Mid-Ice Crisis
Hockey takes from a hockey writer, podcaster and one upon a time broadcaster who is going through a mid-ice crisis.
Who Won the Pacific Division Offseason? | Oilers Gamble, Sharks Surge & Vegas Waits
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, we discuss:
• Did the Oilers make the right decisions?
• Can Vegas remain the team to beat in the Pacific?
• Are the Kings finally built to make a deep playoff run?
• Is San Jose's rebuild ahead of schedule?
• What are the Vancouver Canucks?
• How bad will Calgary be?
• Did anyone have a worse summer than Anaheim?
• Why is Seattle stuck in the mushy middle?
Plus, we rank every Pacific Division team's offseason, hand out our winners and losers, and debate which clubs improved the most heading...
Powerhouses Are Crumbling | Is The Central Division Up For Grabs This Year?
The Central Division had one of the most fascinating offseasons in the NHL, and we're breaking down every team's biggest moves heading into the 2026-27 season.
Who had the best offseason in the Central Division? 🤔
The Avalanche dealt some key forwards. The Blues retooled. The Blackhawks kept building. The Stars largely stood pat. The Mammoth made some huge swings.
We break down every Central Division team and rank the biggest winners and losers.
Who's winning the Central in 2026-27?
Let us know your rankings in the comments.
Mid-Ice Crisis is bro...
The Atlantic Division has become an absolute warzone
Who had the best offseason in the Atlantic Division? 🤔
The Panthers made another big splash. The Leafs retooled. The Canadiens kept building. The Senators made one of the biggest trades of the summer.
We break down every Atlantic Division team and rank the biggest winners and losers.
Who's winning the Atlantic in 2026-27?
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to get a 15% discount.
www.cwenchhydration.com/SECONDSTORYPOD in the U.S.
Use promo code SECONDSTORYPOD at checkout
Follow Josh Cybuls...
Who Won The Metropolitan Division Offseason? | Capitals, Rangers & Penguins All Make Big Moves
The Metropolitan Division has been one of the NHL's busiest divisions this summer, and we're breaking down every major move.
From Washington adding impact players to push for another Stanley Cup, to the Rangers aggressively reshaping their roster, to Kyle Dubas continuing to retool the Penguins, every team in the Metro has revealed its direction heading into the 2026-27 season.
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, we discuss:
• The Capitals' aggressive push to stay among the NHL's elite
• Pittsburgh's youth movement and what's next for Sidney Crosby's Penguins
• Carolina's decisi...
Why American NHL Stars Don't Want to Play in Canada
Canada invented hockey, but does that mean NHL players still dream of playing here?
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, Josh explores why so many American-born stars seem to prefer U.S. markets over Canadian ones—and whether Canadian culture has developed an ego problem.
From the pressure of Canadian markets to the changing realities of life in both Canada and the United States, this conversation goes beyond hockey and asks a bigger question: Have Canadians become too attached to an image of ourselves that no longer matches reality?
This is an honest lo...
The 5 Most Untradeable Contracts in the NHL
NHL general managers are always looking for ways to create cap space, reshape rosters, and take advantage of a quickly rising salary cap. But while some contracts can be moved with retained salary, or by adding a sweetener, others have become nearly impossible to trade.
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, we break down the five most untradeable contracts in the NHL heading into the 2026 offseason. These aren't necessarily bad players—but when age, term, cap hit, performance, and trade protection collide, moving a contract becomes a nightmare.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hy...
Why Don't We Ever Want To Hear The Whole Story?
In today's episode, we're diving into one of the biggest problems in hockey media (and all media for that matter): and that is people who react to headlines without reading the actual article.
From trade rumours and free-agent speculation to controversial opinions and clickbait takes, we discuss how headlines shape the conversation—and why so many fans miss the real story. If you've ever seen a hockey debate spiral out of control before anyone checked the facts, this episode is for you.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwen...
Is Toronto Really the Centre of the Hockey Universe?
When Toronto dominates the hockey conversation, fans across Canada often roll their eyes. But is that really Toronto's fault?
Sid Seixeiro recently called out hockey media across Canada for making Toronto the centre of every hockey conversation. In this episode, we break down his argument, discuss where he's right, where he's wrong, and explore why the Toronto debate continues to divide hockey fans from coast to coast.
Let us know what you think in the comments.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to...
The Most Hated Team in Hockey Keeps Winning
The Vegas Golden Knights are heading to the Stanley Cup Final again — and depending on who you ask, that could be either great for hockey… or a complete disaster.
In this episode, we break down why the NHL may have secretly preferred the Colorado Avalanche on hockey’s biggest stage. With superstars like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar eliminated, the league loses two of its most marketable players and one of the sport's most exciting teams.
