Habs Culture

Justin Schwartz & Liam Baum

A hockey podcast talking all things Montreal Canadiens and other news around the National Hockey League. read less
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Episodes

Hanafin, Guentzel, Markstrom - Snagging the NHL's Biggest Fish!
02-03-2024
Hanafin, Guentzel, Markstrom - Snagging the NHL's Biggest Fish!
In Episode 76 of the Habs Culture podcast, we're diving deep into the swirling trade deadline rumors and the potential seismic shifts they could bring to the NHL landscape. The spotlight shines brightly on Noah Hanifin, Jake Guentzel, and Jacob Markstrom, three of the biggest names still swirling in the trade rumor mill as the deadline approaches.Noah Hanifin, currently with the Calgary Flames, is at a crossroads. Despite an impressive season and a significant role within the team, contract negotiations have stalled. The Flames have reportedly offered an eight-year extension, but Hanifin's hesitation has fueled speculation that he might be on the move. His potential departure would undoubtedly command a high return, possibly involving first-round picks or top prospects, particularly from teams in dire need of defensive reinforcement​​.Jake Guentzel of the Pittsburgh Penguins is another intriguing case. As a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) and the team's second-leading scorer, his situation is complex. Guentzel's current injury and Pittsburgh's need to get younger add layers of intrigue to any potential trade discussions. The Penguins are faced with the challenge of balancing their immediate competitive desires with the long-term need for rejuvenation, making Guentzel a highly watched figure as the deadline looms​​.Jacob Markstrom, the stalwart goaltender for the Calgary Flames, finds his name in trade rumors despite being under contract for two more seasons. With a $6 million average annual value, his situation is complicated by negotiations over salary retention and the acquisition cost. The New Jersey Devils have shown interest, highlighting the demand for reliable goaltenders as teams shore up their rosters for playoff pushes and beyond. Markstrom's future, be it in Calgary or elsewhere, is a significant storyline to watch, reflecting the broader goalie market's dynamics and the strategic considerations teams must weigh
Zegras to Habs Rumor Mill, Slafkovsky’s Breakthrough and Hanifin’s Potential Suitors
10-02-2024
Zegras to Habs Rumor Mill, Slafkovsky’s Breakthrough and Hanifin’s Potential Suitors
In episode #74 of Habs Culture, hosts Justin and Liam are gearing up to dissect the latest whirlwind of speculation and developments surrounding the Montreal Canadiens. The episode will dive into the swirling rumors of Trevor Zegras potentially joining the Habs, a move that could significantly bolster the team's offensive firepower. Our hosts will examine what Zegras, known for his dynamic play and potential chemistry with players like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield, could bring to the Canadiens. The conversation will draw on insights from various reports highlighting the Canadiens' interest and the strategic fit Zegras could provide​​​​.The spotlight will also shine on Juraj Slafkovsky, the Canadiens' recent top pick, who has shown promising signs of emerging as a key player for the team. Justin and Liam will delve into Slafkovsky's development, his impact on the ice, and what his breakthrough means for the Canadiens' future​​.Amidst these discussions, the episode will not overlook the evolving scenario around Noah Hanifin. With his agents poised to present a decision on a contract extension, Hanifin's future is up in the air. The episode will explore the potential for Hanifin to be involved in a high-stakes trade, given his performance and the interest from teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs and St Louis Blues. Hanifin's situation is complex, with fluctuating interests in signing an extension and the potential for a lucrative trade that could see him moving with an extension already in place. This sign-and-trade scenario makes him an attractive asset on the trade market​​​​​​