A rough stretch of hockey sparks a blunt conversation about effort, accountability, and what December tends to expose. Sean and Mike bounce between two recent games to highlight a familiar frustration: stretches where structure disappears, urgency fades, and teams leave too much up to their goaltenders.
The discussion digs into why inconsistency is harder to excuse this time of year, how young players and veterans alike get judged differently once the calendar flips, and why “we’re fine” stops working as an explanation. Along the way, they zoom out to the league at large — touching on contenders, pretenders, and the thin line between a short-term heater and something sustainable.
The episode wraps with perspective on development, expectations, and why some lessons in hockey only arrive the hard way. Honest, conversational, and unfiltered — the kind of talk you have when the games stop being fun to watch.
Sean and Mike tackle the wildfire rumor dominating hockey chatter: Quinn Hughes to Detroit. With the fanbase dreaming big, the guys break down what a real package would look like — Axel Sandin Pellikka, Marco Kasper, Nate Danielson, Trey Augustine or Sebastian Cossa, and premium draft picks — and explain why that kind of deal doesn’t align with Steve Yzerman’s long-established tendencies. They explore which teams could make a more realistic push and why Hughes’ value, contract window, and league-wide demand make the fantasy far more complicated than social media wants to admit.
From there, the conversation widens to the league at large: Colorado’s ridiculous tear, Dallas quietly becoming a powerhouse again, Tampa finally waking up, and Carolina’s annual “everything looks great except the goaltending” dilemma — including whether Scott Wedgewood could push for Olympic consideration. Sean and Mike also dig into a familiar debate: whether Detroit should bring up Sebastian Cossa given the Canadiens’ decision to call up Jakub Dobeš, and why both franchises face uncomfortable questions in net. They also touch on Samuel Montembeault’s struggles and why Lane Hutson continues to impress despite his size.
The show wraps with high school hockey updates, UP chaos, rivalry previews, and a few laughs about wet Michigan snow, broken snowblowers, and travel plans. A wide-ranging, fast-moving episode filled with trade logic, league context, and classic Sean-and-Mike banter.
Sean and Mike break down a jam-packed night on the ice, starting with the question every Detroit fan is asking: what’s the Red Wings’ biggest flaw right now — forward depth, defensive depth, or something deeper? The guys dive into the glaring lack of toughness, the missing physical presence that once defined Detroit hockey, and why nobody on this roster scares an opponent the way past Wings teams always had.
They examine the growing frustration in net as John Gibson’s struggles continue, the mounting case for giving Sebastian Cossa a shot, and the confusing signals coming from a team that can’t find consistency anywhere on the ice. On the blue line, they assess Axel Sandin Pellikka’s development, the patience required with young defensemen, and the unrealistic chatter around blockbuster Quinn Hughes fantasies. From veteran stability to CHL vs. NCAA development paths, nothing is off-limits.
The show also checks in on Calgary, Colorado’s nuclear start, Patrick Kane’s narrow usefulness, high school hockey storylines across Michigan, the UP’s resurgence, Northern Michigan University’s stunning collapse, and Olympic hockey anticipation — all with Sean’s usual mix of honesty, nostalgia, and humor. It’s a full-spectrum hockey episode that balances big-picture perspective with real concerns about Detroit’s long-term trajectory.
Thanksgiving week arrives with family traditions, turkey baths, and a Lions win that somehow raised more concern than comfort. Shep & Sean dive into why Detroit’s victory didn’t quiet any alarms: an offense that has become painfully one-dimensional, protection issues that won’t go away, and a coaching staff struggling to generate rhythm or creativity.
They break down Jared Goff’s tunnel vision, the lack of involvement for key weapons like Jameson Williams and how the offensive line’s regression continues to shape every conversation. On defense, they revisit Aidan Hutchinson’s surprising stat line, the frustrating inconsistency up front, and how turnovers could be the only real path to a Green Bay upset.
The guys also size up Thursday’s matchup with the Packers, discuss Jordan Love’s polarizing trajectory, and explain why the Lions should be better — but aren’t playing like it. Plus: Ohio State vs. Michigan, coaching stubbornness, and a few laughs about Thanksgiving hosting chaos.