We also dive into the growing resentment surrounding the Golden Knights organization:
We also discuss the uncomfortable conversations surrounding Brett...
Breaking Down the Oilers’ Summer Cap Crisis
The bill is finally due for the Edmonton Oilers.
After years of going all-in around Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers are staring down one of the toughest offseasons in the NHL. Cap space is disappearing, depth is thinning, and difficult decisions are coming fast.
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, we break down:
- Edmonton’s looming salary cap nightmare
- Which free agents they could target this summer
- The biggest roster holes heading into next season
- Trade candidates and buyout possibilities
Are the Oilers still bu...
Pressure Is Building For The NHL's Most Desperate Teams
The NHL offseason is starting to heat up — and some front offices are officially under pressure.
In this quick-hit episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, Josh Cybulski breaks down the biggest NHL news stories from the past week, focusing on transactions, executive decisions, coaching uncertainty, roster direction, and the franchises' standing at major crossroads heading into the summer.
Josh touches on the growing pressure surrounding the Toronto Maple Leafs,
Kyle Dubas and the Pittsburgh Penguins trying to balance contention with the reality that their best players are old and slowing down, and why the Nashville Predators feel stu...
Breaking Down Pittsburgh’s Massive Offseason w/ Mad Chad
Are the Pittsburgh Penguins the most fascinating team to watch this summer? Retired podcaster and Penguins writer Mad Chad and I break down the Penguins' playoff performance, their options this summer, and what the future holds for Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang.
We also talk about Connor McDavid and what is in store for him and the Edmonton Oilers.
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/midicecrisispod?igsh=M2V4NDljNTJlMmpo&utm_source=qr
Twitter: https://x.com/authorjcybulski?s=21
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1B7RdmkcCZ/?m...
The End of an Era? Evgeni Malkin’s Future With the Penguins
Evgeni Malkin has been part of the Pittsburgh Penguins for nearly two decades.
Three Stanley Cups. Countless clutch moments. One of the most dominant playoff performers of his generation.
But with Malkin’s future in Pittsburgh becoming less certain, Penguins fans are starting to ask a question many hoped would never come:
What happens if Geno leaves?
In this video, we break down:
Malkin’s pending UFA status
What he still brings to the Penguins
Whether Pittsburgh should re-sign him
What his departure would mean emotionally for the fanbase
H...
NHL Officiating Is a Joke — And Everyone Knows It
Meet the chaos, and the controversy, that is NHL officiating. This week Josh breaks down what he's observed in the first week of the NHL playoffs and asks you to tell him what you've seen as well.
Josh also predicts that a large group of former NHL fans are becoming skeptical about the direction of the NHL and whether or not everything is above board.
-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to get a 15% discount.
www.cwenchhydration.com/SECONDSTORYPOD in the U.S.
Use p...
Are The Canadiens Finally Ready To Compete With The Big Boys? (ft. Jonny G)
This week we dive deep into the incredible transformation of the Montreal Canadiens under coach Marty St. Louis. We explore how this young, exciting, fast team might go on a historic playoff run, and what it takes to build a winner in the NHL’s tightest races.
Joining the show this week as our first guest is Jonny G of Barely Onside to discuss:
● The historic rise of the Montreal Canadiens and their latest milestones
● How Marty St. Louis’s coaching is shaping a premier team culture
● Key players’ breakout seasons: Nick Suzuki, Cole Caulfield, Lane Hudson, a...
Re-Imagining the Toronto Maple Leafs: Who's in the Running?
In this episode, Josh Cybulski analyzes the Toronto Maple Leafs' current management situation, the potential GM candidates, and the challenges the team is facing. He explores internal and external options, team prospects, salary cap issues, and strategic directions for rebuilding or retooling the franchise.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to get a 15% discount.
www.cwenchhydration.com/SECONDSTORYPOD in the U.S.
Use promo code SECONDSTORYPOD at checkout
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: htt...
Brad Treliving Is Out In Toronto | Do Maple Leafs Fans Miss Kyle Dubas Yet?
The Toronto Maple Leafs have fired general manager Brad Treliving and will begin a hunt for his replacement. Where did it go wrong for Toronto and Treliving and where do they go from here?
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to get a 15% discount.
www.cwenchhydration.com/SECONDSTORYPOD in the U.S.
Use promo code SECONDSTORYPOD at checkout
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJCybulski
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jfa...
The NHL Goalie Interference Sham — Are We Watching a Comedy or a Crime?
