NHL Fans From Afar
By ASFB Productions
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
NHL Fans From AfarAug 25, 2020
Where's the powerplay gone?!
Luckily loads of NHL news broke just before we recorded so Jolon could discuss the latest news with Stars fan Matt Day and Coyotes writer James Reeve.
The Penguins hire a new GM in Ron Hextall & a new President of Hockey Ops Brian Burke.
The surprise retirement of former Minnesota Wild captain and 16 year NHL veteran Mikko Koivu.
Loads of Columbus Blue Jackets chat around Laine, Torts and the crazy goal that wasn't a goal but was a goal thanks to a trainee video technician messing up on the comms to the refs.
Matt brings us up to speed on the Central division and then James follows up with an update from the Honda West!
Presented by Jolon Kemp Walker
Produced by ASFB Productions
Penguins, Pandas and Punch Ups
What does it take to be a great GM in the NHL? There’s a job going at Pittsburgh Penguins after Jim Rutherford’s “shock” exit…But what’s the going rate for a general manager anyway?
He may be ‘free’ for a quick trade, but would you want Tony DeAngelo in your locker room? He’s on waivers after a dispute (and supposed punch-up) with New York Rangers.
Are plus/minus figures a load of bollocks? That’s after Connor McDavid finishes Edmonton Oilers 8-5 win over Ottawa Senators with a -1!
Plus, pandas and Brent Burns’ teeth… Because - why not?
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Photo credit: Washington Capitals
Trading Problems?
Patrik Laine v Pierre-Luc Dubois trade - who was the winner here: Columbus Blue Jackets or Winnipeg Jets, or were they just ‘trading problems’?
Washington Capitals are fined by the NHL for hanging out in their hotel room...Yet Dallas Stars (and two other clubs) are allowing fans in their stadiums to watch?!
The NHL also suspends former Arizona Coyotes GM, John Chayka, for the remainder of 2021. But why? James Reeves fills us in.
And if you could have two NHL players/managers - dead or alive, current or retired - round for a dinner party, who would you pick?
Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Photo credit: CBS Sports
Fight For Fourth
Which teams are clawing for their spot in this year’s playoffs? Who fared well in week one, and who didn’t?
Why are San Jose Sharks homeless? Who’s ‘Flyers Reporter Mike’?
Plus should professional athletes jump the queue for the COVID-19 vaccine? As NBA star Charles Barkley wades into the debate calling for "preferential treatment for higher tax payers", former NHL GM Brian Burke says he agrees - if it encourages more Americans to sign up for the vaccine.
And some loveliness - why a lady called Angelique Fong has been named the 21st Anaheim Duck.
On Episode 2 of Season 3 of NHL Fans From Afar Jolon and Clare take a poke at poor Detroit Red Wings fan and guest, Aussie Adam. Because you know, the Toronto Maple Leafs are doing ok…for the moment.
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Note: Sorry not sorry for the absolutely shocking pronunciations in this episode......
NHL hockey’s back! Or is it?
All 31 teams were set to go this week and then…COVID-19 struck. Boo. What are the chances of a full 56 games being played by all NHL teams this season? Who’s moved where? Who’s injured? And will this year forever have an asterisk next to it in Stanley Cup history because of a shorter journey to the lifting the cup - a cheat year as some may say?
Clare Freeman is back with a pointless NHL quiz, Matt Day is crying into his Yorkshire tea because of trouble brewing ALREADY in Dallas camp, and Jolon Kemp Walker remains as optimistic as ever about Toronto Maple Leafs upcoming season...well, for now at least.
We talk big news injuries, outdoor games announcements, helmet sponsorship AND we hear the hopes and dreams of fans from Chicago Blackhawks, Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, New York Rangers, Dallas Stars, Calgary Flames, AND Detroit Re Wings persuasions…
Episode 1 of Season 3 of NHL Fans From Afar is go!
Produced by ASFB Productions.
Picture credit: NHL.com (Pic of Lake Tahoe)
NHL Free Agent Frenzy
This episode looked at NHL Free Agent Frenzy and all the moves and signings made in the last week or so. NHL Writer James Reeve joined Jolon Kemp Walker to de-brief who got better and who had a tough free agency. Leafs made some big moves and we took a deep dive into the Goalie moves that took place.
ASFB Productions.
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He reignited Tampa Bay Lightning’s lacklustre power play with just 2:47 of ice time…but Steven Stamkos and the team’s 2020 Stanley Cup win was years in the making. Particularly thanks to their clever selection of young draftsmen, like third round pick Brayden Point.
