The Flying Octopus

In this episode of the Flying Octopus Podcast, hosts Evan Sabourin and Devin Little discuss the recent trade of Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild. They analyze the implications of the trade for both teams, the assets exchanged, and the potential impact on the Red Wings. The conversation also explores other trade targets for the Red Wings and reflects on the team's current standing and future moves.

Takeaways:

On Episode 63 of The Flying Octopus Podcast, Shane Malloy from Sirius XM NHL Radio joins the show to break down the latest on the Quinn Hughes situation in Vancouver. He gives his thoughts on what it will take to land the star defenseman in Detroit and the kind of immediate impact he would have on a team desperately looking to end a 10 year playoff drought. Plus Evan says there's already two superstars on this current Red Wings team, but pump the brakes for now. Plus Devin makes a plea for Alex Debrincat's bid to make the Team USA Olympic...

On Episode 62 of The Flying Octopus podcast, George Malik from the Malik Report and Travis Focht from Hockeytown West join us to talk all things Red Wings hockey. The boys recap Detroits 4 game losing streak and address how they can climb out of this hole. We also talk Quinn Hughes and break down what the Wings would have to give up for him.  What is wrong with John Gibson and how long is his leash? Is it time for Sebastian Cossa to get the call?  Plus the guys dig in and break down the Grand Rapid's Griffins' historic start. Al...

On Episode 61, the guys from Hockeytown West Podcast join the show to help recap the week that was in Red Wing land. Is Nate Danielson here to stay? The guys break down Marco Kasper's slow start to the season. What changes would benefit him? The Griffins are on a  historic run - Travis Focht, Nick Harrington and Brandon Cooke discuss  the impact of the Red Wings minor league affiliate on the city of Grand Rapids and tell us what to look forward to. All that and more plus a little "ginger power" on Episode 61 of The Flying Octopus podcast. 

On Episode 60 of The Flying Octopus Podcast - Travis Focht from Hockeytown West Podcast joins the show as the guys discuss the Red Wings big win vs Anaheim on Thursday. Line combinations continue to evolve but what is the best fit in terms of rounding out the bottom 6? We break down the John Gibson injury and discuss options in case the injury is long term. Nate Danielson finds his way into the lineup - is he here to stay and who are his optimal linemates? Plus the guys break down the 5 v 5 offense - how does it improve? All...

On this week's episode Tony finds an Evan doppelganger that turns into a work nickname. The guys recap the Red Wings' five game west coast road trip. Things got ugly on Friday against the Rangers. Tony breaks down why Detroit  performed so poorly in a 4-1 loss at the LCA in their first game back. Then Evan chats with Nick Harrington from Hockeytown West Podcast about the Grand Rapids Griffins 8 and 0 start. Nick also gets into some of the top prospects like Nate Danielson, Shai Buium, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard and even goaltender Michal Postava who has helped create an excellent t...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas review the Red Wings’ performance so far now that we’re 10 games into the 2025-26 season, including thoughts on the rookies, contract-year players, young players continuing to ascend, and Detroit’s goaltending tandem. The guys also analyze Detroit’s penalty kill and power play, plus what’s needed moving forward. 

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas keep it light and positive after two ugly losses by the Red Wings. They start off with a blast from the past, then pivot to the current youth movement and the resurgent penalty kill. The conversation then transitions to Michael Rasmussen, and what’s needed to get the 2017 first-round pick back to the impactful player he was a couple years ago. Then the guys discuss lineup changes to get back on track, plus a couple Grand Rapids Griffins who could be forcing their way onto the Red Wings rost...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas recap Detroit’s last three games: 6-3 win against Toronto, a 3-2 win against Toronto, and a hard-fought 4-1 victory over the Panthers. The guys discuss Axel Sandin-Pellikka’s rough outing vs. Toronto on Monday and how he rebounded nicely against the Panthers, plus other notes on stellar performances. The podcast then turns to why the Red Wings’ power play had been so effective, then ends with Detroit’s goaltending tandem, and what the plan should be for John Gibson and Cam Talbot moving forward. 

In Episode 55 - Evan, Tony and Devin discuss the good feelings heading into the 2025 season and the excitement of seeing three rookies in the opening night lineup. But things did not turn out the Red Wings way on Thursday at the LCA. The guys recap the home opener: a 5-1 loss at the hands of the Montreal Canadiens. Tony discusses what happened to John Gibson and why he deserved to be pulled in his Detroit debut. The guys also break down what they saw from the young kids. Did Axel Sandin-Pellikka get fed to the wolves in his first...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas kick things off by sharing what they’ve seen in Detroit’s most recent preseason games, including top performers, coaching strategy, and more. The guys then transition to what Detroit’s lineup could look like opening night vs. Montreal and discuss the roster battles still at hand. How many prospects will force their way onto the team this year? And finally, the group offers their bold predictions for the 2025-26 season and sound off on a few rapid-fire questions about this year’s Red Wings team.

