Podcast Summary: The Hockey Show: We Will Miss You, Jim Montgomery

Released: November 22, 2024

Hosts: Roy Bellamy, David Dwork, Ethan Podowski

Introduction

In this episode of The Hockey Show from The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, hosts Roy Bellamy, David Dwork, and Ethan Podowski delve into a comprehensive discussion on various NHL topics, culminating in reflections on coach Jim Montgomery's tenure. The conversation is rich with insightful hot takes, weekly wins and fails, and an engaging interview with ESPN's Linda Cohn.

Hot Takes

The episode kicks off with the hosts sharing their "Hot Takes" on current NHL dynamics.

• NHL Rule Changes:
  David Dwork proposes a rule adjustment regarding goalie shots. He states, “If the goalie takes a shot and it gets past the red line, nobody can touch it. You’ve got to let it go. If the goalie has enough time to get the puck to shoot it down the ice, he deserves it” ([01:18]).

  Ethan Podowski counters, emphasizing the importance of allowing goaltenders to play defense when they have the puck, especially in high-stakes games like the Stanley Cup Final ([02:14]).

• Coaching Changes:
  Roy Bellamy expresses his opinion that the next coach to be fired in the NHL will hail from Pennsylvania, specifically targeting Mike Sullivan. He humorously adds, “Boom. A character assassination, as usual for me on Cindy Crosby” ([02:32]).

  David Dwork debates this by suggesting that if Sullivan were fired, it would be akin to “the hand of God” ([02:56]).

Wins of the Week

The hosts highlight notable achievements in the NHL this week.

• Archer Seubert's Grit:
  David Dwork commends Vancouver Canucks' goalie Archer Seubert for his fearless play, mentioning, “He kept playing for like 30 seconds with a bare hand, which is dangerous enough, but then he makes the save with his chest” ([07:15]).

• Winter Classic Preview:
  Roy Bellamy shares excitement for the upcoming Winter Classic in Chicago between the Blues and the Blackhawks, praising the new uniforms and the event's execution ([08:23]).

Fails of the Week

The episode also addresses some unfortunate events in the league.

• Matt Sucrello's Injury:
  David Dwork breaks down a severe injury incident where Matt Sucrello ruptured his testicle while blocking a shot, stating, “Son, Sean Thornton buzzed one right above my ear” ([09:54]).

• Marc Andre Fleury's Bizarre Goal:
  David Dwork recounts a peculiar goal where Marc Andre Fleury inadvertently scored on himself, humorously noting, “I don't know how that puck went in, but that's rough” ([10:35]).

• Nashville Predators' Lineup Error:
  Roy Bellamy discusses a botched lineup call by the Predators, leading to a penalty, with Ethan Podowski commenting, “It's not getting any better instead of Pennsylvania” ([12:04]).

Special Guest Segment: Linda Cohn

Linda Cohn from ESPN and the Kraken Hockey Network joins the show to discuss pivotal developments within the NHL.

• Jessica Campbell's Milestone:
  Linda Cohn praises Jessica Campbell, the first woman to hold a coaching position in the NHL as an assistant coach for the Seattle Kraken. She remarks, “Jessica is fantastic. They just love her. I mean, she’s smart and she knows the game” ([15:32]).

• Seattle Kraken's Success:
  She highlights the Kraken's impressive start, noting their recent 5-1 home stand and the strategic hiring practices that have positioned them as a progressive force in the league ([17:08]).

• NHL Goaltending Analysis:
  In a discussion about goaltending prowess, Linda shares her thoughts on Alex Ovechkin’s injury and its impact: “I am heartbroken for OV because I believed he was going to break it” ([28:08]). She debates Ovechkin's resilience and potential to overcome his injury, while David Dwork optimistically counters, “He's only missing 20 games, it's certainly within the realm of possibility” ([29:41]).

• Rangers' Performance:
  Linda Cohn expresses concerns over the Rangers' inconsistent performance despite their strong records, questioning the team's depth and overall strategy ([26:29]).

Discussion on Jim Montgomery

A significant portion of the episode revolves around coach Jim Montgomery and his future with the Bruins.

• Montgomery's Performance:
  Ethan Podowski asserts, “Jim Montgomery is going to be the first coach fired this season,” citing his recent conflicts and the team's fractured performance ([05:10]).

  David Dwork provides a nuanced view, acknowledging Montgomery's past successes but emphasizing the current season's shortcomings: “He’s done a great job and unfortunately this season just didn’t pan out for him” ([05:15]).

• Future Prospects:
  The hosts reflect on Montgomery's potential in different team environments, suggesting that a change of scenery might offer him a fresh start where expectations are more manageable ([07:03]).

  David Dwork ultimately expresses a bittersweet sentiment: “I’ll miss you Monty. I really will” ([05:25]).

Team Recaps: Florida Panthers

The hosts provide an in-depth analysis of the Florida Panthers' recent performances.

• Recent Games Overview:
  Roy Bellamy and David Dwork discuss the Panthers' mixed results, highlighting both victories and disappointing losses, including a significant defeat to the Winnipeg Jets where they lost 6-3 ([34:33]).

• Team Dynamics:
  They analyze the team's defensive struggles and the impact of key players like Alexander Ovechkin, whose injury could derail his record-breaking aspirations: “I think this is too much of an injury to come back from” ([28:42]).

• Upcoming Matchup:
  Previewing the Panthers' next game against the Avalanche, the hosts predict a high-scoring affair due to both teams' offensive capabilities, advising listeners to “Bet the over” ([38:34]).

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, the hosts extend holiday wishes to their listeners, recap the Panthers' performance, and tease upcoming discussions post-holiday break. The inclusion of guest Linda Cohn adds depth to the conversation, offering expert insights into managerial decisions and player performances within the NHL.

Notable Quotes

• David Dwork on Goalie Rules:
  "If the goalie takes a shot and it gets past the red line, nobody can touch it. You’ve got to let it go." ([01:18])

• Roy Bellamy on Coaching Changes:
  "Boom. A character assassination, as usual for me on Cindy Crosby." ([02:58])

• Ethan Podowski on Season Predictions:
  "They are nowhere right now. And it's either going to be him or the Detroit coach, Lalon." ([03:10])

• Linda Cohn on Jessica Campbell:
  "Jessica is fantastic. They just love her. I mean, she’s smart and she knows the game." ([15:32])

• David Dwork on Montgomery:
  "He’s done a great job and unfortunately this season just didn’t pan out for him." ([05:15])

• Linda Cohn on Ovechkin's Injury:
  "I am heartbroken for OV because I believed he was going to break it." ([28:08])

This episode offers a thorough exploration of current NHL issues, balancing critical analysis with personal anecdotes and expert opinions, making it a valuable listen for both avid hockey fans and casual followers alike.