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The FAN Pregame

Sportsnetwww.sportsnet.ca
Get ready for tonight's games with Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert as they discuss the stories that matter most to sports fans. Airing live on Sportsnet 590 The FAN weekdays from 6pm-7pm ET.
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Episodes

Bedard to Chicago? + Leafs Harsh Realities

Justin and Brent kick off our Tuesday show by discussing the Chicago Blackhawks winning the 2023 NHL Draft Lottery and the implications of Connor Bedard likely landing in Chicago. Then, the guys weigh in on some of the harsh realities that await the Maple Leafs come July 1, namely Auston Matthews’ contract situation and navigating a series of no-movement clauses. Later, Justin and Brent close out Hour 1 with a mini A-List (45:23). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the...

May 09, 202349 min

Leafs Breaking Point? w/ Joshua Kloke + Is Keefe Done?

Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show kicks off with Joshua Kloke, Maple Leafs scribe for The Athletic, checking in from Florida to discuss the lack of emotional equity currently being displayed by this Leafs team, if we’ve finally reached a tipping point with the “Core 4,” why Game 3 could be the catalyst for meaningful change this off-season, Sheldon Keefe’s future, and Joseph Woll’s performance in relief of Ilya Samsonov. Later, Justin and Brent share their thoughts on Keefe’s job security and the B...

May 08, 202349 min

Round 2 Repercussions and Matthews’ Culpability w/ Frank Seravalli

On Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show , NHL Insider Frank Seravalli stops by to discuss the Leafs’ 3-0 deficit against Florida, the potential consequences of a second round exit, Toronto’s “Core 4” repeatedly wilting under playoff pressure, why Auston Matthews shouldn't be immune to criticism, and how Matthews’ post-season resume might impact his next contract. Later, we open the phone lines to gauge the pulse of Leafs Nation (33:15). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the...

May 08, 202348 min

Leafs On The Brink + The "Invisible 4"

Justin hosts alongside Brent Gunning. The guys open the show by discussing the Maple Leafs’ 3-2 overtime loss to the Panthers in Game 3, the lack of production from the “Core 4,” Sheldon Keefe’s coaching performance, the ramifications of a possible second round sweep, T.J. Brodie’s struggles this post-season, Mark Giordano’s diminished role, and this series being a microcosm of the entire “Core 4” era. Afterwards, Justin and Brent present their own quasi-version of the A-List, highlighted by The...

May 08, 202350 min

Inside the Panthers w/ Jason Bukala + Wake and Rake!

Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show kicks off with Jason Bukala stopping by to discuss his experience working in the Panthers’ scouting department, Florida’s stylistic composition, why the Leafs need to simplify their game, how Toronto can negate Florida’s forecheck, and Aleksander Barkov’s impact on this series. Later, Ailish and Justin are joined by Liam McHugh, studio host for the NHL on TNT, to chat about the Panthers’ improbable 5-game playoff winning streak, Sergei Bobrovsky’s unexpected resurg...

May 05, 202346 min

Has Marner Underwhelmed? w/ Anthony Petrielli + Your Calls!

On Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show , Ailish and Justin are joined by Anthony Petrielli, writer for Maple Leafs Hot Stove, to discuss his takeaways from the Leafs’ Game 2 loss, Sergei Bobrovsky channeling his vintage Vezina form, Mitch Marner’s underwhelming performance through two games, the Leafs’ struggles with breakouts, and Sheldon Keefe’s big decisions heading into Game 3. Later, we open the phone lines to gauge the pulse of Leafs Nation as the team faces an 0-2 deficit (29:36). The views an...

May 05, 202350 min

A "Baffling" Night: Leafs Fall Into 0-2 Hole

Ailish and Justin open the show by discussing the Maple Leafs’ Game 2 loss against Florida on Thursday, the team’s dismal start to the second period, Sergei Bobrovsky’s standout performance, Sam Bennett’s antics, if he deserves to face any supplemental discipline, the impact of Matthew Knies’ absence, Mark Giordano’s ongoing struggles, potential blue line changes for Game 3, and the need for greater consistency from the “Core 4.” Afterwards, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (45:11...

May 05, 202351 min

Leafs Game 2 Adjustments w/ Darren Pang + Cutting Bait on Belt?

On Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show , Ailish and Justin are joined by Darren Pang, former NHL goalie and current TNT analyst, to discuss what makes Matthew Tkachuk special, the Leafs’ potential adjustments for Game 2, how they can generate more offence against Sergei Bobrovsky, Ryan O’Reilly’s championship pedigree, and Brandon Montour’s ascent. Afterwards, Dan Shulman checks in from Boston to chat about the Blue Jays’ four-game losing skid, if the Red Sox are better than advertised, Alex Verdugo ...

May 04, 202348 min

Is Matthew Tkachuk the Smartest Player in the NHL?

On Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show , Matt Marchese, producer of The Jeff Marek Show, stops by to discuss the Panthers’ aggressive forecheck in Game 1, his concerns about the Brodie-McCabe pairing, the potential of Sheldon Keefe going 11-and-7 in Game 2, Matthew Knies’ resounding impact during the post-season, and the goaltending battle between Ilya Samsonov and a resurgent Sergei Bobrovsky. Later, Ailish and Justin are joined by Brady Tkachuk, captain of the Ottawa Senators, to chat about his dad...

May 04, 202349 min

May The 4th Be With The Leafs!

May the 4th be with you! Ailish and Justin open the show by testing their Star Wars knowledge and discussing Leon Draisaitl’s 4-goal performance in a losing effort against the Vegas Golden Knights. Afterwards, they weigh in on Sheldon Keefe’s comments about the Leafs’ fluid line combinations, what adjustments Keefe should make in Game 2, and the challenge of neutralizing Matthew Tkachuk. Then, Ailish and Justin also chime in on the Blue Jays’ current 4-game losing streak, Alek Manoah’s ongoing s...

May 04, 202350 min

The Tkachuk Factor w/ Ed Jovanovski + Wake and Rake!

On Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show , Ailish and Justin are joined by Hailey Salvian, national hockey writer for The Athletic, to discuss her takeaways from the Leafs’ 4-2 loss on Tuesday, Matthew Tkachuk’s success in the greasy areas, Mark Giordano’s struggles, and Darryl Sutter’s firing in Calgary. Later, Ed Jovanovski, former NHL defenceman and current Panthers analyst, stops by to chat about Florida’s aggressive forecheck, Tkachuk’s impressive Game 1 performance, and how Toronto can strike bac...

May 03, 202349 min

Gio’s Woes w/ Nick Kypreos + Your Calls!

On Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show , Nick Kypreos stops by to discuss the Maple Leafs’ Game 1 loss to the Panthers, Jake McCabe’s defensive gaffes in the series opener, Matthew Tkachuk’s elite skill set, Mark Giordano’s struggles so far this post-season, Matthew Knies’ emergence as an impactful top 6 forward, and the importance of winning the special teams battle. Later, we take your calls to gauge the pulse of Leafs Nation after the Buds’ series-opening loss (28:33). The views and opinions expre...

May 03, 202348 min

Familiar Territory: Leafs Drop Another Game 1

New series, same Game 1 result. Ailish and Justin discuss the Maple Leafs’ 4-2 loss to the Panthers on Tuesday, if the Leafs displayed a lack of urgency coming off their emotional Round 1 victory over Tampa, Matthew Tkachuk’s profound impact in all facets of the game, Sheldon Keefe’s confounding coaching tactics, concerns on the blue line, Sergei Bobrovsky’s standout Game 1 performance, Toronto failing to convert on the power play, and potential lineup changes for Game 2. Later, Ailish presents ...

May 03, 202351 min

Leafs-Panthers Primer w/ Luke Fox and Steve Dangle

On Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show , Ailish and Justin are joined by Luke Fox to discuss his experience covering the Leafs’ Game 6 victory in Tampa, Kyle Dubas’ crucial additions at the trade deadline, Luke Schenn’s impact on the blue line, the importance of getting off to a fast start against Florida, the challenge of neutralizing Matthew Tkachuk, and where the Leafs hold a distinct advantage over the Panthers. Afterwards, Steve Dangle - friend of the show - stops by to chat about his reaction t...

May 02, 202346 min

Round 2 Playoff Storylines w/ Jeff Marek and EJ Hradek

On Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show , Jeff Marek stops by to discuss his admiration for Canadian music legend Gordon Lightfoot, how the Leafs might perform in Round 2 after they shed the weight of past playoff failures, the biggest challenges that Florida poses, Calgary’s decision to fire Darryl Sutter, and what lies ahead for the Winnipeg Jets after their first round exit. Later, Ailish and Justin are joined by NHL Network’s EJ Hradek to chat about the Devils’ shutout win over the Rangers in Game...

