Adnan Virk
Appearances
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
Been six months since I've seen your face. It's been a minute, buddy, but it's great to see you. I'm so glad the pitch block is back, which is fantastic news for all of us here as baseball fans. Of all the matches we look forward to, and we'll get into all the games we look forward to, the fact that the Dodgers and Tigers, Snell versus Scooble, that is as good as baseball gets.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
So at number five, I got Bryce Harper, two-time MVP. I want to see Harper finally get that elusive World Series ring. I've got him at five. Number four, I've got Bobby Witt, who you can't spell hit without Witt. He was a runner-up for the MVP in the American League. The guy's war is off the charts. Mookie Betts, two-time MVP, coming off a World Series championship. I got Aaron Judge at two.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
One of the best seasons ever by a right-handed hitter. And, of course, number one, Shohei Otani. How does he top 50-50? I can't wait to see him pitch again. I'm praying he wins a Cy Young. That's the only way he could top himself. And what he's done so far, go out with a sign as a pitcher now.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
Well, I've got to go with the starting pitcher of the game. You mentioned him, Paul Skeens. To me, Paul Skeens is on the mound. This guy is a top five must-see event in television. His second season, he's going to start opening day for the first time. Number four, I've got Mason Miller because he throws 103 miles per hour. That's a great one. Every time he comes to the game for the A's,
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
I love Mason Miller. Number three, Juan Soto. Not just for the fact he hits, but also the Soto shuffle, all the histrionics. Every time he's out there, Soto's fun to watch. Number two, the aforementioned Bobby Witt. I'll put him in my top five with some exciting players because he's a 30-30 to waiting to happen. And number one, Fernando Tatis because he's an absolute showman. He's so exuberant.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
Every time Nando's up, the hair, the glasses, the flair, love him.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
I got the Yankees at five, but I think that AL East, it's funny, I was looking at one of the draft kings. I think it was their projections for the AL East. All five teams between 80 and 88 wins. It was crazy. Not much separation in the AL East. So I think it's going to be tight. I'll put the Yankees. Number four, I'll take the Mets.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
Concerned a little bit about their starting pitching because the fact that Manai is not healthy to start the year. But that offense, dude, when you've got Soto, Lindor, Vientos, Pete Alonso, they're going to match two through six. I really like their offense. Phillies, they're going to bang. Again, this is their year. Schwarber's a free agent after this season.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
Zach Wheeler's got to win a sign on one of these days. Him and Noah together, amazing. A little bit concerned about their bullpen, but... Their offense is going to score a ton of runs, as they should with Trey Turner and others. Number two, I've got the Braves. They could challenge the Dodgers. Best record in baseball. Now with a healthy Spencer Strider and a Ronald Acuna.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
And number one, of course, it's the Dodgers. I don't think they get the all-time wins record. Only they close the mirror, so they don't need to. I think they win 106 games, and they feel good about it. They win the division. But those are my five right now. Heavily slated towards the National League, as you can see. Top four all-NL. And a lot of coastal baseball that we're talking about.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
I think the Chicago Cubs are a very interesting team because of the fact that Kyle Tucker is now there. Could be a $400 million man as a free agent. And I love Pete Crow Armstrong. I got to go to Cubs camp in Mesa, Arizona, Jeremy, and talk to PCA. He's a great dude. He's got the crazy hair. He's just a fascinating individual.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
I was about to say, mock a little bit. So I asked him about that. He said, I got to meet Ken Griffey Jr. You know, we talked a little bit about baseball. Number four, I got the Jays. Big year for the Jays, okay? Vlad's going to step up. Bo, both these guys walk years. I think their starting pitching is actually the best in the American League East. D-backs, dude, they're starting pitching.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
Speaking of... No one's thinking about Corbin Burns. The fact he's now a member of this Arizona staff along with Zach Allen. George Montgomery's almost a forgotten man. Eduardo Rodriguez. Their starting pitching in Arizona is going to be a lot of fun to watch. And their offense had the most runs in the National League last year.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
Led by Cattell Marte, Corbin Carroll, Josh Naylor is now with that team. The Royals have got number two. Again, not just Bobby Witt. I love Vinny Pasquantino. Italian breakfast, one of his nicknames. The Pasquatch. There's a Sasquatch wandering around. It's hilarious. And number one, you touched on it earlier, the LA Villa crews, the Reds. I think Terry Franco, the Tito Magic will come back.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
The Reds are an exciting, fun, young team to watch. Spencer Sear, Matt McClain, Hunter Green with their pitching staff, Andrew Abbott. I think the Reds will be pretty fun.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
You know, I think Christian Walker is a really key guy for the Houston Astros. This is a different year, Jeremy, for the Astros. They're not going to have Alex Bregman there. They're not going to have Kyle Tucker there. Christian Walker expected a good season there with the Houston Astros. Josh Naylor I mentioned on there with the D-backs. The guys are a run-producing machine.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
They had a great offense a year ago. Naylor could be 30-100 in the desert with a really good team around him as he goes to the next level. Obviously, Soto of the Mets, $765 million man. Devin Williams, an electric closer for the New York Yankees. I'll throw one more at you. Anthony Santander, the Blue Jays.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
He had over 40 home runs last season, signs a five-year deal with the Jays with a deferred money. It's only $14 million a season. The Jays needed some oomph, and they've got that now with Santander. Those five guys, for me, very interesting what they're going to do this year.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
So I think the Reds are one of those teams because, again, in that division, it's very winnable. I do think the Cubs should win that division. I think the D-backs, people are looking at way too much at just the Dodgers. The D-backs are going to push them a little bit. I do think a forgotten team is the San Diego Padres. We all expected them to beat the Dodgers in the playoffs.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
MVP, I'm going to go with Vlad. Going into his season, I was crazy with that. Vlad goes out, wins MVP, then gets $500 million in the Toronto Blue Jays. He's been knocking on the door. He was second back in 2021. I think he does it. I want to say Otani Jeremy is the easy pick, but why not? Let's go Ellie Dillacruz. Oh, yes. Just has a massive season for Terry Franklin and the Reds.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 2: The Pitch Clock Returns
They make the playoffs, and Ellie just goes off.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Conor Hellebuck, not only is he going to win his third best, he might win the Hart Trophy this year. He's been incredible. He's got more shutouts than losses. And the fact that he's standing tall in the U.S. net, I think it's going to be a hell of a tournament. Canada still has a ton of offensive firepower.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Speaking to the Florida Panthers, specifically, Dan, one of my favorite moments this year on Amazon Prime was getting to interview Paul Maurice. He's the anti-Bob Dylan. He is as good a quote as you'll meet. He's self-deprecating. He's funny. He's charming. One of my favorite people in sports. Mo's the best.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
He gets to the file, canceled. Now he's not showing up there because he's a baby.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Okay, well, the text literally says, I'm not coming on the show today. You can read it right now.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
By the way, I'd still love to do the Oscar show, with or without Samson. We have plenty of capable people here. Mike Ryan's great, Amin El-Hassan, et cetera. I don't know why we need David Samson's authority to do an Oscar show, for the record.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Play the music. Bob Dylan would be disgusted by this conversation.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Oh, man. Yeah. That's devastating news, Mike. He's like an all-time legend. Man. You know, it's funny. For a generation of people, they'll know him just because of Major League. And he's brilliant in the movie. And he ad-libbed everything in that film. Bob Costas has told me that, who's, of course, a friend of the show and a dear friend of Bob's.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
But Bob Euchre, if you didn't know Major League, you didn't know Mr. Belvedere, which was on the show as well. If you just listened to him as a baseball guy, he was absolutely brilliant. Like he actually gets way too much credit for how funny he is and how entertaining a personality he is and not enough credit for what a great baseball announcer he was.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