A rough first period for Detroit sets the tone for a loaded conversation. Sean and Mike jump between NHL chaos and high school hockey electricity, unpacking soft play, missed physicality, bad line changes, and what December usually tells us about who’s a real playoff team. The guys dig into the Islanders’ identity, the Wings’ sustainability issues in net, and why both Montreal and Detroit may be in for a rude awakening once the postseason intensity arrives.
They break down Patrick Roy’s fiery response to the Rantanen hit, the modern NHL’s drifting respect level, and where the line sits between “good hard hockey” and “dangerous stupidity.” From rivalries the league desperately needs back, to the effect of rule changes and league mandates on physical play, to the ever-present mystery of Kosa’s usage—nothing is off-limits.
Plus: Team USA and Team Canada roster debates, McKenna vs. Celebrini draft chatter, goalie dilemmas, Red Wings roster construction frustrations, and a preview of two big high school matchups coming up next week.
An early puck drop sets the tone for a jam-packed episode. Sean and Mike break down a massive high school hockey showdown, relive a wild atmosphere in Birmingham, and talk about why early-season games can fool fans more than they inform. The conversation shifts to the Red Wings—whether the current slump is a temporary lull or a sign of water finding its level—and what’s really missing on a roster that still lacks bite.
They dive into expectations around Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond, and Moritz Seider, why the perception of “the next star” may be inflated, and how inconsistency continues to define the lineup. The guys also explore Anaheim’s surprising start, the state of Utah’s team, the possibility of a Penguins teardown, and the ongoing mystery of why no NHL coach has been fired yet.
All that plus sausage rankings, throwback jersey love, and a few laughs before Mike heads to the rink.
Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile return for a jam-packed edition of Wut The Puck?! as the high school hockey season officially drops the puck across Michigan. The guys preview huge early matchups like Birmingham vs. Brother Rice and the Battle of Baseline between Novi and Northville, while celebrating the energy at OAA and MIHL Media Days. From there, it’s all-out hockey talk — everything from why today’s defensemen don’t clear the front of the net to the Red Wings’ lack of toughness and the brilliance of Sidney Crosby aging like fine wine. They even dive into Jordan Binnington’s antics, potential goalie moves for Carolina, and whether Steven Stamkos still has anything left in the tank. Plus, a look at the U.P. high school hockey scene, from Houghton to Jeffers to Marquette. It’s classic Wut The Puck?! — smart, sarcastic, and straight from the heart of hockey country.
Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile dive into a jam-packed week of hockey on Wut The Puck?! — starting with Detroit’s red-hot start and whether it’s finally time to call the Red Wings “legit.” The duo debates Dylan Larkin’s leadership, Detroit’s youth movement, and how coach McLellan has the locker room buzzing. Then they head north to Montreal, unpacking the fiery goaltending controversy and the politics behind the Habs’ French-speaking expectations. Around the league, Sean and Mike weigh in on Tampa’s decline, Florida’s consistency, and breakout stories from Utah, Chicago, and San Jose. They wrap with excitement for the upcoming high school hockey season and media days across Michigan.
It’s classic Wut The Puck?! — fast, opinionated, and full of Hockeytown energy.
Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile are back to break down the highs and lows of early-season hockey — from the Red Wings’ flashes of brilliance and frustrating inconsistency to breakout young stars across the league. The guys dive into what’s clicking (and what’s not) in Detroit, whether McClellan can get this team over the hump, and why Dylan Larkin’s leadership might finally be silencing critics.
They also debate Vegas vs. Dallas out West, whether Carolina can ever get over the hump, and if the Canadiens are closer to contention than anyone wants to admit. Plus: the guys talk nostalgic jerseys, Montreal’s goalie drama, and the wild rumor of Sidney Crosby heading to the Habs.
It’s hockey talk the Wut The Puck?! way — sharp, opinionated, and loaded with laughs.
