The JD Bunkis Podcast
JD Bunkis breaks down the biggest stories in sports every weekday morning. The show is honest, direct, and features a touch of diablerie. It airs live on Sportsnet 590 The FAN from 9am to 11am ET.
Episodes
Jays Stretch Run Pressure + Clippers in the Clear w/ Ben Ennis
JD is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show (0:00), to discuss Kyle Tucker's struggles with the Los Angeles Dodgers, if there would be a different level of fan pressure had he signed in Toronto, and sizing up the Tampa Bay Rays ahead of their three game series with the Blue Jays. Then, JD and Ben react to the initial findings from the NBA's investigation of Los Angeles Clippers and
Have the Jays Found an Identity? How We Got Here and What Comes Next w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith
JD reacts to the Blue Jays' series victory over the New York Yankees before being joined by Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith (9:41) to discuss Toronto's sudden turnaround, their continued reliance on great pitching and defence, contributions from depth pieces, and how sustainable the Jays' success is without an offensive resurgence. Then, JD shares his perspective on Cardinals rookie running back J
Pivotal Pieces for a Jays Run + Eric Sogard
JD shares his perspective on the post-deadline vibe shift in the Blue Jays' clubhouse and fan atmosphere at the Rogers Centre. Then, Eric Sogard, former MLB infielder and Blue Jay joins the show (11:42) to discuss his short but memorable tenure in Toronto, playing alongside rookie Vladimir Guerrero Jr., his involvement with youth development at PRO5 Baseball Academy, and his work with the Czechia
The Jays Are… Don’t Say It, Just Think It + Overrated/Underrated NFL Camp Storylines w/ James Palmer
JD reacts to the Blue Jays' third straight victory over the Red Sox, bringing Toronto within 1.5 games of a Wild Card spot. Then, James Palmer, NFL Insider at Bleacher Report, joins the show (5:33) to discuss NFL training camp storylines including, the Seattle Seahawks looking to repeat with a reshaped roster and coaching staff, concerns with the Kansas City Chiefs' offensive support around Patric
Jays Hot Streak Theories + Where Cease’s Season Could Rank All-Time w/ Jeff Blair
JD is joined by Jeff Blair, co-host of Blair & Barker and Jays Talk (0:00) to put Dylan Cease's Cy Young calibre campaign into perspective across Jays' history, discuss how coming so close to a World Series last year has affected the Jays in 2026, and debate Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s outlook this season. Then, JD and the producers go through "What We Missed" (40:21).
The views and opinions expressed
Rule Rage, the War on WAR and Kawhi Fatigue w/ Blake Murphy
JD and Blake Murphy, host of Jays Talk Plus (0:00), share their reaction to the bizarre rulebook review that prompted a 17-minute delay in the seventh inning of the Blue Jays' series opener against the Red Sox, and JD's perspective on the unique experience of being in the ballpark during the incident. Then, JD and Blake parse through what's behind the Jays' recent turnaround before pivoting to a d
The Suddenly Gritty Blue Jays and Evolving Deadline Takes w/ Ben Ennis
JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show (0:00), discuss the Blue Jays showing signs of life after another series win over the weekend, how well Toronto threaded the needle between buying and selling at last week's trade deadline, how the weak American League competition has made for meaningful Jays baseball in August, and the argument for Vladimir Guerrero Jr. still being able to save th
Cy Young Cease, New Additions and Jays Pitching w/ Adam Ottavino
JD details his night at the Argos game, before giving his thoughts on the Blue Jays' heartbreaking loss in extra innings to the Cubs, and the dominance from Dylan Cease over the last two months. Adam Ottavino, host of the Baseball & Coffee podcast, joins JD to continue the conversation around Cease, and his development over his career and throughout this season, before getting into the Jose Sorian
Athlete Departures That Stung w/ Sam McKee + The Suddenly Plucky Jays
JD is joined off the top by Sportsnet producer and host, Sam McKee, to discuss the Blue Jays' big week and Kevin Gausman's place amongst the Mount Rushmore of athletes that have left Toronto, including former Leafs, Raptors, and Blue Jays. Later, JD reacts to the Blue Jays win in extra-innings against the Astros to take their third consecutive series, before JD and producer Brandon hit on Gausman'
Have Salary Caps Been Good for Sports Fans? Kawhi and the NBA Narrative Ecosystem W/ Bomani Jones