What next for Dallas Stars & Khudobin? Can they afford to keep him in Texas? ‘That’ press conference held by Jamie Benn…
And how will the finance work for the 2021 season? We look ahead to the 112 UFAs as of next week, consider whether owners will even want to splash out in difficult economic times and debate on whether the power is in fact in the players’ hands to decide on a season comeback date… And the New York Rangers wave bye bye to Henrik Lundqvist as the goalie market becomes hotter than ever, setting the scene for some juicy off-season Hokey Cokey.
NHL Fans From Afar podcast is presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Photo credit: Jason Franson/The Canadian Press via The Associated Press
The Master Vs The Apprentice
Once upon a time, Rick Bowness was Jon Cooper's mentor in his early days as an NHL coach...Now, the pair will go head-to-head - in their first chance to bag the ultimate hockey prize.
They say it’s unlikely you’ll ever see stars at the same time as lightning but that’s what will be on our screens for the next week as Dallas and Tampa Bay meet in Edmonton for the Stanley Cup Final 2020.
Each have a chance to win the Stanley Cup for the second time, and they'll play in the first ever Stanley Cup Final held in a neutral building in front of no fans... And man, will the winning team bloody deserve it.
Clare, Jolon and Matt reflect on more overtime madness in the Eastern and Western Conference finals, on whether Vegas Golden Knights and New York Islanders did themselves proud, and make some silly predictions on what might happen next. (Mostly we're left wondering whether Matt the Dallas fan will survive another week of broken sleep, more late minute comebacks and the potential arrival of his first child!)
Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Photo credit: Jon Cooper and Rick Bowness snapped 5 years ago behind the bench as coach and assistant coach for Tampa Bay Lightning, during a game on Fox Sport.
Fly(er) Away
Vegas Golden Knights, New York Islanders, Dallas Stars and Tampa Bay Lightning have all made it through the third round of the dance.
In the East - will it be the team who play their first conference final in 27 years, or the club which shows up for the fourth time in 6 years who progresses?
Over in the West - it’s tight….as we reflect on how Vancouver Canucks shocked fans all over North America, with a very respectable bow out in the second round.
Dan from Chester, a UK flyers fan joins Clare and Jolon to depict what was a mad second round of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs against New York Islanders. Is Carter Hart the goalie Philadelphia Flyers have been waiting for? And what should we expect from the off season goalie market? The NFFA team debate whether we’ve seen the end of the $10million goalie contracts…
And a recorded message from Matt the Dallas Stars fan. How’s he holding up after 7 weeks of barely any sleep and a game one win against Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference final?
Note: Contains some occasional disgruntled moaning about the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Photo credit: Flyers' Carter Hart in the Toronto bubble by Mark Blinch @mblinch
Canada's Team
This week we hear from Canucks fan who can't believe they are still in the playoffs and a Dallas fan who can't believe his team are outscoring the entire league! Another week without Clare means Jolon is yet again shouldering far too much responsibility but manages to keep the leaf talk to only two outbursts. We're starting the 2nd round of these crazy playoffs and of course all anybody wanted to talk about was that photo on twitter of Marc Andre Fleury. Andy Giddings gives us his insight into his Canucks and their success this summer and Matt Day continues to remain coo and calm about the prospect of his beloved Stars getting closer and closer to their second ever Stanley Cup.
Produced by ASFB Productions.
Clareless
Usually Clare Freeman brings her wealth of podcasting experience and curates a careful list of NHL topics to chew over.... However she's away this week so Jolon was forced out of his annual Leaf playoff exit funk to bring you this week’s NHL Fans From Afar.
To ensure this wasn't 60 mins of pure "What will the Leafs do next season?" "Where is the right hand defenceman they need so much!?" and "Would the Avs trade us Cale Makar and Kadri back for a conditional 3rd round pick!?" Jolon was joined by James Reeve who writes about the Arizona Coyotes (He's also a Leafs fan but who isn't deep down!) and NFFA regular and Dallas Stars fan Matt Day.
We cover:
The insane 5 OT Columbus vs Tampa game.
Goalie Tandems
1st Round Reactions (easier than predictions)
Coyotes Deep Dive
And our weekly Stars check in.
Produced by ASFB Productions and Picture from NBC Sports.
Heart vs Head
Who’d of thought Montreal Canadiens would knock out Pittsburgh Penguins? That Chicago Blackhawks would take out Edmonton Oilers? And how was it a clean sweep for Carolina Hurricanes? Forcing New York Rangers to say bye bye to a chance in the playoffs but hello (probably) to Lafrenière/the NHL Draft first pick...
So with no Sidney Crosby, Auston Matthews or Connor McDavid...what IS there to look forward to in the Stanley Cup Playoffs 2020?!
Barry Trotz of New York Islanders is set to face his old team Washington Capitals, plus will there be revenge/history repeating itself as Tampa Bay Lightning/Columbus Blue Jackets and Carolina Hurricanes/Boston Bruins meet again for the second playoff season in a row?
Go easy on these two broken hearted long suffering Toronto Maple Leafs fans...
Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker & Matt Day unpack what was and what could be in the upcoming first playoff round. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Filthy
Was Winnipeg Jets’ coach Paul Maurice right to call out Calgary Flames’ Matthew Tkachuk for his “disgusting” hit on Mark Scheifele?
Have the NHL got it wrong when it comes to unity in supporting the Black Lives Matters Movement, Minnesota Wild’s Matt Dumba and the Hockey Diversity Alliance?
Does it matter that there aren’t any crowds in the building?
What happens now that Toronto Maple Leafs’ Jake Muzzin left the bubble, even if it was to go to hospital?
Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day pick apart the opening games of the round robin/play-in series for NHL’s 2019/2020 Stanley Cup run. NHL Fans From Afar is produced by ASFB Productions.
Photo credit: Colorado Avalanches’ team look on in amazement as Nadeem Kadri takes the game winning goal against St Louis Blues during the round robin series. This shot from Getty photographer Dave Sandford says it all!
Who Knows?!
It was the off-season that none of us wanted…and now - who will win the weirdest Stanley Cup playoff run yet?
Will it be a case of youth and enthusiasm vs experienced veterans? Who were the winners and losers of a season reset? Will the more offensive teams cruise through the play-in round like in October?
Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day talk NHL broadcast expectations (especially the European friendly game times!), reflect on the pantomime of last month’s draft lottery and discuss whether Seattle Kraken has already struck gold because of the CBA extension.
Warning: Contains some what-may-become silly predictions on East and West play-in series results and seeding orders. Because at this point in the year that is 2020 - who knows what could happen next?!
NHL Fans From Afar podcast is made by ASFB Productions.
Photo credit: Washington Capitals’ snap of Alexander Ovechkin arriving at the Toronto NHL Bubble, July 2020.
Spitting Feathers
Is it ever ok to spit during a sport’s game (Caps’ Garnet Hathaway)? Should refs use common sense and throw out the rule book when a man is face down in blood during play (Avs’ Matt Calvert sit)? And who hates LA Kings’ Drew Doughty now?! (Basically everyone)
New York Islanders’ fan Rob McGregor and Vancouver Canucks’ supporter Andy Giddings join NHL Fans From Afar host Clare Freeman to talk best/worst limited edition jerseys plus the latest rumblings on what next for Hockey Night In Canada’s first intermission.
Produced by ASFB Productions. Email us: NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com
Picture Credit: Dallas Stars 2020 Winter Classic Limited Edition Jerseys
Chexit
Is it good for a young guy’s long-term confidence when they’re dropped down to the AHL affiliate team? Why is the UK STILL not on NHL Global series 2020 fixture list but IS in the potential KHL expansion?
Featuring Snoop Dogg commentary and some trivia about Saskatchewan.
Presented by Clare Freeman and Adzy Hoy. Produced by ASFB Productions. Email us/tweet us: NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com @nhlfansfromafar
For Pete's Sake
Clare's heart has just about stopped racing after THAT Toronto Maple Leafs penalty shoot out against the Philadelphia Flyers... Tom Parker joins Clare and James Reeve to talk about his beloved Edmonton Oilers who are off to a fine and dandy start, but - despite some terrific goaltending - he's dubious about whether the team have the depth to keep it going...
Plus more NHL Trivia featuring penguins and brothers. We love weird quirkies and stats, send us some here NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com or on twitter @NHLFansFromAfar.
Produced by ASFB Productions. Picture Credit: Pittsburgh Penguins. (But I can't tell you what it's of because that will give away a secret revealed in the episode.)
Seven
Ahead of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, we discuss whether the NHL is right to pursue revenue in China and how the current picture compares to the NBA.
We find out why PK Subban dressed up as the New Jersey Devils mascot for the team’s halloween party, why the number seven keeps appearing everywhere, and what does grandma’s ham have to do with morning skates? No it’s not a bad dad joke… Just a little story Pittsburgh Penguin’s coach Mike Sullivan had to share.
NHL Fans From Afar host Clare Freeman is joined by Dallas Stars fan Matt Day and English ice hockey media guru/long-suffering Toronto Maple Leafs fan Craig Simpson.
Produced by ASFB Productions. Picture credit: Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin - NHL's China ambassador.
88, 72, 77 & 10/11
What’s in a number? We look at the NHL players who’ve switched their numbers this season and why, including Sergei Bobrovsky’s deal with new teammate Frank Vatrano over Florida Panther’s number 72.
Philadelphia Flyer’s mascot Gritty made an appearance in The Simpsons, we peruse Arizona Coyotes’ unusual choice of locker room anthems, our listener Jeff sent a postcard from ‘that’ game against Boston Bruins in Toronto over the weekend, and we discuss what to make of Las Vegas Golden Knights’ Valentin Zykov’s 20 game suspension for violating the NHL’s drug policy.