 In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas kick things off by analyzing Detroit’s first two preseason games: Tuesday’s 3-2 win over the Chicago Blackhawks and Thursday’s 5-2 win versus the Buffalo Sabres. The Red Wings dominated both contests and received stellar performances from their top prospects plus several NHL regulars. The guys then transition to what they’re looking for in the remaining six preseason games, plus predictions for how performances and roster decisions will play out over the next two weeks.

Episode 52 sees Evan and Devin team up with the boys from @HockeytownWPod. The guys talk training camp with boots on the ground from Nick Harrington and Brandon Cooke. We weigh in on the Emmitt Finnie hype train and talk about what Axel Sandin - Pellikka has to do to make the roster. Plus is Nate Danielson ready for the show? Then the guys shift gears as Travis Focht joined, Devin, Nick and Brandon in Grand Rapids for the Red & White game over the weekend. The guys gauge the temperature on a wild weekend at Van Andel Arena.  Who stood o...

On episode 51, the guys chat it up with the legendary voice of Red Wings hockey. Ken Kal  joins the show as he gets set to to call his 30th season of Red Wings hockey. Ken talks expectations, new faces, and reacts to the Sergei Fedorov jersey retirement news. He also tells us what the Red Wings need to do to end the nine year playoff drought that has plagued Hockeytown. Join us on Episode 51 of The Flying Octopus Podcast. 

On Episode 50 of The Flying Octopus Podcast: We had a lot of fun with this one and even talked a little Led Zeppelin.  The guys spent some time with former NHL goaltender Brent Johnson. The Farmington Hills native spent 12 seasons stopping pucks for the Blues, Coyotes, Capitals and Penguins retiring in 2012. He now works as an on air analyst for Monumental Sports Network. Brent discusses his former teammates from Patrick Roy to Sergei Fedorov to Alex Ovechkin. He also talks about growing up in Southeast Michigan and learning from one of the greatest Red Wings of all time who al...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas welcome The Russian Five author and accomplished sportswriter Keith Gave to the show. The discussion covers a wide array of topics, from Keith’s time in the NSA and start in journalism, to Sergei Fedorov’s legacy and Detroit’s current rebuild. Check it out!

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas kick things off with Olympic hockey talk. Dylan Larkin is a lock to make Team USA; what about Alex DeBrincat, Patrick Kane, and John Gibson? Will Simon Edvinsson join Lucas Raymond on Team Sweden? And will Moritz Seider ever get off the ice for Germany? The guys touch on the recent rumors involving the Edmonton Oilers showing interest in Detroit’s top goalie prospects, Trey Augustine and Sebastian Cossa. Does it make sense for the Red Wings to pursue a trade or are they better off holding onto the...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas break out their crystal ball and look to the future. Specifically, when is Detroit’s next contention window? The guys discuss which players will make up that team and when you can expect the Red Wings to make a serious push for another Stanley Cup. Then, the conversation turns to a rumor floating around that Detroit has interest in Anaheim Ducks forward Mason McTavish. Is he the right fit? And at what cost? The article about Detroit’s contention window can be found here: https://thehockeywriters.com/red-wi...

 In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, it’s all prospect talk. Tony and Evan critique Devin’s Top 25 rankings and see where Detroit’s prospects fit in with Tony’s five-tier system. Among the prospects discussed are Dmitri Buchelnikov, Amadeus Lombardi, Carter Mazur, William Wallinder, plus recent first-round picks like Carter Bear, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, and Sebastian Cossa. The guys then wrap up with news and notes, which includes a few birthdays. You can find Devin’s Top 25 Red Wings prospects here: https://thehockeywriters.com/red-wings-top-25-prospects-post-2025-nhl-draft/ 

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas bring on Doug Stolhand of the Puck Podcast to discuss John Gibson and what Red Wings fans can expect from their new goaltender. The long-time Anaheim Ducks analyst shares his perspective on what Gibson brings to the table. After sharing their own thoughts on Gibson, the guys transition to expectations for the rest of the offseason. Will the Red Wings make another move or are they done for the summer? Plus, news and notes, Carter Bear signs his entry-level contract, and Detroit’s 10/10 schedule release video.

