Fixing the NHL Schedule & Playoffs | How to Improve the NHL's Regular Season and Postseason

Fixing the NHL Schedule & Playoffs | How to Improve the NHL's Regular Season and Postseason

The NHL has released its full 2025– 26 schedule, and it's time for a serious discussion. On today's episode of Locked On NHL, hosts Nick Zararis (Locked On Oilers) and Hunter Hodies (Locked On Penguins) break down how the league can improve both its regular season structure and its flawed playoff format. We explain how the current 82-game structure is set to expand to 84 games and what that means for rivalries, travel, and fan experience. Should we really be watching the same first-round matchups like Oilers vs. Kings year after year? And is the NHL’s dependence on gate revenue hurting the product?

0:00 NHL releases 2025-2026 season schedule

2:40 Gate revenue crucial for NHL finances

5:11 Preseason games scaling back, regular season expanding

9:36 Improving NHL schedule for better competition

13:15 Issues with current divisional game scheduling

16:40 Incentivizing divisional and conference matchups

20:13 Problems with current divisional playoff format

24:46 Making playoffs more competitive and rewarding

28:05 Potential 2-3-2 playoff series format

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Re-imagining the Winter Classic after 16 years

Re-imagining the Winter Classic after 16 years

Join hosts Nick Zararis and Hunter Hodies on this edition of Locked on NHL for a wide-ranging conversation about the NHL's Winter Classic event after a lackluster iteration Tuesday night. Nick and Hunter explore the history and origin of the event, why it feels like less of a big deal and paths to re-invigorate the event. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

2 Jan 28min

Can Alex Ovechkin break Wayne Gretzky's goal record this season?

Can Alex Ovechkin break Wayne Gretzky's goal record this season?

Can Alex Ovechkin surpass Wayne Gretzky's legendary goal record? This episode explores the latest NHL buzz surrounding the Washington Capitals star as he returns from injury, determined to make history. We delve into the significance of this pursuit and what it means for Ovechkin's legacy in the sport.In addition, we examine the recent controversy involving the Dallas Stars, who faced a hefty fine for conducting an unauthorized practice. This segment sheds light on the implications of such actions for both the team and the league, offering insights into the broader impact on NHL operations and compliance with league regulations.Finally, we turn our attention to the Calder Trophy race, spotlighting rookies Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks and Matvei Michkov of the Philadelphia Flyers. Their performances and potential are analyzed, providing listeners with a comprehensive view of these rising stars and their influence on the current NHL season. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the league's most pressing topics!Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.FanDuelYou can start the season with a big return on FanDuel. New customers can place a FIVE DOLLAR bet and you’ll get started with TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS - if you win your first FIVE DOLLAR BET ! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

31 Dec 202434min

Sidney Crosby Reaches a New Milestone and the Penguins Are Winning, the Jets Get Back into a Groove While the Red Wings Win for Their New Coach

Sidney Crosby Reaches a New Milestone and the Penguins Are Winning, the Jets Get Back into a Groove While the Red Wings Win for Their New Coach

Sidney Crosby passed Mario Lemieux to become the Pittsburgh Penguins all-time assist leader this weekend. The Penguins have also been winning since Thanksgiving.Hunter Hodies of Locked On Penguins joins us to discuss Crosby's record and what's been going right for the Pens over the last month. Plus, what they will likely do in the second half to try to secure a playoff berth.The Winnipeg Jets are back on track as they have won their last three games behind the usual stellar goaltending of Connor Hellebuyck and a potent power play.Harrison Lee of Locked On Winnipeg Jets joins us to discuss the team's recent win streak, some of the less heralded players who have contributed to their success and what the Jets are likely to look to add during the second half of the season.The Detroit Red Wings have now played their first two games under new head coach Todd McClellan, losing to the Toronto Maple Leafs and defeating the  Washington Capitals.Brian Fisher of Locked On Red Wings joins us to discuss the coaching changes and what it means for this team, a major milestone for Patrick Kane and the pressure that is now on Steve Yzerman.All this and more on today's Locked On NHL Podcast with Gil Martin.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.FanDuelYou can start the season with a big return on FanDuel. New customers can place a FIVE DOLLAR bet and you’ll get started with TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS - if you win your first FIVE DOLLAR BET ! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

30 Dec 202434min

The Missing Women's World Juniors: IIHF's Big Mistake? #podcast #worldjuniors #pwhl

The Missing Women's World Juniors: IIHF's Big Mistake? #podcast #worldjuniors #pwhl

The missing Women's World Junior Championship remains one of hockey's biggest oversights. While the men's U20 tournament draws global attention each year, there's still no equivalent competition for women's hockey at this level. This episode explores why the IIHF hasn't established a women's junior championship, examining the challenges and opportunities in women's hockey development. Join hosts Erica L. Ayala and Rachel Donner as they break down the complex factors preventing a women's junior tournament, including NCAA scheduling conflicts, different development pathways for female players, and international hockey federation priorities. They discuss potential solutions, including the possibility of a U22 format that could better align with women's hockey's unique progression system. The hosts also analyze recent developments in women's hockey, including the IIHF's promises to create more opportunities for junior women players and the upcoming U18 Women's World Championship. Learn how the current structure of women's hockey impacts player development and what changes could help grow the game at the junior level. From the PWHL to international competitions, this in-depth discussion tackles one of women's hockey's most pressing issues. Don't miss this important conversation about the future of women's hockey development and the push for equal opportunities in the sport. Part of the Locked On NHL Podcast Network, bringing you comprehensive hockey coverage every week. #iihfwomen'stournament #developmenthub #onicedrills #hockey #uswomen'shockey CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro 01:10 - What's Good in Hockey 02:40 - Women's World Juniors Absence 04:38 - Men's World Juniors Overview 09:44 - Euro Tour Test Run Insights 14:27 - Montreal vs Toronto Rivalry 18:16 - Player Safety in Hockey 26:16 - Minnesota vs New York Matchup 32:24 - Upcoming Events in Hockey 34:10 - Where to Find Us Online 35:04 - Sign Off and Conclusion Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!PrizePicksDownload the app or go to https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNHL to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup.GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.FanDuelYou can start the season with a big return on FanDuel. New customers can place a FIVE DOLLAR bet and you’ll get started with TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS - if you win your first FIVE DOLLAR BET ! Visit FANDUEL.COM to get started.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LONHL?sid=YouTube Locked On NHL League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Prospects & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNHL #worldjuniors #iihfwomenstournament #developmenthub #iihf #hockey #uswomen'shockey#NHL #Hockey Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

28 Dec 202435min

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