Plus a bit of old fashioned NHL trivia! Full geek out status for this NHL Fans From Afar with Clare Freeman, James Reeve and Ross Shaw-Mellor.
Canes, Hot Dogs & Aliens
The story of when Vancouver Canucks' Elias Pettersson met Alien Pope, why hot dogs could be the answer to giving a losing streak the heave-ho and who's hot/who's not when it comes to NHL goalies of 2019/20...
Paul Lawson, long-standing Carolina Hurricanes fan and Rob McGregor of One Puck Short/InGoal Magazine join Clare Freeman for another episode of the NHL Fans From Afar podcast.
There's a look across the week's news, a rant about whether the All-Star weekend is just for kids and a discussion on what could the NHL do better to love us fans outside North America and raise the sport's profile.
Produced by ASFB Productions. Got a fan story of your own? Email us nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com
Photo credit: churchofpettersson.com
Hamburglar to Hannibal...
Packed with goalie mask tit-bits (past and present) that will blow your mind... Such as, did you know the Hannibal Lecter mask was actually designed by an NHL custom goalie artist?
Under new management - nearly a quarter of teams have a new boss behind the bench, but who are the 7 men and what's their history (chequered and success) with former NHL clubs?
What's the point of captaincy? And do you need one anyway? As Toronto Maple Leafs' John Tavares gets the big C sown onto his (and his tiny baby's) jersey, will we see other teams currently C-less, such as the Canucks, follow suit in coming months?
Plus, we go west... A deeper look into the Pacific and Central Divisions as Andy Giddings, our Vancouver Canucks fan and Matt Day, our Dallas Stars fan join us in the third episode of NHL Fans From Afar this season.
Presented by Clare Freeman. Produced by ASFB Productions. Want to be a guest on our show? Want to join our slack group? Email us! NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com
Photo Credit: Gerry Cheevers iconic goalie mask (TONY TIOLO/SPORTS ILLUSTRATED) And yes we know, he's a Boston Bruins type. Sorry.
Bling or Blurgh?
Love or hate the St Louis Blues Stanley Cup Rings, are pre-season games worth bothering with, and what connects Neil Young and Green Day with the San Jose Sharks?
NHL Fans From Afar’s ‘resident Finnish adviser’/Sharks fan Paul Brown guests with Adam Hoy - who’s staying loyal to Detroit Red Wings, despite their lacklustre hopes for the 2019/2020 NHL season.
There’s news on contracts with Patrik Laine, Kyle Connor and Mike Rantanen.
Plus, what was on a Finnish floor ball team’s offer sheet for Colorado Avalanche’s Miko Rantanen? Let’s just say it included socks, massage vouchers and a ‘man with a quite cute daddy belly’…
Presented by Clare Freeman with Adam Hoy and Paul Brown. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Photo Credit: Jostens Professional Sports Division
We’re back!
The podcast made by and for NHL fans living outside of North America returns for a second season. Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker catch up with fellow Toronto Maple Leafs fan James Reeve, plus we hear from Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, Las Vegas Golden Nights and Winnipeg Jets fans.
Leave us a voicemail via our anchor.fm/nhlfansfromafar page, email us nhlfansfromafar@gmail.comto join our Slack group with fellow fans from across the world, and connect with us on Twitter.com/nhlfansfromafar
Produced by ASFB Productions.
The Finale
The cup has been lifted, the awards have been awarded and the drafts have been drafted. The 2018/19 season is officially over so it felt right that we heard from as many contributors to NHL Fans From Afar as possible.... over to you!
Produced by ASFB Productions
Presented by Clare Freeman & Jolon Kemp Walker
Baby Blues
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Could this be 1970 all over again?
Fact: St Louis Blues are tied with Toronto Maple Leafs for the longest cup drought in the league. But if they beat Boston Bruins in the Stanley Cup finals over the next few weeks, they’ll end that pain and pick up their first silverware in the club’s history…
But is it even possible? Statistically 61 out of 79 teams since 1939 who win game one in the final series go on to win the cup. So with the first win in the can for the Bruins is the writing already on the wall?
Jordan Binnington vs Tuukka Rask 2018/19 statswise is pretty much neck and neck.
Bruins have 6 cups already to their name, and are bookies favourites - can the Blues really continue their season upset by making a comeback from bottom of the league to cup winners with an interim coach and a rookie goalie within a few months?
The last time St Louis Blues were in the Stanley Cup final was in 1970. And guess who beat them? Bobby Orr and the Boston Bruins… Even worse, it was in a four game sweep. Ouch. (Photograph credit: Ray Lussier/AP)
Plus, there’s a message from Tom, our Edmonton Oilers fan with a reference to his team’s new coach - Dave Tippett
And Jolon finally details his first hostel dorm experience, upon returning from Slovakia and the IIHF World Championships!