And he was still calling Milwaukee Brewers games. And, you know, even after this past season, when Craig Council went to the Cubs, they thought Milwaukee would go down a step. No, they're still in the playoffs. And Bob Euchre was calling playoff games and still bringing it and was such a joy to listen to. Oh, man, that is. That's a tough blow for baseball fans, man. You can have Tim Kirkton on.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Tim can tell you stories for years. He said the greatest master of ceremonies ever was Bob Euchre. He's just so funny and so charming, and that's a big loss for the sport of baseball.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Meantime, Demi Moore wins her first Golden Globe. That's her first major award in 45 years of being an actress. And again, I'm not the one to say that she should have been lauded with laurels for a few good men. She was Oscar nominated for Ghost. G.I. Jane, of course, is a big box. The box of it said Striptease less successful. But give Mike Ryan credit.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
He was the first one that texted me in Samson. He goes, you guys got to watch The Substance. I was like, eh. Horror movie, gonzo filmmaking. Let's give it a shot. And both of us, all three of us, matter of fact, enjoyed it a lot more than we probably should have. And it's not a film that would normally get awards-type consideration because it's too gruesome, too gory. But it's audacious.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
It's challenging. It's got heavy themes to hit on when it comes to women's issues. And Demi Moore does give a gopher book performance. I see the Golden Globes recognizing her. Although I'd love to see Mikey Madison still win the Oscar for Anora, which is one of my favorite films of the year. And also credit to The Brutalist. Again, Adrian Brody,
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
might go down in history as the worst two-time Best Actor winner ever. Think about this. He won Best Actor for The Pianist at the age of 29. He was the youngest ever Best Actor winner. He's now the favorite to win for The Brutalist. Again, I will show you the DVD here again. And I love the film. Brady Corbett might win Best Director. He's the favorite. Guy Pearce is sensational.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
He's going to get nominated for Best Supporting Actor. But Adrian Brody, if I said to you guys, give me five iconic Adrian Brody performances, you're not going to be able to do so. And you could throw out Pat Riley and, you know, playing a Lakers coach in Showtime. Honestly, King Kong? This is what we're doing with Adrian Brody? And he's going to win two Oscars. It's crazy to think about.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Robert De Niro has won Best Actor Oscar ever for Raging Bull.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Damn it. And I said, no, no, I'm not a hack. I'm a guy who gets sent the screenplay to challengers.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
i have an unbelievable picture of martin scorsese in a director's chair on the set of the irishman and it's a gorgeous shot i'm a big fan of that photographic look you know imagine levitard in repose staring out at south beach but i don't get to see your face i get to see you from behind it's a gorgeous shot black and white scorsese in the director's chair simply says director on the south irishman it's immaculate i thought it was going to be a laser disc of casino
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
I actually had that. I do have some great Criterion DVDs. I mean, he's right about that.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Well, there's no question the movie's been polarizing. You're right, Mike. It's made a ton of money, which is a great sign for Robert Eggers, who you and I both appreciate as an independent director. He's a visionary. His films haven't made a ton of money, whether it's The Witch or The Lighthouse or The Northman, but this one's got people talking.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
And one of my friends said to me, he goes, how come Bill Skarsgård's not getting an Oscar consideration? I said, well, maybe the fact that he's the monster. He goes, hang on a second. The awards, they love when they transform themselves, yes? Demi Moore transforms herself. Timothee Chalamet transforms himself into Bob Dylan.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
So why does this guy not get credit for transforming himself into a monster, into Nosferatu? I said, all right, it's a fair point. I love the film, especially the cinematography. I'm a little mystified. It's been virtually ignored by all the major branches in terms of the acting categories. Lily Rose Depp, I thought was terrific. Especially, as I said, the look of the film is amazing.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Is the mustache the issue? Perhaps. But Eggers brings it. There's no question about it.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Yeah, there's always something special about baseball on the radio, Dan. And again, it's part of a bygone era for some, but Tom Hammond's being inducted in the Baseball Hall of Fame, and he's been the voice of the Cleveland Indians, now Guardians, for decades.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
And you'll go back and listen to his calls, the Rajay Davis home run in 2016, or any number of moments in the 90s, Indians, and you're like, yeah, that... that really speaks to that locale and that generation. And similarly, as you said, for Milwaukee, this is a small market team, right?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
In terms of attendance and payroll, they're in the 20s of a 30-team baseball league, and yet Uke is the voice of summer for so many Wisconsinites. We know how tough the weather can be in Milwaukee, but they get up to the lake in the summer, and they're listening to Bob Uke recall Brewers baseball.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
they had 1982 they've had some good runs obviously made the playoffs been successful but bob euchre's voice it will be inextricably linked to baseball for those people there and again on a national level people at least heard him enough on nbc broadcast they know major league just a bit outside and all the one-liners it's at the age of 90 it was truly a life well lived and i'm telling you this is not just because when people die people say these things a fundamentally humane and decent human being
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
I said, look, we're going to go on and talk movies. Even though I get stuff sent to me, and I'm an actual critic, and you're not, we'll still come on and do it a bit. Whoa. And he said, I'm not coming on today. I'm like, really? You're just going to take your ball and go home? I'm like, okay, that's fine. Nothing for hashtag wait to see. All right.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Thanks, guys. Love you guys.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
So, Dan, great to see you as always. By the way, I look forward to the South Beach Sessions with Andy Garcia. I hope he did not bite your ear. There's a dated reference to Joey Zaza and Godfather 3. With regards to David Sampson, listen, I'm going to be as candid as possible. And I'm doing this because we're friends. We're genuine friends.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
And I love you and I love me and Cody and Mike, the entire show. Here's the issue with Sampson. It's come to light. that he basically is the reason Cinephile no longer exists. So I respect David Sampson. Like, I really do. Like, I think he's done a lot of great things in his career, but I can't respect him for what he did to my podcast. I did 336 episodes of my podcast. It came out of my heart.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
It was a deep love and passion they have for cinema. And because he's small and diminutive and he couldn't take that. He went behind my back to John Skipper and to Bimmel, and he got the podcast canceled. I don't know how he did it, but it was Machiavellian, and it was Samsonian. And I'm probably giving him too much credit by giving him his own adjective. Because, again, I give him credit.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
He got it done. He wanted me out, and he got me out. So congratulations, David. You did it. You got my podcast canceled, and nothing personal survives. But I know what you did to me. And let's just say chickens come home to roost. I'll leave it at that. Wow.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Denzel Washington as Malcolm X. Exactly. To a means point, I'm not really quoting Malcolm X. I'm quoting Denzel doing Malcolm X, but go ahead.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
So I texted Mad Dog, who's a colleague, of course, at MLB Network prior to the film being out because at the winter meetings in Dallas. I'm not sure if that was necessarily appropriate, but I did text Mad Dog. And I said, hey, listen, I don't want to burst your bubble. I've seen a complete unknown.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
And I understand you're raving about it, like this is the greatest film since Citizen Kane, but it's not. And he writes back, he said, what do you mean? I said, Timothee Chalamet is fantastic. He's a superb young actor. He can make films for arthouse audiences and also for big box office. So he can do Dune 2, but he can also do Call Me By Your Name.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
And he's excellent as Bob Dylan, particularly the fact he sings his own music, which James Mangold, the director with Walk the Line, also had Joaquin Phoenix sing as Johnny Cash and Reese Witherspoon as June Carter Cash, Reese Witherspoon won an Oscar. So I give him credit. But the film itself, I gotta be honest with you, man, it's a fairly conventional musical biopic.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
And I said, going into that film, I didn't know a whole lot about Bob Dylan, aside from the fact he's enigmatic, he's moody, and kind of a prick. And I came into the movie and I said, yep, still all the things that I thought. I understand what really the purpose of the film is. And he's very angry. He hasn't seen the film, but I can tell. You keep talking. This is like December 4th.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