JD reacts to the Blue Jays' loss to the Astros, along with the apparent injuries to Trey Yesavage and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. coming out of the trade deadline. Then, Bomani Jones, Emmy Award winning host of The Right Time with Bomani Jones, joins JD to chat about the Dodgers and the potential for a salary cap in Major League Baseball, the situation around the Portland Trail Blazers and how it relate
Jays Deadline Recap w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith
JD reacts to the Blue Jays busy trade deadline and gives his thoughts on the moves, before bringing in Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith to break down all the action. They get into the Jays' plan to acquire controllable starting pitchers, the tough decision to trade away veteran players Jeff Hoffman and Daulton Varsho, and how the returning pieces can help the team moving forward. Then, JD and Ben d
Soriano Trade Live Reaction, Gausman Return & State of the Jays Farm System w/ Geoff Pontes
JD reacts to the Blue Jays trading Kevin Gausman to the Chicago Cubs, and looks ahead to what the Jays need to do before Monday's trade deadline. He looks back at this era of the Blue Jays potentially coming to an end, how we've gotten here this season, and what the plans should be moving forward. Geoff Pontes of Baseball America joins the show to further discuss the trade, the two prospects comin
Gavin McKenna + MLB Teams That Need to Make a Move w/ Jared Carrabis
JD ponders the Blue Jays strategy as the trade deadline and what he thinks the team should be prioritize. Gavin McKenna, Toronto Maple Leafs No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, joins (6:00) JD to chat about John Chayaka’s trip to the Yukon, what it’s like being the number one overall pick coming from a small community, and how his summer in Toronto has been. After the break (17:00), JD is jo
Who Are the Jays Trading? w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith
JD reacts to Kevin Gausman's comments about the Blue Jays clubhouse, before bringing on MLB insider and Sportsnet Jays reporter (5:30). JD asks Ben about the Jays' strategy, what kind of a market is developing across the league, if the Jays can sell and improve the roster for next season, what the Jays expiring contracts like Kevin Gausman, George Springer and Daulton Varsho could nab the Jays.
T
Jays Deadline Convictions w/ Ben Ennis
JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, (6:00) debate how big of a sell the Blue Jays should have at the deadline, Kevin Gausman’s future, which Jays holds the most trade value, a potential lockout, building towards 2027, what life would look like if Vladdy was better, and selling high on Ernie Clement. (39:00) The show ends with 'Old News!'
The views and opinions expressed in this podc
Jays Deadline Options w/ Robert Murray
Robert Murray, MLB insider at FanSided, talks about his read on the Blue Jays deadline strategy, how next seasons lockout potential is impacting some front offices, trading within the American League East division, what the timeline of trades could be, Jeff Hoffman's value around the league, if there is a market for George Springer and Dalton Varsho. The show ends with 'What We Missed!'
The views
Catch Up Show, Jays Grief, LeBron to Philly and Ferris Fumble
JD returns from his break to recap the week that was in sports, starting with the Blue Jays. JD talks about the disbelief and frustration level(s) of the Jays lost season and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s continued struggles. Then, JD (18:00) explains why he isn't into a "soft sell." JD then gives his thoughts on LeBron James' decision to join the Philadelphia76ers and Darren Ferris' latest comments abo
Jays Deadline Path w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith
JD previews the restart of the Blue Jays season and is joined by Ben Nicholson-Smith (5:00) to dive into the team. JD and Ben discuss the prospect of Bo Bichette returning to the Blue Jays, how bad Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s season has really been, who the Jays could target at or before the trade deadline, and which Jays players could garner legitimate returns.
The views and opinions expressed in th
Messi's Masterpiece and England's Collapse + Jays Draft and Farm System Deadline Impact w/ Jordan Shusterman
JD reacts to England's late-game collapse and how the semi-final was relatable in the Toronto market. Jordan Shusterman, co-host of The Cespedes BBQ podcast, breaks down (10:00) why the MLB doesn't try harder to make the MLB draft into an entertaining event, why he's excited about the Blue Jays 2026 draft picks, and an update on the other Jays prospects.
