The Athletic Hockey Show Is it too late for these NHL teams to make the playoffs?
Feb 2, 2026
They debate whether teams outside the playoff picture at midseason are truly out of contention and which clubs are likely cooked. They react to Barry Trotz stepping down as Nashville’s GM and how coaching success does not equal front-office fit. They recap the Bruins-Lightning outdoor game with a rare goalie fight and preview the first big-season matchup between Celebrini and Bedard.
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Coaching Skill ≠ GM Success
- Barry Trotz stepping down as Nashville GM shows coaching skill doesn't guarantee front-office success.
- Mark Lazerus and Max Bultman note GM work demands long-term, business-focused decisions beyond coaching instincts.
Thanksgiving Standings Still Predictive
- The Thanksgiving standings rule has held up this season across most of the NHL.
- Max and Mark say only a few teams like New Jersey and Ottawa show major divergence since Thanksgiving.
Panthers Hampered By Goaltending Dip
- Florida Panthers look increasingly unlikely to catch up despite talent and games in hand.
- Mark highlights Sergey Bobrovsky's poor season as a primary reason for their struggles.