Meet the chaos, the controversy, and the outright madness of NHL's goalie interference calls. If you've ever doubted that rules can be weaponized, buckle up — because what you're about to hear is a fiery revelation that will make you question everything about hockey's integrity. In this episode, we rip apart the NHL’s so-called "rule book" — or what’s left of it — exposing how goalie interference is now a vibe, a guess, and a political game. We dive into real game clips, reveal the crooked dance between league officials, and ask: are they making the rules or just rolling dice? Plus...
What Should The Toronto Maple Leafs & Pittsburgh Penguins Do This Summer?
The Toronto Maple Leafs have imploded this season and face major decisions in the coming months. Do they retain GM Brad Treliving? Do they keep Auston Matthews? Do they trade William Nylander? Is a rebuild in order or can they retool the way the Pittsburgh Penguins have?
Speaking of the Penguins, in this episode, Josh Cybulski breaks down the crossroads that Pittsburgh faces with team legend Evgeni Malkin. He also discusses the decline of Kris Letang and the rise of Erik Karlsson.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cw...
NHL Trade Deadline Analysis: Who Won, Who Failed, And What Happens Next
Josh reacts to the snoozefest that was NHL Trade Deadline.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to get a 15% discount.
www.cwenchhydration.com/SECONDSTORYPOD in the U.S.
Use promo code SECONDSTORYPOD at checkout
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJCybulski
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jfactor12
Buy Josh’s Book: https://www.amazon.ca/Second-Story-Work-Josh-Cybulski/dp/B08JF5M3MN/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1706931882&sr=8-1
Has Canada Lost Hockey? | What Does The U.S. Olympic Win Mean For Canadians?
n this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, host Josh Cybulski reflects on the recent Olympic hockey experience, discussing the unity felt among Canadians during the games, the disappointment of losing to the Americans, and the implications for Canadian hockey's identity.
He also discusses what the win meant for American hockey as well as the good and bad that came from their celebration.
Josh finally explores Canadians' cultural mindset, addressing the 'loser mentality' that has emerged and the need for meaningful change in hockey programs to reclaim Canada's status as a hockey superpower. The episode culminates in a call f...
Anything Can Happen In A Short Hockey Tournament
In this episode, Josh Cybulski dives into the excitement surrounding Olympic hockey, focusing on the national pride and competitive spirit that emerges during the games. He discusses Team Canada's dominance and expectations, analyzes Team USA's roster, and assesses the potential of other teams such as Finland and Sweden. The conversation highlights the unique nature of short tournaments and the cultural clash between Canada and the USA, culminating in predictions for the upcoming Olympic hockey events.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to get a 15% discount.
ww...
Should The Toronto Maple Leafs Trade Auston Matthews?
In this episode, Josh Cybulski dives deep into the controversial topic of whether the Toronto Maple Leafs should trade their star player, Auston Matthews. He examines the emotional and logical arguments surrounding the decision, the Leafs' corporate structure, and historical examples of franchise-player trades.
The discussion highlights the complexities of team dynamics, the importance of hope in sports, and the potential consequences of trading a player of Matthews' calibre.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to get a 15% discount.
www.cwenchhydration.com/SECONDSTORYPOD in the...
Kyle Dubas Could Have Been The GM Who Changed Everything
In this episode, Josh Cybulski delves into the ongoing struggles of the Toronto Maple Leafs, examining their dismal playoff chances and the cycle of hope and disappointment that has plagued the team for years.
He discusses the impact of former GM Kyle Dubas's departure, the current management under Brad Treliving, and the pressing need for change within the organization.
Cybulski highlights the team's identity crisis, the leadership vacuum, and the potential need to trade star player Austin Matthews. He also emphasizes that without significant changes, the Leafs will remain a fascinating disappointment in the NHL.
Mi...
Two Teams With No Direction | The Toronto Maple Leafs & New York Rangers Have Some Decisions To Make
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, host Josh Cybulski delves into the current state of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New York Rangers. He discusses the Leafs' struggles and potential crossroads as they weigh whether to buy, sell, or stand pat ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline.
The conversation shifts to the Rangers, where Cybulski critiques GM Chris Drury's tenure, highlighting poor trades and management decisions that have left the team in a precarious position. The episode emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding both teams as they navigate their respective challenges in the NHL.
Mid-Ice Crisis is b...
The Unfortunate Truth About The Ottawa Senators
In this episode, Josh Cybulski delves into the chaotic, often absurd world of hockey culture, focusing on the NHL and the Ottawa Senators. He critiques the silence surrounding serious issues in the league, the confusing PR responses to rumours, and the dismal game-day experience for fans. Through humour and sharp commentary, he explores the emotional disconnect between the team and its supporters, questioning the Senators' future and the overall state of hockey.
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJCybulski
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jfactor12<...