The views and opinions expressed in this p
Kawhi Limbo + Raptors Summer League Takeaways w/ Joseph Casciaro
JD reacts to new reports about the NBA's investigation on Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers. Joseph Casciaro, NBA reporter at theScore, joins JD (5:00) to get into the moving parts of the investigation, the best and worst case scenarios for both Leonard and the Raptors, Adam Silver's "hope" that the investigation will be resolved by the end of summer, and Collin Murray-Boyles' hand injury
Jays at the Break, the McGregor Disaster + Another FIFA Controversy
JD recaps and breaks down the Blue Jays' last weekend before the All-Star break, UFC 329 and the continued World Cup action. JD talks about the Jays disappointing first half of the season and what the team needs to improve for the rest of the 2026 season and moving forward into 2027. Then (16:00), JD touches on Connor McGregor's disaster fight, how the ending of his career will be remembered and w
What Now with the Raptors and Kawhi? w/ Michael Grange
JD reacts to Morroco's loss to France and what it makes him feel about Canada Soccer and teases UFC 329. JD and Sportsnet's Michael Grange then get into the news of the NBA putting the Raptors and Clippers trade for Kawhi Leonard on hold until their investigation into the Clippers cap circumvention (10:00). JD asks Grange if the Raptors could have gotten a better deal for Leonard considering the s
Dylan Cease and the War Against the Charts w/ Ben Ennis
JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, discuss Dylan Cease's near no-hitter, how starting pitching has evolved, what a signing Cease has been for the Jays, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s continued struggles. JD and Ben end the hour with "old news."
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Spor
Jays Deadline Direction w/ Jim Bowden, Alfie is a Leaf & the Great Sports Tech Disaster
JD opens with thoughts on where the Blue Jays are at through 92 games of the season including why Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s performance is the hinge point before the trade deadline and what the roster's biggest holes are. Next, JD touches (12:00) on Daniel Alfredsson joining the Maple Leafs coaching staff and why it bothers him. Jim Bowden, MLB insider, joins JD (22:00) to get into the Blue Jays' po
Lowry Retires a Raptor, Jays Pain and Canada Soccer Closing Thoughts
JD reacts to Kyle Lowry's retirement video and his NBA career, before moving onto his thoughts on the Blue Jays' putrid weekend on the west coast. JD talks (9:00) about the Jays' biggest causes for concerns, if he sees any optimism remaining, and how the next few weeks of games will impact the front offices decision-making heading into the MLB's trade deadline in August. JD then (22:00) gets into
Are the Leafs a Playoff Team? w/ Sam McKee
JD and Sam McKee, co-Host of Leafs Talk, chop it up about the last World Cup game in Toronto, what new Maple Leafs' they are most excited about, and what Morgan Rielly returning to Toronto may look like. The duo then into the Sergei Bobrovsky and the Leafs goaltending situation, and how Gavin McKenna could be deployed. The week ends with discussion about the Boston Celtics confusing Jaylen Brown t
Leafs Free Agency Review + Remaining Questions w/ James Mirtle
JD and James Mirtle, senior writer at The Athletic, break down all of the Maple Leafs activity on the first day of NHL free-agency. JD asks James about the likelihood of Morgan Reilly returning to the Leafs, Sergei Bobrovsky's contract, if there is a danger that Matthew Knies feels alienated, and if Zach Werenski is truly of the trade table. JD and James also give their letter grades for each Lea
The Kawhi Trade, Raptors Roster Questions + LeBron's Expendables w/ Jason Timpf
JD is joined by host of the Hoops Tonight, Jason Timpf, to dive into Kawhi Leonard’s return to Toronto, his health concerns, the trio of Kawhi, Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles, and what this deal means for RJ Barrett’s future. They then dive into LeBron James's future and what it would look like if he and Anthony Davis joined Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors. (42:00) After the bre
Kawhi Returns, Leafs Rumour Mill w/ Elliotte Friedman + Early Free Agency Look w/ Marco D'Amico
JD reacts to Kawhi Leonard's return to Toronto. Elliotte Friedman (6:00), Sportsnet NHL insider and co-host of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, joins JD to get into NHL free agency; the latest on Zach Werenski and Matthew Knies' future in Toronto. (21:30) JD continues his thoughts on the Leafs potentially signing Sergei Bobrovsky and what Kawhi's return means for the Raptors championship odds. (35:00) Af
Kawhi, Bo's Return + Leafs Off-Season w/ Mike Futa
JD reacts to reports that the Raptors are close to finalizing a trade to land Kawhi Leonard. Mike Futa, former Los Angeles Knights assistant general manager, joins JD in-studio to get into Bo Bichette's emotional return to Toronto, what Gavin McKenna is bringing to the Maple Leafs, the Leafs emphasis on analytics, what organizational alignment really means, and if a Zach Werenski-Matthew Knies swa
McKenna, Canada's World Cup Moment + Why the Leafs Draft was Such a Win w/ Jason Bukala
JD reacts to Canada's historic World Cup victory to advance to the round of 16. Next (6:00), JD speaks about the Maple Leafs drafting Gavin McKenna and brings on Sportsnet's Jason Bukala to break down the NHL draft. JD asks Jason about the decentralized draft and why he feels the Leafs excelled at the 2026 draft. Devang Desai, Sportsnet soccer writer, joins JD (34:30) to get into the complicated e
Emergency Pod: Leafs Draft Gavin McKenna First Overall
JD Bunkis and Sam McKee share their reaction to the 2026 NHL Draft with the Toronto Maple Leafs drafting Gavin McKenna with their first overall pick. The guys touch on what the Penn State forward brings to the team and what's next for the franchise.
