EPISODE 14: What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas? With George McPhee | Playoff Prep, Franchise Moves & The Emotional Side of Hockey

In Episode 14 of NHL Wraparound, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren sit down with George McPhee, President of Hockey Operations for the Vegas Golden Knights, to discuss playoff strategy, franchise dynamics, and the emotional journey of building a Stanley Cup-winning team.

McPhee shares personal reflections from his extensive NHL career—from his playing days to his executive roles with the Washington Capitals, New York Islanders, and Golden Knights—offering deep insight into the resilience required to succeed at every level of the sport.

The discussion includes analysis of Vegas’s preparation to defend their Stanley Cup title, how they’ve managed player injuries, and the ongoing controversy surrounding the NHL salary cap and long-term injured reserve (LTIR).

The episode also explores the emotional and logistical implications of NHL franchise relocations, including the Arizona Coyotes’ upcoming move to Salt Lake City, highlighting how these decisions impact players, staff, and fan communities alike.

The show wraps with stories that humanize the game—from Stanley Cup celebrations to family sacrifices, offering listeners a full-circle look at the passion and people behind the league’s most successful franchises.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:29] The playoff format debate and structure overview

[05:56] George McPhee’s NHL journey: player, GM, executive

[18:26] What winning the Stanley Cup truly feels like

[19:21] Reflections on career longevity and life after hockey

[23:51] Unforgettable Cup celebrations and their meaning

[27:22] Vegas’s rise as an NHL expansion success story

[28:41] Navigating the salary cap and injury controversies

[31:24] Key acquisitions and internal team dynamics

[33:24] Goaltending strategy heading into the postseason

[34:58] Thoughts on Alex Ovechkin’s career and legacy

[37:37] Family life in hockey—from front office to home life

[41:38] The ripple effects of franchise relocation in the NHL

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• George McPhee’s path from Hobey Baker winner to Stanley Cup executive reveals the multifaceted nature of leadership in hockey.
• The Vegas Golden Knights’ strategic roster management and deep playoff experience give them a solid chance at defending their title.
• Franchise relocation, such as the Coyotes' move to Salt Lake City, affects not just business operations but entire communities and player families.
• Emotional moments from McPhee’s career—including lifting the Cup—highlight the enduring connection between hockey professionals and the game they love.

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

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ABOUT GEORGE McPHEE:

George McPhee is the President of Hockey Operations for the Vegas Golden Knights and a former NHL player. Winner of the Hobey Baker Award in 1982, he played for the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils before transitioning to management. McPhee served as GM of the Washington Capitals for 17 years and helped build the Golden Knights into a Stanley Cup-winning franchise in just six seasons. He was also instrumental in developing future Hall of Famer Alex Ovechkin’s career in Washington.

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