But what would a potential positive COVID result mean for the fans, for their NHL clubs, for their mental health, and for their bank balance?

On this episode of NHL Fans From Afar, Clare & Jolon debate:

Are players selfish if they want to go play in the Olympics?

With more postponements and players entering COVID protocol across America & Canada, is it time for the NHL to bring back the taxi squad?

Vancouver Canucks kick up the arse clearly worked… ! But how? Could they turn it around and still bag a playoff spot?

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. 

Produced by ASFB Productions.

Tweet us @NHLFansFromAfar

Montreal have fired their longstanding GM and we look at what's next for a team which were only a few games away from lifting the cup last season.

Some big names have found themselves on the waiver wire and heading to the AHL including a two time Stanley Cup winning goaltender.

Plus as both our hosts teams are currently on winning streaks, there was a bit of Dallas Stars and Maple Leaf chat for good measure too.

Your hosts this week are Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day.

Second period: Covid-19 strikes again. Ottawa Senators get some ice time relief.

Third period: Trouble with Seattle settling in? Meanwhile, LA Kings and Anaheim Ducks are surprisingly on the up.

Presented by Clare Freeman and Craig Jones. Produced by ASFB Productions.

This week a major investigation revealed there HAD been a systemic failure in how the Chicago Blackhawks handled Kyle’s abuse in 2010, and since it was published - many of the Stanley Cup winning management from that time have resigned and been challenged on how on earth they could have let down a young player so badly.

During this NHL Fans From Afar, we look back at the past, the present and potential future impact this story is likely to have in the sport of ice hockey. Not just in Chicago - but in the players union, the league and in the business of life.

We will add if you are upset or triggered by us talking about sexual abuse, please pause or skip this episode if need be. And of course - like Kyle - we will always encourage you to reach out for help if you’re affected by this subject. The Samaritans are brilliant - reach out to them via phone on 116123 or samaritans.org for support.

Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker & Craig Jones. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Episode title courtesy of Edmonton Oilers’ Leon Draisaitl, commenting on Connor McDavid practicing his one-timers.

Also, we all wanna drive a Zamboni now that Brady Tkachuk AND Cam Atkinson’s grandma did…

Kudos to Patrik Laine for his pre-game fashion too. Ovechkin’s tinted visor is so old skool now.

On this episode of NHL Fans From Afar - 

1st period: Week One of the 2020/21 Season - what do we know so far? Shutouts, shootouts & milestones!

2nd period: Evander Kane fakes vaccination card & is suspended, what’s his future like with the San Jose Sharks? Plus wider look at the impact unvaccinated players & positive tests are having on the league already.

3rd period: Suspensions, weirdness & bizarre penalties. Including a head butt, a kick goal and bench minor for stopping the puck going to the crowd.

OT: as teams relax pre-game dress code, Clare wants to see MORE personality.

Support an NHL team and live outside of North America too? Come join us on twitter @nhlfansfromafar or email us nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com New NFFA episodes out fortnightly. Presented by Clare Freeman, Matt Day and Craig Jones. Produced by ASFB Productions.

On this ep of NHL Fans From Afar -

1st period: Off-season recap, if you’ve been on a desert island for the last few months, what do you need to know?

2nd period: Who the F are the Seattle Kraken?

3d period: Dipping our toe into the murky waters behind Robin Lehner’s tweets and Jack Eichel’s situation with Buffalo Sabres.

Overtime: Craig asks why is there still no UK TV deal in place with just a week until the season starts?

Support an NHL team and live outside of North America too? Come join us on twitter @nhlfansfromafar or email us nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com

It's nothing new that great goaltending has always been key in keeping an NHL team's silverware hopes alive, but it seems that both New York Islanders and Vegas Golden Knights are keeping up their success with some impressive stats and scoring opportunities from their defensemen...

We pick about the painful end of seasons for Colorado Avalanche and Boston Bruins. Plus, are all Canadians pinning their validity of the North Division on the Canadiens?!

And two new coaches - one for Columbus Blue Jackets and New York Rangers. Control wise, what should we expect of the upcoming off season?

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

It looks like Colorado Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights are going to go the full hog in their series...

Could Tampa Bay Lightning shutdown Carolina Hurricanes in game 5 or 6?

And say what.... Montreal Canadiens SWEEP Winnipeg Jets and take a 7 game winning streak in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs....

Contains conversions about boa constrictors and continued misery for Toronto Maple Leafs' fans. We're still bitter, sorry.

NHL Fans From Afar is presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

44 - end: Toronto Maple Leafs bitch fest. Is GM Kyle Dubas to blame or this is on the players?

Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker & Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Washington, St Louis Blues & Edmonton are out...

With Minnesota, Florida Nashville & NYI making impressive comebacks...

Plus there was THAT game between Toronto and Montreal where John Tavares was injured and left the ice on a stretcher...

Jolon and Clare pick apart the week that just was, as well as cast an eye over Team GB Ice Hockey's progress in the IIHF World Championships. (Can you see Spiky the IIHF Mascot's resemblance to Sonic the Hedgehog too?!)

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

In the meantime, the rest of the grown ups are already deep in the mud of round one in the 2021 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. 

There’s some big match ups too - it’s crazy to think that Washington Capitals OR Boston Bruins won’t progress to round two! New York Islanders are already giving Pittsburgh Penguins a run for their money, and surprise wild card Minnesota Wild beat Las Vegas Golden Knights in game one? More than half of games played so far have finished in overtime…

As Clare gets set for her first vaccine the same night that Toronto Maple Leafs enter the playoffs, she admits she’s not sure which she’s dreading more…Plus as Latvia prepares to host Team GB Ice Hockey team and friends from this Friday, Jolon continues to reminisce about his trip to the IIHF World Championships in 2019.

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions. 

So the Stanley Cup Playoff berths have been set… Woo. But when will round one start?!

It was a busy week - head coaches John Tortorella and Rick Tocchet as well as NYR's GM AND their president all said bye bye...

Connor McDavid bagged 100 points AND there was a mass brawl in New York.

Plus, where next for Jack Eichel, and what connects Toronto Maple Leaf GM Kyle Dubas with Manchester City’s manager Pep Guardiola?

Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.

It’s the final dash to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for Nashville Predators vs Dallas Stars and St Louis Blues vs Arizona Coyotes. 

Plus, why are the Winnipeg Jets tanking?

There’s heartbreak for New York Rangers who gift New York Islanders their playoff berth AND the pleasure of a shutout.

Connor McDavid is in the playoffs! Hurrah! Edmonton Oilers fans are finally feeling optimistic. 

We’ve respect for Ryan Miller who hangs up his skates as a goalie playing 18 seasons in the NHL.

Carolina Hurricanes contracts on hold until all backroom staff are secure too, or so says their head coach Rod Brind’Amour.

Plus a few thoughts on the cancellation of the Women’s World Hockey Championships, as Hilary Knight says the last minute move was yet "another reminder that women's hockey continues to be treated as an afterthought."

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Pic - Tom Wilson flexing in the penalty box, during ‘that’ game against New York Rangers.

We recap on where the land lies for Stanley Cup Playoff berths, with continued races in several of the divisions for those 4th spots.

Plus, what does the Turner Sports and EPSN deals mean for us watching NHL outside North America? Will the ESPN+ app go global? Or will it mean we have to pay more money for more separate subscriptions in the long term…?

Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Will Arizona Coyotes tip St Louis Blues? Will Nashville Predators take out a battered and bruised Dallas Stars team?

Over in the East, the seedings are all to play for between Washington Capitals, New York Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins. But who will take the fourth spot - Boston Bruins or New York Rangers?

And in the North, could this weekend's three game series between Montreal Canadiens and Calgary Flames be a key decider in whether the Habs can hold on to fourth in the division a little longer?

Also, a new man crush has been forever carved in NHL history, as San Jose Sharks' Patrick Marleau takes the crown for the most number of NHL games played from Gordie Howe.

And could there be a drafting nightmare as the OHL cancels its season?

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Pic credit: Brandon Magnus/NHLI via Getty Images

Matt has a rant about how unfair it is that Vancouver Canucks get a 7 day extension to their regular season, unlike his team Dallas Stars. 

After a couple of decent deals for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Jolon is even feeling chipper and upbeat when defending NHL player safety.

And Clare admits she’s still scratching her beard over how cap space can be rented out between teams, especially the three way deals. It’s like the most confusing game of Monopoly you’ve ever played…

Features chat about Minnesota Wild, Washington Capitals, Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Buffalo Sabres and more.

NHL Fans From Afar Podcast is presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Plus, ever named your pet after an ice hockey player? Jolon needs help naming his new puppy with a connection to the Toronto Maple Leafs...but needs to find a clever one so his fiance can't catch him out! And Clare has some pretty cool blue and white news of her own...

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Dallas Stars fan and NFFA regular Matt Day joins Jolon to talk about the upcoming NHL Trade Deadline. They look at who is buying, selling or sticking with their rosters ahead of the deadline on April 12th. Also how will Covid and the Kraken effect this years deadline.

