Steve and Ray break down the New York Islanders' 2025 draft class—who’s got star potential, and who’s a sleeper pick? They dive deep into how GM Mathieu Darche is reshaping the future of the franchise with bold moves and smart strategy.

PLUS: A can't-miss exclusive interview with Chris Nilan, legendary NHL enforcer and host of the Raw Knuckles Podcast. He brings the heat with stories from the ice and his own personal challenges and triumphs, insights you won’t hear anywhere else.

Ray and Steve break down the Florida Panthers’ commanding 5-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in Game 6, securing their second consecutive Stanley Cup. The Panthers’ success is attributed to:

• ​Elite depth scoring, led by Sam Reinhart’s historic four-goal performance.
• ​Stifling defense, anchored by Sergei Bobrovsky’s 28-save effort.
• ​Smart acquisitions, like Brad Marchand and Seth Jones, who added grit and experience.

The brothers explore how Florida’s balanced roster construction and relentless forecheck overwhelmed Edmonton’s top-heavy attack—and what lessons the Islanders can draw from that blueprint.

With the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, the Islanders are expected to select Matthew Schaefer, a dynamic left-shot defenseman. But the buzz on social media and across the league suggests something bolder: a potential trade to also acquire James Hagens, the Long Island native and Boston College standout.

Ray and Steve weigh in on:

• ​The emotional and marketing appeal of drafting Hagens.
• ​The logistical gymnastics required to pull off a deal with teams like Utah or Nashville, who hold top-five picks.
• ​The rumored trade packages, possibly involving Alexander Romanov or future first-rounders.

It’s a high-stakes gamble—but one that could reshape the Islanders’ identity overnight.

Former Rangers and Islanders GM Neil Smith joins the show to reflect on:

• ​His storied career, including building the 1994 Stanley Cup–winning Rangers.
• ​His tenure with the Islanders, offering rare behind-the-scenes insights.
• ​His latest venture as co-host of the NHL Wraparound Podcast, where he and Vic Morren blend historical context with sharp analysis of today’s game.

Smith also shares thoughts on what it takes to build a championship-caliber team in today’s NHL—timely wisdom as the Islanders look to emulate Florida’s rise.

Steve and Ray break down the Islanders' hiring of Matthieu Darche as their new General Manager and Executive Vice President. Darche, a former Tampa Bay Lightning executive, brings a fresh perspective to the franchise. His hiring signals a new era for the Islanders, with a focus on transparency and collaboration—a stark contrast to the previous leadership style.

With the first overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NHL Draft, the Islanders have a rare opportunity to reshape their future. Steve and Ray analyze the top prospects, including Matthew Schaefer, Michael Misa, and James Hagens, and discuss which player best fits the Islanders' long-term vision

Ted Nolan joins the show to discuss his new book, Life in Two Worlds. The book explores his journey from the reserve to the NHL, detailing his experiences as an Indigenous coach in professional hockey. Nolan shares personal stories, lessons on perseverance, and insights into the challenges he faced throughout his career.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone following the Islanders' new direction, draft strategy, and the inspiring story of Ted Nolan.