Spittin Chiclets Spittin' Chiclets Episode 599: Featuring Andrew Ladd, Mason West & The Wonton Don
Nov 24, 2025
Andrew Ladd, a former NHL forward and two-time Stanley Cup champion, discusses his transition to post-retirement life, focusing on his coaching and the 1660 foundation aimed at enhancing mental resilience in youth hockey. He shares memorable moments from his career, including the thrill of the Hurricanes' 2006 Cup win and stories with teammates like Toews. Young athlete Mason West joins to talk about juggling football and hockey, highlighting the perks of being a multi-sport athlete and his upcoming journey to Michigan State.
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Encourage Multi-Sport Development
- Teach young athletes multiple sports to build broader athleticism and reduce burnout.
- Andrew Ladd recommends kids play baseball, football, jujitsu and other activities while developing in hockey.
Spotting Future Elite Goalies
- Ladd identified elite goalies early by how they handle high-volume, high-quality shots and their problem-solving in practice.
- He singled out Connor Hellebuyck and Ilya Sorokin as examples whose responses to shooters revealed future potential.
Game 7 Nerves And The Final Goal
- Ladd described the nerves in the final minute of Game 7 of the 2006 Stanley Cup Final and Justin Williams' empty-net goal that sealed the win.
- He remembered trusting teammates' reads and feeling extreme anxiety during the last seconds.