The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz

Episode: Local Hour: What Can We Blame For the Panthers Loss?

Release Date: June 13, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, host Dan Le Batard and co-host Stugotz delve into the unexpected and disappointing loss of the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final. Joined by guests Tony, Dominique Foxworth, Charlie Kravitz, Chris Cody, and Izzy Gutierrez, the panel dissects the factors contributing to the Panthers blowing a 3-0 lead, explores the role of superstitions, and shares personal anecdotes that intertwine sports fandom with everyday life.

Recap of the Panthers' Loss

The discussion kicks off with a live reaction to the Panthers' stunning turnaround during the game. Jonathan Zaslow expresses his frustration and bewilderment over the loss:

• Jonathan Zaslow (01:00): "I don't know why I do this. I didn't sleep last night. Game ends, I'm miserable."

The team reflects on the significance of the Panthers’ collapse, highlighting its rarity and comparing it to historical sports blowouts:

• Dan Le Batard (02:00): "Panthers blew a 3-0 lead. It doesn't happen to Paul Marie's teams. It doesn't happen to the Florida Panthers. It doesn't happen in the Stanley Cup Final."

Assigning Blame: Roy and Player Performances

A recurring theme is the blame game, with Roy Shaved being humorously singled out as a potential jinx:

• Dan Le Batard (00:17): "Everyone knows whose fault it is, right? Roy shaved."

The conversation shifts to analyzing player performances, particularly critiquing Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Alexander Barkov:

• Izzy Gutierrez (14:42): "So, what do you think was the worst player on the ice for the Florida Panthers?"
• Dominique Foxworth (18:05): "He wasn't great." (Referring to Seth)

The "Jinx" and Taylor Swift's Attendance

The panel humorously debates whether Taylor Swift attending the final game cursed the Panthers:

• Izzy Gutierrez (02:51): "When I saw Taylor Swift there, I'm like, why not today? Don't need, like, do it in the regular season."
• Jonathan Zaslow (03:23): "As if she's now this Panther fan."

They ponder the idea that her presence might have negatively influenced the game's outcome, blending superstition with sports analysis.

Personal Stories: Dance Recitals vs. Sports Games

Delving into personal lives, the hosts share experiences balancing parental responsibilities with being sports fans. Dan Le Batard narrates his struggles attending his daughter’s dance recital instead of watching the game:

• Dan Le Batard (04:00): "I'm happy with the social development, but game four of the Stanley Cup Final, me missing an entire first period because I'm out there playing this game."

Dominique Foxworth contrasts the structured nature of dance recitals with the flexibility of track meets, emphasizing the challenges parents face in supporting their children’s activities while maintaining their own interests.

Analyzing the Series: Comparing to Historical Losses

The hosts compare the Panthers' loss to some of the most devastating losses in South Florida sports history, citing the Miami Heat's losses in the 2011 NBA Finals as a benchmark:

• Jonathan Zaslow (27:00): "Game two, 2011 is the worst loss in Heat history."

Dan Le Batard discusses the improbability of such losses, reinforcing the Panthers' reputation and the weight of their blown lead.

Sam Bennett's Situation

The conversation shifts to Sam Bennett, a key player whose commitment to the Panthers is questioned. Izzy Gutierrez provides insights suggesting that Bennett is likely to stay with the team:

• Izzy Gutierrez (31:48): "Sam Bennett does not like new people. Is not good."

The hosts share personal interactions with Bennett, illustrating his reserved nature and dedication to the team:

• Dan Le Batard (32:48): "I was shocked at how nice Sam Bennett was to me."

Light-Hearted Banter: Famous Pee Stories

Injecting humor into the intense discussion, the hosts engage in a playful segment about peeing next to famous individuals. This light-hearted exchange highlights the camaraderie among the panelists:

• Chris Cody (33:16): "He was just like. And I just turned around and walked away. I was like, that was so embarrassed."
• Dominique Foxworth (34:35): "I just said neck and neck."

This segment serves as a brief respite from the heavy topics, showcasing the hosts' ability to balance serious sports analysis with relatable and amusing personal stories.

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the Panthers' improbable loss and the unpredictability of sports. They express a mix of frustration, disbelief, and unwavering support for their team, setting the stage for future discussions as the series progresses.

• Dan Le Batard (28:18): "What was a bigger choke job? Jonathan Zaslow in the history of South Florida sports with stakes attached last night up 3-0 vs. Edmonton or LeBron and D-Wade shadow boxing game two, 2011."

Overall, this episode offers a comprehensive and engaging analysis of the Panthers' loss, enriched with personal anecdotes and humor, making it accessible and entertaining for both avid fans and casual listeners.

Notable Quotes

• Jonathan Zaslow (01:00): "I don't know why I do this. I didn't sleep last night. Game ends, I'm miserable."
• Dan Le Batard (00:17): "Everyone knows whose fault it is, right? Roy shaved."
• Izzy Gutierrez (02:51): "When I saw Taylor Swift there, I'm like, why not today? Don't need, like, do it in the regular season."
• Dan Le Batard (04:00): "I'm happy with the social development, but game four of the Stanley Cup Final, me missing an entire first period because I'm out there playing this game."
• Jonathan Zaslow (27:00): "Game two, 2011 is the worst loss in Heat history."
• Izzy Gutierrez (31:48): "Sam Bennett does not like new people. Is not good."

This detailed summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and humorous exchanges from the episode, providing a clear and engaging overview for listeners and non-listeners alike.