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
The Morning After
Hurricanes, Finns & Shark Tanks
Four months ago, Carolina Hurricanes were just two points out of last place in the entire NHL. Now, they're in the Eastern Conference Final playing Boston Bruins. This ‘bunch of jerks’ have had 9 seasons without even making the playoffs and their last champion win 2005/2006. Can they do it?
Die hard Caniac Paul Lawson lives in Scotland, but has followed his team since a chance Sega Mega Drive game purchase in the 90s. He’s been to watch them, played with some of the Stanley Cup alumni and even calls some of their past players friends. In his candid chat with host Clare Freeman, Paul explains what a difference hockey has truly made to him and his family’s life.
Sports writer Paul Brown spends his working hours following football both in the UK and in Europe. But in the early hours he’s glued to the screen necking coffees watching his beloved San Jose Sharks. With a host of rising stars, a few hungry veterans and a goalie who’s snapped back into action - is it now or never for the Sharks? Plus Paul name drops a few of his favourite Finnish players right now - notably Kaapo Kakko with his hat trick in the World Championships. (pictured, credit: Petr David Josek AP)
And Mark Rackham aka Mark UK Leaf takes a few minutes out of his AHL Playoff coverage to discuss what next for Toronto Maple Leafs, the Stanley Cup playoffs so far and Team GB’s rise to the IIHF World Championships out in Slovakia. Read more of Mark’s writing here: ukhockeyfan.wordpress.com and mapleleafshotstove.com/toronto-marlies/
Presented by Clare Freeman, featuring Paul Lawson, Paul Brown, Mark Rackham. Produced by ASFB Productions. Email us for an invite to our slack group: nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com or tweet us @nhlfansfromafar
Twas The Night Before... Slovakia!
Jolon Kemp Walker and Matthew Day took a break from packing their cases to discuss the NHL Play Offs so far and what they were hoping to see when they arrive in Slovakia for the IIHF World Champs later this week.
Lots of Dallas Stars talk as they head into Game 7 with the Blues. New GM in Edmonton, same coach in Toronto and how officiating in the playoffs has left us scratching our heads at times.
Jealous...
That feeling when your team exits the playoffs... Yeah we're still bitter. But hey, pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and back to talking NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs we go.
Carolina Hurricanes are holding on (just) with a 2-0 series lead in their second round, but with injuries left right and centre, will New York Islanders find the 'kick'start they need to spin an epic comeback?
Dallas Stars trail by one in their series with St Louis Blues - we're all scratching our beards wondering how rookie Jordan Binnington is keeping the Blues in the running with no prior playoff hockey experience on a minimum wage contract?!
Great hands, speed and shots galore continue for San Jose Sharks second round series - currently tied with Colorado Avalanches. The man all the NHL stars are talking about and watching? Nathan MacKinnon...
'Almost rejects' Sergei Bobrovski and Anteri Panaren continue their magic for Columbus Blue Jackets - tied one a piece with the team Jolon and Clare can't barely talk about right now.
Plus Vezina Trophy, your round 2 predictions and references to waffles and bananas...
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions. Email NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com to join our slack group!
I Can’t Watch…It’s Too Close To Call
Week one of the 2018/19 playoffs saw more dum dums than the end of an Eastender’s soap opera…
How are Clare and Jolon’s heart rates as history repeats itself with Boston and Toronto going to game 7… In part two of the podcast, listen to them as-live watching the final minutes of the game!
Elsewhere, we kissed goodbye to the chances of an all-Canadian Stanley Cup final as Winnipeg and Calgary crashed out in the first round with St Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, Columbus Blue Jackets AND Colorado Avalanches all defying the bookies and critics.
Dallas Stars and Nashville Predators tied at game six, but the Stars went on to clinch their space in the next round tweeting ‘this is what it feels to be alive’ moments after winning in overtime.
They’ve not made the playoffs in a decade, and now the Carolina Hurricanes may end up knocking out last year’s champions out in the first round…with a feisty exit for Alex Ovechkin too! Will Washington Capitals meet their former coach Barry Trotz and the New York Islanders in the second round?
San Jose Sharks and Las Vegas Knights had an absolute goal fest in their first round and now (as we record this podcast) sit tied 3 a-piece. Will Las Vegas prove their inaugural season wasn’t just a fluke or will Eric Karlsson’s team get a stab at their first ever Stanley Cup?
And a clean sweep left the President Trophy winners’ Tampa Bay Lightning AND Sidney Crosby’s Pittsburgh Penguins saying see ya later?! Destroying all of our NHL brackets in one clean swoop.
So will CBJ go all the way? There’s mixed thoughts on our twitter poll!