The boys take a wander through the Goalie market and try to find out what's wrong with the Flyers.

And take a second to remember just what watching live sports was like as today is the day 3 years ago Matt went to his first ever live Dallas game.

All this and much more!

Either way, Boston Bruins responded with a 5-1 win after Brandon Carlo exited the game. Eventually the Washington Capitals' winger was suspended for seven games. It’s hard for Toronto Maple Leafs’ fans Clare and Jolon to deny even they had a smidge of sympathy for Brad Marchand… But it did leave us wondering, what actually happens during a ’Player Safety Hearing’?

New York Islanders and Carolina Hurricanes continue to storm ahead, whilst Buffalo Sabres seem unable to dig themselves out of a deep dark hole.

Plus, coaching switches for Calgary Flames and Montreal Canadiens, a change of direction for GB’s NHL potential Liam Kirk and some reflections on the women’s role within hockey - both in the game and on air…

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

The league is still going (just), but what’s surprised you most about the NHL 2021 season so far?

The NHL Fans From Afar team discuss surprises at Minnesota Wild, Buffalo Sabres and Carolina Hurricanes.

Matt has a valid moan about the terrible upcoming schedule for Dallas Stars...So far, they're the team who've played this least number of games this season.

What's St Louis Blues goalie Jordan Binnington's beef?

And speaking of Kanes, a bit of family fortunes...some surprising relations revealed that perhaps you didn't (or maybe did) know.

Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Does the 1,000 games player marker do it for you? That’s after Sidney Crosby chalked up his name in the record books.

From whales to ‘turd burgers’... Should retro jerseys be a think of the past or remembered with fondness for years to come?!

Plus we’re joined by someone far more knowledgeable and sensible than us - Craig from Covering The Puck Podcast who’s of the Colorado Avalanches persuasion.

Apology in advance: Clare’s got her wooden spoon out and Jolon goes on one about back up back ups.

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Picture credit: Getty

How Brad Marchand and Mika Zibanejad settled another post warm up stare off with a game of rock, scissors and paper…

There’s more on Brian Burke and Ron Hextall’s appointments happening over at the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Clare magically morphs a San Jose Sharks goalie with one from Carolina Hurricanes… #fail

Meanwhile Jolon doesn’t seem to be swooning over the NHL’s valentine’s day cards…

But speaking of love, do you love the Las Vegas Golden Knights GOLDEN helmets?! (Pic credit goes to them by the way)

And why are the Montreal Canadiens nicknamed the Habs?

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

The Penguins hire a new GM in Ron Hextall & a new President of Hockey Ops Brian Burke.

The surprise retirement of former Minnesota Wild captain and 16 year NHL veteran Mikko Koivu.

Loads of Columbus Blue Jackets chat around Laine, Torts and the crazy goal that wasn't a goal but was a goal thanks to a trainee video technician messing up on the comms to the refs.

Matt brings us up to speed on the Central division and then James follows up with an update from the Honda West!

Presented by Jolon Kemp Walker

Produced by ASFB Productions

He may be ‘free’ for a quick trade, but would you want Tony DeAngelo in your locker room? He’s on waivers after a dispute (and supposed punch-up) with New York Rangers.

Are plus/minus figures a load of bollocks? That’s after Connor McDavid finishes Edmonton Oilers 8-5 win over Ottawa Senators with a -1!

Plus, pandas and Brent Burns’ teeth… Because - why not?

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Photo credit: Washington Capitals

Washington Capitals are fined by the NHL for hanging out in their hotel room...Yet Dallas Stars (and two other clubs) are allowing fans in their stadiums to watch?!

The NHL also suspends former Arizona Coyotes GM, John Chayka, for the remainder of 2021. But why? James Reeves fills us in.

And if you could have two NHL players/managers - dead or alive, current or retired - round for a dinner party, who would you pick?

Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Photo credit: CBS Sports

Plus should professional athletes jump the queue for the COVID-19 vaccine? As NBA star Charles Barkley wades into the debate calling for "preferential treatment for higher tax payers", former NHL GM Brian Burke says he agrees - if it encourages more Americans to sign up for the vaccine.

And some loveliness - why a lady called Angelique Fong has been named the 21st Anaheim Duck.

On Episode 2 of Season 3 of NHL Fans From Afar Jolon and Clare take a poke at poor Detroit Red Wings fan and guest, Aussie Adam. Because you know, the Toronto Maple Leafs are doing ok…for the moment.

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Note: Sorry not sorry for the absolutely shocking pronunciations in this episode......

