The FAN Morning Show

Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi are joined by Jason Bukala to discuss the Auston Matthews incident and the Leafs' lack of response. They explore the team's DNA, potential changes in coaching or management to boost passion, and whether this core is fixable. How should Matthews feel about his teammates’ support? Afterward, MLB Network's Adnan Virk (28:50) joins to discuss Canada’s quarterfinal matchup against America, their chances, and the implications for both teams. 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.

Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi begin the second hour by previewing Canada’s World Baseball Classic quarterfinal against the United States. They break down how the Canadian roster matches up, what a successful start from Michael Soroka would look like, and James Paxton’s impressive return from retirement. The guys also examine which Canadian hitters need to step up, what’s at stake for the Americans, and the controversy around Team USA wearing Olympic hockey jerseys for the game and how Canada should respond. After the break, Sportsnet.ca Raptors reporter Michael Grange (29:07) joins the show to discuss the Jamal Shead incident and whether it reflects a lack of leadership or edge within the team. They explore whether the Raptors need a more aggressive presence to take the next step, if their fourth-quarter struggles stem from leadership issues or poor shooting, Immanuel Quickley’s season and the expectations tied to his contract, and whether NBA fans are becoming desensitized to greatness given Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s performances. 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 affiliates.

Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi wrap up the week by recapping the Maple Leafs’ victory over the Anaheim Ducks. They look into the fallout from the game including Auston Matthews’ injury and the team’s lack of response, along with the post-game comments from team leaders and ongoing questions about the group’s toughness, cohesion, and mentality. They also discuss Radko Gudas’ role in the incident, whether he could face supplemental discipline, and how the Leafs might respond in their next meeting with Anaheim. After the break, the guys preview the Raptors taking on the Suns, what’s at stake for Toronto, and the disappointment over the team’s lack of response to Jamal Shead on Wednesday, before wrapping up the hour with a first-round recap of The Players Championship. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up Thursday with Toronto Star writer and Leafs historian Damien Cox. They discuss how the Maple Leafs can return to playoff contention, the need for a president of hockey operations, and whether Brad Treliving deserves another chance. They also explore accountability within the front office, the implications of no-trade clauses, and potential leadership candidates. After the break, they welcome new TFC player Josh Sargent (24:38), who shares his excitement about joining the team, his impressions of Toronto, and the perception of MLS in Europe. He reflects on his World Cup experience and the budding rivalry in CONCACAF between Canada and the U.S. They conclude by previewing the Leafs' game against the Ducks tonight. 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.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by welcoming MLB Network insider Jon Morosi to the show. They discuss the strong play of Team Italy and the impact the tournament is having on the global growth of baseball, before the conversation shifts to Canada reaching the quarterfinals. The boys take a look ahead to their matchup with the United States, discuss the potential significance of a Canadian victory, and examine the pressure on Team USA manager Mark DeRosa. After the break, Sportsnet's Adam Stanley (25:34) stops by to preview The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass. He shares his expectations for Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka in his return to the PGA Tour, what the tour might look like under new commissioner Brian Rolapp, and potential improvements to the PGA playoff format. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Thursday’s show by discussing Canada’s historic win over Cuba to advance the World Baseball Classic quarterfinals. They highlight the strong performances from Cal Quantrill, Owen Caissie, and James Paxton, while looking ahead to Canada’s chances against the United States and the tournament favourites. After the break, they break down the Raptors’ disappointing loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, the shift in the team’s recent vibes, and the lack of response after Jamal Shead was hit late in the game. They close by reacting to Gary Bettman’s comments on NHL parity, debating whether parity should be the league’s goal, the value of dynasties, and how factors like taxes and weather affect competitive balance. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the final hour with Sportsnet’s MLB reporter Shi Davidi, live from San Juan, Puerto Rico. They discuss Canada’s win last night: does it align with the usual tournament pattern of unexpected victories and expected losses? As Canada faces Cuba today, what does success look like? They also evaluate Owen Caissie’s performance and the effectiveness of 'Big Doctor' in yesterday’s game. Shi shares his thoughts on Team Canada's pitching rotation and the tournament format. The conversation shifts to the Raptors, analyzing their struggles against top teams and what needs to change. Can Scottie Barnes become an MVP candidate? With two All-Stars, why do they still seem far from contention? What’s the best path forward for the team? (27:22) 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.