The FAN Morning Show
Start your day with Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning in the mornings! The guys tackle everything Toronto sports and beyond live on Sportsnet 590 The FAN weekdays from 6am-9am ET.
What's Left for the Leafs + Blue Jays' Big Moment
Brent and Daniele continue to dissect the NHL offseason and the start of free agency with a focus on the effect of it all on the Maple Leafs. The hosts enlist the help of Sportsnet NHL writer and Leafs reporter, Luke Fox, to break it all down. They get into their main takeaways from Mitch Marner’s intro presser in Vegas, where it all fell apart in Toronto, and what’s left on the agenda to help replace the loss and make the Leafs a better team heading into next season. Next today’s a.m. duo turn their attent...
Are the Leafs Better This July 1st Than Last Year
Brent & Daniele analyze NHL Free Agency, focusing on the Maple Leafs' offseason. They discuss whether Toronto is improved compared to last year, noting solid progress on defense but ongoing questions about the top 6 forwards. The hosts explore remaining free agents and potential upgrades from GM Brad Treliving. They also chat with Jason Bukala (29:56) from Sportsnet about the current landscape following Marner's departure and the re-signing of key forwards. The trio reviews notable moves and signings in the NHL since the draft and the start of free agency.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those...
Marner Golden in Vegas + Jays Keep Winning
Brent and guest host Daniele dive into the marquee free agent of the year, Mitch Marner, during his introductory press conference as a Golden Knight in Vegas. They discuss insights from Marner and VGK GM Kelly McCrimmon about the move and how it suits him. The duo also touches on key Day 1 free agency moves that impacted the Leafs before switching gears to the Blue Jays, who are on a winning streak and just a game behind the division leaders. They highlight standout performances from players like Springer, Clement, and Giminez (33:42).
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What's Left in NHL Free Agency + Marner on the Move
Ben and Brent reset on the NHL free agent market amidst Sportsnet’s Signing Season coverage today. The hosts welcome on the man who will be leading the national network show, SN’s very own, David Amber. The trio look back on all the news that broke yesterday including the moves made by the Maple Leafs, Golden Knights and Panthers, before sorting through the names still left on the board. Next, the a.m. duo get an outside perspective on what we’ve seen take place around the NHL leading up to noon today alongside ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski (23:10). They cha...
More Free Agency News + Marner’s TML Legacy
Ben & Brent discuss recent news in hockey, focusing on Alex Pietrangelo stepping away from the game and its implications for VGK and Mitch Marner's arrival. They also analyze Evan Bouchard's new deal with the Oilers, Connor McDavid's perspective, and what it means for the team's free agency plans. Additionally, they connect with Leafs historian Damien Cox (23:05) to review Toronto's offseason moves, including new contracts from Brad Treliving and the impact of Marner's departure on his legacy.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the...
NHL Free Agency Over Before It Starts + Blue Jays Best Game Yet
Ben & Brent kick off NHL Signing Season with big news, focusing on Mitch Marner's eight-year deal moving from Toronto to the Golden Knights. They discuss Bill Zito’s successful return of key UFAs Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Brad Marchand in Florida, analyzing their contracts and other news (e.g., Pietrangelo, Bouchard) while exploring remaining options for the Leafs. The conversation then shifts to the Blue Jays, celebrating a crucial win over the Yankees in what was likely their best game of the season and discussing what went right for Toronto (14:50).
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Free Agent Watch + Jays Litmus Test
In the final hour, Ben and Brent are joined by Frank Seravalli, President of Hockey Content at Daily Faceoff They break down the looming tampering threat being levied by the Maple Leafs, how the NHL might react to the unique situation, the repercussions of tampering, and other potential free agency targets in Toronto's sights. Later, MLB Network’s Adnan Virk (30:22) joins the show as the New York Yankees come to town to face the Blue Jays. The trio dive into the importance of litmus tests in baseball, Kevin Gausman finding his footing, and Shohei Ohtani defining greatness, yet again.
...Tampering Talk + Moving on Without Masai
Ben and Brent bring on Gord Stellick, former Leafs General Manager and co-host of Morning Skate on SiriusXM NHL, to get his thoughts on the new deals for Tavares and Knies, who deserves the credit for the deals, tampering nuances in the NHL, and the potential Marner return from the Golden Knights. Next, Sportsnet’s Michael Grange (24:42) joins the host’s to analyze the timing of MLSE parting ways with Masai Ujiri, if the Raptors hopes for Giannis Antentokounmpo’s are over, what the Raptors President job actually entails, and where Ujiri could end up next.