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 & Me
The Shift in the McKenna Narrative, Draft Buzz and Preview w/ Cam Robinson
JD previews the NHL draft and the Maple Leafs thought process with the number one overall selection. Cam Robinson, senior director and scout at Elite Prospects, breaks down (8:00) who he would draft, what the reservations are about Gavin McKenna, why the conversation around McKenna has shifted, how to rank the best defensemen in the 2026 draft class, and the potential of post-draft player movement
Leafs Buzz, Raptors Rumblings + What to Make of Canada's Group Stage Performance w/ James Sharman
JD tips off the pod discussing the growing buzz around a Matthew Knies trade. JD then gives his thoughts on the Jays' 3-1 loss to the Astros before welcoming (10:00) James Sharman, co-host of Footy Prime. JD asks James about Canada’s loss to Switzerland, what to expect against South Africa, Stephen Eustáquio’s health, and what's going on with Alphonso Davies. JD then reacts (42:00) to Lamelo Ball
The Raptors Pick and NBA's First-Round w/ Tate Frazier + NHL Trade Bonanza + the Problem with Bieber
JD reacts to the Blue Jays tough loss in extra innings. Tate Frazier, host at The Ringer, breaks down what the Raptors 19th draft pick, Allen Graves, can bring to Toronto. JD then (37:00) asks Tate about the 2026 lottery picks, who outside of the top five could become a star, and which pick was his favourite for fit. JD then goes through a busy trade day in the NHL.
The views and opinions express
Jays Face of the Franchise, Best Closer in 20 Years, and the Giannis Trade is a Bummer w/ Ben Ennis
JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, discuss Giannis Antetokounmpo getting traded to the Miami Heat, overreactions to the New York Knicks, the Blue Jays being back to .500, Shane Bieber's return, and the best closers in franchise history.
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 &
The Tkachuk Trade, NHL Player Empowerment + Marlies Head Coach John Gruden
JD reacts to the Ottawa Senators trading Brady Tkachuk to the Florida Panthers. John Gruden, Toronto Marlies head coach, reflects on what led to the Marlies' rise to Calder Cup champions, the development of the Maple Leafs top prospects, how development works for coaches, what impresses him most about Artur Akhtyamov and Easton Cowan, and his impressions of new Maple Leafs head coach, Jim Hiller,
Leafs Grab Raddysh w/ Sam McKee and Ben Ennis
JD is joined by Sam McKee and Ben Ennis to dive into the Maple Leafs acquisition of defensemen Darren Raddysh via sign-and-trade from the Tampa Bay Lightning. JD and Sam discuss all the pros and cons of Raddysh's game, the Leafs' eight-year contract offer, and how Toronto's defensive core could look next season. JD and Ben then (30:00) shift focus to the Blue Jays sweep at Fenway Park and what lev
Pros, Cons and Overreactions with the Leafs New Coach + Overlooked Elements of the McKenna Case w/ Justin Bourne
JD reacts further to the Maple Leafs hiring Jim Hiller. Justin Bourne (08:15), co-host of Real Kyper & Bourne, joins JD to share what he expects from Hiller, the patience this hire allows Toronto to have, and his likes and dislikes from his time with Hiller. JD and Justin then touch on Gavin McKenna and why he should be the number one overall pick (46:07). After the break, JD talks about the Blue
The Leafs' New Head Coach, the Woll Trade and What Comes Next for Toronto w/ James Mirtle
JD reacts to breaking news of the Toronto Maple Leafs hiring Jim Hiller their next head coach. JD also reacts to the Leafs trading away Joseph Woll before bringing on James Mirtle (12:45), senior writer at The Athletic. JD asks James about Hiller’s coaching history and characteristics and what fans can expect from Hiller based on his former tenure on the Leafs coaching staff. JD and James shift th
Jays Pressure Ramp Up and Fake Raptors Trades w/ Blake Murphy
JD gives his final thoughts on Mitch Marner, before shifting focus to the Blue Jays (4:30). JD highlights the Jays’ lack of magic compared to the 2025 season, their lack of consistency, and the mounting pressure on Vladimir Guerrero Jr. After the break, JD is joined by Blake Murphy, host of Blue Jays Talk Plus (19:00), to get into George Springer’s struggles, Brandon Valenzuela potentially playing
Hurricanes and Knicks are Champions, Marner, the Jays Missed Oppurtunity + UFC Freedom 250
JD recaps the Stanley Cup Final victory for the Carolina Hurricanes (4:00). He highlights Jordan Staal winning the Conn Smythe, ponders if the 'Canes team-building can be duplicated, and outlines Mitch Marner’s play in Games 5 and 6. JD then dives into the Knicks breaking their 53-year championship drought (24:00), Jalen Brunson altering the small guard narrative, the future of De'Aaron Fox, and h