You haven't seen the movie. You don't get the screeners like I do. You're not a member of the Critics' Choice Association. You're just loving this movie.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Tell them. Go ahead. Say them again. I said, remember the Critics' Choice Association. I've sent 85 films throughout the year, but prior to their release, I get to see these films. Matter of fact, I get the Brutalist DVD sent to me, which is one of my favorite ones of the year.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
I get the screenplay to Challengers, which, as you guys know, because I'm a tennis guy, I quite enjoy the film seeing tennis on the big screen. I mean, I get, like, vinyl. Like, my crime would love this. I got Conclave, the album. Like, it's just these things get sent to me because of the position in which I hold, okay? So, Mad Dog, but again, I give him credit.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Much like David Sampson, Mad Dog figured it out. He's like, I will just bloviate about this film as if it is the greatest musical biopic ever, and I will just, I will worship at the altar of Timothee Chalamet, who is having a moment and is now apparently dating Kylie Jenner, who we saw at the Golden Globes. So again, hats off. Mad Dog, the London premiere, it was surreal to see him there.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
He's dapping up Chalamet and hugging him and stuff. It's awesome. It's great for him. But I'll be honest, the movie's not that great, and Chalamet's not going to win the Oscar, no matter what Mad Dog says.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Yeah, great question. So that movie in particular, you're right. The problem was it was so sanitized. People that know Queen go, this is not the Freddie Mercury. There's none of the bisexuality. There's none of the sex and the drugs. It's just the rock and roll. So why are we doing this? So at least they give Elton John credit with Rocket Man.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
That film with Sartor and Edgerton, that was a warts and all biopic. I didn't think entirely successful, but at least it was more authentic to the story. I'll give you two. I think Ray's a really good biopic. Taylor Hackford's a good director. I thought Jamie Foxx was immersive in the performance. And I thought I learned about Ray.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
I learned and I got to see, again, the warts and all depiction, the womanizing, the bad behavior, in addition to the musical genius. And I also think Mangold, who directed A Complete Unknown, did a much better job with Walk the Line. Like, I thought that was a genuinely stirring musical biopic. Johnny Cash is a fascinating character. It was one set of him.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
He walked with God, but partied with Satan. And I thought he was able to nail that dichotomy in the movie, that Cash is a guy who was a believer, but also had a serious drug problem. And that Reese Witherspoon playing June Carter Cash really was saintly in terms of bringing about his rehabilitation.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
I think sometimes what happens, I mean, you have these, as they call it, cradle to the grave biopics, meaning you have to show when the person's born and go right to their death. Doesn't always happen. And with a complete unknown, they're not doing that. They're showing four years of Dylan's life when he's making these critical hits and then apparently sells up by going electric.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
It's a different approach, but I just didn't think it was that successful.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
The only one I could think of, Dan, if we're just going to any discipline of creative arts, might be J.D. Salinger and Catcher in the Rye. Famously a guy who was anonymous.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
Correct. Mike's right. I didn't say anything with Bowie, but he did say Chalamet did a hell of a job. So I don't know if he's just being genuine and kind to Timothee, but yeah, I can't imagine sitting through the film enjoying it. No Direction Home, which is a brilliant Scorsese documentary about Bob Dylan. Again, you get the sense that he's so reluctant and so recalcitrant to have any sort of
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
examination of his life he doesn't want to talk about he doesn't care about it and you're right he's on the short list of people who i just think have zero interest in this adulation spoiler alert the film ends with the fact mentioned that dylan got you know a series of awards and never bothered to show up for the ceremony like he's gotten like the congressional medal of honor it's a gap i'm good he has zero interest in these types of topics and i guess that makes him true to his art but again i i just don't understand why he needs to be so gruff about it dylan praising chalamet's performance this is duane wade liking the statue right
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Hour 1: Adnan Virk Takes Out David Samson (feat. Adnan Virk & Lucy Rohden)
I love the fact Mike Ryan is going to be at the Four Nations. That is fantastic. Mike Ryan, special correspondent. Mike knows I'm not working for Amazon. I might just go to Montreal. You know what? Honestly, I think it's going to be an incredible tournament to see the best on best. And by the way, for all my American friends out here, USA is favored. They have the better team, certainly in goal.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
Was? Also Travis Sky, du musst lernen, wie du deine Schüsse drücken kannst.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
This is all setting up a potential triple threat in which Bad Bunny comes to the aid. Maybe a sort of pseudo-Latin coalition with Cody Rhodes.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
Wenn du Teil von Dan's Four bist, kriegst du gute Tickets. Ja.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
Enjoy all the spoils whilst being in the most exclusive suite that they have.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
And not actually do the thing that got you access to the suite. Yeah.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
It's another thing, Dan. You have to show up before the game. That's when this thing happens.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
When did they say the game was? This is an honor.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
This is a true honor. Danny Benitez.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
I think any tomfoolery that you might pull off tonight might have my credentials stripped.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
They got a jersey provided for you, so...
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
This is like the second 007 tribute that they've done in the last 11 years. One was for the 50th anniversary and the other one is, well, we've sold it to Prime.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Postgame Show: JuJu Gotti Wins Best Dismissal
Ich habe niemanden gehört.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
Oh, they're not the loser at all. Yeah, tell me, who's your biggest loser?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
I'm going to say the biggest loser of the night. And I love her. I love her so much. But Demi Moore, I think that she expected to win. I think this was her moment and she had some great speeches along the way. But this was going to be the crowning achievement of a career.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
And I when you say almost fire about last night, you go back and then you look at indecent proposal and you just go through her career. And this was her time. And I felt for her. But I still have to say that she's got to be the biggest loser of the night.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
But as you said before, it got the.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
I thought... the elements of the show dragged, and that made it feel worse, but it caught up quickly at the end, and the stream said it would end at 10.32. So it was only 10 minutes over by that logic. It was about 10 or 11 minutes over, and Brody himself was 40% of the overage. So just keep in mind that that is a big factor. Okay, what happened with Hulu then? Apparently the Hulu feed crashed.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
That's one of the biggest losers of the night. So I want to say that my takeaway from the year in movies and my takeaway from the show, we heard people talk about movie theaters, the importance of going to the movies. It starts with Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible saying, I'm going to put movie theaters on my back. I'm going to demand a theatrical release and you must see my movie on a big screen.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
What we learned today, when you hear an independent person, a person who's making small movies, small budgets, talk about the importance of movie theaters, that is the lifeblood of the industry that you and I love so much. And that lifeblood is being torn apart by the very commercial that Conan had in the show, trying to convince people to go to a theater. That was the theme of the show.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
It was getting people back post COVID because the destruction of the revenue structure of the film business has been severe since COVID. And it was starting and now it's been severe. So my takeaway is that they're quality movies that studios are afraid to green light.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
And I hope that the winners of the Oscars this year, the quality of the movies and the size of them will allow studio executives to be more brave in their choices.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Local Hour: That's Why They Call Me Marco
It is clear that Onora was the biggest winner of the night.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