The views an...
Leafs Lock Knies and Tavares + Masai’s Legacy in Toronto
Ben and Brent start the week heaping praise on John Tavares for taking a hometown discount to stay with the Maple Leafs for four more years. The duo discuss how Tavares’ new contract changes his legacy in Toronto before they turn their attention to the drama-free contract extension for 22-year-old Matthew Knies. Later, Ben and Brent hone in on reports of the Leafs and Golden Knights working towards a sign-and-trade for Mitch Marner, and the potential tampering accusation as reported by Sportnet’s Elliotte Friedman. To close the hour, they examine the departure of former Raptors President, Masai Ujiri, the...
Hall of Fame Reflections with Mats Sundin + Gausman's Response
Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning connect with Maple Leafs legend, Mats Sundin! He begins with thoughts on his former teammate Alexander Mogilny, along with fellow competitors Zdeno Chara and Joe Thornton, following their inductions to the Hockey Hall of Fame. Mats also touches on Toronto's offseason decisions ahead and his memories of playing in Canadian markets. Later, former MLB catcher turned Sportsnet Blue Jays analyst, Caleb Joseph, shares his view on Kevin Gausman's response after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was hit by yet another pitch. The trio also dive into Gausman's strong eight innings of work, Max Scherzer's outlook after...
Treliving Talks Offseason + Baseball Retaliation
Ben & Brent dive into the NHL as the draft kicks off tonight and free agency looms. They discuss the Maple Leafs’ GM's recent comments on key players like Marner, Tavares, and Knies. The duo then welcomes MLB Network’s Jon Morosi (26:47), who just returned from Italy, to dissect the Blue Jays-Guardians game, focusing on the "code" surrounding player hits and past incidents. They also explore potential trade deadline moves in the American League.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Spor...
That’s Baseball  + Toronto “Sensitive”
Ben & Brent discuss the Blue Jays' 6-0 series-clinching win over the Guardians in Cleveland. They highlight Kevin Gausman's impressive eight-inning performance and Chad Green's shutout. The hosts delve into the escalating tensions between the teams, sparked by Vladimir Guerrero Jr. being hit by a pitch for the second game in a row. They consider whether Vladdy might miss time for an upcoming series in Boston. The hour closes with a discussion on the NBA draft and the Pelicans' response to trade criticism, leading to a broader look at which Toronto sports teams are most affected by external opinions (27:24).
<...NHL News + State of the AL East
Ben and Brent follow up on their conversation last hour with Nick Kypreos by continuing to discuss some news and notes from around the National Hockey League. They discuss two trades from the hockey world yesterday with Evander Kane heading to Vancouver and the start of a potential Sabres fire sale. B&B also get into reports on a new CBA shaping up earlier than expected between the NHL and NHLPA which could include more regular season games. To close out the show, the duo check in with MLB Network’s Adnan Virk (26:55) to take a quick look around th...
Scherzer Chain Reaction + Leafs’ Big Question
Ben & Brent discuss the Blue Jays and Max Scherzer's return, with insights from Sportsnet's Shi Davidi, who was at the game. They cover Scherzer's performance, expectations for his postseason contributions, and the impact on the pitching lineup. The duo then shifts to the Leafs ahead of the NHL draft and free agency, joined by Nick Kypreos (24:18) to tackle how the team can replace Marner and Tavares, and their playoff prospects.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or...
Scherzer Optimism + Raptors Draft Reaction
Ben & Brent kick off Thursday’s show discussing the Blue Jays' loss to the Guardians, with Jose Ramirez sealing the game for Cleveland in the tenth inning. Despite the defeat, they express optimism about Max Scherzer's performance in his second start since March 29th and discuss what expectations should be moving forward. The hosts also highlight missed opportunities for the Jays and review notable pitching performances. They then shift focus to the Raptors, covering their NBA Draft picks and a player who went viral post-selection (31:08).
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the ho...
Scherzer Start Suspense + Leafs Drafting Thoughts
Ben and Brent reset on the Blue Jays with a quick look back on last night’s win. The hosts welcome on Dan Shulman, TV voice of the Blue Jays on Sportsnet, to chat about how solid Eric Lauer has been in 2025, Ernie Clement's impressive season, and what Andrés Giménez brings to the team. They then tee up Max Scherzer return to the mound tonight with thoughts on the uncertainty that surrounds him and how important he could be to the rotation moving forward. The a.m. duo then turn their attention to the Leafs with the NHL...
