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Empty The Benches

Grab a seat and crack a cold one with Nick and Mac on Empty the Benches, the hockey podcast that doesn't hold back. Whether you're a diehard fan who's been watching since the '90s or just getting into the game, we've got you covered. We're diving deep into the NHL, NCAA, and beyond, with unfiltered takes and exclusive conversations with players, coaches, and everyone in between. If you live for the game, you've found your new weekly ritual.

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22 episodes
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#312
Today · 1 hr 10 min
Week 1 Recap with Tarik El-Bashir
Mac and Nick are joined by Capitals insider and NHL on TNT member, Tarik El-Bashir. Tarik drops in to chat all things Caps from Ovi's retirement announcement, the offseason moves, and the young guns finding their roles in DC. The boys also chat about the hot starts by Utah, the Rangers, and Vancouver while looking at the contrasting starts from the Flyers, Flames, and Red Wings. They also discuss thePanthers injury woes and Nick has Mac blind rank hockey companies. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#311
September 28 · 57 min
Eastern Conference Season Preview (EP. 311)
In this episode, Nick and Mac dive into the upcoming NHL season, analyzing team prospects, key players, and division predictions. They share insights on teams like the Capitals, Penguins, and Maple Leafs, offering predictions and strategic takes. They also dive into the major changes for the Florida Panthers, the defending Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes, and how the playoff dogfight will shape out in the Eastern Conference. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#310
September 25 · 1 hr 11 min
Western Conference Season Preview (EP. 310)
In this episode, the boys analyze the upcoming NHL season, focusing on the Pacific and Central Divisions. They discuss team rosters, key moves, and predictions for playoff contenders and sleepers, providing insights for hockey fans eager for the new season. Nick and Mac analyze the upcoming NHL season, discussing team prospects, key player movements, and division predictions. They provide insights into team strategies, player performances, and potential playoff outcomes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:22 Introduction and episode overview 02:24 Analyzing Anaheim Ducks' Offseason and Leadership Change 02:32 Colorado Avalanche's prospects and key players 05:14 Calgary Flames' New Look and Roster Strengths 07:02 Minnesota Wild's potential and division chances 08:25 Edmonton Oilers' Season Outlook and Key Players 11:10 Los Angeles Kings' Road to Success 11:46 Winnipeg Jets' goaltending issues and management decisions 13:20 San Jose Sharks' Rebuild and Exciting Prospects 16:32 Vancouver Canucks' Expectations and Young Talent 17:31 Dallas Stars' outlook and key players 19:21 Vegas Golden Knights' Defense and Goaltending Concerns 22:04 Nashville Predators' challenges and outlook 23:11 Pacific Division Predictions and Division Winner 26:18 Seattle Kraken's Future and Purgatory Status 26:53 Division predictions and playoff outlook 29:56 Closing thoughts and final predictions 30:36 Central Division Outlook: Chicago Blackhawks and Patty Kane 33:49 Vegas Golden Knights' Playoff Chances and Outlook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#309
July 1 · 33 min
Trades, Trades And Draft Recap (EP. 309)
In this episode, Nick and Mac recap the 2026 NHL Draft, summarize the latest offseason trades, and preview the biggest free agency rumors. They also hit you with a killer hockey trivia, a guess the NHL player, and a this or that. Chapters 00:00 Heat Wave and Weekend Adventures 05:50 Nonsensical Questions of the Day 11:46 Draft Day Highlights and Reactions 17:43 Team Trades and Offseason Moves 19:46 Games and Trivia Fun 24:20 NHL Player Comparisons 26:05 Hockey History and Iconic Trades Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#308
June 25 · 1 hr
Trade Updates And Draft Preview (EP. 308)
In this episode, Nick and Mac are joined by friend of the show and writer/creator of puckuomi.com, Anders Hall, to break down the impending NHL draft and a crazy week of trades. They also discuss the 2026 Hockey Hall of Fame class, preview the 2026 NHL Draft, and the official hiring of Mike Babcock by the Oilers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Initial Reactions 01:47 Brady Tkachuk's Trade to Florida 04:24 NHL's Shift Towards Player Mobility 13:19 Washington Capitals' Recent Moves 24:04 Chicago Blackhawks' Trade for Bo Byram 29:28 Calgary's Trade for Simon Nemec 31:14 William Eklund's Trade to Ottawa 34:09 Mike Babcock's Controversial Hiring 39:55 Draft Predictions and Team Strategies 51:49 Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#307
