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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

No Vladdy Offer & If That’s A Cause For Concern

Keegan Matheson joins Justin Cuthbert and Jesse Rubinoff from Florida where the Jays are facing the Yankees (1:52). He explains how Target is his secret weapon of spring training, how José Berríos managed his early playoff exit with grace and why when Bo speaks, everyone listens. Then, word today that Vladdy Jr has not been made an offer by the Jays (yet) and why it might make more sense – for him – to test the market. Later, Seerat Sohi (30:36) on a tough to predict NBA, why Wemby is so good th...

Mar 02, 202450 min

Former Blue Jay on Life as a Scott Boras Client

Justin Cuthbert and guest host Jesse Rubinoff chat with former Blue Jay Jeff Frye (6:18) who is a current player agent and a former client of Scott Boras. He dishes on the “super agent”, why some players get ignored by their representatives and takes us behind the scenes of how cutthroat the business can get. Finally, looks back at hitting the cycle in Toronto, orders from Cito Gaston to hold up at first and why he got so much flack for it. Later, Mike Futa (24:48) says Chris Tanev was a perfect...

Mar 01, 202450 min

Preparing for the Trade Deadline & Luka’s MVP Chances

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert kick off the show looking at the PWHL’s announcement about their changes to playoff matchups and draft order. The Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli (6:06) joins them to share his thoughts on the new format, names to watch ahead of the trade deadline and which undecided teams he thinks will be buying and selling. Then, Meadowlark Media’s Tom Haberstroh (26:16) weighs in on the NBA's competition committee looking to tilt the game back in defence's favour and who he ...

Feb 29, 202450 min

Manoah Misses the Mark in Spring Opener

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert kick off the show by breaking down Alek Manoah’s rough start to Spring Training. They welcome Ben Nicholson-Smith (4:05) to share his thoughts on the start, Manoah's comments post-game and why it's too early to panic about his long-term outlook. They then get into some of the other stories of camp including Justin Turner's veteran presence and if we can expect Vladdy to bounce back. Finally, the best bets of the night! The views and opinions expressed in this po...

Feb 27, 202425 min

The Best Canadian NHL Team Right Now Is...

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start the week with Jeff Marek (6:35) for “Marek Monday!” He delves into the Oilers' sudden slide and how the 16-game streak covered up a lot of flaws. Then, a debate over the Oilers goaltending, if it’s dangerous to go with Skinner and if not him – who? Later, over to the Jets, a ticket slump, a visit from the Commissioner and why Matt Rempe is literally fighting everyone. Finally, Michael Grange (26:39) on why you shouldn’t get fooled by the Raptors push for t...

Feb 27, 202450 min

Buck Martinez Tell Us Why This Year Feels Different

Ailish Forfar & Justin Cuthbert head to Dunedin where Buck Martinez (6:08) prepares for the team’s debut Spring Training game vs. the Phillies tomorrow. Buck shares the biggest reasons for optimism, what he learned from a conversation with Bo and the fact the team knows they have something to prove. Then, which positions the Jays are weakest at. Later, Kyle Bukauskas (26:33) on NHL sidelines, Matthews vs. McKinnon for the Hart and our favourite Canadian matchups for a Saturday night. The vie...

Feb 24, 202450 min

A Goalie's POV Facing Matthews (And Getting Beaten)

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert are pleased to be joined by Carter Hutton (5:13), former NHL goalie and Leaf in 2022. He talks about what it was like facing Matthews, some insight when it comes to Samsonov and his contract and how Jo Woll's return impacts his confidence. Then, a look at the Vezina race and why Connor Hellebuyck is the front-runner. Later, down to Scotiabank arena where Will Lou (25:23) checks in as the Raptors kick off their second half. Over to what’s wrong with All-Star and ...

