The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz: The Hockey Show - The Bingo Button

Release Date: February 28, 2025

Overview

In this episode of "The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz," host Dan Le Batard and co-host Stugotz delve deep into the world of hockey, offering a blend of analysis, hot takes, and heartfelt discussions. From player safety concerns to the state of diversity in the NHL, the show covers a wide array of topics that cater to both hardcore hockey fans and casual listeners alike.

1. Opening Remarks and Snapshots [01:59 - 05:30]

The episode kicks off with a lively exchange among the hosts, setting the stage for the discussions to come. Roy welcomes everyone to the show, and Dave introduces the first "hot take" of the day.

Notable Quote:

• "Former Sabres broadcaster Rob Ray got hit by a puck and dropped the greatest F bomb of all time." – Dave [02:20]

2. Player Safety and Equipment Discussion [02:07 - 09:25]

One of the primary topics revolves around player safety, sparked by an incident involving Rob Ray, a former Sabres player turned broadcaster, who was hit by a puck. The conversation emphasizes the importance of protective gear, specifically visors, in preventing such injuries.

Key Points:

• Rob Ray's Incident: Rob Ray was struck by a puck while broadcasting, leading to discussions about the necessity of visors for safety.
• Debate on Protective Gear: The hosts argue whether broadcasters should be shielded by glass or allowed to move freely to maintain audio quality.

Notable Quotes:

• "If he would have had a visor on, we wouldn't be having this." – Dave [03:14]
• "How do they not put these guys behind a thing of glass?" – Ethan [03:20]

3. New York Islanders' Performance Review [04:13 - 05:05]

Roy delivers a critical "hot take" on the New York Islanders, blaming their poor performance on the return of Anthony D'Angelo, which led to significant losses against teams like the Rangers.

Key Points:

• Anthony D'Angelo's Impact: Roy criticizes the decision to bring Anthony D'Angelo back, citing his poor performance and its negative effect on the team's standing.
• General Team Performance: Discussion on other struggling players like Ilya Sorokin and the overall dismal season of the Islanders.

Notable Quotes:

• "You reap what you sow because you brought back Anthony D'Angelo." – Roy [04:29]
• "The Islanders have been bad. Bad hockey and that." – Roy [05:24]

4. Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers Analysis [05:05 - 08:05]

Ethan shares a "hot take" on the Edmonton Oilers, predicting a poor season ahead due to injuries and lackluster performances, while also touching upon the Florida Panthers' struggles post-Four Nations tournament.

Key Points:

• Oilers' Decline: Ethan believes the Oilers are unlikely to be contenders this year, highlighting injuries and inconsistent play.
• Impact of Four Nations Tournament: Discussion on how participation in international tournaments has left players exhausted, affecting their performance in the NHL.

Notable Quotes:

• "The Edmonton Oilers are going nowhere this year." – Ethan [05:58]
• "Players come back exhausted from tournaments like Four Nations and World Cup of Hockey." – Dan [08:05]

5. Wins and Fails of the Week [10:02 - 17:03]

The hosts celebrate notable achievements and discuss mishaps within the hockey world.

Wins of the Week:

• Ryan Suter's Milestone: Dave highlights Ryan Suter's 1,500th NHL game, describing the touching moment when the Blues brought his four kids into the locker room.

  Notable Quote:

  • "Ryan Suter played his 1,500th NHL game, and the Blues brought his four kids into the locker room... it just melted my heart." – Dave [10:02]

• Claire's First Hockey Session: Roy shares a personal win about his daughter Claire trying hockey for the first time, emphasizing the importance of introducing young girls to the sport.

  Notable Quote:

  • "I was definitely a proud dad. And that's so cool, as soon as you are." – Roy [11:04]

Fails of the Week:

• Referee Justin Kia's Incident: Dave describes a disappointing moment where referee Justin Kia was struck in the "bingo button" during a game, highlighting concerns over referee safety.

  Notable Quote:

  • "It's a referee. Justin Kia was nailed right in the bingo button the other night." – Dave [14:43]

• Historic Incident with Mike Modano: Roy recounts a 31-year-old incident where Mike Modano was dropped from a gurney, underscoring the dangers players face even during emergencies.

  Notable Quote:

  • "They dropped Modano, who was on the gurney as they were trying to put him in the ambulance." – Roy [16:35]

6. Celebrating Diversity: Interview with Fatou Bar of Black Girl Hockey Club [19:30 - 35:30]

In honor of Black History Month, the show features an insightful interview with Fatou Bar from the Black Girl Hockey Club. The discussion centers on removing barriers for black girls and women in hockey, offering scholarships, mentorships, and promoting inclusivity within the sport.

Key Points:

• Mission of the Club: Removing financial and societal barriers to make hockey accessible to black girls and women.
• Impact of Representation: Highlighting role models like Sarah Nurse and Soroya Tinker, who inspire young black girls to pursue hockey.
• Partnerships and Outreach: Collaborations with organizations like the Toronto Maple Leafs to foster community engagement and visibility.

Notable Quotes:

• "Black Girl Hockey Club removes barriers for entry for black girls and women in hockey." – Fatou [19:54]
• "We partnered with the Toronto Maple Leafs... to have an all-women hockey panel." – Dan [22:57]
• "We do belong here. We created innovation in hockey." – Dan [26:37]

7. Weekend Game Reviews: Florida Panthers [37:12 - 52:57]

The hosts provide an in-depth review of the Florida Panthers' recent games, analyzing performances, refereeing decisions, and player highlights.

Key Topics:

• Game Against Seattle Kraken: The Panthers struggled, leading to frustration over officiating, particularly a controversial goaltender interference call involving Evan Rodriguez.

  Notable Quote:

  • "When TJ Luxmore is refereeing a Florida Panthers game, shit happens." – Roy [41:33]

• Victory Over Nashville Predators: A better performance showcased by players like Sam Bennett and Anton Lindell, emphasizing the Panthers' ability to bounce back.

  Notable Quote:

  • "Sam Bennett's goal and fight injection lifted the team." – Roy [45:14]

• Referee Critique: Ongoing frustrations with officiating consistency and perceived biases affecting game outcomes.

  Notable Quote:

  • "The explanation of why it was goaltender interference was not sufficient. That was not a good explanation." – Ethan [43:09]

• Matthew Tkachuk on The Tonight Show: Discussion about Matthew Tkachuk's appearance on Jimmy Fallon, highlighting his role as a face of USA Hockey and the impact on the sport's visibility.

  Notable Quote:

  • "Matthew Tkachuk, a Florida Panther, was on The Tonight Show discussing the Four Nations tournament." – Roy [38:34]

8. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts [52:47 - 52:57]

The episode concludes with light-hearted banter among the hosts, reflecting on the discussions and maintaining the show's signature humor.

Notable Quote:

• "Can I already end it?" – Fatou [52:50]

Conclusion

This episode of "The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz" offers a comprehensive look into current hockey topics, blending serious analysis with personal stories and humor. From addressing critical issues like player safety and diversity to celebrating personal milestones and discussing game performances, the hosts provide a well-rounded and engaging discourse that resonates with a broad audience.

Notable Quote to Wrap Up:

• "It's a very positive that there is a code of conduct that if you do something racist, if you do something crazy, if you make fans feel unsafe, there will actually be consequences." – Dan [26:34]

This summary encapsulates the key discussions and moments from the episode, providing listeners with an insightful overview while highlighting the show's dynamic and engaging format.