June 17 · 28 min
Hurricanes Win The Stanley Cup (EP. 307)
In this episode, Nick and Mac discuss the Stanley Cup victory by the Carolina Hurricanes, the recent wedding they attended, and the latest hockey news including coaching changes and player trades. They share insights, anecdotes, and their thoughts on the league's current state and future moves. Chapters 00:00 Hockey Season Wrap-Up and Cup Champions 06:00 Wedding Tales and Celebrations 11:55 Stanley Cup Final Analysis 12:52 Coaching Changes and Future Prospects 14:33 Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics 17:15 Toronto Maple Leafs' Goalie Trade Dilemma 19:56 John Carlson's Future in the Eastern Conference 23:16 Predators Acquire Ross Colton: A Strategic Move 25:32 Looking Ahead: Draft and Free Agency Insights Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#306
June 12 · 40 min
Stanley Cup Final Update + Game 6 Preview (EP. 306)
Nick and Mac are back to get you up to date on all the action from this crazy Stanley Cup Final. They get you ready for a pivotal game 6, discuss their Conn Smythe picks, and take a look at Carolina's goaltending situation. They also dive into the incredible atmospheres in both buildings, the Dylan Larkin trade request, and the Oilers insane move to try and hire Mike Babcock. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 02:58 QOTD - World Cup Fan Experience 05:49 Stanley Cup Finals Overview 11:51 Player Performances and Predictions 19:20 Controversial Goals and Officiating in Hockey 20:54 Stanley Cup Final Predictions 21:39 Dylan Larkin's Trade Request 26:47 Darnell Nurse's Situation in Edmonton 28:39 The Coaching Carousel: Mike Babcock and Others 34:29 Trivia Time: Game 7s in Stanley Cup History Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#305
June 2 · 47 min
Stanley Cup Final Preview (EP. 305)
Its Stanley Cup Final time! Nick and Mac are back to get you set for the showdown between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Carolina Hurricanes. They start off the episode by naming five thing they would rather have happen than the Hurricanes winning the Cup, listing some of the greatest toys from their childhood, and the Finns capturing the World Championship in overtime. They also dive into the awkward situation with Bruce Cassidy and the Knights (sick band name), the goaltending matchup in the Cup Final, and the best storylines the series has to offer. Chapters 00:00 Stanley Cup Final Preview 06:06 Nostalgia for Childhood Toys 11:54 Avalanche's Playoff Performance Discussion 16:58 Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics 20:54 The Cutthroat Nature of Professional Sports 23:48 Previewing the Stanley Cup Final 24:23 Analyzing Team Strengths and Weaknesses 28:04 Expectations for the Stanley Cup Final 29:59 Goaltending Matchup Insights 32:27 Storylines and Predictions for the Final 34:55 Trivia and Player Connections Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#304
May 27 · 33 min
Knights & Canes Move Closer To Cup Final (EP. 304)
In this episode, Nick and Mac dive into the shocking 3-0 series lead for Vegas over Colorado, the continued overtime magic of the Carolina Hurricanes, and the first Walter Cup for the Montreal Victoire. They also take a look at teams to have overcome the 3-0 deficit, Vegas leading the playoffs in just about every stat category, and Evgeni Malkin's return to the Pittsburgh Penguins for next season. Chapters 00:00 Memorial Day Weekend Reflections 03:03 NHL Team Loyalty and Future Prospects 06:00 Malkin's Contract and PWHL Expansion 08:58 Team Naming Ideas for New PWHL Teams 11:57 Stanley Cup Odds and Playoff Insights 17:02 Vegas Knights' Resilience and Colorado's Struggles 21:54 Carter Hart's Impact and Team Dynamics 26:50 Montreal's Overtime Challenges and Game Strategy Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#303
May 21 · 45 min
Welcome To The Conference Finals (EP. 303)
Welcome to the Conference Finals! Nick and Mac get you set with all their takes on the final four NHL teams remaining. They break down the goaltending matchup between Andersen and Dobes, the absence of Cale Makar in game 1, and the nearly two weeks off for the Hurricanes. They also list their 3 most hated NHL teams, debate which team should be the most concerned with heir 3rd round matchup, and take a look at the incredibly close Walter Cup Finals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Current Sports Landscape 08:53 Montreal's Exciting Playoff Journey 14:54 Transitioning to the Conference Finals 20:57 Analyzing the Western Conference Matchup 23:31 Introduction to the Eastern Conference Playoffs 24:16 Carolina Hurricanes' Performance and Challenges 25:43 Montreal Canadiens' Momentum and Strategy 27:14 Goaltending Matchup: Key to Success 29:03 Offensive Contributions from Montreal 30:58 Predictions for the Series 34:04 Con Smythe Candidates and Team Impressions 36:37 Concerns for Remaining Teams 40:39 Trivia and Final Thoughts Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#302