Feb 23, 202450 min

Nurse Nights & Matthews Goes for 50

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start with Sarah Nurse (1:11) in the studio to discuss PWHL Toronto's mid-season resurgence. She gets into managing emotions in the league's inaugural season, Natalie Spooner's scoring streak, her experience in the Battle on Bay Street and her new initiative, Nursey Night. Later, Sportsnet host David Amber (25:38) sets the stage ahead of Leafs/Coyotes tonight, and he guarantees Auston Matthews will score his 50th goal in his home state. He weighs in on Matthews'...

Feb 21, 202450 min

Blue Jays' Spring Storylines

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start with a look into the Blue Jays' first full-team day at Spring Training and how arbitration meetings may impact Vladdy Jr.'s upcoming season. They are joined by The Athletic's Sean Gentille (7:02) who shares his thoughts on Jagr-mania in Pittsburgh over the weekend, whether the Penguins' season is salvageable and how much blame and pressure is on the shoulders of GM Kyle Dubas. Later, with Spring Training games around the corner, Kevin Barker (30:39) joins ...

Feb 21, 202450 min

The Incredible Story of Jays' Prospect Arjun Nimmala

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start with a look back on the weekend in sports - the incredible pace of Auston Matthews, a successful Battle on Bay Street in the PWHL and a dud NBA All-Star weekend. Later, Caleb Joseph (27:09) on Spring Training, focus on Vladdy Jr and Manoah and why healthy pitching can never be counted on. Next, Frank Seravalli (51:09) checks in on the Hart, a goalie we need to consider, the success of the Stadium Series and giving some respect for the career of Jaromir Jag...

Feb 20, 20241 hr 40 min

UFC Preview & Tiger Leaves His Own Tournament

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start in Anaheim where Aaron Bronsteter is covering UFC 298 (6:00). He runs through the card, his Mount. Rushmore of MMA fighters and where Alexander Volkanovski ranks on his list. Then a look ahead to UFC 299 and 300 and who Dana White could still add to those cards. Later, Adam Stanley (26:01) on Tiger Woods withdrawing from The Genesis in Riviera, an ambulance on scene connected to his illness and how different it is to see Tiger without a Nike logo. Finally,...

Feb 17, 202450 min

3 Words – Pitchers and Catchers

Shi Davidi joins Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert from Dunedin where Pitchers and Catchers reported today and there is a real focus on a couple of Jays for an improved season (5:48). He starts with Alek Manoah and his new look and approach. Then, knowing what to watch for when it comes to Spring Training ball and expectations for Vlad Guerrero Jr. Finally, Natalie Spooner (26:31), the PWHL leading scorer, joins us after her hat trick vs Boston last night and what it’s going to be like playing i...

Feb 16, 202450 min

Pascal’s Past Meets Scottie’s Future

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert kick it off with Seerat Sohi (6:26) from The Ringer and tonight, it’s all about Pascal’s past and Scottie’s future. She examines the role of Scottie Barnes now that he has the keys to the team and the use of the newest Raptors on the team like Olynyk. Then, how the Pacers are trying to integrate Siakam into their lineup. Later, John Buccigross (28:19) from ESPN on the Rielly suspension, why McDavid is always the MVP until someone proves otherwise and why Ovechki...

Feb 15, 202450 min

Rielly Gets 5 – We React

Frank Seravalli joins Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert for some live reaction to the 5-game suspension and theories as to how they came up with that number. Then, he explains how Jacob Markstrom was about to be traded to the Devils and why it never happened. Finally, Alex Ovechkin has 5 goals in 5 games and is potentially back on track in his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all time goals record. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessaril...

Feb 13, 202425 min

Different Types of “GOATS” – Mahomes & Rielly

Justin Cuthbert and Jesse Rubinoff (in for Ailish today) open with Super Bowl takeaways and why you can and can’t compare Patrick Mahomes to Tom Brady. Next, Jeff Marek makes his weekly appearance (6:59) to break down Morgan Rielly's run-in with Ridly Greig - projecting suspension length for Rielly, how Rielly's absence impacts the Leafs playoff chances and the comparing of “The Clapper” vs “The Bat Flip.” Then, is the Waste Management open getting out of hand? Finally, a chat with Chris “MadDog...