Hosted by Clare Freeman & Jolon Kemp Walker. Featuring Pittsburgh Penguins fan Georgie Hunt and a surprise guest on the phone at the end… Produced by ASFB Productions.
To join like-minded folk who love watching the NHL but live outside of North America, email us for an invite to our closed slack workspace: NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com
New Kid On The Block
“Player safety is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re going to get…” the words of Mark Ukleaf Rackham one of our panellists on this week’s NHL Fans From afar. From Kucherov to Kadri’s suspensions, to ‘that’ Ovechkin fight against 19 year old Svechnikov… We talk favourite moments, who’s surprised us and what the heck is going on with potentially Pittsburgh Penguins and Tampa Bay Lightning going out in the first playoff round with a clean sweep…or won’t they?
Plus new kid on the block for Colorado Avalanches, Cale Makar, became the seventh player in NHL history and first defenceman to score a goal while making his debut in the Stanley Cup playoffs - and it was a game-winner! Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker, Steven Edwards and Mark Rackham host. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Join our slack group to chat playoffs with like minded NHL fans living outside North America. Email NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com for an invite.
It's Showtime!
16 made it to the dance, 15 didn't. 4 head coaches have never made the Stanley Cup playoffs before. And one team have scraped through with 11 of their players ready to make their playoff debut.
Columbus Blue Jackets have never ever won a playoff round, Carolina Hurricanes are to make their first post season appearance in a decade and only one team has won both the President's Trophy AND the Stanley Cup in the same season in the last decade (Chicago Blackhawks in 2013) - so does that mean that Tampa Bay Lightning aren't guaranteed a done deal?
With 8 match ups across east and west, how do you go about organising your playoff watching schedule? Will you sacrifice sleep or slip away if your team takes an early exit?
Clare and Jolon preview this year's playoffs with some wild predictions, a bet and a handful of stats.
Plus there's more changes to head coach positions at the end of the season. Is Joel Quenville's new job with Florida Panthers a record breaking contract? And what exactly will Ken Hitchcock's role be with Edmonton Oilers going forwards?
Join our slack group and NHL bracket! Email NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com for a slack invite, or join the bracket league here: https://bracketchallenge.nhl.com/leagues/nhl-fans-from-afar
Who's Hughes?
Montreal Canadiens have been in, out, in, out, and shook the wild card playoff space all about. But with just two games left in the regular season - will they, Columbus Blue Jackets or Carolina Hurricanes make the final stretch?
It looks like it’ll be right down to the last game...which unfortunately for this week’s guest - Dave our Habs fan - one of the deciding meet ups happens to be against Jolon & Clare’s team Toronto Maple Leafs. Oops!
There’s a dance over in the West Conference too - as Winnipeg, Nashville & St Louis have all made the cut for a playoff berth but it’s still all to play for in final positioning. And will Colorado Avalanche or Arizona Coyotes make the final wildcard spot?
Plus, was Paul Byron was right to say yes to dropping the gloves with Florida Panthers’ MacKenzie Weegar? A move which cost him several games and concussion at a crucial time for the Habs...
And, as the NHL draft lottery order is about to be announced - who the heck is Jack Hughes anyway?!
Presented by Clare Freeman & Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Join our NHL Bracket league here: https://bracketchallenge.nhl.com/leagues/nhl-fans-from-afar
Picture credit: Rena Laverty/USA Hockey's NTDP
Berths, Bolts and Basketball
Hurricanes and lightning, very very frightening... 6 playoff berths have been clinched with 6 more teams waiting to fix their final standings, and the dance continues in the wild card spots for both the East and West Conferences.
It's all to play for with just 5 or 6 games left in the regular season, and chances are if you're a Dallas Stars, Colorado Avalanches, Arizona Coyotes, Minnesota Wild, Carolina Hurricanes, Montreal Canadiens or Columbus Blue Jackets fan - you'll be feeling it right now!
With Clare in a hotel on the road in Newcastle, Steven in a his spare room in that London and Jolon making an appearance from a very special location in Toronto - it's an exciting week rounding up what has been and could be for the final few days of the 2018/19 NHL season.
The week that Carolina Hurricanes played basketball and fishing on ice, St Louis Blues scored three goals against Tampa Bay Lightning in 75 seconds and John Tavares broke a personal AND Toronto Maple Leafs record... Plus Steven has a rant about the global series skipping London (again).
Join our slack group or email us via NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com
Presented by Clare Freeman and Steven Edwards. Produced by ASFB Productions. Picture credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
Nine Games To Go...
"Golf on ice"...that's how Vancouver Canucks fan Andy's son describes ice hockey. Aww!
Nine games left of the regular season, as Tampa Bay Lightning clinch the a playoff space and the Presidents’ Trophy - is it inevitable they’ll go on to win the Stanley Cup?
What happens when we phone Toronto’s video room whilst recording our podcast...