Leafs Inner Relationships + Hall of Fame Decisions
In the second hour, Ben & Brent discuss hockey, focusing on the Maple Leafs and their fallout with Mitch Marner. They ponder whether this will influence GM Brad Treliving's decisions, particularly regarding Morgan Rielly's no-movement clause. The hosts also celebrate Alexander Mogilny's long-awaited induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame and debate the criteria for Hall of Fame worthiness, especially for goalies like Carey Price who didn’t make the cut. They conclude with insights from former Leafs GM Gord Stellick (27:27) about the team's upcoming offseason challenges.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of th...
Lauer Power Hour as Jays Level Up
Ben & Brent kick off discussing the Blue Jays' strong start to their road trip, highlighted by a 10-6 win over the Guardians. They analyze Eric Lauer's potential as a solid rotation starter and emphasize the team's often-overlooked defensive strength, which contributes to their success. The duo also praises George Springer's crucial Grand Slam while expressing concern over the bullpen's performance and the uncertainty surrounding Max Scherzer as a starter. They wrap up the hour with a look at the upcoming NBA draft, the Celtics' strategies, and the Nuggets considering trading the Joker (32:26).
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Leafs Targets + Important Jays Stretch
Ben and Brent continue to look ahead to NHL free agency as July 1st quickly approaches. The pair focus on what the Maple Leafs need to do to "change their DNA" as GM Brad Treliving has indicated. Anthony Petrielli of Maple Leafs Hotstove joins the conversation to discuss what's next for Toronto's pending UFAs Mitch Marner and John Tavares. They also debate if the team could actually get better, even if both players are lost to the open market. Later on, Sportsnet's Joe Siddall (27:40) checks in from Cleveland ahead of the first game of the Blue Jays' road trip...
NHL Open Market + a Decentralized Draft
Ben & Brent dive into NHL chatter ahead of the draft and free agency. They discuss the pressure on Maple Leafs' GM Brad Treliving to "change the DNA" of his team, along with the new contract for Oilers' Evan Bouchard and Trevor Zegras's trade to the Flyers. Next, they welcome Sportsnet's Jason Bukala (30:51), who shares insights on the upcoming 2025 NHL Draft in L.A., the Islanders' first pick, and the slow progress of the Leafs’ offseason.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of...
Leafs Offseason Conundrums + Vlad’s Place in the League
Ben and Brent kick off The FAN Morning Show by exploring rumours around Maple Leafs' UFAs. They start with Mitch Marner, noting that Vegas is a potential frontrunner for him, and a short-term deal seems likely. Next, they address John Tavares, highlighting the lack of progress on a deal and its implications for both the team and player. They consider what it would mean for the Leafs if they lost both. The hour wraps up with a discussion on Vladimir Guerrero Jr. leading All-Star voting for first basemen, questioning whether it's due to his market power or his standing...
Gauging NHL Free Agency + MLB Trade Market
Ben and Brent reset on the NHL and what the market is looking like with July 1st quickly approaching. The hosts dive into Jonathan Toews getting set to resume his NHL career after two years away by joining the Winnipeg Jets on a bonus-heavy deal worth up to $7M. Was there a possible fit in Toronto? Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff stops by to help gauge the NHL free agent market with thoughts on John Tavares and the Panthers' UFA trio including Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand and Aaron Ekblad. Later on, Sportsnet’s own Ben Nicholson-Smith (26:00) checks in on th...
NHL Offseason Reports + NBA Finals Wrap
Ben & Brent discuss NHL offseason news following the Florida Cup parade, focusing on the Maple Leafs and John Tavares, who are reportedly far apart in contract talks. They analyze his potential market value and possible contract solutions. The duo also speculates on Brad Marchand possibly joining Toronto, weighing the pros of adding a fourth year to his deal and considering potential linemates. To wrap up, they chat with Michael Grange (22:42) from Sportsnet about the NBA Finals, including OKC's recent win, SGA's legacy, and the Eastern Conference’s outlook for next season.
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History for SGA & OKC
Ben & Brent kick off the week discussing the NBA's conclusion, with the Thunder winning their first championship, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the first Canadian to earn Finals MVP. They debate SGA's status as Canada's greatest player and explore the impact of Tyrese Haliburton's injury on the Pacers and the East next season. The duo then reflects on the Blue Jays' disappointing weekend, losing two of three games at home, and highlights a potential new “choker” in golf (32:59).
