In the Wild West of the American Hockey League's Pacific Division, only one team has the right to claim a kingdom: the Ontario Reign! This week their head coach Marco Sturm is joining Deana Weinheimer, Jay Forster, and Corey Swartz on the Calder's Calling podcast.

First, the quick hits! Clay Stevenson looks to be sticking around with the Hershey Bears (for a couple of seasons at least) and Tomas Suchanek is making waves in the hockey world. Also, we talk about the suspension handed down to Chicago Wolves head coach Bob Nardella.

In our three stars, Corey looks to the former Bears while Jay picks a high-producing rookie. Deana goes for a sloth. What? Well, you'll have to watch to find out more!

Jay then turns our sites to the stellar AHL rookie group across all positions. Which one will emerge victorious as the 2023-24 AHL Rookie of the Year? The decision might not be that clear-cut.

Deana then welcomes Ontario Reign head coach Marco Sturm to the show. Who were his coaching mentors? Why does he feel a solid mix of experience equals success for AHL teams? What are his thoughts on the German National Team? He discusses this and more!

Finally, Corey ponders if the San Diego Gulls are a team on the upswing or if their recent winning ways might not be what it seems on the surface.

Many thanks to our podcast sponsor, Document Doctors LLC!

Thumbnail photo credits: Ontario Reign