The Skate Podcast

James Hagens joins the show to talk about what he worked on improving this offseason, his comfortability at center and what he has to do to win a spot in Boston's lineup out of training camp. Plus, we react to Hagens six-goal performance at this weekend's Prospects Showcase in Buffalo. And what would the Bruins lines look like if Hagens is one of the Bruins' four centers?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

Discussing the comments Charlie McAvoy made today about his suspension appeal, injury recovery and the Bruins' captaincy. Plus, notes from another day of captains practice including what's the latest with Matt Poitras. And, would it make sense for the Bruins to try to sign Chris Kreider?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

Discussing Fraser Minten's new seven-year contract extension and what it means for Pavel Zacha, Elias Lindholm and other Bruins' forwards. Plus, who was absent at the Bruins' captain practice on Tuesday.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

Discussing the comments that Frederic Brunet made this week about feeling ready to make the Bruins, his defensive growth and his friend Matt Poitras. Plus, we go through the Athletic's five-tier player rankings of NHL players and what Bruins might be missing from the list. Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

We react to comments from Marco Sturm about making young players earn their ice time. Will James Hagens be held back early on this season? Plus, an update on Elias Lindholm, Cale Makar becomes the NHL's first $20 million man, and Jeremy Swayman and Charlie McAvoy crack the NHL's top 50 players list.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected] to:2:20 - Cale Makar's record-breaking contract7:00 - Expectations for Elias Lindholm15:05 - Sturm's comments on making young players earn ice time40:20 - Sturm wants a captain... eventually49:40 - Milestones Pastrnak could hit this season56:00 - Swayman, McAvoy crack NHL's top 50 players

Bruins release their national TV schedule. Which defensemen will be waived before the season? How optimistic are you that the Bruins keep Poitras? Mailbag: Would it be okay to start Poitras on 9th floor? Is DiPietro low-key the most important player next season?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

We discuss Zdeno Chara's "Final Shift," the NHL likely expanding with another Texas team, and whether the Bruins could target any of the centers in NHL Network's list of the top 20 centers. Would Mark Scheifele make sense?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected] to:11:55 - Pastrnak tried to recruit Bergeron for one more year20:55 - How involved will Chara, Bergeron be going forward?31:15 - More NHL expansion is coming soon39:55 - NHL Network's list of top 20 centers right now44:20 - Would Mark Scheifele make sense as a Bruins trade target?55:00 - Are we getting any closer to an answer on Pavel Zacha?

We celebrate The Skate Pod's 600th episode with a mailbag answering your questions about the upcoming season! Plus, we react to Cam Neely's comments about the Bruins' captaincy, their announcement of a game in Germany next year and how difficult it could be for young players to win a job with a shortened preseason this year.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

We discuss some of the fringe roster players and ask the question: Which currently rostered player is least likely to play for the Bruins next season? Are Matt Poitras and Frederic Brunet going to be full-time players in Boston next season? And, we answer two mailbag questions involving Marat Khusnutdinov.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

Discussing Charlie McAvoy's ranking among NHL defensemen coming into next season. How much pressure is on Paval Zacha to preform like a top-20 center in the league? Plus, what sports trade were you most upset about? And, could we be good at any ESPN the Ocho sports?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

We discuss Patrice Bergeron's appearance on Spittin' Chiclets, debate where the Bruins could finish in the Atlantic Division, and then answer some listener mailbag questions. Plus: A Fashion Segment on the one Bruins jersey we would bring back.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] Jump to:02:30 - Opening shifts: Bergeron on Spittin' Chiclets09:05 - Where will the Bruins finish in the Atlantic?26:35 - Remembering Bergeron in the AHL during 04-05 lockout32:40 - Mailbag: Can Geekie produce away from Pastrnak?47:00 - Should Bruins target Kirill Marchenko?58:40 - Fashion Segment: Which B's jersey would we bring back?

We debate some over/under point totals for Bruins players in 2026-27. Plus, where does David Pastrnak rank among NHL players entering the season? And one listener REALLY wants us to put some respect on Pavel Zacha's name.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] Jump to:3:50 - Opening shifts: Swayman unfollows Dunks8:15 - Where does Pastrnak rank among NHL players?22:10 - Projecting Bruins point totals for 20256-2756:45 - Have we disrespected Zacha???