May 02, 202351 min

Hello, Round 2! + The Tarot Cards Return

Welcome to Round 2, Leafs Nation! Ailish and Justin kick off the show by diving into the Coles Notes for this Florida Panthers team, breaking down their journey to reach the second round. Then, they share their biggest lessons from the Leafs’ first round win over Tampa and what tangible takeaways will be applicable for their Round 2 matchup against the Panthers. Later, it’s time for the return of the Tarot Cards. Ailish and Justin indulge in a pre-Round 2 tarot card reading for the Maple Leafs, ...

May 02, 202350 min

Happy Days w/ Joe Bowen + Evolution of the Core w/ Patrick Marleau

On Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show , Ailish and Justin are joined by Leafs radio play-by-play voice Joe Bowen to discuss the Leafs overcoming the mental hurdle of repeated first round losses, Matthew Knies’ impact against Tampa, Auston Matthews elevating his game during the opening round, and how Sheldon Keefe might deploy his lineup in the series opener against Florida. Afterwards, former Leafs forward Patrick Marleau stops by to chat about how he consumed Toronto’s historic win on Saturday nigh...

May 01, 202348 min

Tavares' Moment w/ Frank Seravalli + Victory Monday Hotline!

On Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show , Frank Seravalli stops by to discuss why he’s changed his tune on the Leafs, their second round matchup against the Panthers, the Leafs’ balanced contributions against Tampa, John Tavares’ special moment, and the Bruins’ upset loss to the Panthers. Later, we take your calls on our Victory Monday hotline (31:07)! The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & M...

May 01, 202348 min

Curse Broken: The Leafs (Finally) Win a Series!

They’ve done it! The Maple Leafs have ended their 19-year playoff curse! In honour of the Leafs advancing to Round 2, Ailish - as promised - kicks off the show by applying some blue lipstick! Then, she and Justin discuss John Tavares’ Game 6 OT winner, the improved maturity of this Leafs team, Auston Matthews imposing his will during this series, Sheldon Keefe’s bold decision to go with an 11-and-7 alignment in Game 6, and the celebration in Toronto on Saturday night. Afterwards, Brent Gunning -...

May 01, 202350 min

Are the Leafs Actually Different? w/ Sam McKee and Brent Gunning

On Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show , Ailish and Justin are joined in studio by Sam McKee and Brent Gunning to discuss the Leafs’ potential lineup changes for Game 6, Kyle Dubas’ future, Justin Holl’s struggles throughout the series, if this Leafs team is actually different, Andrei Vasilevskiy’s bounce back performance, and Patrick Maroon’s hit on Mark Giordano. Later, Ailish and Justin weigh in on Teoscar Hernandez’ return to the Rogers Centre this weekend, before assembling our daily Wake and Ra...

Apr 28, 202347 min

Game 6 Lineup Shakeup? w/ Nick Kypreos + Your Calls!

On Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show , Nick Kypreos of Real Kyper and Bourne stops by to discuss Justin Holl’s woeful Game 5 performance, potential blue line changes for Game 6, Michael Bunting’s best lineup fit, why Sheldon Keefe needs to take a hard look at his bottom six, Ilya Samsonov’s erratic start, and his latest column on Kyle Dubas’ next contract. Afterwards, Ailish and Justin take your calls to gauge the pulse of Leafs Nation (33:11). The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are t...

Apr 28, 202352 min

Leafs Deja Vu? + Time to Sit Holl?

Deja vu? Ailish and Justin kick off our Friday show by discussing the Maple Leafs’ Game 5 loss to the Lightning, Toronto’s history of faltering in close out scenarios, Justin Holl’s woes, and Sheldon Keefe’s big lineup decisions for Game 6. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (45:11)! The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate

Apr 28, 202350 min

Coaching Superstitions w/ Bruce Boudreau + Wake and Rake!

On Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show , Bruce Boudreau, former NHL head coach and current NHL Network analyst, stops by to discuss his weird superstitions as a coach, Sheldon Keefe making a conscious decision not to mess with the Leafs’ winning lineup, what Matthew Knies has added since joining the fray in Game 2, Ryan O’Reilly’s leadership influence, and why it’s important for Toronto to finish the job tonight. Later, Ailish and Justin discuss which individuals have the most to gain from a Leafs se...

