Welcome to The Hockey News Big Show, featuring the biggest topics in and around the NHL. 

On Mondays and Fridays, we'll have in-depth analysis and lively discussions about everything happening in the NHL. Whether it’s trade rumors, player development or season predictions, it has expert takes and fresh perspectives on every episode.

The Big Show features Michael Traikos and Ryan Kennedy, who starred in The Hockey News Pre-Game Show last season. Joining the crew is Katie Gaus, an Emmy-winning reporter and host who formerly covered Colorado Avalanche broadcasts.

Without further ado, here are the big topics discussed in this episode:

0:49 : Stanley Cup predictions 

2:47 : Which playoff team from last year will miss the playoffs this year?

5:28 : Which teams that missed the playoffs last season will make it this time?

8:20 : Which GM is feeling the most pressure this season?

12:06 : Predicting the Hart Trophy winner

15:00 : Predicting the breakout player of the year  

17:42 : What player on a new team will make the biggest impact?

19:50 : Which player on a new team will take a step back? 

23:35 : What games we've got our eyes on in the opening week

27:33 : What are some rivalries to watch out for?

30:45 : Will Sam Gagner play again?

31:55 : Reacting to Max Pacioretty finally signing with the Toronto Maple Leafs

33:40 : Is Pierre Engvall or Justin Holl more surprising to see on waivers 

36:20 : Is the new Jeremy Swayman contract a win-win?

38:48 : Who will win the Vezina this year?

39:54 : Will Auston Matthews get 70 goals this season?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices