Podcast Summary: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz Episode: The Hockey Show: Cup Stories With Mr. Devil
Release Date: August 1, 2025

Introduction to "The Hockey Show"

The episode kicks off at [01:01] with Roy Bellamy introducing the segment “The Hockey Show.” He welcomes listeners and co-hosts David Jordan, Ethan, and Rose, setting the stage for an engaging discussion centered around hockey. The highlight guest for this episode is Ken Danico, a former New Jersey Devil who played 20 seasons with the team and currently serves as the head coach for the 3ice League's New York-New Jersey team.

Hockey Logos: Wins and Fails

Starting at [02:10], the hosts delve into a spirited debate about various NHL team logos, comparing current designs with their former iterations.

• Anaheim Ducks: David Jordan expresses a preference for the original Ducks logo over the current orange version, stating, “I actually like the original better than this with the orange” ([03:03]).

• Buffalo Sabres: The discussion highlights the transition from the old red and black buffalo logo to the current design. Rose praises the throwback uniforms, noting, “These uniforms are so good” ([04:36]).

• Dallas Stars & Florida Panthers: The hosts compare the Dallas Stars’ embossed star logo with the Florida Panthers' shield design. Rose reminisces about the Panthers’ Stanley Cup celebrations, emphasizing the iconic status of the shield logo ([05:08], [06:37]).

• Los Angeles Kings & Vancouver Canucks: Opinions vary, with Rose favoring the newer Los Angeles Kings logo while Ken Danico critiques older designs. The Vancouver Canucks’ evolution is also discussed, highlighting the balance between legacy and modernity ([07:52], [09:30]).

Wins and Fails Segment

At [10:14], the "Wins and Fails" segment begins, where each host shares their highlight and low points of the week.

• David Jordan’s Win: Celebrates Yara Maryager, a 53-year-old player competing in his 38th professional training camp, remarking, “It's pretty unbelievable” ([10:36]).

• Roy Bellamy’s Win: Highlights Gritty, the Philadelphia Flyers mascot, for his impressive axe-throwing skills: “He hit the target from zero feet” ([10:56]).

• Ethan’s Win: Mentions the Indiana Fever’s collaboration with Stranger Things, showing personal enthusiasm for the partnership ([11:18]).

• Rose’s Win: Applauds Billy Zito for his creative Stanley Cup celebrations in the Florida Keys, capturing memorable photos with the cup and a leaping dolphin ([12:29], [13:11]).

• David Jordan’s Fail: Points out a questionable Stanley Cup celebration involving Sidney Crosby and Brad Marchand, teasing Roy Bellamy about it ([13:13], [13:57]).

• Roy Bellamy’s Fail: Ethan admits to losing a Stanley Cup pin that was gifted to him, leading to plans for a replacement ([14:25], [15:05]).

• Rose’s Fail: Criticizes The Athletic for ranking Sam Bennett as the 8th worst contract in the NHL, arguing the need for context behind such evaluations ([15:35], [16:04]).

Interview with Ken Danico: Reflections and Insights

Starting at [20:03], Ken Danico joins the show to share his experiences and perspectives on hockey's evolution.

Evolution of the Game

Ken discusses the significant changes in hockey from the mid-90s to today, emphasizing the increased speed, skill, and agility of modern players. He reflects on the physicality of his era, saying, “It was a little nastier. Obviously, there was a little more fighting” ([21:29]). Ken appreciates the advancements in training and technology but nostalgically remembers the gritty nature of past games.

Comparison with the Florida Panthers

Ken draws parallels between his championship-winning Devils team and the contemporary Florida Panthers, highlighting their depth, scoring ability, and physical play. He notes, “They look like my 1995 Devils team. Deep, a lot of depth, scoring from everywhere” ([24:00]).

Stanley Cup Celebrations

Ken shares memorable Stanley Cup stories, particularly his role as a cup keeper for the Devils. He recounts taking the Cup to various locales in New Jersey, ensuring fans had the opportunity to celebrate, saying, “I stayed seven hours, took a picture with every last one of them” ([34:36]). He emphasizes the importance of the Cup in fostering community and celebrating team success.

3ice League Overview

Ken provides an overview of the 3ice League, an 8-team league focusing on 3-on-3 hockey games. He describes the fast-paced nature of the league, stating, “It's go, go, go. And a lot of skill with so many of these young players” ([40:56]). Ken expresses his enthusiasm for coaching in the league, appreciating the energy and commitment of the players.

Future in Coaching

Ken reflects on his potential future in coaching within the Devils organization, acknowledging his love for the game and the excitement of being behind the bench. He shares, “I love what I'm doing... I've been there 42 years, guys, whether as a player or in the organization” ([45:17]).

3ice League Details

Towards the end of the episode ([40:56]), Roy Bellamy offers specifics about the 3ice League's current season, including its location at the Baptist Health Iceplex in Fort Lauderdale and the upcoming championship week. Ken provides insights into the league's format, emphasizing its dynamic gameplay and the participation of former NHL players as head coaches.

Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with Roy Bellamy thanking Ken Danico for his participation and providing information about the next episode airing on August 15th. Hosts encourage listeners to follow them on TikTok for more updates and content ([48:28]).

Notable Quotes

• David Jordan on Anaheim Ducks Logo: “I actually like the original better than this with the orange” ([03:03]).
• Rose on Florida Panthers' Stanley Cup Celebration: “This guy's having the summer of his life. He deserves it” ([12:29]).
• Ken Danico on Hockey Evolution: “The game has evolved and the skill and the speed agility of these young players today is really off the charts” ([21:29]).
• Ken Danico on Stanley Cup as a Cup Keeper: “I took it to car dealerships, restaurants, dive bars, you name it” ([37:40]).

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz offers an in-depth exploration of hockey's past and present, enriched by personal anecdotes from a seasoned former NHL player. From logo debates to heartfelt Stanley Cup stories, and an insightful look into the emergent 3ice League, the show provides a comprehensive and engaging narrative for hockey enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.