The case for Dreisaitl is, by the case for Dreisaitl, 49 goals, 11 more than any other skater. Insane.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Roy, great to see you and friends. Dave, Zaz, Ethan, good to be back here. My monthly appearance here on the hockey show was just back home in Toronto for the Leafs and the Flames. And I got to tell you guys, everyone's feeling a little tight up there in Toronto. Everyone's getting a little nervous. Hopefully won't win the last six games. Talking to Craig Berube at Morning Skate.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Guys, the athletes are fighting with the Stars for second place. Imagine if they fall by two points. The Stars get home ice because of Kelly Sutherland's boo-boo.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
very appropriate for the former coyotes that's that's ridiculous by the way a good reminder for all the sports media out there like ethan pointed out bruce cassie affords was asked by a reporter who simply said empty netter a couple guys nice there didn't score the goal and bruce paused and goes is there a question in there
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Always ask a question, especially to a pissed-off coach minutes after they should have buried an empty netter.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Appreciate it. I'll see you guys again soon. I can't wait for the playoffs. Be well, brother.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
You know, just got to get the puck in there, get going a little bit. And they looked great. Austin Matthews, who has had a precipitous decline, as you guys know, from 69 goals a season to go to 24 entering Monday's play. I know he missed 15 games, but still hasn't been the same guy. If you look back at Bossy, Gretzky, Lemieux, Stamkos, anybody who scores 60-plus,
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
They don't have that kind of a drop. So it's been concerning. What happens? Matthew scores two. Leafs score three in the power play. I love Ryan Huska, along with Paul Maurice, one of my favorite coaches to talk to. But God, the Flames don't have much offensive talent. Love Nas as well, as we continue right now in Ramadan, one of my few Muslim brothers in the league.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Nas, by the way, was great against the Rangers the next day. Goal and assist. A good win for the Flames. I just don't think the Flames have enough talent, honestly, offensively to compete. And Wolf, who's been such a great story, guys, as you know, he's in the Calder mix, unfortunately got blitzed. It wasn't really his fault, just the Leafs looked really good.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
What I want to throw to you guys, though, especially since you mentioned Dave's bona fides with the hockey news, I got to interview Lanny McDonald and Daryl Sittler at the intermission. Now, think about Sittler, 10-point game. And I said to him, you know, when you think back at that moment, that game, what do you think about it? He goes, honestly, I'm shocked no one's broken it. I said, what?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
You think someone's going to have a 10-point game? He said, just at some point. Gretzky, Lemieux, Ovechkin, somebody would have done it. So I want to throw out to you guys, first off, do you think anyone will ever break Sittler's 10-point record? Then I got a hockey news thing for Dave in a second. Sittler first. What do you got? No. Ten points in a game? No. I hope not.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
As a goalie, I sure hope not. Good God. By the way, the closest to it, this is crazy. Yager had a seven-point game. Sam Gagne had an eight-point game back in 2012. Shout out to his father, Dave Gagne. Loved him on the North Stars.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Dave Gagne has some good years for the Panthers. Dave, on the topic of the hockey news, I'm talking to Lanny McDonald. And of course, I'm just staring at the stash. And I said, Lanny, I got to tell you, I said, I read your book, by the way, back when I was like nine years old in 87. I saw the cover of Lanny. And I said, that mustache, you got to tell me about the stash.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
And you know, what was the first time that you grew it? And he goes, well, I don't know the first time, but I've had a lot of. lucrative offers to shave it along the way. And I said, I remember I said, I have a hockey news like from years ago. It's literally just your face. And it's like, you know, I have an outline of somebody you could tell who it is.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Hey everybody, it's Mike Ryan, and how great is this weather? We're getting out of the coldest part of winter into the early onstage spring. I know down south, the weather is perfect. It is perfect Miller time weather. You got MLB, MLS, you got NHL, you got all the sports going on, plenty of excuses to gather around a TV and have yourself a wonderful Miller time.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Thanks to Miller Lite, the great tasting light beer for people like you and me who love beer. Now is a perfect time for friends, family, and a great tasting light beer with taste that you know you can depend on. No games, no gimmicks. I hate gimmicks. Just a great beer for people who like beer. Miller Lite is brewed for taste.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
It hits different than other light beers because it has simple ingredients like malted barley for rich, balanced toffee note flavors and that iconic golden color. At just 96 calories and 3.2 grams per 12 ounces, Miller time is always a good time. The original light beer since 1975 and still the very best one. Miller Lite. Great taste. 96 calories. Go to MillerLite.com slash Dan.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
to find delivery options near you. Or you can pick up some Miller Lite pretty much anywhere they sell beer. Tastes like Miller time. Celebrate responsibly. Miller Brewing Company, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 96 calories and 3.2 carbs per 12 ounces.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
It was just the mustache and like the bucket helmet. It's so amazing. And he goes, it's my signature mark. I can never get rid of it. It makes me think about guys. Barry Melrose for years at ESPN. I told him, why don't you ever cut the mullet? He goes, I tried to and they told me I couldn't. I said, why? He goes, I was just going to go get a haircut. And I go, I'm tired. It's been 20 years.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Whatever. They go, no, no. That's part of your look. That's your signature. Give me a better signature than Lanny McDonald mustache.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Yeah, we have to find out because he Thomas Hickey, of course, is part of our Amazon Monday Night Crew. Grew up in Calgary. So I still have vivid memories of listening to whatever Corkmores was GMC. And the way it would end would be and tell him Lenny sent you. And I said to Lenny, I go, like, what would happen if I did that?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Like, I went to an auto dealership in that era and go, hey, Lenny sent me. Am I getting 10% off tires? Am I getting free oil changes or what? But he didn't give me an answer.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
What? Really?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
It's a great question, Zaz. He's one of those guys, he's kind of like the golden boy. Like, he is above reproach. You know, having been born in Toronto and growing up in Ontario.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
A lot of those horrible 80s Leafs teams, no matter what, they just adored Wendell Clark because he was the one guy that was tough, that would fight, could score, and he was hurt a lot of times, had terrible back injury, but Wendell was that guy. So I thought with this Leafs team, they kicked the crap out of Mitch Marner. They'll beat up on him.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
They'll beat up on their goaltender, their defense, whatever it is. But generally, they're always favorable towards Austin Matthews. So I haven't heard much criticism at all. While I was there, the whole thought is he's much more hurt than you think. Like, he's playing through injury. So rather than, why is this guy... relatively speaking, stinking up the joint. It's what a tough guy.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Clearly, he's not 100%. He's still playing. By the way, they always beat up on Marner. He's on pace for 101 points, which would be a career high. And we all know the rumors, the fact they probably went to him, allegedly trying to trade him for Rantanen. Jason Demers, my podcast co-host, said if he was Marner, he would not return to Toronto. New England are still having another wonderful season.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
But no, specifically to Matthews, they love AM34.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Now's a good time to remember where tequila's story truly began. In 1795, Cuervo invented tequila. Cuervo. What are you doing here? Cuervo. Anytime someone says Cuervo, I show up. Well, I do know that to be true, but even during ad reads, like... Cuervo. I think he could lay out, especially for one of our great partners. Sweet, delicious Cuervo. Since then, Cuervo has stayed true to its roots.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
So, Ethan, I always worry about it. I look at the Carolina Hurricanes specifically, and I say, you know, they're one of those teams that are always B-plus, A-minus. But come playoff time, they can't elevate. They can't get to the next level. And that's why I did love the rants and the move. I said, no, he's a superstar that can transcend.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Of course, they could have done their due diligence and made sure he actually wanted to sign a long-term deal. But regardless, you pivot, you do what you got to do. To your point, with Winnipeg, and by the way, I'm going to be making my fourth trip to Winnipeg coming up here. Oh, no. Thank you. Yeah, I know, Roy. Thankfully, home game this Monday, by the way. We got Canucks-Devils.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