Clare Freeman is back with a pointless NHL quiz, Matt Day is crying into his Yorkshire tea because of trouble brewing ALREADY in Dallas camp, and Jolon Kemp Walker remains as optimistic as ever about Toronto Maple Leafs upcoming season...well, for now at least.

We talk big news injuries, outdoor games announcements, helmet sponsorship AND we hear the hopes and dreams of fans from Chicago Blackhawks, Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, New York Rangers, Dallas Stars, Calgary Flames, AND Detroit Re Wings persuasions…

Episode 1 of Season 3 of NHL Fans From Afar is go!

Produced by ASFB Productions.

Picture credit: NHL.com (Pic of Lake Tahoe)

ASFB Productions.

What next for Dallas Stars & Khudobin? Can they afford to keep him in Texas? ‘That’ press conference held by Jamie Benn…

And how will the finance work for the 2021 season? We look ahead to the 112 UFAs as of next week, consider whether owners will even want to splash out in difficult economic times and debate on whether the power is in fact in the players’ hands to decide on a season comeback date… And the New York Rangers wave bye bye to Henrik Lundqvist as the goalie market becomes hotter than ever, setting the scene for some juicy off-season Hokey Cokey.

NHL Fans From Afar podcast is presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Photo credit: Jason Franson/The Canadian Press via The Associated Press

They say it’s unlikely you’ll ever see stars at the same time as lightning but that’s what will be on our screens for the next week as Dallas and Tampa Bay meet in Edmonton for the Stanley Cup Final 2020.

Each have a chance to win the Stanley Cup for the second time, and they'll play in the first ever Stanley Cup Final held in a neutral building in front of no fans... And man, will the winning team bloody deserve it.

Clare, Jolon and Matt reflect on more overtime madness in the Eastern and Western Conference finals, on whether Vegas Golden Knights and New York Islanders did themselves proud, and make some silly predictions on what might happen next. (Mostly we're left wondering whether Matt the Dallas fan will survive another week of broken sleep, more late minute comebacks and the potential arrival of his first child!)

Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Photo credit: Jon Cooper and Rick Bowness snapped 5 years ago behind the bench as coach and assistant coach for Tampa Bay Lightning, during a game on Fox Sport. 

In the East - will it be the team who play their first conference final in 27 years, or the club which shows up for the fourth time in 6 years who progresses?

Over in the West - it’s tight….as we reflect on how Vancouver Canucks shocked fans all over North America, with a very respectable bow out in the second round.

Dan from Chester, a UK flyers fan joins Clare and Jolon to depict what was a mad second round of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs against New York Islanders. Is Carter Hart the goalie Philadelphia Flyers have been waiting for? And what should we expect from the off season goalie market? The NFFA team debate whether we’ve seen the end of the $10million goalie contracts…

And a recorded message from Matt the Dallas Stars fan. How’s he holding up after 7 weeks of barely any sleep and a game one win against Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference final?

Note: Contains some occasional disgruntled moaning about the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Photo credit: Flyers' Carter Hart in the Toronto bubble by Mark Blinch @mblinch

Produced by ASFB Productions.

To ensure this wasn't 60 mins of pure "What will the Leafs do next season?" "Where is the right hand defenceman they need so much!?" and "Would the Avs trade us Cale Makar and Kadri back for a conditional 3rd round pick!?" Jolon was joined by James Reeve who writes about the Arizona Coyotes (He's also a Leafs fan but who isn't deep down!) and NFFA regular and Dallas Stars fan Matt Day.

We cover:

The insane 5 OT Columbus vs Tampa game.

Goalie Tandems

1st Round Reactions (easier than predictions)

Coyotes Deep Dive

And our weekly Stars check in.

Produced by ASFB Productions and Picture from NBC Sports.

So with no Sidney Crosby, Auston Matthews or Connor McDavid...what IS there to look forward to in the Stanley Cup Playoffs 2020?!

Barry Trotz of New York Islanders is set to face his old team Washington Capitals, plus will there be revenge/history repeating itself as Tampa Bay Lightning/Columbus Blue Jackets and Carolina Hurricanes/Boston Bruins meet again for the second playoff season in a row?

Go easy on these two broken hearted long suffering Toronto Maple Leafs fans...

Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker & Matt Day unpack what was and what could be in the upcoming first playoff round. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day pick apart the opening games of the round robin/play-in series for NHL’s 2019/2020 Stanley Cup run.  NHL Fans From Afar is produced by ASFB Productions.

Photo credit: Colorado Avalanches’ team look on in amazement as Nadeem Kadri takes the game winning goal against St Louis Blues during the round robin series. This shot from Getty photographer Dave Sandford says it all!