Feb 13, 202450 min

Mahomes Win Would Redefine QB Position

Justin Cuthbert and Donnovan Bennett open with Frank Seravalli (5:52), who looks at the concern with the Jets' scoring and why the Canucks have nothing to worry about and are still Cup contenders. Then, a look at the trade deadline and unveiling new teams that are now buyers. Later, a Super Bowl preview with Chris Rose (25:20) from NFL Network - what it’s like working the post-game show on the field, best interviews and then a great debate about if it’s too early to place Mahomes in a GOAT conve...

Feb 10, 202450 min

NBA Trade Deadline Special – Raptors' New Path

It’s The FAN Pregame's NBA Trade Deadline special with Justin Cuthbert hosting and Jesse Rubinoff filling in for Ailish Forfar. Donnovan Bennett starts the show with the method behind the Raptors' trades and who they may have eyes on in free agency in the future (26:07). Next, Alvin Williams, SN analyst and former Raptor drops by the studio for a view of what it’s like as a player to be traded and being with a teammate when they heard about his trade on the radio (47:06). Later, Seerat Sohi from...

Feb 09, 20242 hr 21 min

Brace for Impact – Raps Rebuild Will Get Ugly

Joe Casciaro joins Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert in the studio for a preview of the NBA Trade Deadline, why so many Raptors are on the block, the hopes of a 1st for Bruce Brown and the path forward to build around Barnes and Quickley. Over to OKC and the rise of SGA as a legit MVP candidate this season. Finally, a look league-wide - the Lakers trying to keep Lebron happy and why a team like Utah is one to watch into the deadline. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of ...

Feb 07, 202425 min

The FAN Pregame Goes Vegas

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start with Gene Principe (6:26) as the Oilers aim to tie the all-time NHL win streak record tonight. He takes a look at the Oilers' wild season - going from a coach firing and a dismal start to a potential record. Then, staying in Vegas, Arash Madani (29:10) checks in from Super Bowl, a recap of media night, Travis Kelce's crowded scrum and Kyle Shanahan learning from his Superbowl mistakes with the 49ers and Falcons, and the growth of Las Vegas as a pro sports ...

Feb 07, 202450 min

More Questions Than Answers with London Police

Ailish Forfar & Justin Cuthbert start the show with an update from London Police and the charges laid on 5 members of the 2018 Team Canada World Junior team. Ailish speaks openly about the case, why it’s very personal and how she can relate to the legal process and the impact of it taking so long. With that, Jeff Marek joins the show (4:19) to react to the press conference today and specific parts that stood out to him. Later, Luke Fox - live from Scotiabank Arena - on the second half of the...

Feb 06, 202450 min

NHL All-Star Skills with the Commish!

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert are at Scotiabank Arena for NHL All-Star Skills and are joined by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. He shares his early takeaways from All-Star week, the decision re-enter international play, working with the PWHL in their first season and the addition of new events for the Skills Competition. Then, the Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli (8:30) on the change behind the L.A. Kings' bench, the push for best-on-best hockey play, if Arizona is in jeopardy of losing their ...

Feb 03, 202449 min

Erin Ambrose & Steve Levy Ahead of All-Star Weekend

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start with Steve Levy (5:05), host of The NHL on ESPN, ahead of All-Star in Toronto. He takes a look at how the $1M reward will change the skills competition, his top stories so far this season and why the Metropolitan Division is the hardest one to figure out in the NHL. Later, Erin Ambrose (25:28) from PWHL Montreal on taking part in the 3-on-3 challenge this week, the growth of the league and what’s next. Finally, she shares insight into the role and inspirat...

Feb 01, 202450 min

Justin Time for Jays Biggest Off-Season Move

Ailish and Justin open with the news that Justin Turner is joining the Blue Jays and the fact that it’s likely their last “swing” of the off-season. Then, over to Chicago where Matt Devlin joins us ahead of the Raptors/Bulls tonight (7:14). Later, Canadian baseball legend Russell Martin weighs in on what Justin Turner brings to the Jays (28:08). We close with Hayley Salvian (50:36) from The Athletic ahead of the PWHL 3 on 3 game during All-Star week and a look at expectations for the second half...