We built it as the Hughes Bowl, and then Jack Hughes got hurt, but at least we get to see Quinn Hughes. So I'll just be driving to the Meadowlands here at 35 minutes in Newark. But the week after that, Denver. Can't wait to see the Avalanche. McKinnon-McCarr up close and personal. Then we've got Winnipeg, then Edmonton to close the Amazon schedule. Kings Oilers as you got into the final game.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
But, Ethan, to your point, Jets. I'm going to watch them again April 7th. And everything I keep saying about them is Halibook's about to win his third Vesna. They've got three great lines, solid defense. I love Morris. I think he's a top-ten defenseman. Shifley, Conner obviously lead the attack. Power play's been a little quiet recently.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
And you wonder how important that is come playoff time because, you know, you have to score goals at 5-0-5. You can't just rely on penalties. Less penalties are called in the playoffs. But I think it's a fair point. I was talking to Mark Parrish yesterday on the NHL Network. I'm with Kevin Weeks today. Another former Panther. Both former Panthers. Exactly. Good call, Dave.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
If I said, you know, who's coming out of the Central? No one's saying the Jets. Me and Perry boasted the Stars. Demers and Weeks, he said the Avalanche. No one's going like, yeah, Winnipeg's a team to beat. They're going to win the division. And everyone's going, eh, I want to see what Halibut does in the playoffs. He has yet to prove that to me.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
And the single best reason to watch the NHL playoffs is going to be that series. Dallas, Colorado. It's maddening to me because either of those teams could be co-favorites to win the Stanley Cup, and one of those two teams is going to be out after the first round.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
Well, I'll tell you this right now. Here in New Jersey, I can tell you we have an egg shortage. This is unbelievable. I mean, we don't need to get political and to hold terrorists right now. But, guys, we can't even get enough eggs here in New Jersey. Forget about back home in Canada.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
And I will tell you, speaking back home to Canadians, there's people, one of my best friends will not buy strawberries. What do you mean? He goes, my local grocery store, it's only from America. I said, that's going too far. A man needs his strawberries.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
They'd be like, Roy, let me hear it. You start banging on your cup. I always can't give you that mitt.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
You got to drop the gloves and just start fighting every goalie you could. That'd be awesome. I don't want to fight. I just want to be a troll.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
You know, I looked at the odds, Ethan, yesterday, and Drysaddle's the favorite. Hellebuck is second right now, which I was amazed. Because I actually thought McKinnon. If you just said to me off the top of your head, my God, McKinnon with a heart. No, right now it's Drysaddle, Hellebuck, then McKinnon. And Hellebuck, I think, is going to get nominated. Could he win? Absolutely.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Talk Dirty To Me About John Tavares
I mean, if the Jets end up winning the President's Trophy, and he's the biggest reason why, and he's going to win his third vest, have you seen it before? Josie Theodore, Carey Price, Hellebuck's got an incredible story. He's a triple crown category.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
It was so sweet to see a guy who'd coached so many games. And then the follow-up, I said to him, I go, Moe, We all know you guys lost the previous year. If you'd lost this game, I mean, you would have been the first team ever to gag a 3-0 lead. I said, I don't know anything about X's and O's. He laughs. He goes, oh, neither do I. I said, no, don't be humble.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
I said, but motivation-wise, you've got to tell this team, hey, everyone's squeezing the sticks tight. We just gagged an 0-3 lead. 3-0 lead, excuse me. Like, what are you saying? He goes, the key is you have to focus on positivity. And you guys know this, Roy and David. He goes, that game five, we were great. So I said, look at that game five. We played a great game. We can do this.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
It isn't like we're playing horribly and the wheels have completely fallen off. We can do this. And the other thing I tried to tell them was be liberated if you can. I know it's hard to say have fun out there in a game seven, but try to have a little fun. Try to think in your head, hey, man, one game you win a Stanley Cup, we can do this.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
And 2-1, he goes, I think we had 19 icings in the third period. He goes, so awesome.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
willed it to happen but he said it was an amazing moment and you know he's a coaching lifer i said demote you have no signs of slowing down bills you know called you you were you were fishing he's like i had four straight days of great fishing some of the greatest fishing of my life and he goes bills you know kept calling it eventually got a text he goes i have to clean this up but he goes basically someone said to me pick up the bleeping phone because zito's calling you and i was like i'm good man like i'm taking this to the house it's been fun winnipeg toronto carolina hartford
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
And he goes, Bill would not take no for an answer. And eventually I was like, okay, fine, let's do this. And he goes, now I don't want to be anywhere else. And he goes, I know it's a cliche. I know you're not going to believe me, but Barkov is an unselfish superstar. Kachuk is an unbelievable guy.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
He goes, I've been on teams where we're winners and we don't have a great room, but this is a great room and they're a winning team. And he goes, you don't have that. And I said, well, next year, barring any catastrophe, you're going to get 2,000 games. Only you and Scotty Bowman have coached 2,000 games. He said, man, I'm getting way too close to the sun. He's got nine Stanley Cups.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
It doesn't seem fair. But my favorite story, at least he got one story you guys are going to love. I said to him, Mo, long before the term was coined, and this is an NFL term, but you were Mr. Irrelevant. He said, yeah. He said a bunch of scouts got fired with the Philadelphia Flyers. I'm sure. 1985, the number one pick was Wendell Clark. Number 252 was Paul Maurice. And I said, tell me about it.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
And he goes, listen, I was just a house league player in the Sioux. I didn't think I was anything special. I was at the bar with some buddies. And my mom was listening to the radio for updates. Because you don't have agency or any of that stuff. And my mom called and said, you got picked by the Flyers. And this was 11.15 at night. And I said...
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
God, I hope I'm not the last one, but I'm doing the math. He goes to the rest of the night. I was the last one to do everything. I was the last one to get a beer. Great story from Paul Maurice.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
You're right. He could coach 3,000 games. He could.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Nope. And by the way, I said to him, to your point about coaching him as a young man, he goes, I said, you coach Paul Coffey. Well, I also sat down with him earlier. He goes, here's my Paul Coffey story. He said, I'm 30 years old. And he goes, it's Whalers Bruins. Every year it was like Whalers Bruins, Whalers Habs, you always lose. Because Paul Coffey was like a seventh defenseman at that point.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
But I call him in and I tell him, you're not playing game one. And he goes, okay. And he tails like a total pro. He goes out and he goes, he just rides the bike like a maniac. Like I can hear him. Like he's like panting and screaming. I'm like, oh my God, this guy's fired up. And he goes, of course he was right. I was wrong. We lose the game. And I put him back in there the rest of the series.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
And he was awesome. And he goes, it was a good lesson. Sometimes people are screaming and yelling and ranting. He goes, Paul Coffey, I'm telling a Hall of Famer, you're not good enough to play. And he's like, OK, I'll prove you wrong. And he was right. And as always, I was wrong. But he said it was a good memory because I was 30 years old.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
He goes, you don't understand what that's like, 30 years old, and you're a head coach of a team. The way these guys are eyeing you, it's amazing.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
it's a great point i think if given a choice would you rather your team plays again you you want them to win every game but if you have a choice of playing down the opposition or play your best against the best teams i'll i'll take i'll take the ladder like okay that sucks if we play bad against bad teams but guess what in the playoffs we're going to play against great teams and if we can elevate our play we can do it and honestly to score six goals in edmonton without barkoff like that that's
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Especially after you've just been shut out in back-to-back games. Hadn't scored a goal in over 140 minutes. You've only been shut out once in back-to-back-to-back games.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
So with that environment where you're, again, squeezing the sticks tight, no one's scoring, and you put up six, and you were down, and that quick strike offense, the ingenuity of Reinhardt on that goal, the way he circled, then just is able to bank it off a skinner, that is... You don't teach that kind of stuff. So I think if I'm a Panthers fan, again...
