Kyle Dubas is savvy — not stupid — for having beer leaguers as backups.
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In this episode, we argue why Wayne Simmonds should start Game 1 against the Lightning, announce our picks for the Maple Leafs’ MVP and regular season disappointment, and whether we might see a Matthews vs McDavid match-up in the Stanley Cup final. We also answered your questions about whether Matthew Knies will see action in the playoffs, who replaces Crosby and Ovechkin as the faces of the post-season, and who will eventually win the Stanley Cup.
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Forget calling up a goalie on an emergency basis. If the NHL wants to make an example out of the Leafs, then force them to put a roster player in net (2:15)
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The Leafs still have too many defencemen. Who’s the odd-man out come playoff time? (6:25)
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On paper, the Leafs are better than the Lightning (8:30)
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The argument for having Wayne Simmonds start Game 1 (9:30)
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Our initial thoughts on Matthew Knies (11:00)
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Even if he’s hurt, Luke Schenn is not coming out of the lineup (12:45)
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The Marlies treated Johnny’s kid like a King for his first-ever game (14:37)
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When was the last time an injury prematurely ended a hockey player’s career? (17:15)
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Our picks for the Leafs’ regular season awards (18:15)
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MVP: Marner or Nylander? (18:40)
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Most Pleasant Surprise: Samsonov or Giordano? (19:40)
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Biggest Disappointment: Rielly or Murray? (21:15)
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Best Defenceman: Holl or Giordano? (23:25)
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Best Value: Nylander or Giordano? (23:35)
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TNT hockey analyst is predicting a Toronto vs Edmonton final (25:30)
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Comments from the Haters (31:30)
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For the first time since they were rookies, both Crosby and Ovechkin won’t be in the playoffs (36:20)
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***QUESTIONS FROM THE HOCKEYVERSE***
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Hey HockeyVerse, who is going to win the Stanley Cup? (41:00)
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Hey HockeyVerse, what’s a realistic expectation for Matthew Knies in the playoffs? (44:00)
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Hey HockeyVerse, is the Leafs’ fourth line settled? (47:13)
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Thank you for listening to The HockeyVerse. If you enjoy this show, please share the love by leaving us a 5-star rating and review on iTunes and by introducing The HockeyVerse to your friends and family.
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Ask a question to The HockeyVerse by emailing: heyhockeyverse@gmail.com
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Also, be sure to check thehockeyverse.com. While you’re there, sign up for our newsletter. It is specifically written for you — the die-hard fan. From insider news to opinion and analysis, our NHL-focused newsletter will entertain and equip you for the conversations of the day.
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Follow us on Twitter: @thehockeyverse.com; @michael_traikos