Conn Smythe Candidates and Can the Canes Close? w/ Kris Versteeg
JD previews Canada’s opening matchup against Bosnia and Herzegovina and ponders what the fan ratio might be in the home-opener. JD then talks about the Blue Jays series against the New York Yankees before. Two-time Stanley Cup champion Kris Versteeg (08:30) joins the show to react to the Stanley Cup Final, the chippiness of Game 5, what Vegas can do in Game 6 to stay alive, who needs to step up fo
The Greatest Collapse/Comeback in NBA History + Jays' Looming Decisions w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith
JD tips off the pod with his thoughts on the New York Knicks unreal 29-point comeback against the San Antonio Spurs in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. He breaks down how OG Anunoby might be the favorite for Finals MVP, how the Raptors' trading him has never looked worse, and how De'Aaron Fox will bear the brunt of the blame for the collapse. JD and Ben Nicholson Smith, MLB insider and Sportsnet Jays rep
Ray Ferraro on Stanley Cup Surprises, Leafs’ Lessons and First Pick + Vlad/Springer Frustrations and Spurs' Claw Back
JD tips off the show with his thoughts on the Blue Jays' 5-2 loss in their series opener against the Philadelphia Phillies. He breaks down the hot streak Ernie Clement is on, the poor play of George Springer, and the never-ending disappointment of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. JD and Ray Ferraro, NHL analyst for Sportsnet and ESPN, discuss the incredibly exciting ride that the Stanley Cup Final has been,
The Valenzuela Question, Jays Identity Search + World Cup Preview w/ James Sharman
JD reacts to the Blue Jays' comeback win against the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday. He breaks down the incredible recent play of rookie Brandon Valenzuela, the continued struggles of Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and the tear Louis Varland continues to be on. JD and James Sharman, co-host of Footy Prime, discuss the lack of buzz around this year's World Cup, the mentality of Team Canada, and the likelihood
Knies Trade Package, A Memorable Jays Debut + The Canes' Comeback w/ Shayna Goldman
JD reacts to the Blue Jays much-needed win against Chris Sale and the Atlanta Braves. JD and Shayna Goldman, national NHL writer at The Athletic, discuss the controversial no-goal call from Game 2, what they've learned about these teams through two games, how the teams may be feeling after splitting the first two games, the goaltending battle, the Hurricanes' unproductive top line, why Mitch Marne
Do the Jays Feel Like a Contender? + NBA Finals Overreactions w/ Ben Ennis
JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, tell old man stories, try to determine Brandon Valenzuela's value, discuss Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s now "disaster" season, the biggest issues plaguing the team, what climbing back to a .500 record would mean for the team, and overreactions they had from Game 1 of the NBA Finals.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hos
SCF Game 1, Jays Speed Shortage & NBA Finals Preview w/ Jason Timpf
JD reacts to Vegas Golden Knights' Game 1 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes and the start of the Blue Jays series against the Atlanta Braves. Next, Jason Timpf, host of Hoops Tonight, joins JD to get into the NBA Finals. They discuss how the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs matchup, the contrast of their star players, why Jason is leaning towards the Knicks, if New York's path to the Final
Toronto Takes Centre Stage at the Cup Final + Leafs Latest Hire w/ James Mirtle
JD reacts to Mitch Marner's "dark times" comments before the Stanley Cup Final. JD and James Mirtle, senior writer at The Athletic, discuss why everything is being made to be about the Maple Leafs, the NHL's media landscape, how the Carolina Hurricanes and Vegas Golden Knights matchup, Judd Brackett being named the Leafs Assistant General Manager, the Leafs continued search for a head coach, and h
The Jays' Disappointing Split, Hoffman, Game 7 + Knicks Nirvana w/ Ariel Helwani
JD reacts to the Blue Jays rollercoaster weekend to split their four-game series with the Baltimore Orioles. Ariel Helwani joins JD to get into his New York Knicks fandom and the NBA Finals matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. JD and Producer Armen then discuss the historic Game 7 of the Western Conference Final and what's next for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The views and opinions expressed in
Chris Bassitt