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
I know not every game is created equal, but as our friend Tim Kirchner always said, that's a circle game. Like early on, you look at the calendar, you circle that game. Cup final rematch in Edmonton. And then you win that game. Now it's a double circle game. This is motivation. This is going to keep us rolling. And they did after that.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Yeah. To quote Yogi Berra, it's getting late early. And I'm glad you get perspective on how far back they're the devils now, because you're right. You're accustomed to saying, well, it's not 2025. Once you hit into the Christmas break, it gets go time. And I talked to Arthur Staple of Newsday about it. And I focused first on Shosturkin.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
And I said, let me just start with this because I know it's not his fault. But he's been good but not great. And sometimes you guys know this. A goalie can cover up a lot of different weaknesses. He says, that's true. Him and Quick have been good, not great. But the problem really is their offense. And he goes, your Criders, your Zbigniews, if these guys aren't playing at the level they should be.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Let's talk Trouba first. Guy doesn't want to get traded because, you know, his wife is working in the medical profession in New York. New York's a great city. He doesn't want to go anywhere. They're like, no, we want to get rid of you. No, I don't want to go anywhere. No, you have to. We're going to bench you. Well, we'll trade you. You have to say yes. You have one year left, $8 million deal.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Okay. By the way, he's the fourth Ranger captain to leave unceremoniously. The last Ranger captain to just leave gracefully was Jaromir Jagr. Otherwise, it's true. It's going to get traded like it's crazy. Don't be the Rangers captain. It's not a good sign. Kreider hasn't been good, obviously. Zibanejad. Here's my thing with Kapo Kako. Why are you benching him?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Like, I've never watched a Rangers game and said to myself, oh, that third line guy, he's the problem. But once you singled him out, I love the fact he stuck up for himself. He's like, yeah, I didn't realize I was the issue. Like, you're going to make an example out of me. Like, bench Zbigniew. Bench Kreider. Bench one of the top guns. That will get everyone's attention.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Whether or not they deserve it or not, that will get people. What happened with the Flyers towards bench Mieczkoff? Didn't deserve it. Maybe it's part of the problem. And you're going to get my attention. Two games healthy scratch. Meechcox is a favorite to win the Calder Longest Celebrating. Like, if you're going to do something, do it with an impact.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Otherwise, you bench Capo Caco, who seems curiously inexplicable. Why is this happening? Then gets traded. The trade doesn't seem like you're going to get much anyways right now. So it feels like, guys, it's leading to a potential Peter Laviolette firing. I like Lavi. I think he's been a good coach. Been there a long time. Been in the NHL a long time.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
But eventually, because you can't fire the players, you have to fire the coach. And to your point, David, it is getting late early. This is concerning for the Rangers. How do you win a President's Trophy and all of a sudden you're flailing around fighting to make the playoffs? It's crazy.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
I like it. I like it. Excellent shout out to Hans Zimmer. I mean, he's one of the great composers of all time. A great score, can do everything. The new Superman trailer just came out. One of my friends is like, man, that's really good. Fantastic. That looks so good. Yeah. I mean, listen, it is a much better story. The fact that Panthers went seven, that was a great Stanley Cup final.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
There's no question about it. You know, you go back and watch that series in its entirety. It wasn't like Florida dominated. It wasn't like them that they gagged. They were all generally close games. It was competitive. And that game seven, if you said to myself, hey. If you don't have a dog in the race, you're going to get a one-goal Game 7. How do you not root for that kind of a final?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
But, yeah, it was tense the entire way through. And the fact that McDavid won Conn Smythe, that even adds more drama to it. Like, how do you think he feels? That guy is so frustrated. He just wants to win a Stanley Cup. Hey, guess what? You win a Conn Smythe on a losing team. Like, it's almost like a double blow. Like, don't give me the Conn Smythe. I didn't win the Cup. I don't want this thing.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
But, yes, I think the Panthers, sure. I think Mo was like, you know what, let's make this a little bit more dramatic for the great fans of South Florida. Let's win this cup. By the way, I was wondering this, too, and Maurice kind of touched on this a bit. Like I said, everything's about winning that Stanley Cup. You know, the franchise hasn't done it. You haven't done it.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Is there not just a slight inclination, 5% you can ease up a little bit because you're not as tight now? And he goes, it is, but in a positive way, meaning – In the past, you have put so much pressure upon yourself that you have to get it done. Once you've gotten it done, you just naturally relax, which allows you to be a winner anyways. So you start to play with more house money.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
So yes, obviously winning helps you. It's not that it makes you less hungry. It makes you more relaxed, which can make you better.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
So I think, Roy, that the Avalanche needed to get a goalie. And I figured that part. I thought maybe Cam Talbot, who's been, I think, underrated for much of his career. But Mackenzie Blackwood, listen, especially living here in Jersey, everyone thought he'd be the answer for the Devils. Things didn't work out that way. Colorado's a curious team.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Because I was looking at, so far, disappointments, surprises. I think the Capitals have been a genuine surprise. Best team in the Eastern Conference. Nobody saw that coming. Devils have been really good, but my partner in crime, Jason Demers, on our podcast, NHL Inscripted, said, no, I thought the Devils would be really good. I said, okay.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
As far as disappointments, Rangers we've touched on, Sabres are just a disaster. You always tell one year they're going to make the playoffs and break the stretch of 13 straight seasons, but no, it's a tire fire once again.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Right. So when I look at the Avalanche, I go, you know what? They just haven't been healthy. Like if they're rolling, if you're telling me McKinnon in late March is going to be battling for the Art Ross or the Hart and they give me Rantanen. By the way, Rantanen demersed to me. He goes, he could be a Juan Soto type player. And I said, explain.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
And he goes, he's not the best player in the sport, but he might get like a gigantic contract next season. I said, I didn't realize Rantanen is up after next year. Of course, McDavid's in two years from now. But. Anyways, long story short, Roy, I think they need to get an upgrade in goalie. I think when they're healthy, they'll be pretty good. But it's an odd year for Colorado.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Like, they're not going to be the team to beat, so to speak. And yet, maybe being a wildcard team might be more concerning for one of those favorites because Colorado, when it comes to playoff time, I still think they're locked and loaded. If you give me McKinnon and McCarr, watch out.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Yeah, and Dallas has been pretty good without Jason Robertson being Jason Robertson. They've had other talent stepping up. Obviously, Odgers had a great season as well. So, yeah, Dallas and Colorado, I mean, God, that's like old-school 90s matchups. I can feel the ESPN theme and Gary Thorne with the call right now. Oh, yeah. Texas, little stars out. That'd be great.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
All right, Roy, David, my pleasure. I'll book my monthly appearance soon. I'll see you guys in January. Be well, brother. Happy holidays.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
Well, Roy, David, a pleasure to be with you guys. And you're right. You call him Mo right out of the gate. You can't even call him Paul. He just looks like a Mo. He feels like a Mo. He talks like a Mo. And Mo was awesome. We sit down. You think it's going to be a few minutes, five minutes. Who knows how it's going to go? Eight and a half minutes. Mo's got stories for days.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
And specifically, that Panthers-Oilers game, as you guys know, Game of the Year Canada, phenomenal game in terms of the back and forth action. This was in the morning of. And I just said, what's it like being here now, that moment when you won that Stanley Cup? What was the most gratifying moment? Right away he goes, oh, you're going to make me cry.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Paul Maurice Stories With Adnan Virk
But it was that moment you look around and you see all the people that are there responsible for your success and how grateful they are and how much gratitude they have and just what a collective effort it is together. He goes, that moment, I can't describe it, I can't encapsulate it, but that's that moment when you're just hugging and crying. It's going to make me cry just watching that moment.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Roy, it's great to see you and David, as always. And before we get into that, I want to mention the fact I was so glad I was able to give you some intel on Blake Bolden. Yes, because he didn't just want like the official scouting report, which I did give you as well. OK, she was a scout. Luke Robitaille loves her. But I'm like, hey, I'm going to give you some good stuff.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
The fact that she walked out on Gladiator 2 and it's completely her husband's fault crapping on Denzel. So I'm glad that that was a hit. Good to have Blakey here with you guys. Last week, we were in the great city of Chicago. which I've got to be honest with you, fellas, aside from the anthem and Conor Bedard, there's not a whole lot to watch here in Chicago, right now at the United Center.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