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by discussing reports about Brad Treliving’s future in Toronto. They debate how much responsibility he bears for the team’s recent struggles and whether he deserves another chance to build the roster. They also consider Craig Berube’s future with the team, the performance of the current roster during an eight-game losing streak, and which players might deserve sympathy. The conversation then shifts to the Raptors’ poor fourth-quarter performance against the Houston Rockets and concerns about whether the team has reached its ceiling. The guys also touch on Bam Adebayo’s 83-point game against the Wizards and how it compares to Kobe Bryant’s famous 81-point performance. After the break, Sportsnet's Luke Fox (30:25) joins from Montreal to share his thoughts on the Leafs’ recent play since the Olympics, the reports about Treliving potentially getting another opportunity to reshape the roster, Craig Berube’s changing demeanor during the season, and how the rest of the season may unfold. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open Wednesday morning breaking down the Maple Leafs’ eighth straight loss. They look into the team's effort against the Montreal Canadiens, their history of slow starts, the draft implications of their recent play, and Bo Groulx’s debut. They also talk about Jake McCabe standing up for Easton Cowan and what it might signal about the team’s toughness moving forward. The conversation shifts to William Nylander’s pregame comments and what they say about his mindset this season. The guys then move to the World Baseball Classic, highlighting Canada’s win over Puerto Rico, Owen Caissie’s hot hitting, and Canada’s matchup today with Cuba. They also discuss Team USA’s loss to Italy and the potential impact if the Americans were eliminated, including Mark DeRosa’s confusion over tournament rules. Ben and Brent wrap up the show with a golf update, touching on Brooks Koepka’s social habits and how they might affect his game. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning welcome NHL Insider Frank Seravalli to discuss the future of the Leafs, exploring potential offseason changes, Auston Matthews' market value, and the trade deadline's inactivity. They then talk to TVA's Renaud Lavoie (29:34) about the Canadiens' lack of trades, new CBA impacts, and the team’s outlook. They wrap up by comparing the Leafs’ and Senators’ futures. 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.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour with alongside Charles Davis, CBS NFL analyst and friend of the show! He shares his early impressions from NFL free agency, including the quarterback market featuring Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa, Malik Willis' new contract, Maxx Crosby's trade to the Baltimore Ravens, and Travis Kelce returning to Kansas City. Are the Patriots still the top dogs in the AFC? Before the break, the hosts listen back to Elliotte Friedman's comments about Tristan Jarry fighting his teammates at practice, and compare the outlook of the Oilers to the Maple Leafs. Later, they’re joined by Ben Shulman (27:40), Blue Jays play-by-play voice and announcer for The Price Is Right Tonight, to talk about his experience on the show and share the latest from Blue Jays spring training. They dive into the roster balance in the outfield, the team's left-handed bats, the biggest question mark so far, and how the rotation is shaping up. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off Tuesday morning forecasting what's ahead for the Maple Leafs this season as they prepare to face the Montreal Canadiens tonight. They guys discuss Auston Matthews’ scoring struggles and whether the team might consider shutting him down, react to reports that the Canadiens and Leafs were close to a Matthew Knies trade, and debate what kind of return would have justified the deal. After Scott Laughton found the back of the net once again, Ben and Brent revisit the Leafs’ return for him at the deadline. Later, they chat about Canada at the World Baseball Classic, before closing the hour with the golf report including the potential impact if Rory McIlroy were unable to defend his Masters title due to a lingering back injury. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up the morning with Nick Kypreos from Real Kyper and Bourne. They discuss Kyper's insights from his chat with Brad Treliving, evaluating his deadline performance and implications for next season. They also explore the team's goals for the remainder of the year, the concept of tanking, and the fanbase's potential acceptance of it. As they transition to the offseason, they debate whether the team will undergo a full teardown or a rebuild. They then look at the NHL landscape and discuss the possibility of a new front office in Toronto, possibly bringing back a president of hockey operations. After the break, Matt Devlin (27:07), voice of the Raptors, shares his thoughts on the team's recent performance, their ability to compete against strong opponents, and expectations for the postseason. The episode wraps up with a review of Max Scherzer's spring debut and early season expectations. 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.