In Episode 9 of NHL Wraparound, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren are joined by Brian Boucher, former NHL goaltender and current analyst for TNT and NBC Sports Philadelphia, for a wide-ranging discussion on the state of the league, team performances, and playoff positioning.

The episode begins with a look at the New York Rangers’ recent surge, examining their resilience, depth, and how they’ve handled tough scheduling. Boucher shares his analysis of the Philadelphia Flyers, with a particular focus on Carter Hart’s goaltending and the team’s playoff potential.

The conversation dives deeper into coaching leadership, critical playoff dynamics in both conferences, and the mental and physical grind teams endure on the road to the Stanley Cup. From goaltending depth to locker room presence, Boucher offers expert commentary on what separates contenders from pretenders.

The episode wraps with The Human Side of the Story, where Neil shares a powerful lesson learned from legendary coach Scotty Bowman about professionalism, appearance, and preparation—offering advice for young professionals and athletes entering the sports world.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:36] Brian Boucher joins the show; Flyers talk and episode preview

[01:33] One-Timers: Rangers’ strong stretch and scheduling battles

[03:00] Team grit, injuries, and the wear-and-tear of the regular season

[14:00] The impact of coaching on team performance

[36:42] Neil reflects on Brian Boucher’s career and NHL journey

[39:15] The value of appearance and professional presentation in sports

[40:30] A lesson from Scotty Bowman on dressing with intention

[41:51] Advice for young professionals: know your audience, look the part

[42:06] Human Side of the Story: the importance of showing up with pride

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The New York Rangers are showing late-season strength and composure, key for playoff success.
• Carter Hart’s development continues to anchor the Flyers’ goaltending strategy, with optimism around their future.
• Coaching decisions have a direct impact on a team’s identity, confidence, and playoff readiness.
• Professionalism and presentation matter off the ice as much as on it—valuable insight for anyone entering the sports industry.
• Brian Boucher’s journey from record-setting NHL goaltender to respected broadcaster illustrates how experience translates to analysis.

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

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ABOUT BRIAN BOUCHER:

Brian Boucher is a former NHL goaltender turned nationally recognized hockey analyst for TNT and NBC Sports Philadelphia. He played 13 seasons in the NHL for teams including the Philadelphia Flyers, Phoenix Coyotes, and San Jose Sharks. Known for his intelligence and composure in the crease, Boucher led the league in goals-against average in the 1999–2000 season and holds the NHL’s modern record for longest shutout streak (332:01).

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