We get into the key comments from Trent Whitfield's introductory press conference including his opinion about whether DiPietro, Poitras and Brunet have outgrown Providence. Plus, what he said about whether or not the Bruins development system 'failed' Lysell and Merkulov. Is it really a big deal if Hagens plays this season on the wing? Plus, some thoughts on league news and McAvoy on the Tkachuck's Wingmen podcast.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

Discussing the new coaching staff in Providence and what it could mean for player development. What are the three biggest unanswered questions for the Bruins still before the season? Plus we answer your mailbag questions about why the prospect "cupboards are bare" and more.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

Georgii Merkulov joins Fabian Lysell in Colorado. Why haven't the Bruins and Matt Poitras come to a deal yet? Jason Robertson and Patrick Kane sign new contracts. Mailbag: How worried are you the Bruins lose Zacha for nothing? How much pressure is on the younger Bruins this season?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

How confident are you in the Bruins' current roster? What will happen if DiPietro struggles in the NHL? What other moves are in store for the Bruins before the season starts?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

We discuss the Bruins' front office changes this week, including the addition of Kevyn Adams and the departure of Evan Gold. Plus, we break down the Bruins' 2026-27 schedule, highlighting some key games and stretches.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

Mailbag: On your requests, we take a deeper dive into the situations of Lohrei, Poitras, Hagens, Letourneau and Zacha!Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

We wonder just how patient David Pastrnak will be with this Bruins retool. Would he be OK with missing the playoffs this season if young players show progress? Plus, we answer some mailbag questions about James Hagens, Matt Poitras and Frederic Brunet.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] Jump to:02:50 - Opening shifts: Boston Fleet moving to Agganis09:35 - Daily Faceoff ranks Bruins' top 10 prospects15:10 - How patient will Pastrnak be with Bruins' retool?25:25 - Would naming Pastrnak captain keep him happy?36:35 - Mailbag: Can Bruins keep pace in the Atlantic?1:01:10 - Is Hagens a lock to start the year in Boston?

We discuss the big story shaking up the hockey world: the Flyers' $90 million offer sheet for young Ducks star Leo Carlsson. Why didn't the Bruins do something like this? Are there more moves to come for Boston? Plus, Andrew Peeke signs with Utah for less than expected, and some leftover Bruins development camp thoughts.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

We react to the Bruins' moves (and non-moves) on July 1, including their trade for Will Borgen, the return of Connor Clifton, moving on from Viktor Arvidsson, and trading away Joonas Korpisalo. Did the Bruins get better? What is the long-term vision here? Plus, ranking their defensemen in order of importance and figuring out potential opening night lines.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

Analyzing the Bruins draft selections. Goaltending comes into focus at development camp. What can the Bruins learn from the mistakes made with Fabian Lysell? More thoughts on JJ Peterka.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

We react to the Bruins trading two first-round picks for speedy winger JJ Peterka. Did they give up too much? How will Peterka fit in Boston? What moves could be next?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

We discuss Don Sweeney's pre-draft press conference, including his comments on Pavel Zacha, Viktor Arvidsson, Andrew Peeke and Elias Lindholm. Will the Bruins make a big move this offseason? Will they sell off some pieces?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

Discussing the big trade that got Brady Tkachuk to Florida, the latest on the Bruins' interest in bringing back Viktor Arvidsson and some off-season moves the Bruins SHOULD NOT be in on. Plus, we talk through two versions of potential offseason moves for the Bruins in our "mock offseason" episode. Should they go all-in for Jason Robertson? Or keep to some creative, smaller additions around their lineup?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

FloHockey's Chris Peters joins us to preview the 2026 NHL Draft and what the Bruins might do at pick 23. We also discuss Patrice Bergeron getting his number retired and get Chris' take on Bruins prospects James Hagens, Dean Letourneau, Matt Poitras and Will Zellers.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] Jump to:00:00 - Bruins retiring Patrice Bergeron's number10:10 - What could Bruins do with pick 23?16:32 - Why Jack Hextall could make sense for B's20:28 - How do teams view defensemen like Lin, Villeneuve, Bleyl?24:20 - Is there a top-15 talent who could slide?27:04 - What happens with the Ruck twins?29:54 - Thoughts on Letourneau, Hagens, Zellers, Poitras

Reacting to the storylines from Carolina's Stanley Cup victory and playoff run. Brandon Bussi's Stanley Cup win prompts a conversation about if the Bruins have a history of mismanaging goalie prospects. Is it time to move on from Joonas Korpisalo? Plus, where Pastrnak finished in Hart Trophy voting, Brian still wants a Jason Robertson offer sheet and the Scottish have fully taken over Boston.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

Discussing the reporting around the Bruins' rumored new assistant coach, "trade chatter" at the combine and Larkin potentially expanding his list of teams he would go to.Plus, we take your mailbag questions about Bruins' draft picks, the left side of the defense and more. Stick around for the listener ghost story at the end.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

Discussing the news that Dylan Larkin has requested a trade and which teams are the front-runners to acquire him. Plus, some thoughts on the Stanley Cup Final, Sweeney's comments from the draft combine and Brian shares a ghost story.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