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the...
Blue Jays Relevance + McDavid's Options
Ben and Brent kick off The FAN Morning Show's final hour of the week talking Blue Jays and the team's recent run of form. Sportsnet’s own Shi Davidi joins the conversation to discuss Toronto's main needs as they near the midway mark of the season. He looks into how to address the starting rotation, why moving Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to third in the order has payed off, who (or what) could carry this team to the postseason, and the odd man out in the Jays' soon to be overcrowded outfield. To end the week, the boys revisit Connor Mc...
Cup Consequences, Leafs’ Goals + Connor’s Future
Ben & Brent analyze the NHL season, focusing on the Panthers' repeat championship and lessons for the Maple Leafs. They welcome The Star’s Damien Cox to discuss Florida’s dominance and what Toronto can emulate. The conversation shifts to the Leafs' offseason objectives and Connor McDavid's uncertain future in Edmonton, highlighting his recent comments at the end-of-season press conference about fans' concerns over his contract status (37:55).
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.
An All-Time NBA Finals + Justifying the Jays
Ben & Brent dive into the NBA Finals, focusing on the surprising Game 7 between the Pacers and Thunder, with ailing star Tyrese Haliburton still making an impact. They discuss the pressure on SGA and OKC as they chase their first title and speculate on the legacy of this Finals. The duo also touches on an NBA conspiracy theory regarding the Lakers and a star acquisition. In the latter part of the episode, they shift to the Blue Jays, analyzing Kevin Gausman's struggles and the team's recent offensive bursts, suggesting they're still competitive (33:27).
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Stanley Cup Aftermath + AL East Impressions
Ben and Brent continue to dissect the NHL world following the Panthers' back-to-back Stanley Cup victories. The hosts enlist the help of SN590’s Sam McKee to get into everything from how dominant Florida has been and how they’re constructed, to the state of the Oilers and what losing consecutive Finals means for the group, specifically Connor McDavid. Of course, the trio have to relate it back to the Leafs and how it should impact the team's offseason decisions as they try to become true contenders. Next, the a.m. pair bring on MLB Network’s Adnan Virk (31:53) to hel...
Oilers’ Offseason; Effect on the Leafs + NBA Finals Talk
Ben & Brent continue discussing the Oilers, focusing on captain Connor McDavid and the implications of losing in the Stanley Cup Final again. They ponder whether he will re-sign with Edmonton by July 1st and the concerns if he doesn't. The hosts also examine player extensions, including Frederic in Edmonton, and how this impacts NHL free agency, particularly for the Maple Leafs, who need centers. They then check in with Sportsnet's Michael Grange (22:40) in Indianapolis for insights on the NBA Finals, discussing what Indiana needs to force a Game 7 and the potential for SGA to secure OKC's first title. The...
Jays Led by Lauer & Top Guys
Ben & Brent discuss the Blue Jays' latest win, highlighting an unexpected start and the lineup's performance since Addison Barger joined the top three. They analyze Eric Lauer's outing and its potential impact on the Jays’ playoff hopes. The duo also shares insights on the NHL's investigation into the Oilers' use of LTIR with Evander Kane and the implications of the timing (13:35).
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.
Blue Jays Legends Hour with Ernie Whitt, Russell Martin & Cito Gaston + Jeremy Roenick
The final hour of The FAN Morning Show with Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning live from Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville for the Joe Carter Classic 2025, kicks off with Blue Jays legend Ernie Whitt, discussing last night’s comeback win and Addison Barger’s rise in the MLB. NHL Hall of Famer Jeremy Roenick shares insights on the Florida Panthers’ back-to-back Stanley Cup wins and free agency implications for Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand. Next, Russell Martin dives into Alejandro Kirk’s impressive season and the Jays’ promising performance. Finally, Cito Gaston reminisces about the Jays’ championship run and Ricky Henderson...
Stanley Cup Celebrations in Sunrise + Dave Stewart & Joe Carter!
The FAN Morning Show with Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning rolls on at the Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville, Ontario, on site for the 2025 Joe Carter Classic. Sportsnet's Luke Fox joins the conversation live from Sunrise, Florida, on the heels of the Florida Panthers' second-consecutive Stanley Cup victory. Luke dives to deeper into the Cats' recipe for success with thoughts on the team's depth contributions, top line talent, and to what extent they can "run it back". They wrap up with a chat about where the Edmonton Oilers go from here and this year's Conn Smythe winner, Sam...
