Podcast Summary: The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Episode: The Hockey Show: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Comparisons
Release Date: December 13, 2024

Hosts and Guests:

• Roy Bellamy – Host
• Austin James – Co-host
• David Dwork – Guest
• Rose Arias – Guest
• Ian Kennedy – Guest (Expert from The Hockey News)

1. Introduction and Opening Banter (00:01 - 01:46)

The episode kicks off with light-hearted interactions among the hosts, including playful remarks about Rose Arias posting attractive photos on Instagram. Austin James humorously comments, “Rose just posted a picture of herself looking beautiful and you just gotta like, throw her under up to something” (01:26). This segment establishes a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, setting the tone for the discussions to follow.

2. Hot Takes on NHL Teams and Playoffs (02:02 - 06:05)

Roy Bellamy initiates the segment on hot takes, prompting Austin James to share his predictions:

• Colorado Avalanche's Playoff Prospects:
  Austin states, “Colorado Avalanche are now my pick to come out of the west after making the trade for Mackenzie Blackwood last week” (02:07). He praises Blackwood’s performance and anticipates the Avalanche's strong presence in the Stanley Cup Final, citing their improved defense and stacked roster with players like Rasmus Ristolainen and Cale Makar.

• Buffalo Sabres' GM Kevin Adams:
  Roy presents his hot take on the Buffalo Sabres' General Manager, suggesting potential termination due to a lackluster performance over five years, highlighted by the team not making the playoffs in 14 seasons (04:04). Austin concurs, emphasizing the Sabres' declining performance and mismanagement, particularly referencing the handling of star player Jack Eichel.

3. Wins and Fails of the Week (06:11 - 14:21)

Wins:

• Flyers’ Rookie Matt Moulson:
  Austin celebrates Mitch Goff’s playful antics during a Flyers game, where Goff was ejected for signing a fan’s water bottle with his stick. Roy adds, “He got tossed out the game” (06:11), appreciating the rookie’s positive engagement with fans.

• Teddy Bear Toss Brawl:
  Roy highlights an unusual yet entertaining event where a brawl erupted during a teddy bear toss, with a player reacting by shooting bears back into the stands. Austin remarks, “It's exactly what you're picturing in your head right now, I promise you” (08:46), encapsulating the chaotic yet quintessentially hockey moment.

• Nazan Kadri’s Spectacular Goal:
  David Dwork shares his admiration for Nazem Kadri’s impressive goal, describing it as potentially the best of the week (10:13). The goal showcased Kadri’s agility and skill, earning him accolades from the hosts.

Fails:

• Paul Bizonette’s Altercation:
  Austin and Roy discuss a failed attempt by Paul Bizonette to handle a confrontation, mocking the comparison to Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. Austin jokes, “Biz could probably flick his finger and knock me out cold” (13:22), emphasizing the futility of the altercation.

• Rose’s Non-Hockey Fail:
  Rose Arias shares a comedic fail involving a woman struggling to close a door, leading to laughter among the hosts. Although unrelated to hockey, Austin appreciates the humor, saying, “I'm okay with Rose putting some nonsensical video and us spending 30 seconds on it, because that made me laugh” (14:23).

4. Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) Season 2 with Ian Kennedy (17:00 - 31:21)

Guest Introduction:
Roy Bellamy welcomes Ian Kennedy from The Hockey News, author of Ice in the Veins: Women's Relentless Pursuit of the Puck, to discuss the PWHL's second season.

Key Discussions:

• Branding and Attendance Improvements:
  Ian highlights the league’s significant strides in branding, transitioning from generic city names to distinct team identities. He notes a 20% increase in average attendance, with Montreal and Toronto hosting games in larger venues, selling out quickly. “[...] the home openers over the last week and you saw how many jerseys were actually in the stands already. That was really remarkable” (20:14).