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas take a look at the current roster construction of the Red Wings and discuss whether or not the team is better than the 2024-25 group. The conversation touches on additions and subtractions, plus player growth and regression. Then, the guys turn to the Erik Karlsson rumors that have been spreading like wildfire. Is he a fit in Detroit? If so, how much would it cost to acquire the future Hall-of-Famer. Join us for another jam-packed episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast.

 In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas recap the chaos of the last few days, including the 2025 NHL Draft, Detroit’s trade for goaltender John Gibson, several Red Wings re-signings, plus everything that happened (and didn’t happen) on Day 1 of free agency. 

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the guys run through a seven-round mock draft for the Red Wings, including a surprise first-round pick. In addition, the fellas share their last draft prospect profile of the offseason: Radim Mrtka. The 6-foot-6 right defenseman is arguably the top blueliner in their year’s class behind Matthew Schaefer. The episode also touches on Detroit’s centennial branding, Antti Tuomisto re-signing, the JJ Peterka trade, the next CBA, and much more. Finally, the Red Wings draft board mentioned in this week’s episode can be found here: https://thehockeywriters.com/red-wing...

The guys welcome in Shane Malloy from SiriusXM NHL Network Radio and break down the logistics for the 2025 NHL Draft. Who will the Red Wings take with the 13th overall pick? The podcast host and author tells us Detroit fans shouldn't worry about the future while breaking down the team's defensive core. We also discuss the competitive advantage that the Red Wings may have in today's NHL. Will general manager Steve Yzerman draft for need or go best player available come this Friday at the draft in Los Angeles? Shane answers that and more on Episode 41 of The Flying...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the guys project launch full speed into mock offseason mode. Tony and Devin make their predictions for Detroit’s trades, buyouts, and signings. Adding scoring throughout the lineup, solidifying the defense, and making the team tougher to play against were the common themes. The fellas then shift gears to Roger McQueen for this week’s draft prospect profile. The Brandon Wheat Kings center entered the year as a likely top-5 pick, but suffered a back injury and watched his draft stock plummet. Could he be a fit in Detroit?

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the guys project new contracts for Detroit’s RFAs: Jonatan Berggren, Albert Johansson, and Elmer Soderblom. Plus, identifying what a new deal for Patrick Kane could look like. The fellas then pivot to Cole Reschny and his draft profile. The 5-foot-11 center posted 92 points in 62 games for the Victoria Royals of the WHL. Finally, the show wraps up with news and notes, including Detroit signing goalie Michal Postava, a new home for Dmitri Buchelnikov, and trade rumors involving Vladimir Tarasenko and Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Nic Hague.

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the guys recap the hockey hot stove now that we’ve reached the Stanley Cup Final, including Jason Robertson reportedly being on the trade block and what it would take to acquire him. Plus, additional trade targets and the impacts they could have in Detroit. The fellas then pivot to Victor Eklund and his draft profile. The Swedish winger could be available when the Red Wings pick at No. 13 this year. Finally, the show wraps up with news and notes about Dmitri Buchelnikov, Jesse Kiiskinen, and Jay Varady. 

Description: In this weeks episode the Hockeytown West Podcast joins The Flying Octopus and previews the Kelly Cup finals as the Toledo Walleye get set for Game 1 on Saturday. We also take a look back at the Grand Rapids Griffins' 2024-25 season and discuss what players took the next step in their development while predicting who makes a run at a roster spot in Detroit next season. All that and more on Episode 37 of The Flying Octopus Podcast. 

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the guys dive into the summer of Mitch Marner. Do the Red Wings have enough cap space to host their own Mitch-a-Palooza? Should they even pursue Marner? The fellas discuss the pros and cons there. Next, the guys offer up two bold moves that the Red Wings should make this offseason. Offense firepower, defensive stalwarts - you name it. And finally, the episode wraps up with an overview of 2025 draft eligible forward Justin Carbonneau of the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada. Could the QMJHL product be a fit for the Red Wings?

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas dive into Detroit’s goaltending as the final installment of a four-part team review series. Cam Talbot, Alex Lyon, and Petr Mrazek combined to form a better goaltending core than what we’ve seen in years passed, but still left a bit to be desired. Now, Talbot and Mrazek look to hold down Detroit’s crease in 2025-26. The guys then pivot to Kashawn Aitcheson for this week’s draft prospect profile. The Barrie Colts blueliner racked up 26 goals this season and plays a physical game. Might he be Detr...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas do a deep dive on Detroit’s special teams from the 2024-25 season as the third installment of a four-part team review series. The Red Wings had one of the hottest power plays in the league, but also THE coldest penalty kill. Next up are evaluations of Patrick Kane, Marco Kasper, and Vladimir Tarasenko. What does the future hold for these three? The guys then pivot to Carter Bear, one of the more intriguing prospects in the 2025 draft class. The Everett Silvertips forward finished the year with 50 goals and...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the guys do a deep dive on Detroit’s five-on-five defense from 2024-25 as the second part of a four-part team review series. The Red Wings ranked poorly relative to the league in defensive metrics, but improved year-over-year. Next up are evaluations of Moritz Seider, Simon Edvinsson, and Ben Chiarot as the defensive focus continues. What did these players do well? Where can they improve? Also, reactions to Steve Yzerman and Todd McLellan’s end-of-year press conference. Finally, the fellas highlight 2025 draft prospect Jackson Smith, a left defenseman from the Tri-Ci...

