EPISODE 3: Hats Off to the Oilers with Craig MacTavish | NHL Coaching, Playoff Adversity & Leadership Lessons
In this insightful episode of NHL Wraparound, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren welcome legendary four-time Stanley Cup champion Craig MacTavish, former head coach and general manager of the Edmonton Oilers, for an in-depth look at the Oilers’ resurgence and the adversity that shapes playoff hockey.
The conversation explores the evolving challenges NHL head coaches face, from midseason firings to the constant pressure of leading teams to victory. MacTavish shares valuable perspectives on player development, team dynamics, and how leadership at every level influences championship runs.
The hosts also celebrate Gary Bettman’s 31-year legacy as NHL Commissioner, reflecting on his impact on the league’s expansion and modernization. They take a nostalgic trip through NHL All-Star Game history, discussing memorable moments and the evolution of the event into today’s skills showcase.
Closing with “The Human Side of the Story,” Neil and Vic share heartfelt memories of how they first fell in love with hockey and the magic of attending their first NHL games.
IN THIS EPISODE:
- [01:51] “One-Timers” – Quick NHL news and headlines
- [02:00] Celebrating Gary Bettman’s 31 years as NHL Commissioner
- [04:29] NHL standings projections and playoff predictions
- [05:55] The unique pressures and challenges of NHL coaching
- [14:03] Exclusive interview with Craig MacTavish
- [24:21] How energy, leadership, and key players fuel the Oilers’ playoff push
- [26:27] The importance of Stuart Skinner’s goaltending to Edmonton’s success
- [27:06] Neil reflects on the Oilers’ talent development past vs. present under Ken Holland
- [38:33] The role of leadership in winning championships
- [42:00] Looking back at first NHL All-Star Game experiences
- [44:55] “The Human Side of the Story” – falling in love with hockey and first NHL memories
- [49:30] Closing remarks and what’s next on NHL Wraparound
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
✅ Gary Bettman’s 31-year tenure expanded the NHL from 24 to 32 teams and navigated labor disputes, global growth, and modernization.
✅ The Edmonton Oilers’ near-record winning streak shows improved depth, defensive structure, and leadership from stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
✅ Craig MacTavish emphasizes how facing adversity shapes playoff success and builds championship resilience.
✅ Behind-the-scenes insights on player acquisitions, trade strategies, and maintaining competitive balance in the salary cap era.
✅ A nostalgic look at how the NHL All-Star Game has evolved over the decades.
LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms.
👉 YouTube
👉 TikTok
🧊 MeiGray: Get authentic game-worn NHL jerseys at MeiGray.com. Use code WRAP10 for 10% off for NHL Wraparound listeners!
👖 DUER: Upgrade your wardrobe with premium performance denim at shopduer.com/NHLFAN. Use code NHLFANfor 15% off your order.
Craig MacTavish (born August 15, 1958) is a Canadian hockey executive and former NHL player, coach, and GM. A four-time Stanley Cup champion, MacTavish played 17 seasons in the NHL with the Boston Bruins, Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, Philadelphia Flyers, and St. Louis Blues. Known as the last NHL player to skate without a helmet, he later coached the Oilers from 2000–2009 and held coaching and management roles across the league and internationally.
#NHL #Hockey #Podcast #CraigMacTavish #EdmontonOilers #StanleyCup #ConnorMcDavid #NHLPlayoffs #NHLCoaching #GaryBettman #HockeyPodcast #SportsPodcast #Leadership #HockeyHistory #NHLAllStarGame #OilersNation #NHLFans #HockeyTalk #NHLWraparound