Chris Bassitt, Baltimore Orioles pitcher and former Blue Jay, discusses the weirdness of pitching against your former team, George Springer sticking his tongue out, PitchCom issues, stories from the World Series run, coming out of the bullpen during the playoffs, how having an opener impacts a starting pitcher, and the MLB owners' first proposal to the MLBPA. The show ends with discussion about th
Habs Pressure Points and Future Fallout w/ Marco D'Amico + Scottie Snubs and Atkins Deep Cuts
JD reacts to the Blue Jays series win over the Miami Marlins. Then, JD asks Marco D'Amico, co-host of The Starr and D'Amico Show, why the Montreal Canadiens have struggled to win at the Bell Centre, how the Carolina Hurricanes have taken control the series, what the Canadiens need to do better, if the extra rest between series has helped the Hurricanes, if the Canadiens will be expected to have an
Jays Outfield Crunch, Vegas' Sweep & Thunder-Spurs Game 5 Takeaways
JD evaluates the new Blue Jays who are producing more for the team; Jesus Sanchez, Spencer Miles, and Yohendrick Pinango. JD questions how the roster and position construct of the Blue Jays can shift with the return of Addison Barger. Later (17:00), JD questions if this era of the Colorado Avalanche has become underwhelming and gives his takeaways from the Oklahoma City Thunder's game 5 win. The s
Are Rivalries Dead? Jays Injuries and Steroid Games w/ Ben Ennis
JD and Ben Ennis, The FAN Morning Show, discuss sports fandom in the 90's before turning their attention to Maple Leafs fans' feelings as the Vegas Golden Knights and Montreal Canadiens inch closer to the Stanley Cup Final. Later, JD and Ben debate what societal factors have impacted modern rivalries in sports, discuss the "Enhanced Games" and the Blue Jays chances of coming back to win the divisi
JD's Jays WAR Leaders w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith + The Avs are Done + What Mattered Most From the Thunder/Spurs Split
JD reacts to the Vegas Golden Knights taking a commanding 3-0 series lead. Ben Nicholson-Smith, MLB insider and Sportsnet Jays reporter, discusses the minor injuries to Dylan Cease and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., if Patrick Corbin is the Jays MVP so far this season, which position player will be sent down with the nearing returns of Addison Barger and Nathan Lukes, Alejandro Kirk's next steps to return
Miles High Club + the Toronto-pocalypse w/ Jackie Redmond
JD reacts to the Blue Jays splitting their four game series against the New York Yankees. JD then switches gears to the Stanley Cup Playoffs and wonders if you can be really be a Maple Leafs fan if you are rooting for Mitch Marner or the Montreal Canadiens. Jackie Redmond of the NHL on TNT gets into the weird fan dynamic for Leafs Nation right now, why the revisionist history about Marner's tenure
The Jays Shift in Tone + Yesavage Intangibles w/ Dan Shulman + Welcome to the OKC Hate Bandwagon
JD reacts to the Vegas Golden Knights taking home ice-advantage in the Western Conference Finals. Dan Shulman, Blue Jays play-by-play voice, joins JD (7:00) to get into last night's Blue Jays must-win victory over the New York Yankees. They discuss when the Jays grace period is over, Trey Yesavage's stabilizing impact, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s extended slump and mental fortitude. The show end
Leafs Coaching Search, Matthews Limbo and Off-Season Smoke w/ James Mirtle
JD reacts to the Blue Jays fall in the American League standings after another loss to the Yankees in the Bronx. James Mirtle, senior writer at The Athletic, gives an inside look at the Maple Leafs continued off-season turnover. JD asks James if fan or player pressure impacted the firing of Craig Berube, what played into the departure of Brandon Pridham, if the likelihood of Auston Matthews leavin
Game 7 Fallout and Conference Finals Previews w/ Luke Gazdic + Wemby, Schneider and Everything We Missed
JD touches on the Maple Leafs letting go of Craig Berube and the Blue Jays losing to the Yankees, before bringing on Sportsnet NHL analyst, Luke Gazdic, to dive into the Stanley Cup Playoffs. JD and Luke break down the Montreal Canadiens' Game 7 win over the Buffalo Sabres, look forward to Montreal's matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes, and share their curiosities about the Western Conference
Breaking Down Vladdy, Okamoto and Springer w/ Cliff Floyd
Cliff Floyd, MLB Network analyst and World Series Champion, joins JD to discuss what about Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s season has surprised him the most, how the Blue Jays supporting cast has helped or hurt Vladdy, how confidence can impact plate appearances, what adjustment's Vladdy can make it, and the performances of Kazuma Okamoto and George Springer. The show ends with 'What We Missed!'