May 13 · 53 min
Can Anyone Stop The Avalanche? (EP. 302)
The boys are back to break down the latest of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Nick and Mac dive into the Canes sweep of the Flyers, the seemingly unstoppable Colorado Avalanche, and the electric series between Vegas and Anaheim. The boys are also joined by Charlie McCulley of Triple Deke Vintage, who stops by to chat all things vintage hockey gear. Nick and Mac also take a look at the game 5 postponement for the PWHL, Charlie McAvoy's suspension, and wrap up with some game 7 goalscorer trivia. Chapters 01:13 Into and farming nonsense 02:29 Charlie McAvoy suspension 03:35 Hurricanes sweep Flyers 06:11 Sabres & Canadiens update 12:53 Avalanche & Wild update 22:01 Ducks & Golden Knights update 27:47 Charlie McCulley of Triple Deke Vintage 45:22 PWHL postpones pivotal game 5 46:49 TRIVIA - game 7 goalscorers Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#301
May 6 · 56 min
1st Round Recap & 2nd Round Preview (EP. 301)
Join Nick and Mackane as they dissect the first round of the NHL playoffs, share their insights on series outcomes, standout players, and the upcoming second round matchups. Get expert analysis, hot takes, and predictions for the Stanley Cup race. Chapters 00:00 Beach Time and Friendships 03:04 Hockey Postseason Overview 06:02 Hurricanes vs. Senators: A Boring Sweep 08:08 Buffalo vs. Boston: A Thrilling Rivalry 11:04 Battle of Pennsylvania: Flyers vs. Penguins 13:55 Tampa Bay vs. Montreal: A Surprising Series 17:05 Western Conference Roundup: Avs and Kings 19:59 Dallas vs. Minnesota: A Historic Clash 22:51 Vegas vs. Utah: A Series of Missed Opportunities 30:01 The Ducks' Unexpected Playoff Journey 35:37 The Wild Series Dynamics 36:22 Disappointment in the First Round 37:57 Blind Ranking First Round Matchups 39:36 Analyzing the Second Round Series 43:09 The Sabres vs. Canadiens Anticipation 44:38 Breaking News: Draft Lottery Shock 46:09 Ducks vs. Golden Knights Preview 47:43 Avalanche vs. Wild High-Scoring Game 50:56 Dream Conference Finals Matchups 52:46 Draft Lottery Results and Reactions Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#300
April 22 · 1 hr 34 min
Alan May (EP. 300)
For their 300th Episode Nick and Mac are joined by Alan May. Alan shares his journey to the NHL from growing up just outside the Arctic Circle, to playing in the AHL, and ultimately his NHL career. He also shares insights into his current role with the Caps broadcasting crew and gives some incredible motivation that kept him going through his career. The boys spend the rest of the eppy getting you caught up on the Stanley Cup Playoffs, running through some of their favorite guests, and finishing up with a trivia about playoff hat tricks. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#299
April 14 · 56 min
Inside Caps Broadcasting with Katie Florio (EP. 299)
The boys are joined by Washington Capitals radio host and content director Katie Florio! Katie shares her journey from Clemson University, to the AHL, and to her current role with the Caps. She gives some great insight into the day to day of her roles, the prep that goes into running multiple shows, and how to maintain relationships with the team. Nick and Mac also break down the Red Wings falloff, the major milestones for Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki, and the legendary career of Jonathan Quick. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#298
April 9 · 54 min
Playoff Race with Chuckin' Fists (EP. 298)
The boys are joined by Leo Calvo of Chuckin' Fists to break down both the east and west playoff races. Leo gives his thoughts on why his Penguins ha a resurgence under Dan Muse, why the Flyers should scare anyone in the east, and what went wrong for the Red Wings in the last couple weeks. Nick and Mac also break down the upcoming Frozen Four matchups, the Washington Capitals calling up Ilya Protas, and the PWHL selling out Madison Square Garden. Chapters 00:14 Intro and approaching 300 episodes 01:38 QOTD - memorable playoff series 05:00 PWHL sells out MSG 12:36 Playoff race with Leo Calvo of Chuckin' Fists 43:37 The Weekly ReCap 49:15 Frozen Four preview Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#297
April 1 · 1 hr 10 min
Grace Outwater & Danica Maynard (EP. 297)