 In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the fellas review Detroit’s five-on-five offense from the 2024-25 as part of a four-part team review series. The Red Wings ranked poorly relative to the league in offensive production, and the guys analyze why that was the case, plus what changed from a year ago. Next up are evaluations of Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond, and Alex DeBrincat. What did these players do well? (A lot.) Where can they improve? Also, reactions to Larkin’s end-of-year press conference comments about Detroit’s lack of trade deadline additions and the impact on the lo...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the guys discuss the final three Detroit Red Wings games of the 2024-25 season: a 6-4 win over the Dallas Stars, a 5-2 win over the New Jersey Devils, and a heartbreaking 4-3 overtime loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs on the final day of the season. The conversation then turns to key takeaways from the 2024-25 season, including the youth movement, Detroit’s decision to hire Todd McLellan, and a few scoring milestones along the way. Finally, the fellas look ahead to the offseason - the first The Flying Octo...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus Podcast, the guys discuss Detroit’s outings against Montreal and Florida that effectively ended their playoff hopes. The games also illuminated a season-long trend: Detroit’s inability to generate offense on a consistent basis. The fellas talk about the timing of the Red Wings’ offensive woes, offseason priorities, and the forwards heading into 2025-26. The discussion then turns to Detroit’s prospects and who might get a cameo in the remaining games. Sebastian Cossa? Nate Danielson? Amadeus Lombardi? Axel Sandin Pellikka or Michael Brandsegg-Nygard? Also updates on Dmitri Buchelnikov and Tampa Bay Lightn...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus podcast, the guys discuss the Red Wings’ remaining schedule and what to watch for down the stretch, including the young core playing pivotal roles, an improved penalty kill, and more. The discussion then turns to the positives to take away from the 2024-25 season and why the Red Wings are in great shape heading into the offseason. Finally, the fellas discuss Trey Augustine’s decision to return to Michigan State for his junior campaign, plus what that means for the Red Wings and Grand Rapid Griffins next year.

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus podcast, the guys discuss the Red Wings’ three games this week – their 5-1 win over Utah, the 5-2 loss to Colorado, and Thursday’s 4-3 loss to Ottawa. It’s not all doom and gloom, though – there are plenty of positive and neutral takeaways from the latest loss and the season as a whole. Next, the fellas turn to the 2025 NHL Draft where the Red Wings are likely to pick in the 9-12 range. Could they land a Jackson Smith or Victor Eklund to bolster their prospect pool? How about Carter Bear, Jake O...

 In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus podcast, the guys discuss the current state of the Red Wings heading into a critical road trip. Detroit faces off against Vegas on Saturday, Utah on Monday, and Colorado on Tuesday before returning home to take on the Senators on Thursday. The discussion then turns to Detroit’s faltering offensive output and what the Red Wings can do to put more pucks in the net. The fellas also touch on playoff odds, Axel Sandin Pellikka, and the Avengers.

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus podcast, the guys discuss Tony and Devin’s experience at the Navy Federal NHL Stadium Series. Next up, the fellas recap Detroit’s 7-3 win vs. Buffalo, including the dominance of the DeBrincat-Kasper-Kane line, Marco Kasper’s emergence as a true 2C, and Petr Mrazek’s second debut in Detroit. The discussion then turns to Jonatan Berggren, who has been scratched the last two games - what is his future? Is it in Detroit? And finally, the focus turns to Red Wings prospect Anton Johansson, who signed an entry-level contract Thursday. What does...

In this week’s episode of The Flying Octopus podcast, the guys revisit the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline. Included are thoughts on the Red Wings trade with Chicago for Petr Mrazek and Craig Smith for Joe Veleno. We'll also discuss the biggest trades of the day and discuss what moves we were hoping to see Detroit make. Carter Mazur's debut did not go as planned and Devin breaks down what's next for one of the Red Wings top prospects. Plus we'll revisit the Jake Walman trade and try to analyze how the former Red Wing fetched a first round pick in a...