It's blacklocked down, and it's not a fun team to watch, but heck of a city. And again, if you've never been to Chicago, just for the anthem. Literally go, enjoy the first two minutes, they do a hell of a job with the anthem. Not quite old Chicago Stadium, which was unbelievable. We rolled in the video of 1994, second-last anthem there. But Flames win 5-2, heck of a win for Calgary.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Although, again, five goals against Chicago is like 10 against anybody else. Or I should say the other way, two against anyone else. And this Monday, I can't wait, fellas. Big one. Lightning Leafs in Toronto. The last time the Leafs faced the Lightning, Toronto looked great. Might have been one of their best games of the season. That was a game earlier this year on Prime.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Now the Leafs have lost three straight. Concern in Leaf land. Big one against Tampa. It'll be fun.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Yeah, it's ugly right now, guys. I mean, Tristan Jari, I was talking to Jason Demers about this, and he goes, yeah, but he's been bad for a while, right? And I was like, yeah, but he was supposed to be a guy. And at one point, he was a guy. He was a legit good goaltender. And Pittsburgh's a fascinating story because, especially earlier this season, you go, man, they're terrible.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Like, they're in real trouble. And Mike Sullivan's been the coach there a long time, a big fan of Sully's. But it's like they're veterans, aside from Crosby, who they once were, Malcolm Letang, overpriced, and they don't have a youth movement. So how exactly do you rebuild? And can you actually rebuild? Because you have Sidney Crosby. You're never going to rebuild.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
You're trying to win a cup right now every year until Sid retires. And will Sid ever leave? I don't think so. I can imagine. I think he's a lifer forever. So how do you handle the situation? They didn't start playing much better hockey. And you go, OK, maybe Pittsburgh's a bubble team playoff. Who knows? But the goaltending has been a real issue. So Jari's been a real disappointment for them.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
You go back and think about Matt Murray winning cups for them. Like they've never had like hasn't been like Tom Barrasso there in a while. It hasn't like their goaltending has been staunch. So it's definitely a concern. And unfortunately for Jari that they had to make this move. We'll see if they can turn it around.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
I remember that, Dave. I always do that because I was saying, what if they go get Cam Talbot? I remember you said Mackenzie Blackwood's the guy, so I can corroborate that. Go ahead.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Love it. Dope is first. So I was in Montreal a couple weeks ago. Montembeau played in that game, but it's fascinating. Montembeau was thought to be the guy, and he's on Team Canada's roster, as you guys know, for Four Nations. Number three goalie. Probably not going to play unless there's an emergency. But thought to be a good enough goalie. Now, Canada's goalies are not what they once were.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
To your point, it's not Patrick Watt, Carey Price, Martin Brodeur for all those years. Now, America, of course, is the better goalie. And by the way, we've got to talk Connor Hellebuck for the heart. More shutouts than losses this year. The guy's unbelievable. Anyways... But Dobis has come in and been a great story for them. And now all of a sudden for Montreal and Marty St. Louis got options.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
And the three of us know we've long gone past the days of having a primary goalie. Like now every team, you feel like it's a two goalie system. And then come playoff time, you ride the hot hand. And even then, if the guy falters in a playoff series, it's one, one, he loses game stream for you. All right, we're going back to the other guy. Like, let's figure this out. So I think it's important.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
It's not like Dobis coming in there just negates Montembeau. But what it does is it allows you to say, hey, we have two guys we think are legit goaltenders. And Montreal is a fascinating story. Early December, they look dead and buried. And now, like, no sferatu, they're actually in this playoff mix. They have not made the playoffs in three years. But they're at least in the conversation.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Do I think they have enough? I don't, personally. But you start to look at that East, Dave, and you go, okay, well, it's going to be one of the – the Bruins have fallen off. Maybe it's the Sens. Maybe it's the Habs. Maybe it's the Flyers. It's not the Islanders. I don't think it's the Rangers. I don't think it's the Penguins. But eventually one of these teams gets in.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
So maybe Montreal can make a run. And this guy has been lights out. And as the three of us know, there's no better place to watch a hockey game than Montreal. It's an electric atmosphere. The fans are knowledgeable. You get chills just being there. And what he's doing right now is special. Blackwood, to your point –
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
I remember asking, I think Steve Cooley said about the National Network Radio, and he was saying, I go, is Blackwood good enough to win a cup? And he goes, we have to get over this myth of thinking that unless you're an A-plus goalie, you're going to win the cup. Meaning, in the past, you used to say, well, unless you have Hellebuck or Shusterkin, you win the cup.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
And then those guys haven't won a cup. So, like, you don't have to the best goalie. Like, I think Bobrovsky has been a legit goalie. He's won the Vesna, was great for your Panthers. Like, I get it. But I understood his point, meaning that until you become a guy who wins the cup, nobody will believe it, but there's no reason you can't win a cup. Now, right now in Colorado,
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
We all know they start the season at injuries. They were underperforming. They were like that wildcard team. And now it's like, dude, watch out. McKinnon for the heart. Rantanen could be in the heart conversation. McCarr's an elite defenseman. And Blackwood's been simply dynamite. And all of a sudden, Colorado looks like a sleeping giant lurking. And Blackwood, again, I remember him as a devil.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
I remember at one point we were discussing who's the better young goalie, McKenzie Blackwood or Carter Hart. Look how times have changed in just a couple of years. Carter Hart is no longer in the game. We all know what's happened off the ice. And Blackwood's now had a resurgence with Colorado.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
I love where you're going with this, Ethan, because it's become a thing to just be like, oh, McDavid's the best player in the world, three-time Hart Trophy winner, I get it. This season got off to a slow start. His first 11 games, I think he had seven points. His last 30 games, McDavid's been McDavid again. But I would argue, if you said, like, Hart Trophy conversation, I'm with you.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
I think McKinnon right now is the guy. Kaprizov's fallen off, then got hurt. Again, I think Hellebutt could be Wierenski if you really want to go crazy. I think he's a favorite for the Norris. You could give him some Hart Trophy votes as well. But to your point, McKinnon's an incredible player. He has all the skills, all the assets, can carry a team. That was a hell of a game last night.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
I mean, that's as good as it gets. You tell me, Avs, Oilers, McKinnon, McDavid, and both guys stepped up. Again, terrible job gagging by Colorado. Hell of a comeback by Edmonton. But I'm with you. I think you could make a strong conversation and say, don't get fooled by reputation. McDavid's still great. Still top five. Still might be a Hart Trophy finalist.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
You know, just a few months ago, he won the Conn Smith, as we all know. But right now, pound for pound, Nathan McKinnon might be the best player in hockey.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
It's a great point, Roy. The Red Wings could make a little push here because they got the coaching bump from Todd McClellan. And, you know, Lucas Freeman, I think, is legit. Mosadar, at times, to me, is a little bit inconsistent. But their power play has been humming. I mean, if there's one number, you look at the joint stats, oh, my God. The 30% power play under McClellan can't possibly continue.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Eventually, that should show some regression. But at some point, the Iser plan has to come to fruition. It's been five years since they made the playoffs. Stevie Wise is supposed to be this, you know, obviously legendary player. But also in terms of an architect and building teams, eventually this will come through. Maybe it's Detroit's year. To talk about Columbus, you're right.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
It's not only the best story in hockey, it's the best story in sports. Johnny Gaudreau tragically passes away. They're a horrible franchise. No one cares about the team. And this year they're fighting for a playoff spot. They showed the jerseys for the outdoor game. They got the cannons going ready to go. It's amazing. Here's what's shocking.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Sometimes when there's teams like that that surprise, you go, let me guess, strong sound defensively, great goal taking, they're squeaking by 2-1. No. Actually, their goaltending is a problem. They're fifth in gold score. They can score. They can pour it in. And Wierenski, again, I don't think he gets enough pub.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
And this, I think, is a Canadian problem because he's not Canadian because he's an American defenseman. Canadians and that media will focus on other players more. I think if Wierenski was Canadian, he'd get more love in the game. But he definitely is a guy who should be in the Norris Trophy conversation with Queen Hughes, with Cale McCarl. Those would be my three right now.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
And he's been a difference maker. I talked to Jody Shelley, of course, who works on Amazon Prime. He does 75 Blue Jackets games. And he was telling me what a great story it is. And I said, is it sustainable? And he goes, the one concern is the goaltending. And Elvis Merzlikens either is an A or an F. He's not a guy that has a B game, right? Either he's out of his mind.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
You go, man, Merzlikens won that game. Or you go, holy smokes, he's awful. And Daniil Tarasov's the other guy. And he's like 0-5 and won the last six games. So I think it's an awesome story. I'm pulling for them. Really, I am. I don't think Goldstein is good enough, but it's a great story.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Just sitting here with no idea.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Listen, last time you wanted to ask me about Wicked. I've seen it. Ask me anything you want.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
I don't have a question about Wicked.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
That's a great question. Because we're going back to our Blake Bull. Yeah, I don't. I mean, I must have at some point, but not since I'm an adult. How about that? Since I was 15. You know what? I can say the same.
