances: Mitch Marner and Matthew Nys are highlighted for their offensive contributions, with discussions on their contract negotiations.

• Goaltender Reliability: The importance of goaltenders in close-out games is emphasized, with Grinnelli pointing out the Leafs' strategy to maximize their best goaltenders in critical moments.

• Team Dynamics: The Leafs' ability to maintain composure and capitalize on offensive opportunities is contrasted with the Senators' defensive lapses.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Whitney [103:00]: "Butcher Gross mentioned... it's already happening."
• R.A. Mike Grinnelli [114:31]: "He's the best goalie in the playoffs."

Coaching Carousel and Market Shifts

A significant portion of the episode addresses the dynamic changes in the NHL coaching landscape, with Mike Sullivan's departure from the Pittsburgh Penguins sparking conversations about coach compensation and future hires.

Key Discussions:

• Mike Sullivan's Exit: Sullivan's firing is analyzed, with implications for the coaching market and potential suitors discussed.

• Contract Negotiations: The hosts debate the fairness and structures of coaching contracts, advocating for more reasonable compensation aligned with performance.

• Future Coaching Prospects: Speculations about potential hires, including Rick Talkett and David Carl, and their fit with various franchises.

Notable Quotes:

• R.A. Mike Grinnelli [117:35]: "The coaching carousel is a fucking joke now. There's no longevity for coaches."
• Ryan Whitney [125:03]: "He's probably going to be looking at around the five and a half, $6 million ranges as head coaches."

Guest Insights: Kevin Hayes on Playoffs and Personal Life

Kevin Hayes joins the conversation, offering his perspective on the current playoff frenzy and sharing personal updates, including the exciting news of impending fatherhood.

Key Discussions:

• Playoff Experiences: Hayes reflects on the unique pressures and unexpected turns of the playoffs, emphasizing the unpredictability and heightened emotions.

• Personal Milestones: He shares his joy about becoming a father, highlighting the balance between personal life and professional sports engagements.

Notable Quotes:

• Kevin Hayes [106:57]: "These ones are absolutely insane. I feel like there's only really one sleeper one, but it got a double overtime win."
• Kevin Hayes [110:35]: "If you lose game five, you don't put the best goalie in the league in the net for game six."

Tributes and Memorable Moments

The episode takes a somber turn as the hosts pay tribute to Nick Soares, affectionately known as Cinema Lords, a beloved contributor to the Spittin’ Chiclets community who passed away at 32.

Key Discussions:

• Tribute to Nick Soares: The hosts express their condolences and share memories of Soares’ humor and positive impact on the community.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Whitney [125:27]: "Just kind of heartbreaking news for a guy."
• R.A. Mike Grinnelli [137:11]: "We love you, doing a live show."

Final Thoughts and Series Predictions

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts speculate on the outcomes of ongoing series, expressing confidence in certain teams while anticipating thrilling finishes.

Key Discussions:

• Series Outcomes: Predictions are made for the Minnesota Wild vs. Colorado Avalanche, Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Ottawa Senators, and other matchups, weighing team performances and key player impacts.

• Emotional Reactions: The emotional toll of playoff losses and unforeseen twists are acknowledged, underscoring the high-stakes environment of the NHL playoffs.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Whitney [135:27]: "I think it's going to be Colorado Leafs final."
• Paul Vincent [136:44]: "I still think the winner of the Dallas Colorado they're going to go to the finals in the winter of Florida Tampa going to the finals."

Conclusion

Episode 558 of Spittin’ Chiclets offers an enthralling mix of expert analysis, passionate debates, and heartfelt moments. From dissecting controversial plays and strategic coaching decisions to celebrating standout player performances and honoring beloved community members, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive and engaging overview of the NHL playoffs. Featuring insightful contributions from guest Kevin Hayes, the episode captures the essence of playoff hockey's unpredictability and the enduring spirit of the sport.

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