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour alongside Gord Stellick, former Maple Leafs GM and friend of the show! They discuss Toronto’s trade deadline moves, who deserves blame for the team’s disappointing season, and Scott Laughton and Nic Roy both scoring in their debuts. They also debate the team's roster deployment under coach Craig Berube, concerns around Oliver Ekman-Larsson's deadline situation, and what the team has left to play for this season. The conversation then shifts to the surging Buffalo Sabres and the state of the Atlantic Division. After the break, they revisit comments from Elliotte Friedman about the future of Auston Matthews in Toronto, and share their view on if he would ever leave the franchise, the influence he holds within the organization, and the growing scrutiny surrounding his recent play. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning kick off the week by recapping the Maple Leafs’ NHL trade deadline moves involving Scott Laughton, Bobby McMann, and Nick Roy. The guys discuss the team's asset management, coaching decisions, and the futures of Craig Berube and Brad Treliving in Toronto. They also cover Canada’s loss to Panama at the World Baseball Classic and its impact on their chances to advance, the Raptors’ win over the Mavericks and the team’s ceiling, and Akshay Bhatia’s Bay Hill Invitational win heading into the Players Championship. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning discuss trade deadline day with Sportsnet NHL analyst Jason Bukala. They explore the challenges faced by amateur scouting during the deadline, analyzing trades like John Carlson's move to the Ducks and what it means for both teams. They also consider what would make for a successful deadline for the Toronto Maple Leafs, the return for Nick Roy, and potential moves involving their UFA’s. The conversation shifts to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman (24:44), who shares insights on Carlson’s trade implications, the asking price for Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and the current winger market. They speculate on Bobby McMann’s future and the likelihood of the Leafs opting for a retool versus a rebuild. Finally, they discuss which teams will be most active as the deadline approaches. 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.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning begin the second hour discussing what a successful trade deadline might look like for the Toronto Maple Leafs. They outline the many possibilities of moving pending UFAs, restocking the prospect pool, or extending Bobby McMann or Scott Laughton. They also consider how Colton Parayko vetoing a trade might hint at how situations like Morgan Rielly’s could unfold and whether the pressures of playing in Toronto differ from other markets. Later, they welcome Sportsnet’s David Amber (28:10) to share some of his favourite trade deadline memories. D.A. discusses how busy this year’s deadline could be across the league, whether teams will prioritize volume over marquee names, potential sell-offs, Parayko turning down a move to Buffalo, and the value of acquiring a goalie. The hour wraps up with a look at the biggest issue facing the Oilers as they head into the stretch run. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open trade deadline Friday by recapping the Maple Leafs’ loss to the New York Rangers. The boys discuss how poor the group's effort looked, whether the team has tuned out the coach, and if Craig Berube’s future behind the bench is in doubt. They also talk about Auston Matthews’ 10-game goal-less drought and the Leafs’ ongoing difficulty fitting Easton Cowan into the lineup. The conversation shifts to Toronto trading Nic Roy to Colorado and the first-round pick sent back in return, before reflecting on his time with the team. The guys also review notable trades from around the league, including the Capitals moving on from John Carlson. After the break, they turn to the Raptors’ loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. They question the direction of the team, the sustainability of their season, and what steps are needed to improve. They close the hour with opening thoughts on the World Baseball Classic. 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 affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up Thursday by chatting with Anthony Petrielli from Leafs Notebook. They discuss whether the Leafs need to make more moves before the deadline, what additions could help them compete next season, and their goaltending situation. Anthony also addresses Auston Matthews’ performance and the coaching staff’s deployment decisions. After the break, former NHLer Cam Janssen (25:12) joins to talk about Colton Parayko’s potential trade to Buffalo, the impact of using a no-move clause, and the possibility of Jordan Binnington being moved as well. They also discuss a possible front-office shakeup in St. Louis and Alex Steen’s first year in charge. Ben and Brent conclude by speculating on Doug Armstrong's future if not with the Blues. 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.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour discussing reports that the Maple Leafs are seeking a first-round pick in return for Nick Roy. They boys debate whether that return is realistic and if the team should move him if the price isn’t met. They also consider whether bigger roster moves are coming now or in the offseason, and whether they trust the current front office to execute them. Later, they welcome Michael Traikos of The Hockey News to reflect on past trade deadline coverage and share his expectations for this year: will it be active or relatively quiet? The trio dive into Toronto's asking price for Roy, the Oilers’ recent moves, Buffalo’s ongoing difficulty attracting players despite winning, and the status of the pending Colton Parayko trade. 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 affiliates.