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The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Yeah, that's, yeah. Yeah. How deep did you get in, though? I love, like, Darren Aronofsky is one of my favorite filmmakers. Like, I adore the rest. It's one of my favorite movies. But I hated his film, Mother. Like, I thought it was atrocious. But I still sat through it. Like, the last 30 minutes, Javier Bardem, Jennifer Lawrence, I'm like, this is off. I will not leave.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
I've already invested $12.50 or $15. That's the thing. Why would I leave? Like, we're not quitters here. Popcorn.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Listen, I love Mexican cinema. Are we talking like Amaro's Paris here? Like is it in Orito movies? Guillermo del Toro?
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The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Okay, those ones. Okay, no problem. That's fine.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
that's great rose that's that's great yeah that's that's what i had to say but yeah um so wicked what's your favorite song from first part sorry so here's the issue rose and i listen i like a good musical my wife and i were just talking she's gonna go with her girlfriends to go see moulin rouge on broadway february 9th and her and i went for valentine's day a year ago i think moulin rouge is sensational like that's a great musical both the movie and on broadway i think west side story is great you know me like i i could enjoy a good musical i get down with that
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The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Wicked, we saw it together in Chicago and we were both underwhelmed. We both walked out like, like I just, you know, like Hamilton, you walk out and you go, that changed my life. I feel like I just lost 12 pounds. Oh my God, I gotta get the double DVD, CD, excuse me. Like Wicked, I was like, and we heard I both felt the same way.
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The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
And then watching the movie, I was like, and I'm texting Jeremy who like dressed up as the witch on the Dan Levitard show. I'm like, you really like this movie that much? And I go, hey, this is all it comes down to. Because I could tell you that I'm not crazy about the story. But who goes to a musical for the story? Let's be honest, right?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
It's like going to an action movie and going, ah, I'm not sure if the third act made sense. I'm there for the guns and the gore. So with a movie like Wicked, I'm there for the music. I just didn't think the music was that great. The exception of Defying Gravity, which is a banger. The final 10 minutes of the movie is great.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
And I think Popular is pretty good, although maybe I'm just being swayed by the fact I hear it on the radio, TikTok radio, et cetera. That was my issue, Rose. I didn't think the music was that good. It's not a very popular opinion.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Yes. It's an unpopular opinion. The movie's made $600 million worldwide. It's about to get 10 Oscar nominations. I'm the one guy. Me and my wife are kind of like, I didn't think it was great.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
I'll be on the NHL Network.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
Thank you so much, guys. This was fun. I love the monthly appearance. I look forward to chatting. February, Four Nations Cup. It'll be great.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Is Nathan MacKinnon Better Than Connor McDavid?
We'll do an Oscar preview as well next time as well.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
He has been around longer than people realize. And it could be a steadying influence for that Hurricanes team.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Roy, put some respect to my guy's name here. Sidney Crosby has now won 26 straight games in a Canadian uniform. That includes the Olympics, the World Cup, the World Championship. This and the 2026 Winter Olympics, maybe the last we see Crosby play the best on best. He's won gold medals and championships, the most of any player in this tournament. He's playing with Brad Marshall.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
He played back in 2016. We remember the 2010 Olympic gold medal. And you're telling me you don't like the fact you're seeing Crosby shining once again for a 37-year-old. He was outstanding in that game against Sweden. Sweden's got a great defense, by the way. I'd say Sweden's a bit of a dark horse.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
I looked at their defense like, man, when you're talking about victory, it had been Eric Carlson, Ekholm Forsling, Rasmus Dahlin, Jonas Breen, Rasmus Andersson, and you're going to crap on 37-year-old Sidney Crosby? I get it. If it's NHL time, nobody likes Sidney Crosby. But playing for Team Canada, there's a reason I'm wearing the red, not just for Valentine's Day. Because you're Canadian.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Okay. That's the first point, Roy. We keep hearing that every time. It's the first we've had a best on best.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
And in the store, $280. Oh my god, that's a lot of cheddar. Yeah, I'm with you.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Listen, David, I was excited when you said goalie fight, but I'm picturing like Ron Hextall, Felix Botvin. I'm picturing like Patrick Wathrow and Haymakers. I agree with you. I like the fact that it was over a handshake line, but I was hoping for a little more fisticuffs there. By the way, I love the Ackbar's jersey, though. Ackbar's jersey is pretty sweet.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
I used to work with Mark Osborne, a former Maple Leaf great guy, and also did not curse, but used Flip. And it was hilarious. He was using it almost in excess. It was like a parody. Are you flipping kidding me? Enough with the Flip. Jesus.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Watching Goodfellas, Joe Pesci was like, are you flipping kidding me?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Did he forget to shoot or is it like a drop pass or something?
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
It was almost like he brain cramped. I got to see it again. Roll it one more time again. I think David's right. I think he was meant to shoot and then try to recover with a back pass and no one's there.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Yeah, I'm with you, David. I mean, I think the Carolina one was fascinating because I'm with you. I think in Edmonton Skinner, they feel like he's the guy. Whether or not he is or not, we shall see. Obviously, was he able to get the Oilers to come final and lose in seven? But I could see that being rather uneasy if those two are there together.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Oh, my God, dude. That's crazy. That's hilarious, Roy. You're right. Normally, if it goes off an errant stick, a skate, a puck, who knows? But that is like there's an actual shooting motion by Tony DiAngelo.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Is there sound? Al Montoya, Aniga Montoya.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
He's the father of a child or something.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
I think throughout the year, we've realized it's a two-goalie system. You don't have great fear of playing 70 games and somebody just, Pick up the scraps. So you do need to have a two-goal system. But then come playoff time, there does have to be an alpha male. And I don't think Gibson would want to be taking the backseat.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Well, it's interesting. What was going into it, Rose, was the fact that there was no real frontrunner. It felt like it was Amelia Perez with 13 Oscar nominations and The Brutalist, which won Best Picture at the Golden Globes, and Adrian Brody won Best Actor, and Brady Carbet won Best Director.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
But this past weekend, when we were all watching the Eagles win the Super Bowl, big news for Onora, which is my favorite of the Oscar contenders. It won the PGA, which is the Producers Guild Award, and it won the DGA, which is the Directors Guild Award. So now Onora has served the front. One of the stories with Amelia Perez has been that its lead actress, Sofia Garland-Gascogne,
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
It was a great story. First trans actor ever nominated. Then they found her tweets, and she's got, like, some terrible vitriol against George Floyd and Islam and all these things. I'm like, oh, my God. So now everyone's like, I can't vote for this. I can't vote for this movie. William Perez is in trouble. And the vote, by the way, is February 11th to February 18th. The vote's going on right now.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Okay. And the brutalist people like it. And they go, wait, how long is this movie? Three hours and 15 minutes. Oh, man. So Anora is also a spicy movie because it's about a sex worker in Brooklyn who falls in love with the son of a Russian oligarch and all hell breaks loose. But it is a lot of sex in this movie. I mean, the first 30 seconds is set in a strip club.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Is that really a movie that's going to win Best Picture? So the story of this year's Oscars is a wide open Best Picture race. And David's right.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
But Carolina is fascinating because Freddie Anderson's woes and injuries and obviously the fact that they swung for the fences with this rant and trade. They're trying to win right now. And if they get an upgrading goal, then maybe this could be their year. So I'm surprised Gibby's 32. It's funny. I wouldn't have known off the top of my head, but I was thinking about it.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Okay. But maybe, Rose, listen, you loved Wicked. You know, the Oscars goes by preferential ballot, meaning you rank it one through ten. So if Wicked gets enough fourth place votes and those other films I mentioned are polarizing, maybe we'll be singing pretty and Cynthia Erivo's up there winning Best Picture.
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
The Hockey Show: Roy's 4 Nations Theory
Thank you so much, guys. This was awesome. And go Canada. I know, listen, Canada-USA is probably going to be the final of the 20th. We're not going to be friends that night. But tell you what, man, the Sweden defense is pretty good. Finland, terrible.