Panthers as a Powerhouse + Living as a Leaf with Rick Vaive
The FAN Morning Show broadcasts live from Glen Abbey Golf Club for the 2025 Joe Carter Classic. Ben and Brent discuss the Panthers' back-to-back Stanley Cup wins and whether Florida should be considered a dynasty. They debate potential Hall of Famers and analyze Connor McDavid's situation after the Oilers' championship losses. Maple Leafs legend Rick Vaive joins to talk about Florida's success, the Leafs' future, and his golf game. They close the hour with James Dodds (35:06), tournament co-chair and SVP of TD Bank, discussing the event's history and its charitable impact.
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Panthers Repeat + Jays Most Exciting Win Yet
The FAN Morning Show is live from Glen Abbey Golf Club for the 2025 Joe Carter Classic. Ben & Brent kick off discussing the Stanley Cup Final, where the Panthers defeated the Oilers to repeat as champions. They highlight Sam Reinhart's four goals, the series impact of Brad Marchand, and MVP Sam Bennett, along with injury updates on key Florida players and head coach Paul Maurice's legacy. Later, they touch on the Blue Jays' thrilling comeback win and the Giants introducing Rafael Devers (31:20).
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and...
Panthers Power Players + Vladdy's Lack of Power
Ben and Brent go into the final hour of today's FAN Morning Show focused again on the Stanley Cup Final and Game 6 tonight. The hosts wonder if this could be a Connor McDavid game where he wills his Oilers into a chance at a championship. B&B bring on NHL Network’s Billy Jaffe, who has been working between the benches for this series. The trio get into how good Brad Marchand has been, the Panthers’ ability to roll lines which leads to their dominance, McDavid’s performance so far, and how Florida has limited him to a certain degree...
NHL Rumblings + Devers Aftershocks
Ben & Brent dive into NHL news in their second hour, starting with Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final in Sunrise, Florida. They discuss the Oilers' goaltending situation and its implications for Edmonton. The duo also examines the Panthers' potential for a dynasty and the financials behind it. They touch on rumors of the Leafs' interest in Mika Zibanejad as a possible 2C solution. To wrap up, they chat with Jon Morosi (26:11) from MLB Network about the surprising Rafael Devers trade by the Red Sox and its implications, along with the Blue Jays welcoming the D-Backs and former prospect Gabriel...
Thunder Close to a Title + Raptors “YOLO”
Ben & Brent start Tuesday by discussing the Thunder's close win in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, just one victory away from their first title. They analyze OKC's potential to become a dynasty based on their assets. The conversation shifts to Haliburton's off night leading to the Pacers' loss and what next season's Eastern Conference landscape might look like. They also explore potential trade candidates and whether the Raptors could bolster their contender status. The episode wraps up with Ohtani's return to the mound and the Red Sox's trade of Rafael Devers, plus a look at Olympic hockey rosters, highlighting...
NHL Free Agent Market + Blue Jays' Off-Day Reset
Ben and Brent continue the hockey talk into the final hour on Monday. The hosts welcome on Daily Faceoff insider, Frank Seravalli, to break down the Stanley Cup Final. He debates if Edmonton’s goaltending situation is one of the main reasons they’re a game away from losing the championship in consecutive years. They then look ahead to the upcoming free agent market and parse through some of the top names set to hit the market. They discuss if Brad Marchand could get a higher AAV than Sam Bennett and what Mitch Marner will be seeking. The morning duo t...
Oilers Cursed? Panthers Dynasty? Marner’s Future?
In the second hour, Ben & Brent discuss the NHL, focusing on the Stanley Cup Final where the Panthers lead the Oilers 3-2. They debate whether Edmonton is being outplayed or is cursed if they lose again. The hosts consider if the Panthers are a dynasty and how they rank among recent champions. Former NHL GM and analyst Gord Stellick joins to share insights on the series and the upcoming free agency, mentioning players like Marchand and Marner. They also explore Marner's potential short-term deal and the implications of his camp not negotiating with the Leafs, which may extend beyond...
U.S. Open Carnage & a Great Story
Ben & Brent kick off the week discussing a thrilling U.S. Open at Oakmont, highlighting J.J. Spaun's incredible win and the tough course that challenged top golfers, including Rory’s frustration with the media. They then shift to MLB, focusing on the Blue Jays, who were swept in Philadelphia, dampening the positive vibe of their road trip. The hour wraps up with news of a surprising trade involving a divisional rival's superstar (30:41).
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sp...