Will it be a case of youth and enthusiasm vs experienced veterans? Who were the winners and losers of a season reset? Will the more offensive teams cruise through the play-in round like in October?

Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Matt Day talk NHL broadcast expectations (especially the European friendly game times!), reflect on the pantomime of last month’s draft lottery and discuss whether Seattle Kraken has already struck gold because of the CBA extension.

Warning: Contains some what-may-become silly predictions on East and West play-in series results and seeding orders. Because at this point in the year that is 2020 - who knows what could happen next?!

NHL Fans From Afar podcast is made by ASFB Productions. 

Photo credit: Washington Capitals’ snap of Alexander Ovechkin arriving at the Toronto NHL Bubble, July 2020.

New York Islanders’ fan Rob McGregor and Vancouver Canucks’ supporter Andy Giddings join NHL Fans From Afar host Clare Freeman to talk best/worst limited edition jerseys plus the latest rumblings on what next for Hockey Night In Canada’s first intermission.

Produced by ASFB Productions. Email us: NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com

Picture Credit: Dallas Stars 2020 Winter Classic Limited Edition Jerseys

Plus more NHL Trivia featuring penguins and brothers. We love weird quirkies and stats, send us some here NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com or on twitter @NHLFansFromAfar.

Produced by ASFB Productions. Picture Credit: Pittsburgh Penguins. (But I can't tell you what it's of because that will give away a secret revealed in the episode.)

We find out why PK Subban dressed up as the New Jersey Devils mascot for the team’s halloween party, why the number seven keeps appearing everywhere, and what does grandma’s ham have to do with morning skates? No it’s not a bad dad joke… Just a little story Pittsburgh Penguin’s coach Mike Sullivan had to share.

NHL Fans From Afar host Clare Freeman is joined by Dallas Stars fan Matt Day and English ice hockey media guru/long-suffering Toronto Maple Leafs fan Craig Simpson.

Produced by ASFB Productions. Picture credit: Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin - NHL's China ambassador.

Philadelphia Flyer’s mascot Gritty made an appearance in The Simpsons, we peruse Arizona Coyotes’ unusual choice of locker room anthems, our listener Jeff sent a postcard from ‘that’ game against Boston Bruins in Toronto over the weekend, and we discuss what to make of Las Vegas Golden Knights’ Valentin Zykov’s 20 game suspension for violating the NHL’s drug policy.

Plus a bit of old fashioned NHL trivia! Full geek out status for this NHL Fans From Afar with Clare Freeman, James Reeve and Ross Shaw-Mellor.

Paul Lawson, long-standing Carolina Hurricanes fan and Rob McGregor of One Puck Short/InGoal Magazine join Clare Freeman for another episode of the NHL Fans From Afar podcast.

There's a look across the week's news, a rant about whether the All-Star weekend is just for kids and a discussion on what could the NHL do better to love  us fans outside North America and raise the sport's profile.

Produced by ASFB Productions. Got a fan story of your own? Email us nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com

Photo credit: churchofpettersson.com 

Under new management - nearly a quarter of teams have a new boss behind the bench, but who are the 7 men and what's their history (chequered and success) with former NHL clubs?

What's the point of captaincy? And do you need one anyway? As Toronto Maple Leafs' John Tavares gets the big C sown onto his (and his tiny baby's) jersey, will we see other teams currently C-less, such as the Canucks, follow suit in coming months?

Plus, we go west... A deeper look into the Pacific and Central Divisions as Andy Giddings, our Vancouver Canucks fan and Matt Day, our Dallas Stars fan join us in the third episode of NHL Fans From Afar this season.

Presented by Clare Freeman. Produced by ASFB Productions. Want to be a guest on our show? Want to join our slack group? Email us! NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com 

Photo Credit: Gerry Cheevers iconic goalie mask (TONY TIOLO/SPORTS ILLUSTRATED) And yes we know, he's a Boston Bruins type. Sorry.

NHL Fans From Afar’s ‘resident Finnish adviser’/Sharks fan Paul Brown guests with Adam Hoy - who’s staying loyal to Detroit Red Wings, despite their lacklustre hopes for the 2019/2020 NHL season.

There’s news on contracts with Patrik Laine, Kyle Connor and Mike Rantanen.