Plus your hockey film recs and can a player still be classed as ‘great’ if they’ve no accolades to their name?
Join our slack group, email us for an invite: NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Is 'All In' The Only Way?
The week Clare switched sides and became a Columbus Blue Jackets' fan. Plus how did Jolon fair with a 20 minute ban on talking about the Toronto Maple Leafs?
The pace of hockey feels different this week... with the playoffs just round the corner, it seems things have massively changed since we sketched our playoff bracket in December. Which teams are surprising us? Which teams have disappointed us?
Fancy joining us as a guest? Email us - NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com
Sens-ational
Ouch. Who would want to be an Ottawa Senators fan right now? No coach, no stars, no new rink, no first round draft pick. What hope is there for Canada’s capital over coming NHL seasons?
"Lying, snake, traitor, pyjama boy...” those were the words used by a handful of New York Islander fans describing John Tavares on a video released before their meet up with Toronto Maple Leafs last Thursday. The leafs went on to tank that game, but then days later something magic happened - the whole of Toronto stood tall and reassured JT that he is loved in his new home - the Scotiabank Arena.
And we reach out to a Detroit Red Wings supporter who is truly an NHL fan afar... Adam listens to our podcast from the Sunshine Coast of Australia. He reveals his predicament of supporting ice hockey in a hot climate - including having to turn up the air con just to wear his jersey whilst watching hockey fans in Canada shiver at the Winter Classic...!
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions. Join our Slack group! Email nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com for an invite.
Trade Deadline As It Happened!
The final minutes of 2019 NHL Trade Deadline as-live with Jolon Kemp Walker, Clare Freeman, Steven Edwards and Rob McGregor...
Deals coming through right up to the wire, and a few cheeky ones still trickling in after the bell... This year's deadline certainly included a few surprises.
To join our slack group and connect with other mad plonkas who love the NHL outside North America, email us at NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com
Blimey O'Reilly
Who are St Louis Blues right now? Making Franchise history...and Ryan O’Reilly helping fast track their place back in this year’s playoffs?!
Is Hockey Night In Canada’s Don Cherry right to poo poo Carolina Hurricane’s game celebrations on national tv? The team have been quick to respond by making ‘Bunch Of Jerks’s T-shirt’s from a Cherry quote!
Which teams do you most like to watch - other than your own?
And with 82 games in the regular season, is there such thing as follower fatigue when supporting NHL from afar? How do you keep dialled in when your team takes a nose dive?
Who deserves your man crush of the week vote?
Also our most interactive post on our Slack group this week - are you sick of the NHL Figures advert watching on NHL Game Center too?!!!!
Join our Slack group, email us for an invite to nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com
Presented by Clare Freeman & Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
The Not So Mighty Ducks
In this weeks episode Jolon is joined once again by Steven Edwards for another 90 minutes of NHL chat from afar. They're also joined by our featured fan Andy who is a Golden Knights supporter.
In the podcast the guys discuss.... What's happened to the Ducks? Is the Matthews contract a good contract? And if you could offer sheet any RFA for your team in the NHL, who would it be?
Plus which is your favorite player to watch who isn't on your team and both Jolon and Steven vent their frustrations at own teams ahead of them playing each other later this week.
Presented by Jolon Kemp Walker & Steven Edwards. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Join our slack group email and talk NHL all week! NHLfansfromafar@gmail.com
Go West
In this weeks episode we look at the wild race for a wild card place in the Western Conference. Which is tougher, the Eastern or Western Conference?
As the league heads towards the trade deadline we take a look at who's going to be buying and who could be big sellers come February 25th.
Our fan this week is Georgie Hunt who is a Penguins fan based in Norwich (Which is 'officially' the city furthest away from an ice rink in the UK!). She also has a very cool story as to how she became a fan of this great league.
Clare took a week off this week so Steven Edwards rejoins Jolon Kemp Walker for your weekly dose of NHL Fans From Afar.
Oh and yes, it happened again.... hours after recording this podcast the Leafs make a signing! Auston Matthews is a Leaf for the next 5 seasons, but fear not this will just give Jolon a chance to calm down and compose himself ahead of next weeks pod!
Presented by Jolon Kemp Walker & Steven Edwards. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Join our slack group email and talk NHL all week! NHLfansfromafar@gmail.com
Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated, Kevin Sousa.
Deep Dive
Rob McGregor of the One Puck Short Podcast (https://onepuckshort.wordpress.com) is this week’s guest. Talking points covered:
What’s New York Islanders’ secret? Even with the addition of Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz nobody could have foreseen such a speedy turnaround as they sit top of the Metropolitan Division.
What next for Edmonton Oilers? The top dog Bob Nicholson says playoffs are still in sight but they’ll take their time over picking their next GM. But who will it be? Someone young with fresh eyes or an NHL stalwart like Ron Hextall?