Jan 31, 20241 hr 20 min

Super Bowl Script – Arash Builds Case for Chiefs & Niners

With the NHL All-Star break upon us, Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert are joined by Jeff Marek (5:54) to look at certain NHL teams “at the break” - what went wrong in Ottawa, what the Oilers learned about themselves and why the record-tying game for Edmonton against Vegas might get greasy. Later, top trade targets to watch at the deadline. We close with Arash Madani (27:15) fresh off his trip to Baltimore for the Ravens/Chiefs game. He discusses what a Super Bowl win means for KC, why people ar...

Jan 30, 202450 min

Why Belichick Is In More Control Than We Think

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start with Seerat Sohi (9:19) from The Ringer with a look at the Raptors who are watching their ex-teammates dominate. Then, to draft strategy and why they should be looking at 2025. Later, former Raiders CEO Amy Trask (25:28) on Bill Belichick’s future, her relationship with Jim Harbaugh and her thoughts and selections for the AFC/NFC title games. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect t...

Jan 27, 202450 min

The Most Impressive Sports Winning Streak Has To Be…

Arda Ocal from the NHL on ESPN joins Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert to explain why the Oilers have what it takes to break the win streak record, why Connor Bedard is very much still in contention for the Rookie of the Year and Drew Doughty calling out his teammates (7:45). Later, Michelle Beadle (25:58) from Run It Back and Mad Dog Sports Radio on the Bucks going from Griffin to Doc, why Luka Doncic needs to have thicker skin, an angry Kyle Lowry is a great fit for any contender and her views...

Jan 26, 202450 min

Heavy Day of Hockey News

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start with Craig Simpson (5:54) down at the rink ahead of Leafs/Jets. He looks at all the Canadian teams, if the Leafs match up with the best teams in the league and Sheldon Keefe’s frustration. Later, they are joined by Frank Seravalli (27:14) discusses the update on Hockey Canada’s 2018 team, the potential expansion to Utah, historical context of the Oilers and more. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not ...

Jan 25, 202450 min

Canadian Legends: Cassie Campbell-Pascal & Rowan Barrett

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert kick off the show with Hockey Hall of Famer and Special Advisor to the PWHL Cassie Campbell Pascal (7:01) who looks at the league, growth and potential for expansion already. In the NHL, she shares her thoughts on the Oilers' winning streak as they try for 14 tonight with 17 very much up for grabs. Later, Rowan Barrett (26:00), Team Canada GM discusses the pre-Olympic rosters and a July tune-up game between Canada and the US with many stars likely to participate...

Jan 24, 202450 min

Fresh Starts for Corey Perry & Patrick Roy

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert are joined by Jeff Marek (4:31), who gives us a recap of his Hockey Day in Canada trip to Victoria, BC. Then, over to the rise of the Jets and a few stories to help explain what Rick Bowness is like off the ice and why a mix of old and new is the best way for a coach to be successful. Afterwards, from Corey Perry joining the Oilers to Patrick Roy behind the bench with the Islanders. Later, Taylor Heise (27:36) from PWHL Minnesota on being drafted #1 overall, pla...

Jan 23, 202450 min

Canadian Fighter on MMA’s Growth in Canada

Ailish Forfar and Justin Cuthbert start in Victoria, BC where Hockey Day in Canada takes place this weekend and with that, Andrew Ference joins the show (2:22). The 2011 Cup Champion is now the NHL Director of Youth Strategy. He discusses his role with growing the sport of hockey, getting more kids out to play and some interesting green initiatives for arenas of the future. Later, Mark Hominick (31:57), retired MMA fighter on his performance at UFC 129 at Rogers Centre, what makes Canadian MMA f...

Jan 20, 202450 min
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