NHL @TheRink

In the first episode of 2025, Dan and Shawn are joined by Vegas Golden Knights broadcaster Daren Millard (23:28) to discuss the team’s ascent to the top of the Pacific Division standings and Jack Eichel’s case for the Hart Trophy. At the start of the episode, the hosts recap their trip to the Winter Classic, including Chicago’s persistent struggles and whether the St. Louis Blues will make the playoffs this season. The guys also discuss Colorado’s recent success and the front office’s decision to ink Mackenzie Blackwood to a long-term deal. After the interview, Dan and Shawn dissect Carolina’s recent slide and debate whether Auston Matthews should play in the 4 Nations Face-Off, despite his injury.

In the final episode of 2024, Dan and Shawn are joined by Mike Zeisberger (19:20), NHL.com’s Toronto-based staff writer, to discuss the Maple Leafs and break down how the team has found success under first-year head coach Craig Berube. Zeisberger also gives his thoughts on Ottawa’s recent surge and the continued freefall by the New York Rangers. At the start of the show, Dan and Shawn preview the upcoming Winter Classic and the IIHF World Junior Championships that begin this week in Ottawa. Later on, the guys give their immediate reaction to the breaking news out of Detroit, as the Red Wings announce the firing of Derek Lalonde and the hiring of Todd McLellan as head coach. Dan and Shawn end the calendar year by giving their New Year’s resolutions for the podcast in 2025.

Dan and Shawn are joined by TNT and Blackhawks TV analyst Darren Pang (15:27) to preview the Winter Classic, provide perspective on Connor Bedard’s development through 100 career games, and discuss the beginning of Anders Sorensen’s tenure in Chicago. Pang, a former Blackhawks goalie, also reminisces about his favorite Winter Classic memories and the best moments of the Blackhawks-Blues rivalry. At the start of the episode, Dan and Shawn give their thoughts on the latest news in the Atlantic Divsion, including Ottawa’s recent surge, Anthony Stolarz’s injury in Toronto, and Patrik Laine’s resurgence in Montreal. After chatting with Pang, the guys search for answers to correct the continued struggles of the New York Rangers and Buffalo Sabres. 

Dan and Shawn are joined by Mike Rupp (19:07), former NHL player and current NHL Network analyst, to discuss key storylines around the League. Rupp weighs in on whether the Pittsburgh Penguins are a true playoff contender or a potential seller ahead of the 2025 Trade Deadline. He also shares insights into the New York Rangers' locker room dynamic during Jacob Trouba's trade saga and offers his newfound respect for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Later, Dan and Shawn recap the NHL Board of Governors meeting, analyze the Los Angeles Kings’ success, and debate the Colorado Avalanche’s goaltending situation. The co-hosts close with mailbag, discussing the Winnipeg Jets and revisiting the tactics the Rangers used to facilitate Trouba's trade to the Ducks.