Plus, what was on a Finnish floor ball team’s offer sheet for Colorado Avalanche’s Miko Rantanen? Let’s just say it included socks, massage vouchers and a ‘man with a quite cute daddy belly’…

Presented by Clare Freeman with Adam Hoy and Paul Brown. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Photo Credit: Jostens Professional Sports Division

Leave us a voicemail via our anchor.fm/nhlfansfromafar page, email us nhlfansfromafar@gmail.comto join our Slack group with fellow fans from across the world, and connect with us on Twitter.com/nhlfansfromafar

Produced by ASFB Productions.

Produced by ASFB Productions

Presented by Clare Freeman & Jolon Kemp Walker

But is it even possible? Statistically 61 out of 79 teams since 1939 who win game one in the final series go on to win the cup. So with the first win in the can for the Bruins is the writing already on the wall?

Jordan Binnington vs Tuukka Rask 2018/19 statswise is pretty much neck and neck.

Bruins have 6 cups already to their name, and are bookies favourites - can the Blues really continue their season upset by making a comeback from bottom of the league to cup winners with an interim coach and a rookie goalie within a few months?

The last time St Louis Blues were in the Stanley Cup final was in 1970. And guess who beat them? Bobby Orr and the Boston Bruins… Even worse, it was in a four game sweep. Ouch. (Photograph credit: Ray Lussier/AP)

Plus, there’s a message from Tom, our Edmonton Oilers fan with a reference to his team’s new coach - Dave Tippett

And Jolon finally details his first hostel dorm experience, upon returning from Slovakia and the IIHF World Championships!

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions. 

Die hard Caniac Paul Lawson lives in Scotland, but has followed his team since a chance Sega Mega Drive game purchase in the 90s. He’s been to watch them, played with some of the Stanley Cup alumni and even calls some of their past players friends. In his candid chat with host Clare Freeman, Paul explains what a difference hockey has truly made to him and his family’s life.

Sports writer Paul Brown spends his working hours following football both in the UK and in Europe. But in the early hours he’s glued to the screen necking coffees watching his beloved San Jose Sharks. With a host of rising stars, a few hungry veterans and a goalie who’s snapped back into action - is it now or never for the Sharks? Plus Paul name drops a few of his favourite Finnish players right now - notably Kaapo Kakko with his hat trick in the World Championships. (pictured, credit: Petr David Josek AP)

And Mark Rackham aka Mark UK Leaf takes a few minutes out of his AHL Playoff coverage to discuss what next for Toronto Maple Leafs, the Stanley Cup playoffs so far and Team GB’s rise to the IIHF World Championships out in Slovakia. Read more of Mark’s writing here: ukhockeyfan.wordpress.com and mapleleafshotstove.com/toronto-marlies/ 

Presented by Clare Freeman, featuring Paul Lawson, Paul Brown, Mark Rackham. Produced by ASFB Productions. Email us for an invite to our slack group: nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com or tweet us @nhlfansfromafar 

Lots of Dallas Stars talk as they head into Game 7 with the Blues. New GM in Edmonton, same coach in Toronto and how officiating in the playoffs has left us scratching our heads at times. 

Carolina Hurricanes are holding on (just) with a 2-0 series lead in their second round, but with injuries left right and centre, will New York Islanders find the 'kick'start they need to spin an epic comeback?

Dallas Stars trail by one in their series with St Louis Blues - we're all scratching our beards wondering how rookie Jordan Binnington is keeping the Blues in the running with no prior playoff hockey experience  on a minimum wage contract?!

Great hands, speed and shots galore continue for San Jose Sharks second round series - currently tied with Colorado Avalanches. The man all the NHL stars are talking about and watching? Nathan MacKinnon...

'Almost rejects' Sergei Bobrovski and Anteri Panaren continue their magic for Columbus Blue Jackets - tied one a piece with the team Jolon and Clare can't barely talk about right now.

Plus Vezina Trophy, your round 2 predictions and references to waffles and bananas...

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions. Email NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com to join our slack group!

How are Clare and Jolon’s heart rates as history repeats itself with Boston and Toronto going to game 7… In part two of the podcast, listen to them as-live watching the final minutes of the game!

Elsewhere, we kissed goodbye to the chances of an all-Canadian Stanley Cup final as Winnipeg and Calgary crashed out in the first round with St Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, Columbus Blue Jackets AND Colorado Avalanches all defying the bookies and critics.

Dallas Stars and Nashville Predators tied at game six, but the Stars went on to clinch their space in the next round tweeting ‘this is what it feels to be alive’ moments after winning in overtime.

They’ve not made the playoffs in a decade, and now the Carolina Hurricanes may end up knocking out last year’s champions out in the first round…with a feisty exit for Alex Ovechkin too! Will Washington Capitals meet their former coach Barry Trotz and the New York Islanders in the second round?