We answer some listener questions about the possibility of trading away Charlie McAvoy, trading for Vancouver defenseman Filip Hronek, and offer-sheeting Dallas forward Jason Robertson. We also talk Stanley Cup Final, the changing juniors landscape, and NHL awards voting.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] Jump to:00:00 - The 82-0 phenomenon04:25 - The juniors landscape continues to undergo change20:05 - Thoughts on Game 1 of Stanley Cup Final27:15 - Where Bruins finished in awards voting42:15 - Mailbag: Would B's consider trading McAvoy?58:50 - An aggressive offseason plan involving Jason Robertson

We get into the results of Worlds, a false alarm for Toronto's head coaching job and a potential scenario where the Bruins could trade into a top-10 pick in this year's draft. Plus, we answer your mailbag questions involving the NHL Draft Lottery, a trade idea involving Adam Fox and an idea on what to do with Elias Lindholm's contract.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

We discuss Team USA's loss to Canada at the World Championships and James Hagens' usage. We also react to the death of Claude Lemieux and Bruce Cassidy's recent comments about Vegas blocking him from interviews. Then we answer some mailbag questions, including a Robert Thomas trade proposal that sparks an INTENSE debate.00:00 - Hagens benched in USA loss to Canada15:34 - RIP Claude Lemieux, an all-time NHL villain21:10 - Bruce Cassidy speaks up about Vegas situation30:50 - A Providence Grays history lesson(???)33:40 - Mailbag: Why didn't Hagens and Leonard play together for US?42:22 - Matt Poitras's waiver situation for next season50:20 - A Robert Thomas trade proposal sparks INTENSE debate1:19:25 - What will Dean Letourneau be as a pro?

Discussing the news that the Bruins are parting ways with Jay Leach. Thoughts on the Conference Finals and if there will be copy cats of how any of the teams still left are constructed. Is James Hagens performance at Worlds showing he needs to be at center next season?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

We get to pt. 3 of our mailbag questions including a deeper dive into the Bruins' prospect system and what's next for players like Letourneau, Poitras, Lysell and more. Plus, we respond to interesting trade ideas, free-agent contract projections and where the Bruins factor into a competitive Atlantic Division going forward.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] Jump to:00:00 - Hagens healthy scratched at Worlds7:47 - Jellvik leaving, Gasseau unsigned17:20 - Will there be space for Letourneau, Zellers, Poitras on Bruins' NHL roster?30:30 - Have the Bruins devalued Lysell and Poitras?41:00 - Key Bruins' off-season dates announced44:29 - Can Bruins keep 2nd line together? & Arvidsson contract projection50:37 - Creative trade ideas and free agent options to add a D1:03:00 - How can the Bruins compete with Montreal and others in a highly competitive Atlantic Division next season?1:27:40 - Best free-agent options for Bruins

We answer more of your mailbag questions! Here are some that we touch on:00:00 - Opening shifts: Tortorella costs Vegas a draft pick, an update on the Bruins players at Worlds,  Langenbrunner allowed to look for other opportunities23:00 - Are you worried Bruins will botch Hagens development?30:00 - Where do you stand on Reichel getting a contract extension? 37:37 - Is it time for the Bruins to move on from Korpisalo in favor of DiPietro52:37 - A listener proposes an offer sheet idea57:09 -  Are Bruins at risk of overpaying for a defenseman like Rasmus Andersson on Darren Raddysh?

We answer your mailbag questions, covering a variety of topics including the Department of Player Safety's ruling on McAvoy, what the future looks like for the Bruins' top-six FW group, what hidden gems the Bruins might be able to find with the 23rd-overall pick and much more! Thank you all for your question submissions! We will get to more next episode!Jump to:00:00 - McAvoy suspension, issues with the Department of Player Safety13:37 - Evan Gold interviewing for open GM jobs 18:58 - A hypothetical trade idea involving Morgan Geekie33:04 - Could Elias Lindholm start next season on LTIR?42:51 - Should the Bruins go after a high-risk, high-reward player with the 23rd-overall pick?47:04 - Could players with good NHLe numbers fall to the Bruins at 23?57:03 - Has hockey cultures glorification of playing through injuries gone too far?1:05:26 - Can Bruins find a way to keep Arvidsson and add an upgrade in the top-six FW group?1:14:20 - Is upper management putting too much blame on players for failed seasons?1:21:36 - Will teams that passed up on Hagens in the draft regret it?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

Does last episode of Behind the B show David Pastrnak is on track to be the next captain? Is it time for Don Sweeney to be bold with an offseason trade? What the Providence Bruins' early exit in the playoffs says about the Bruins' drafting and development system.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

Discussing the comments made by Cam Neely and Don Sweeney at the Bruins' end-of-season press conference. What Neely said about naming a new captain. Management acknowledges Boston's need for a No. 1 center. Which players could the Bruins target in a trade this offseason to address their need to add more talent to the roster? Plus, managements comments on James Hagens' trajectory. Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

We react to a disastrous NHL draft lottery for the Bruins. Not only are they not getting Toronto's first-round pick, but the Maple Leafs jumped all the way to first overall. So, what does Boston do now?