• Broadcasting Challenges and Opportunities:
  The conversation shifts to broadcasting, where Ian points out the league’s early challenges with streaming platforms before securing deals with Amazon Prime, CBC, and TSN in Canada, and regional coverage in the U.S. He speculates on potential nationwide broadcasting partnerships, mentioning ESPN as a likely candidate. “I think ESPN plus, or ESPN in general, is probably the leading tender at the moment” (23:04).

• Expansion and Talent Pool:
  Addressing concerns about expanding the league, Ian reassures that an influx of talent from upcoming drafts will support new teams without diluting the quality of play. He emphasizes the rising wave of skilled players, both domestically and internationally, ready to join the PWHL. “There's a huge wave of talent coming [...] it's globally enough women's hockey talent to expand this league quickly and still keep that level of play high” (24:22).

• Marketing and Player Engagement:
  Ian contrasts the PWHL with the NHL, praising the women’s league for its players' authentic personalities and intelligent engagement with fans. He cites examples like Sarah Phillier’s exclusive merchandise deals and encourages players to promote themselves, enhancing the league’s marketability. “These players are really thoughtful, insightful... the marketability for that, to let fans see the players in this league as people, not just as hockey players” (27:08).

• Incoming Talent and League Competitiveness:
  Ian lauds the current and incoming rookie classes, underscoring their impact on the league’s competitiveness. He mentions standout players like Sarah Phillier and Abby Murphy, predicting a dynamic and unpredictable playoff landscape. “There's no gap now. Fourth line to first line is pretty level across the board” (28:23).

Closing Remarks:
Roy thanks Ian for his insights, summarizing the PWHL’s promising growth and future prospects.

5. Florida Panthers Update: Outdoor Game and Recent Performances (33:39 - 36:51)

Outdoor Game Announcement:
Roy Bellamy announces that the Florida Panthers are set to host an outdoor game at LoanDepot Park next season, generating excitement among the hosts. Austin shares his enthusiasm, stating, “I don't know if it's going to be outdoor as well. The roof going to be open. It's going to depend on how the weather is when we get there. But this is cool, man” (34:06).

Game Recap: Panthers vs. Seattle Kraken:
The hosts discuss the Panthers' recent game against the Seattle Kraken, highlighting standout performances and game dynamics:

• Key Players and Goals:
  Austin praises Alexander Barkov’s exceptional backhand goal, noting, “Barkov has a ridiculous... that game over” (35:35). Roy commends the Panthers' defense but critiques their rush defense, leading to a 4-0 loss in Vancouver.

• Player Performances:
  J.T. Miller’s return from injury is celebrated, with Austin noting his two assists and first-star performance (35:31).

• Future Outlook:
  Roy anticipates improvements in the Panthers' defensive strategies for upcoming games, expressing hope that the recent defensive lapses were isolated incidents (35:20).

Season Closing:
Roy and Austin wrap up the episode by previewing the Panthers' next game against the Flames and expressing optimism for the team's prospects in the new season.

Notable Quotes:

• Austin James:
  “Colorado Avalanche are now my pick to come out of the west after making the trade for Mackenzie Blackwood last week” (02:07).
  “They are selling out every game. So that's really exciting” (20:43).

• Roy Bellamy:
  “It's hockey, baby” (08:46).
  “The league has a huge leg up on the NHL in that regard for sure” (27:08).

• Ian Kennedy:
  “This league has a huge leg up on the NHL in that regard for sure. And I think they're going to embrace that and really lean into it” (27:08).
  “There's no gap now. Fourth line to first line is pretty level across the board” (28:23).

Conclusion:

This episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz delves deep into current NHL dynamics, offering bold predictions and insightful analyses. The discussion extends to the burgeoning Professional Women’s Hockey League, highlighting its growth, challenges, and bright future with expert commentary from Ian Kennedy. Additionally, the hosts provide a thorough update on the Florida Panthers, celebrating recent successes and addressing areas for improvement. Packed with engaging banter, expert insights, and memorable moments, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for hockey enthusiasts looking to stay informed on the latest in the sport.