And another round of man crush of the week includes conversation about a stick, a woman and an outspoken rebel.
Note: we recorded this before the Jake Muzzin trade!
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Join our slack group email NHLfansfromafar@gmail.com
Photo credit: Teerepublic.com
Slumps
Remember when Brad Marchand licked Leo Komarov? It was during another Boston Bruins/Toronto Maple Leafs playoff series that ended in heartache for blue and white fans... So this week Jolon and Clare did what they knew they had to do at some point this season - speak with Ross, a Bruins fan, and hear him wax lyrical about how much he loves Brad 'the pest' Marchand wearing his team's colours.
Also, is age just a number? Should you be worried if your team is in a slump right now? And what the hell is happening at Edmonton Oilers?!
Plus new feature - Man Crush of The Week.
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker.
Produced by ASFB Productions.
To join our NHL Fans From Afar Slack community email us - nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com
Photo credit: Getty Images.
Boos & Temper Tantrums
Is it ever OK to boo a player? After Jake Gardiner was booed by fans during Toronto Maple Leafs game against Colorado Avalanches...
How much is too much for a goalie? Sergei Bobrovsky is rumoured to be wanting big bucks for his new contract in summer. But should he stay at Colombus Blue Jackets?
And, are bench temper tantrums ever OK? After Av’s Nathan MacKinnon publicly let rip at his coach Jared Bednar during a game v the Calgary Flames.
Daily Star sports journalist Paul Brown is this week’s NHL Fans From Afar guest. He explains why he loves Team Finland, and the San Jose Sharks.
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker.
Produced by ASFB Productions.
Nathan MacKinnon Photo credit: Candice Ward, USA TODAY Sports
Hokey Cokey
Plus infamous NHL debuts and the hokey cokey of being a goalie.
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions. Pic - Mar 5, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Recording artist Alice Cooper poses with his retro Arizona Coyotes jersey before a game against the Vancouver Canucks at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
New Year, New Haircut
What happens when your record a podcast whilst an NHL game is live at 7pm UK time? This…
Jolon mostly cries, gets sent out the room because he refused to watch until he gets home later. Whilst Clare and Steve are forced to bite their lip every time they see a goal or penalty as the follow the action during recording.
With Steve sporting a new slimline haircut and Clare a new hair colour, it seems apt to call this episode New Year, New Haircut as even Toronto Maple Leafs’ William Nylander asked his auntie to give him a short back and sides over Christmas. And with new starts, we wipe the slate clean and dream big for year ahead…
We ponder our one wish for our teams for the remainder of the season, and question what the heck was going on with Dallas Stars after ‘that’ incident involving Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin over the holiday period. The Athletic's Sean Shapiro explains what it was like to get the call and be at that 25 minute press conference as Stars management went on an "expletive-laden tirade"...
Plus who are you sad to see left out of the All-Star line up, and why Steven wants the Washington Capitals’ player Tom Wilson to clean up his act or leave the NHL for good…
Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Steven Edwards. Produced by ASFB Productions.
Pic credit: Nordy Wild, Minnesota Wild's mascot and his mad mullet.
Subscribe, review and rate us. Plus fancy being a guest to talk about your team? Email us NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com
Sorry
He's loved them from afar for 15 years, and is part of a growing supporters' club - the 'UK New York Rangers Fans'.
We recall 'that' final against LA Kings a few years ago and discuss whether Henrik Lundqvist is worth his $8.5m contract at 36 years old.
Also included - Does having mums/dads trips help or hinder an NHL team statistically?
What did you want to be when you grew up? We've examples of Toronto Maple Leafs players' childhood dreams.
And New York Islanders Vs New York Rangers playoff space: who deserves it, or do neither?!
Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker.
Produced by ASFB Productions. Photo Credit: Scott Levy/NHLI
Ifs, Buts & Maybe
Hear Jolon Kemp Walker and Clare Freeman's workings out and thoughts of where they think the league is at, plus reaction to Toronto Maple Leaf's William Nylander being back in the team and Clare's heartfelt apology for cursing Freddie Andersen.
Produced by ASFB Productions. ASFBProductions.com/podcast
Punching Salad
Seattle’s space in the NHL expansion is confirmed but what changes will be made to accommodate them? Arizona look set to take a trip from the Pacific to the Central Division. But will the Coyotes buckle financially and see a spot for Houston emerge?
And as violence disappears from the game of hockey, we speak to Washington Capitals’ fan Dr Vic Silverwood on what fighting’s past, present and future role could be. The writer and researcher was featured in the documentary Ice Guardians.
Plus salad, shrek and teddy bears...
Presented by Jolon Kemp Walker and Clare Freeman. Produced by ASFB Productions. Photo credit: Kim Klement.