Former Edmonton Oilers GM and coach Craig MacTavish joins Neil and Vic to discuss the team's recent performance and playoff hockey  adversity.

They also celebrate Gary Bettman's 31 years as NHL commissioner and delve into NHL standings projections. The challenges of NHL head coaches, recent firings, and mid-season coaching changes are explored. MacTavish highlights the Oilers' resurgence, discussing player choices, reclamation projects, and the team's response to adversity. 

Additionally, they take a nostalgic look at the evolution of the NHL All-Star Game, including historic moments and the modern skills competition. The Human Side of the Story segment reflects on falling in love with the game and memorable first NHL game experiences.

IN THIS EPISODE: 

• [01:51] One timers segment
• [02:00] Discussion on Gary Bettman's 31-year tenure as NHL commissioner
• [04:29] Projections of NHL Standings
• [05:55] Discussion on Coaching 
• [14:03] Interview with special guest Craig MacTavish
• [24:21] Energy and big moments within the team, highlighting the contributions of specific players and coaches.
• [26:27] Emphasizes the importance of goaltending and the performance of Stuart Skinner.
• [27:06] Neil Smith reflects on the historical approach of the Oilers in identifying and developing talent, drawing parallels with the current regime under Ken Holland.
• [38:33] Significance of leadership in winning, with references to specific players and their impact on the team.
• [42:00] First NHL All Star game 
• [44:55] Human Side of the Story
• [49:30] Closing remarks and invitation to join the next episode of the NHL Wraparound podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• Gary Bettman's 31-year tenure as the commissioner of the National Hockey League, highlighting the challenges and complexities of the role, as well as the growth of the league from 24 to 32 franchises under his leadership. 
• The Edmonton Oilers' near-record-setting winning streak and the impact of coaching, player contributions, and defensive structure on the team's success. 
• The significance of facing adversity in the playoffs and the lessons learned from previous playoff experiences, emphasizing the maturity and evolution of players such as Connor McDavid. 
• Strategic considerations for team improvement and the impact of player acquisitions, such as the potential impact of trades on team dynamics and the need for bolstering certain areas to enhance the team's championship potential. 

RESOURCE LINKS 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

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BIO:  

Craig MacTavish (born August 15, 1958) is a Canadian professional ice hockey executive and former player, formerly an assistant coaching position with the St. Louis Blues. He played centre for 17 seasons in the National Hockey League with the Boston Bruins, Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, Philadelphia Flyers and St. Louis Blues, winning the Stanley Cup four times (1987, 1988, 1990, 1994). He was the last NHL player not to wear a helmet during games.[1][2][3]

MacTavish later coached the Oilers from 2000 to 2009 and also served as assistant coach with the Rangers and Oilers. He last coached Team Canada at the 2019 Spengler Cup, after a short stint with Russian team Lokomotiv Yaroslavl of the KHL. He served as an assistant coach with the St. Louis Blues from 2022 to 2023.

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