Discussing several big storylines that came out of Bruins' breakup day including which players injuries are most concerning and whether or not the Bruins will continue on without naming a captain. Plus, we address the potential length of a McAvoy suspension to start next season, Hagens going to Worlds and Tuesday's upcoming draft lottery. Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

Discussing the Bruins' season-ending loss to Buffalo in Game 6, their major struggles at home in the playoffs and what players said after their season ended.  A reminder that the clock is ticking on a cup run in Pastrnak's prime. How can the Bruins get the pieces they need to take another step forward next season? Plus, thoughts on Hagens' usage and development this series, core player performances and the impact of Marco Sturm in his first season as head coach.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

Discussing the Bruins' overtime win in Game 5 in Buffalo, the complete mix up of lines and how well it worked. What the Bruins said about their bounce-back performance. Plus, injury updates, thoughts on Hagens, Steeves, Eyssimont and more.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

The Bruins are officially in the playoffs, and James Hagens is officially in the lineup! We break it all down. How did Hagens play in his NHL debut? The fourth line stepped up in Columbus. The first line is struggling a bit. Who should the Bruins want in the first round?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected] to:00:00 - Opening shifts: James Hagens debuts!13:18 - What we liked about Hagens' game in Columbus37:34 - What's going on with Bruins' first line?56:25 - Wait, is the rookie lap back?1:05:35 - Who should Bruins want in the first round?

We discuss James Hagens' first practice with the Bruins, and his comments to media after. Then we dive into the mailbag to answer questions about Hagens, other Bruins prospects, the power play, the futures of Elias Lindholm and Viktor Arvidsson, and more.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected] your questions in the comments and we will answer as many as we can!Jump to:00:00 - Opening shifts: Takeaways from Hagens' first practice10:20 - Update on playoff picture, clinching scenarios13:50 - When and where will Hagens play?29:50 - Mailbag! What if Hagens isn't the answer right now?43:35 - How did Bruins prospect rankings change this season?50:55 - How can Bruins fix their power play?58:55 - Could B's trade Elias Lindholm after season?1:08:10 - What if Marchand was still here?1:15:00 - Who could B's draft with Toronto's pick?

Emergency pod! We react to the breaking news that the Boston Bruins have signed top prospect James Hagens to his entry-level contract. Where does Hagens fit in? What will he bring to the Bruins? How much can he help for the playoffs?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

Discussing the Bruins' four-game losing streak on the road, goaltending and implications for the playoffs. Plus, we get into some of the weird moments and key takeaways from the Bruins' overtime loss to Carolina. And, of course, more talk about calling up James Hagens.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

Discussing the Bruins' three-game losing streak and their issues with finding scoring in that stretch. Could Hagens provide a spark to get Bruins out of their funk? Plus, thoughts on Pastrnak, Geekie and McAvoy in the Bruins loss to the Flyers.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] 

Marco Sturm says Bruins played down to Panthers. Did Riechel leave the door open for Hagens with his performance against Florida? Is it time to get Jordan Harris back in the lineup?  Why isn't Sturm higher in the Jack Adams race?Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | @bridgetteproulx | Email us at [email protected]

We break down the Bruins' 6-3 win over Dallas, their fourth straight win and another victory over a top team. Is this team capable of going on a deep playoff run? Plus, some developing thoughts on James Hagens' potential timeline for getting to the NHL.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected] Jump to:03:50 - Khusy Gang minute06:40 - Drake Maye talk(?)09:20 - Bruins have a 98% chance to make the playoffs13:50 - Can the B's go on a deep playoff run?22:00 - Why we might not see Hagens in Boston this season41:40 - All-time favorite goal celebrations45:25 - Why isn't Sturm getting any Jack Adams love?

Discussing the Bruins' wins over Minnesota and Columbus and what their current odds are to make the playoffs. We catch up with James Hagens after three games with Providence. Are the current Bruins' lines locked? And, the Bruins sign more players after the college season but not the ones we expected.Follow us on Twitter: @TheSkatePod | @bridgetteproulx | @smclaughlin9 | @briandefelice_ | Email us at [email protected]