On this July 1st edition of Wut The Puck?!, Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile dive into what should be one of the NHL’s marquee moments—free agency kickoff—but instead find themselves unpacking another frustratingly quiet summer for the Detroit Red Wings. While teams like Florida, Toronto, and Vegas continue to evolve, Detroit clings to a core of good-but-not-great players like Dylan Larkin, Mo Seider, and Lucas Raymond. Sean and Mike don’t hold back as they question whether the Yzerplan has officially stalled, and whether fans are justified in stepping off the bandwagon. The John Gibson trade, while an upgrade in net, sparks more questions than answers about Detroit’s long-term goaltending strategy—especially with prospects like Sebastian Cossa and Trey Augustine in the system.
Elsewhere in the league, the guys discuss whether Connor McDavid is preparing to leave Edmonton, how state tax advantages are reshaping rosters in places like Florida, and why players like Mitch Marner and Jason Robertson may soon test new contract strategies. Back home, they examine how Detroit continues to overvalue its “own guys,” including Lucas Raymond and Seider, and whether the fanbase is being asked to accept mediocrity dressed up as progress. They also break down the Wings’ latest draft picks like Carter Bear, discuss the long runway required for NHL prospects, and speculate on whether any of these young players—especially from Grand Rapids—will be allowed to make an impact at the NHL level.
Toss in a few rants about overpaid contracts, misfires like the Vladimir Tarasenko deal, and debates over who (if anyone) can emerge as a true star in Detroit, and this episode delivers the passionate, unfiltered hockey talk Wings fans need. Plus, as always, Sean and Mike mix in Fourth of July food prep, sausage rankings, and a few nods to old-school radio banter. If you're feeling like you've seen this Red Wings movie before—this time, you're not alone.
Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile serve up sizzling takes with a side of sausage in this May 28th edition of Wut The Puck?!. The boys break down the looming Oilers-Panthers Stanley Cup Final rematch and rave about Stu Skinner’s clutch play. Sean makes the case for Connor McDavid as the undisputed best in the world, while Mike dives into why Edmonton’s been winning without even playing perfect hockey.
The conversation shifts to Detroit, where the duo takes a hard, honest look at Steve Yzerman’s tenure—an emotional and controversial subject for Red Wings fans. Are fans finally ready to admit things haven’t gone according to plan? Will the Wings’ draft picks pan out? Is Detroit still a free agent destination in the cap era?
From Grand Rapids prospects and frozen sausage strategy to NHL free agency and Dale Hunter’s coaching choices, this episode has it all—grilled takes, draft busts, Memorial Cup updates, and one giant sausage fest.
In this episode of Wut The Puck?!, Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile preview what could be the most tightly contested series of the 2025 playoffs as the high-octane Edmonton Oilers take on the stifling Dallas Stars. They debate Stuart Skinner’s veteran poise against Jake Oettinger’s breakout brilliance, dissect McDavid’s evolution into a 200-foot force and weigh Edmonton’s speed and depth versus Dallas’s defensive grit. Plus, they shine a light on Toronto’s playoff woes, touch on the Panthers–Canes rematch potential, share listener takes, and flip a metaphorical coin to predict who’ll advance—just in time for your Memorial Day puck fix.
On this edition of Wut The Puck?!, Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile dissect Florida’s relentless forecheck that has Toronto looking lost, pile on the mounting scrutiny of Poppy’s playoff pedigree, and preview Game 5 of the Panthers–Leafs series. We also weigh Ken Holland’s new challenge in L.A. against Pat Verbeek’s Anaheim rebuild, unpack the mental game behind today’s hottest goaltenders, and deliver rapid-fire picks—from Panthers vs. Leafs to Oilers vs. Vegas—plus answer your burning fan questions. Tune in for the chatter, the takes, and everything hockey!
Sean and Mike can’t believe the NHL lottery turned into a math nightmare—should picks just go by finish? They then debate a controversial hit and suspension standards in today’s fast-paced game, before breaking down the Leafs-Panthers series and the grit that could swing it.
Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile unpack Steve Yzerman’s testy season-ending presser—echoing the GM’s blunt verdict that Detroit lacks a true game-changer and won’t mortgage the young core just yet. The guys debate where the Wings can actually find star power, why free-agency splashes may wait, and how a brutal Atlantic Division compounds the rebuild. Then it’s a tour around a chaotic first round: Tampa wilting, Edmonton-LA on a knife-edge, and Toronto’s Core Four wearing that thousand-yard stare as Ottawa smells blood. Grab your headphones (and maybe a jalapeño-cheddar sausage) for 45 minutes of unfiltered puck talk.
With the Stanley Cup playoffs about to drop, Sean Baligian welcomes Northville head coach, Coaches‑Association president, and Team Michigan co‑GM Ryan Ossenmacher for a rink‑side preview of this weekend’s Juniors‑vs‑Seniors showcase in Novi. They break down the selection gauntlet (400+ try‑outs), spotlight future stars such as Ian Castamore, Owen Hall, Callan Ray, and Aiden Cook, and explain why Michigan high‑school hockey is deeper than ever—catch the broadcast on State Champs and Local 4 Plus.
Then Sean and analyst Mike Iavasile lace up for a coast‑to‑coast playoff round‑table:
Can Toronto finally silence the Senators—or will Craig Berube’s crew bruise its way to an upset?
Why the Lightning might out‑grind Florida, and how Vasilevskiy still owns the big‑save spotlight.
Dallas vs. Colorado: late‑night must‑watch or insomnia cure?
Kings’ last stand against McDavid’s Oilers, plus dark‑horse paths for Winnipeg and Vegas.
Expect brisk banter, watch‑party barbecue plans (Tuesday and Saturday—BYO wieners!), and plenty of sponsor shout‑outs to Legacy Partners, Wealth Advantage Group, and Broadwell Homes. Popcorn ready? Pull up a seat—this episode of Wut The Puck?! serves sizzling Michigan talent and playoff predictions hotter than rink‑side nacho cheese.
Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile pull no punches in a brutally honest breakdown of where the Red Wings stand. From wondering if Lucas Raymond is the guy, to debating if Mo Seider has another level—or if we've already seen his ceiling—they dissect the core and the cracks. Is it time to go all-in for a star like Pastrňák or Nylander? Can the Wings survive another year without an impact forward? Plus: Demidov arrives, the Maple Leafs' annual implosion is imminent, and the guys revisit Detroit’s five-year plan (spoiler: it's now year six). It's a full hour of hard hockey talk—cynical, smart, and straight from the heart.
Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile hold nothing back in a brutally honest look at the Detroit Red Wings’ crumbling playoff hopes and the deeper issues plaguing the franchise. From Dylan Larkin's post-Four Nations free-fall to the mystifying goalie pipeline and the locker room's lack of fire, the guys dissect it all. They compare rebuilds across the NHL, debate whether Suzuki > Larkin (spoiler: they think yes), and question if the Wings are even in the rebuild timeline yet. Plus, love for Lane Hudson, Calder Trophy chatter, and an unholy amount of sausage talk as they gear up for playoff feasts. Hockey fans, this one pulls no punches.
On the anniversary of one of hockey’s most iconic moments—March 26, 1997—Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile look back on the night Darren McCarty became a Detroit legend. From where they were when the gloves dropped to how that moment shaped a generation of fans, it’s a celebration of hockey history and all things gritty. Plus: a candid take on the Red Wings’ March collapse, why the NCAA hockey playoffs are must-watch TV, and some love for underrated gems like Toledo hockey and classic hot dog bar stories. Oh, and yes—Don Cherry talk included.
With just one month to go before the Stanley Cup playoffs, Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile examine who's hot, who's not, and who might shock the hockey world. Are the Washington Capitals legitimate contenders, or will their strong season fade in the postseason? The guys also get brutally honest about the Detroit Red Wings' slim playoff hopes, Steve Yzerman's strategy, and whether the team's rebuild is truly on track. Plus, playoff dark horses, potential trades, and some bold predictions as the NHL postseason picture becomes clearer. It's all hockey talk—no dump and chase—on this edition of Wut The Puck?!