The views
Vladdy Realities and Athletes You Don't Want to See w/ Ben Ennis
JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, discuss Chandler Simpson and athletes that drive you crazy when they play against your team, how they view morality in sports differently, plus Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s struggles and what type of hitter he really is.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of R
Marner Discourse and NHL Meltdowns w/ Colby Armstrong
JD reacts to Mitch Marner's playoff performance with the Vegas Golden Knights and the surrounding Toronto discourse. Colby Armstrong, Sportsnet NHL analyst, joins to have the Marner conversation, discuss the Montreal Canadiens' fandom and their chances at a deep Stanley Cup run, and share if he thinks the Maple Leafs will select Gavin McKenna with the first overall pick. Later, Blake Murphy and Pr
Vlad Frustration, Bright Spots and Where the Jays Need More Urgency w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith
JD reacts to a loaded sports weekend and starts by expanding on the Blue Jays with Ben Nicholson-Smith, MLB insider and Sportsnet Jays reporter. JD asks Ben which Jays pitcher could be joining the starting rotation, what the Jays could do next with a struggling Eric Lauer, what the return of Addison Barger was a reminder of, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s continued struggles, what went into the Jays deci
Sam Cosentino's Draft Board and Big Questions
Sam Cosentino, Sportsnet hockey analyst, joins JD to discuss the difference between a mock draft and a draft ranking, how close or far apart the prospective 2026 NHL lottery picks are, Gavin McKenna's strengths and potential weaknesses, McKenna opting out of competing at the World Championship with Team Canada, and how he stacks the defensemen that will be selected at the top of the NHL draft. The
McKenna Nitpicks + Jays Power Outage w/ Kevin Barker
JD gives his opinion on the heated debate about the Maple Leafs selecting Gavin McKenna with the first overall draft pick. Kevin Barker, from Blair and Barker, analyzes what's wrong with the Blue Jays offence, what they can get from the return from Addison Barger, when the AL standings start to matter, why Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is struggling to slug, and how the season could go if he doesn't drast
First Overall Pick Dominoes + How and When the Leafs Get Back into Contention w/ James Mirtle
James Mirtle, senior writer at The Athletic, analyzes how he would utilize the first overall pick, the biggest dominos from winning the draft lottery, what direction the front office may lean, what the Leafs roster needs to be competitive again, and the biggest challenges this off-season for John Chayka. JD and Producer Armen end the show discussing Bobby Webster's end-of-season media availability
Into the Mystic + Jays Concern-O-Meter w/ Ben Ennis
JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, banter about sports superstitions, the most exciting moments as a sports fan, and where winning the draft lottery ranks among them. Later, the duo debate if they're concerned about the Blue Jays' recent slump and insert their recent old guy gripes.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not neces
Raptors Off-Season Questions w/ Bobby Marks
Bobby Marks, ESPN NBA front office insider, breaks down the Raptors off-season prerogatives, including Jakob Poeltl's contract and what it would take for the Raptors to get off it, what move the Raptors should prioritize this summer, and what Brandon Ingram's value is in the market. The show ends with 'What We Missed!'