Why NHL Outdoor Games Are Losing Their Magic
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, host Josh Cybulski discusses the decline of NHL outdoor hockey games, his gripe with their over-saturation and lack of authenticity. Josh argues that the NHL's approach has turned these once-special events into must-miss TV, losing the emotional connection fans once had.
The conversation also touches on the need for the NHL to rethink its strategy to revive interest in outdoor games and the importance of creating authentic experiences for fans.
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJCybulski
Facebook: h...
NHL Trade Analysis | Breaking Down The Tristan Jarry And Quinn Hughes Trades
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, host Josh Cybulski examines two significant NHL trades: the goaltender swap between Tristan Jarry and Stuart Skinner, and the blockbuster deal sending Quinn Hughes to the Minnesota Wild. The discussion highlights the implications for the respective teams, analyzing the potential benefits and risks. Jarry’s inconsistent performance and the Penguins' newfound salary-cap flexibility are examined, alongside the ramifications of Hughes' departure from Vancouver and the challenges facing them moving forward.
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJCybulski
Facebook: https://ww...
Another Third Period Collapse: What’s Wrong With The Pittsburgh Penguins?
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, host Josh Cybulski delves into the Pittsburgh Penguins' current struggles with third-period leads, as well as their inability to win in shootouts.
Cybulski also discusses whether Sidney Crosby should continue taking part in shootouts, given his scoring woes.
The latter part of the episode shifts focus to the Vancouver Canucks, exploring their dismal season and the growing calls for a rebuild.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to get a 15% discount.
www.cwenchhydration.com/SECONDSTORYPOD in the U.S...
Carter Hart's Controversial Return To The NHL
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, host Josh Cybulski discusses the return of goaltender Carter Hart to the NHL and the surrounding controversy stemming from the Hockey Canada scandal.
The conversation delves into the complexities of public opinion, the justice system, and the cultural issues within hockey. Cybulski emphasizes the importance of nuanced discussions around trauma, accountability, and the need for change in the hockey community.
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJCybulski
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jfactor12
Buy Josh’s Book: htt...
Decade Of Disappointment | A Look Back At The Toronto Maple Leafs Last Ten Years
In this episode, Josh Cybulski reflects on the Toronto Maple Leafs' evolution over the past decade, discussing pivotal moments that have shaped the team's trajectory. He highlights the excitement and hope fans felt during the early changes, including coaching decisions and player development. Josh also breaks down the moment it all went wrong for this era of Maple Leafs hockey.
In the last segment Josh breaks down Connor McDavid's frustration and how he might have made a mistake in re-signing with the Edmonton Oilers.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
Examining Mike Sullivan's Coaching Legacy | Mid-Ice Crisis
In this episode, Josh Cybulski discusses the legacy New York Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan. The end to his time in Pittsburgh and the results so far this season with the Rangers.
The conversation also touches on the broader implications of public funding for sports arenas and the economic realities surrounding it.
Mid-Ice Crisis is brought to you by Cwench Hydration.
Go to:
www.cwenchhydration.ca/SECONDSTORYPOD to get a 15% discount.
www.cwenchhydration.com/SECONDSTORYPOD in the U.S.
Use promo code SECONDSTORYPOD at checkout
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
In...
Can The Toronto Maple Leafs Overcome Their Identity Crisis? | Mid-Ice Crisis
In this episode, Josh Cybulski discusses the current state of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Josh focuses on the Leafs' identity crisis, poor defensive play and injuries affecting their performance.
The conversation delves into the potential consequences for head coach Craig Berube and the team's overall accountability. Josh raises questions about the team's future and whether they can turn things around this season.
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJCybulski
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jfactor12
Buy Josh’s Book: https://www.amazon.ca/Sec...
Rookie Sensation, Gambling Scandal And The NHL's Image Problem
In this episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, Josh Cybulski discusses the impressive start of rookie Benjamin Kindel with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Boston Bruins' struggles and roster changes, the gambling issues surrounding NHL player Arthur Kaliev, and the NHL's ongoing image problems related to player personalities and misogyny.
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJCybulski
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jfactor12
Buy Josh’s Book: https://www.amazon.ca/Second-Story-Work-Josh-Cybulski/dp/B08JF5M3MN/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1706931882&sr=8-1
Li...
Crosby | Ovechkin And The End Of An Era
In the inaugural episode of Mid-Ice Crisis, host Josh Cybulski dives into the current state of the NHL, focusing on the Pittsburgh Penguins' start to the season, the enduring legacies of Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin, and the challenges faced by the Toronto Maple Leafs. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of hockey superstars and the impact of team dynamics on performance, while also touching on a story from the late 1990s and the sport's changing culture.
Follow Josh Cybulski at:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/authorjoshcybulski/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorJCybulski
Facebook...