San Jose Sharks and Las Vegas Knights had an absolute goal fest in their first round and now (as we record this podcast) sit tied 3 a-piece. Will Las Vegas prove their inaugural season wasn’t just a fluke or will Eric Karlsson’s team get a stab at their first ever Stanley Cup?

And a clean sweep left the President Trophy winners’ Tampa Bay Lightning AND Sidney Crosby’s Pittsburgh Penguins saying see ya later?! Destroying all of our NHL brackets in one clean swoop.

So will CBJ go all the way? There’s mixed thoughts on our twitter poll!

Hosted by Clare Freeman & Jolon Kemp Walker. Featuring Pittsburgh Penguins fan Georgie Hunt and a surprise guest on the phone at the end… Produced by ASFB Productions.

To join like-minded folk who love watching the NHL but live outside of North America, email us for an invite to our closed slack workspace: NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com

Plus new kid on the block for Colorado Avalanches, Cale Makar, became the seventh player in NHL history and first defenceman to score a goal while making his debut in the Stanley Cup playoffs - and it was a game-winner!  Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker, Steven Edwards and Mark Rackham host. Produced by ASFB Productions. 

Join our slack group to chat playoffs with like minded NHL fans living outside North America. Email NHLFansFromAfar@gmail.com for an invite.

Columbus Blue Jackets have never ever won a playoff round, Carolina Hurricanes are to make their first post season appearance in a decade and only one team has won both the President's Trophy AND the Stanley Cup in the same season in the last decade (Chicago Blackhawks in 2013) - so does that mean that Tampa Bay Lightning aren't guaranteed a done deal?

With 8 match ups across east and west, how do you go about organising your playoff watching schedule? Will you sacrifice sleep or slip away if your team takes an early exit?

Clare and Jolon preview this year's playoffs with some wild predictions, a bet and a handful of stats.

Plus there's more changes to head coach positions at the end of the season. Is Joel Quenville's new job with Florida Panthers a record breaking contract? And what exactly will Ken Hitchcock's role be with Edmonton Oilers going forwards?

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It looks like it’ll be right down to the last game...which unfortunately for this week’s guest - Dave our Habs fan - one of the deciding meet ups happens to be against Jolon & Clare’s team Toronto Maple Leafs. Oops!

There’s a dance over in the West Conference too - as Winnipeg, Nashville & St Louis have all made the cut for a playoff berth but it’s still all to play for in final positioning. And will Colorado Avalanche or Arizona Coyotes make the final wildcard spot?

Plus, was Paul Byron was right to say yes to dropping the gloves with Florida Panthers’ MacKenzie Weegar? A move which cost him several games and concussion at a crucial time for the Habs...

And, as the NHL draft lottery order is about to be announced - who the heck is Jack Hughes anyway?!

Presented by Clare Freeman & Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

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Picture credit: Rena Laverty/USA Hockey's NTDP

It's all to play for with just 5 or 6 games left in the regular season, and chances are if you're a Dallas Stars, Colorado Avalanches, Arizona Coyotes, Minnesota Wild, Carolina Hurricanes, Montreal Canadiens or Columbus Blue Jackets fan - you'll be feeling it right now!

With Clare in a hotel on the road in Newcastle, Steven in a his spare room in that London and Jolon making an appearance from a very special location in Toronto - it's an exciting week rounding up what has been and could be for the final few days of the 2018/19 NHL season.

The week that Carolina Hurricanes played basketball and fishing on ice, St Louis Blues scored three goals against Tampa Bay Lightning in 75 seconds and John Tavares broke a personal AND Toronto Maple Leafs record... Plus Steven has a rant about the global series skipping London (again).

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Presented by Clare Freeman and Steven Edwards. Produced by ASFB Productions. Picture credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

Nine games left of the regular season, as Tampa Bay Lightning clinch the a playoff space and the Presidents’ Trophy - is it inevitable they’ll go on to win the Stanley Cup?

What happens when we phone Toronto’s video room whilst recording our podcast...

Plus your hockey film recs and can a player still be classed as ‘great’ if they’ve no accolades to their name?

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Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

The pace of hockey feels different this week... with the playoffs just round the corner, it seems things have massively changed since we sketched our  playoff bracket in December. Which teams are surprising us? Which teams have disappointed us?

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"Lying, snake, traitor, pyjama boy...” those were the words used by a handful of New York Islander fans describing John Tavares on a video released before their meet up with Toronto Maple Leafs last Thursday. The leafs went on to tank that game, but then days later something magic happened - the whole of Toronto stood tall and reassured JT that he is loved in his new home - the Scotiabank Arena.  

