The Pipeline Show Aug23 2024

·1 hr 18 min·5 clips

Hear from future NHL stars across Germany, Sweden, Finland, and the CHL in a rapid-fire introduction to hockey's next generation.

The episode opens with a montage of international hockey voices, setting the stage for a show focused on future NHL talent. Host Guy Flaming provides news updates, including a major prospect trade between Winnipeg and Pittsburgh involving Rutger McGroarty and Braden Yager. He notes CHL training camps are opening, with preseason games already underway in the QMJHL. Flaming previews two lengthy interviews for the episode. The first guest is Dan Neer, the new commissioner of the Western Hockey League. Neer discusses his transition into the role, his vision to increase the WHL's national profile, and frustrations with limited TV exposure. He talks about wanting to better showcase alumni like Connor Bedard and double down on family entertainment. Neer addresses the new CHL-USA Prospects Challenge exhibition games and the ongoing lawsuit regarding NCAA eligibility for CHL players, defending the WHL's scholarship program. He also responds to a listener complaint about outdated online team rosters. The second guest is Dean Millard, former co-host of the Pipeline Show. Millard explains his current role as production manager for 4 Vengeance Media under the Silent Ice umbrella, which includes the JPHL, HSL, and FSL independent leagues. He details the JPHL's borderless hockey model and its universal affiliation with the BCHL, allowing call-ups. Millard highlights 14-year-old prospect Liam Pue, predicting he could be a first-overall draft pick. He also describes the new Silent Ice Center in Nisku and upcoming arena projects. The episode concludes with Flaming teasing next week's WHL team previews and promoting the show's Patreon.

As heard by us

A brisk, practical look at how a Canada-U.S. prospects showcase could widen junior hockey's audience.

The Pipeline Show gives junior hockey's off-ice machinery a focused, practical airing, with Guy Fleming guiding the discussion toward how the Western Hockey League and the CHL keep players and alumni visible beyond game nights.

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Why you'd press play

You want junior hockey with a Canada-U.S. edge and a new prospects event to keep on your radar.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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