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and gu
Leafs Lottery Luck and a Look at the Draft w/ Jason Bukala and Sam McKee
JD reacts to the Maple Leafs winning the NHL's Draft Lottery and starts to think about what the Maple Leafs may do with the first overall pick. Jason Bukala (9:00), Sportsnet hockey analyst and former Director of Amateur Scouting for the Florida Panthers, breaks down why he thinks the Maple Leafs should use their first overall pick to select Ivar Stenberg over Gavin McKenna. JD also asks Jason abo
Jays Position Battles w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith
JD and Ben Nicholson-Smith, MLB insider and Sportsnet Blue Jays reporter, discuss what happened between John Schneider and Tyler Heineman, the catcher battle between Heineman and Brandon Valenzuela, multiple positive injury updates for the Jays lineup, new expectations for Kazuma Okamoto, what to do if José Berríos continues to struggle in the minor leagues, and Tarik Skubal needing surgery. The s
Chayka and Sundin Meet the Press + What's Next w/ Nick Kypreos
JD reacts to the introduction of John Chayka and Mats Sundin as the Toronto Maple Leafs front office leadership and outlines how there is a lot of catching up to do for the organization. JD asks Nick Kypreos, co-host of Real Kyper and Bourne, what his biggest takeaway was from interviewing Chayka and Sundin, how he feels about Craig Berube's job security, what to make of Sundin's vague job title,
Habs-Bolts Game 7 Fallout and What Now for McDavid and the Oilers w/ Kris Versteeg
JD and Kris Versteeg, two-time Stanley Cup champion, talk about the Montreal Canadiens persevering in Game 7 despite only having nine shots on goal, what the next move could be for the Tampa Bay Lightning, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl's comments after being eliminated, and how much longer they think McDavid will give the Edmonton Oilers. The show ends with 'What We Missed!'
The views and opi
The Leafs Decide + Raptors Playoff Perception Changes w/ Joseph Casciaro
JD reacts to the Maple Leafs hiring John Chayka and Mats Sundin to lead their new front office. JD then gets into the Raptors' Game 7 loss and what matters most moving forward. JD and Joseph Casciaro, Raptors reporter and NBA content lead at theScore, talk about (10:00) the most intriguing takeaway from the series, the added urgency to build a competitive team around Scottie Barnes, which Raptors
What Needs to Change for the Jays in May w/ Ben Nicholson-Smith
JD and Ben Nicholson-Smith, MLB insider and Sportsnet Blue Jays reporter, talk about if it's fair to criticize Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s lack of home runs despite his impactful season, George Springer and Addison Barger's return to the lineup, making sense of Alejandro Kirk's return timetable, Eric Lauer having the worst Stuff+ among qualified MLB pitchers, and how baseball is viewing expansion befo
Michael Soroka + The McDavid-Jokic Parallel
JD reacts to Connor McDavid and Nikola Jokic being eliminated from the first round of the playoffs and discusses the modern realities of parody in the NHL and NBA with producer Armen. Michael Soroka, Team Canada and Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher, joins JD to chat about his All-Star calibre season, the nuances of making in-season tweaks, the impact of the Trajekt machine, what made him want to pitch
The New Leafs Front Office Takes Shape w/ James Mirtle
JD asks James Mirtle, senior writer at The Athletic, about the Maple Leafs search to hire a new president of hockey operations or a general manager. JD and James discuss what Matt Sundin's influence could be on the front office, John Chayka's history as a front office executive, how Tie and Max Domi's relationship with Chayka may affect decisions, and try to see a future where the Leafs can compet
Raptors Let the Cavs Off the Hook w/ Justin Termine + Three Straight Series Wins for the Jays
JD reacts to positive and negatives from the Raptors Game 5 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Justin Termine, host of NBA Today on SiriusXM, shares if he feels the Raptors fumbled the game or if the Cavaliers took it, how Brandon Ingram's poor play has affected the series, the legacy narrative surrounding Nikola Jokic, and which Eastern Conference team has the most pressure. JD ends the hour evalua
Playoff Format Pitfalls, Oilers Pressure & Trailing Teams to Believe in w/ Shayna Goldman
JD asks Shayna Goldman, national NHL writer at The Athletic, about which team she trusts more to complete a series comeback down 3-1, how the playoff results will affect the Pittsburgh Penguins' future, if feelings about the playoff format has shifted, and a Connor McDavid theory. The show ends with 'What We Missed!'
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guest
Yesavage Returns and the Bullpen Finds Order w/ Ben Ennis
JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, discuss the difference between small and big market sports cities, reaons for Raptors optimism, the return of Trey Yesavage, how they think the Blue Jays closing role will be handled, and complicated Dylan Cease feelings.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position
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