In Episode 12 of NHL Wraparound, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren are joined by former NHL forward and Real Kyper and Bourne podcast host Nick Kypreos for a timely and spirited conversation about the state of the NHL as the regular season nears its end.

The trio discusses New York Rangers’ playoff readiness, comparing the current team to the 1994 Cup-winning squad. Kypreos weighs in on Artemi Panarin’s role, the team's physical identity, and the importance of finding a true leader—or “horse”—for a deep postseason run.

The conversation expands into a broader discussion about the Canadian Stanley Cup drought, highlighting the playoff potential of teams like the Vancouver Canucks, Winnipeg Jets, and Edmonton Oilers. Kypreos offers insight into players like Evander Kane, emphasizing the need for top-tier performance when it matters most.

The episode closes with The Human Side of the Story, reflecting on the personal challenges NHL players and referees face, reminding listeners that behind the uniforms are real people balancing family, emotions, and career-defining moments.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:35] One-Timers: Playoff changes since 2023 & Dallas leading the West

[05:31] Nick Kypreos joins: Evaluating Rangers’ Cup chances

[07:00] Comparing NYR 2024 to the iconic 1994 squad

[08:00] Rangers’ toughness, style of play, and playoff readiness

[12:09] Panarin’s role, maturity, and need for elite consistency

[16:57] Who can lead this team deep? Kypreos names his “horse”

[17:27] Matt Rempe’s impact on NYR depth and energy

[22:09] Why Canadian teams continue to fall short

[29:53] Insights on Vancouver, Winnipeg, and playoff expectations

[36:03] The X-factor: Evander Kane’s role in Edmonton

[39:18] Kypreos discusses his media work and legacy

[41:28] The Human Side of the Story: behind-the-scenes realities of life in hockey

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Nick Kypreos believes the New York Rangers are built to contend—if key players rise to the occasion.
• Artemi Panarin’s postseason performance could define the team’s fate.
• Canada’s Stanley Cup drought remains one of hockey’s most frustrating narratives, despite talented rosters in Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Edmonton.
• The human toll of hockey—on players, referees, and families—is often overlooked but deeply felt.

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 NICK KYPREOS:

Nick Kypreos is a former NHL left winger who played for the Hartford Whalers, Washington Capitals, New York Rangers, and Toronto Maple Leafs. A Stanley Cup champion with the Rangers in 1994, Kypreos transitioned into broadcasting after his playing career and is now co-host of the Real Kyper and Bourne Podcast on Sportsnet and a prominent voice on Hockey Night in Canada.

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