In this episode, Nick and Mac are joined by Penn State starts Danica Maynard and Grace Outwater. They share their experiences following an amazing season for the Nittany Lions, their outdoor game at Beaver Stadium, and their paths to choosing college hockey. The boys also discuss the men's and women's NCAA hockey tournaments, the recent ups and downs of the Washington Capitals, and the shock front office moves made by the Leafs and Knights. BONUS: Mac discusses his major career change. 00:00 Weather Woes and Hockey Life 03:04 Joining a New Beer League 05:57 A New Path: Going Back to Dental School 08:52 Hockey Management Shakeups 11:57 College Hockey Highlights and Upsets 14:47 Women’s Hockey Championship and Men’s Frozen Four Preview 19:51 Interview with Penn State Hockey Players 21:45 Caps' Playoff Hopes and Recent Games 26:17 Refereeing Controversies in Hockey 29:44 Debuts and Expectations for New Players 31:51 Trivia Time: NHL's Most Productive Wingers 36:14 Mackane's New Journey in Dental School Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#296
March 25 · 1 hr 2 min
Red Wings Round Up with Ryan Lott (EP. 296)
In this episode, we unravel the latest in NHL playoff races, from the wild card chaos in the East to the strange standings in the West, plus a deep dive into the Detroit Red Wings' push to the postseason. Our guest, Ryan Lott, producer of the Athletes podcast and a die-hard Wings enthusiast, shares insider insights on key players like Dylan Larkin’s injury update, the goaltending evolution with Jon Gibson, and the surprising rise of young prospects such as Edvinson and Cossa. Ryan also breaks down how Detroit can navigate the tricky matchups ahead, and reveals what makes Tampa Bay a constant threat — plus predictions on who’s going all the way. We discuss the unpredictability of this year's March Madness and favorite moments (00:02) Analysis of the NHL playoff picture for both Eastern and Western Conferences (3:00) Deep dive into Detroit Red Wings' key players, injuries, and prospects with Ryan Lott (0:19) Ryan shares his thoughts on the future of the Wings, goaltending, and player development (6:35) The hosts debate the declining reputation of Subway and the nostalgia surrounding the chain (11:00) NHL Draft memories and experiences, including trips to the draft floor, with Ryan (20:14) Stanley Cup predictions for Tampa Bay, Dallas, and other contenders (23:25) Outlook on the Edmonton Oilers’ playoff chances and Connor McDavid’s impact (25:27) Closing thoughts, upcoming sports events, and appreciation for the guest (27:40) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#295
March 17 · 45 min
Cole Hutson Signs with the Caps (EP. 295)
In this episode Nick and Mac break down the USA sled hockey team capping off the Gold Medal sweep, Cole Hutson signing with the Capitals, and the recently announced 2028 World Cup of Hockey. They also dive into what the Caps future core could look like and wrap up with two wild trivia questions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#294
March 10 · 1 hr 12 min
Eva Erickson & Trade Deadline Recap (EP. 294)
In this episode, hosts Nick and Mac discuss the latest in sports, including trade deadline reactions, memorable hockey games, and an insightful interview with Eva Erickson, a survivor and hockey player. They analyze team surprises, trade deals, and share personal insights, making it a must-listen for hockey fans. Eva Erickson shares her unique journey from Minnesota high school hockey to Survivor, highlighting how her sports background influenced her gameplay and her efforts to make hockey more inclusive. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#293
March 4 · 41 min
Deadline Preview with Tyler Madarasz (EP. 293)
In this episode of the Empty the Benches podcast, hosts Nick Mannella and Mackane Vogel welcome Tyler Madarasz, co-host and producer of NHL Morning Skate on SiriusXM. The conversation dives into the excitement surrounding the NHL trade deadline, reflecting on Olympic hockey, and discussing various teams' needs and potential player movements. The trio explores the struggles of the Toronto Maple Leafs, the fit of certain players on different teams, and the potential for significant trades as the deadline approaches. With insights on key players like Robert Thomas, Vincent Trocheck, and Evander Kane, the episode captures the anticipation and chaos that often accompanies the trade deadline in the NHL. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Olympic Reflections 03:01 Trade Deadline Anticipation 06:02 Team Needs and Player Movements 08:53 Toronto Maple Leafs' Struggles 12:00 Potential Trades and Player Fit 14:56 Defensive Moves and Trade Rumors 18:00 Final Thoughts on Trade Deadline Chaos Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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