Apr 27, 202348 min

Can the Leafs Close the Deal?

On Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show , Sportsnet’s Luke Fox stops by to discuss the mood within the Leafs’ locker room ahead of Game 5, the leadership prowess of Ryan O’Reilly and Luke Schenn, Toronto’s improved toughness, the Lightning being irked about Erik Cernak’s injury, Matthew Knies’ promotion into the top six, and the Leafs’ ideal game script for tonight. Later, Ailish and Justin are joined by ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski to chat about Andrei Vasilevskiy’s struggles, the Leafs’ decision to omit Mi...

Apr 27, 202349 min

Bunting Scratched + Leafs Keys for Game 5!

Ailish and Justin kick off the show by discussing the Blue Jays’ three-game sweep over the Chicago White Sox and where the team’s starting rotation - on balance - currently ranks across MLB. Afterwards, Ailish and Justin weigh in on Sheldon Keefe’s decision to make Michael Bunting a healthy scratch for Game 5 and share their keys for tonight's potential close out game. Later, Ailish presents her daily edition of the A-List (48:25)! The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of th...

Apr 27, 202352 min

Revisiting the Leafs’ Last Playoff Series Win w/ Ed Belfour!

On Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show , Shayna Goldman checks in to discuss the Oilers-Kings series, Victor Hedman’s struggles this season, Andrei Vasilevskiy showing signs of wearing down, Carolina’s lack of forward depth, and Leon Draisaitl elevating his game so far this post-season. Later, Ailish and Justin are joined by Leafs legend Ed Belfour to chat about his memories from the Leafs’ last playoff series win in 2004, the energy in Toronto during the post-season, dealing with pressure as a goalt...

Apr 26, 202347 min

What’s Different About These Leafs? + Berríos’ Resurgence w/ Jon Morosi

Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show kicks off with Matt Marchese, producer of The Jeff Marek Show , stopping by to chat about Michael Bunting’s status for Game 5, who he could replace in the Leafs’ lineup, Toronto displaying a newfound ability to negate Tampa’s physicality, T.J. Brodie and Jake McCabe struggling to find their footing, Andrei Vasilevskiy showing cracks in his armour, and Ryan O’Reilly staking his claim as the Leafs’ playoff MVP thus far. Later, Ailish and Justin are joined by Jon Moro...

Apr 26, 202350 min

Ailish's Loonie Dogs Adventure + The Bunting Conundrum

Happy Hump Day! Ailish kicks off the show by discussing her experience attending the Blue Jays’ first Loonie Dogs night of the season and hitting the over on Joey Chestnut’s betting line for her total hot dog consumption (8.5). Then, she and Justin weigh in on Jose Berrios’ recent resurgence, his uptick in velocity, and Nate Pearson’s return to the Big Leagues. Afterwards, Ailish and Justin chat about Sheldon Keefe’s resounding endorsement of Matthew Knies and if Michael Bunting should be reinse...

Apr 26, 202351 min

Bunting In or Out? w/ Josh Kloke + The Hot Dog King Joey Chestnut!

Hour 3 of The FAN Morning Show kicks off with The Athletic's Joshua Kloke checking in from Tampa to discuss the performance of the Maple Leafs’ “Core 5” so far in this series, the need to put together a complete effort in Game 5, Morgan Rielly’s role as a leader, Ilya Samsonov outdueling Andrei Vasilevskiy thus far, Alex Kerfoot’s status as a beloved figure in the Leafs’ locker room, Matthew Knies’ impact since being inserted into the lineup, and the team’s looming decision on Michael Bunting. L...

Apr 25, 202345 min

New Year, New Leafs? w/ Jeff Marek + Your Calls!

On Hour 2 of The FAN Morning Show , Jeff Marek stops by to discuss the Maple Leafs’ improved poised and maturity compared to past playoff appearances, Andrei Vasilevskiy’s struggles, Tampa’s biggest personnel flaws, why he’s bullish on Matthew Knies’ future, and the team’s impending Michael Bunting decision. Then, Ailish and Justin briefly weigh in on Ime Udoka landing with the Houston Rockets, what it means for the Raptors, and the fallout for the recently-dismissed Nick Nurse. Later, we open t...

Apr 25, 202350 min
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