And we reach out to a Detroit Red Wings supporter who is truly an NHL fan afar... Adam listens to our podcast from the Sunshine Coast of Australia. He reveals his predicament of supporting ice hockey in a hot climate - including having to turn up the air con just to wear his jersey whilst watching hockey fans in Canada shiver at the Winter Classic...!   

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions. Join our Slack group! Email nhlfansfromafar@gmail.com for an invite. 

Deals coming through right up to the wire, and a few cheeky ones still trickling in after the bell... This year's deadline certainly included a few surprises.

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Is Hockey Night In Canada’s Don Cherry right to poo poo Carolina Hurricane’s game celebrations on national tv? The team have been quick to respond by making ‘Bunch Of Jerks’s T-shirt’s from a Cherry quote!

Which teams do you most like to watch - other than your own?

And with 82 games in the regular season, is there such thing as follower fatigue when supporting NHL from afar? How do you keep dialled in when your team takes a nose dive?

Who deserves your man crush of the week vote?

Also our most interactive post on our Slack group this week - are you sick of the NHL Figures advert watching on NHL Game Center too?!!!!

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Presented by Clare Freeman & Jolon Kemp Walker. Produced by ASFB Productions.

In the podcast the guys discuss.... What's happened to the Ducks? Is the Matthews contract a good contract? And if you could offer sheet any RFA for your team in the NHL, who would it be?

Plus which is your favorite player to watch who isn't on your team and both Jolon and Steven vent their frustrations at own teams ahead of them playing each other later this week. 

Presented by Jolon Kemp Walker & Steven Edwards. Produced by ASFB Productions.

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As the league heads towards the trade deadline we take a look at who's going to be buying and who could be big sellers come February 25th.

Our fan this week is Georgie Hunt who is a Penguins fan based in Norwich (Which is 'officially' the city furthest away from an ice rink in the UK!). She also has a very cool story as to how she became a fan of this great league. 

Clare took a week off this week so Steven Edwards rejoins Jolon Kemp Walker for your weekly dose of NHL Fans From Afar. 

Oh and yes, it happened again.... hours after recording this podcast the Leafs make a signing! Auston Matthews is a Leaf for the next 5 seasons, but fear not this will just give Jolon a chance to calm down and compose himself ahead of next weeks pod!  

Presented by Jolon Kemp Walker & Steven Edwards. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Join our slack group email and talk NHL all week! NHLfansfromafar@gmail.com  

Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated, Kevin Sousa. 

Also, is age just a number? Should you be worried if your team is in a slump right now? And what the hell is happening at Edmonton Oilers?!

Plus new feature - Man Crush of The Week.

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. 

Produced by ASFB Productions. 

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Photo credit: Getty Images.

How much is too much for a goalie? Sergei Bobrovsky is rumoured to be wanting big bucks for his new contract in summer. But should he stay at Colombus Blue Jackets?

And, are bench temper tantrums ever OK? After Av’s Nathan MacKinnon publicly let rip at his coach Jared Bednar during a game v the Calgary Flames.

Daily Star sports journalist Paul Brown is this week’s NHL Fans From Afar guest. He explains why he loves Team Finland, and the San Jose Sharks.

Presented by Clare Freeman and Jolon Kemp Walker. 

Produced by ASFB Productions.

Nathan MacKinnon Photo credit: Candice Ward, USA TODAY Sports

Jolon mostly cries, gets sent out the room because he refused to watch until he gets home later. Whilst Clare and Steve are forced to bite their lip every time they see a goal or penalty as the follow the action during recording. 

With Steve sporting a new slimline haircut and Clare a new hair colour, it seems apt to call this episode New Year, New Haircut as even Toronto Maple Leafs’ William Nylander asked his auntie to give him a short back and sides over Christmas. And with new starts, we wipe the slate clean and dream big for year ahead…

We ponder our one wish for our teams for the remainder of the season, and question what the heck was going on with Dallas Stars after ‘that’ incident involving Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin over the holiday period. The Athletic's Sean Shapiro explains what it was like to get the call and be at that 25 minute press conference as Stars management went on an "expletive-laden tirade"...

Plus who are you sad to see left out of the All-Star line up, and why Steven wants the Washington Capitals’ player Tom Wilson to clean up his act or leave the NHL for good…

Presented by Clare Freeman, Jolon Kemp Walker and Steven Edwards. Produced by ASFB Productions.

Pic credit: Nordy Wild, Minnesota Wild's mascot and his mad mullet.

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