EPISODE 6: “My Way” with Brian Burke | Trade Deadline Moves, PWHL Growth, and Leadership in Hockey

In Episode 6 of NHL Wraparound, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren welcome Brian Burke, legendary NHL executive and current Executive Director of the Professional Women's Hockey League Players Association (PWHLPA), for a wide-ranging conversation on hockey operations, team building, and leadership.

The show opens with insights into the Eastern Conference trade market, focusing on pending UFAs like Jake Guentzel and Vladimir Tarasenko, followed by an update on slow starts plaguing teams like the New Jersey Devils.

Brian Burke joins to unpack what he calls the "Pittsburgh puzzle"—an in-depth look at the Penguins’ trajectory since their 2017 Stanley Cup win, including Mike Sullivan’s tenure, roster challenges, and Burke’s own role in shaping the team’s future.

From there, the conversation shifts to the PWHL, where Burke shares his enthusiasm for the league’s vision, leadership from Billie Jean King and Mark Walter, and the innovative rules (like “the jailbreak” and points-based standings) designed to ensure competitive balance and long-term success.

The episode wraps with Western Conference trade speculation, a quickfire review of potential UFA moves, and The Human Side of the Story, featuring personal stories about Brian Burke’s leadership journey, his advocacy for inclusion in hockey, and a humorous memory involving John Purdy’s 15 seconds of fame.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:21] Segment preview: Eastern/Western Conference trades + Brian Burke interview

[05:06] One-Timers: Battle of Alberta intensity, Devils' home-game struggles

[12:39] Brian Burke on the Penguins, Guentzel’s future, Sullivan, and PWHL insights

[29:30] PWHL’s unique rules: the jailbreak, new standings system, and long-term strategy

[41:18] Trade speculation continues with potential moves across both conferences

[43:24] Jordan Eberle and free-agent outlook

[44:24] Anaheim Ducks & California market strategy

[45:33] Anthony Duclair’s possible return to Florida & Sharks' trade deadline moves

[46:37] Human Side of the Story: John Purdy’s 15 seconds of fame

[48:49] Reflections on Brian Burke’s career and leadership in the NHL and beyond

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Battle of Alberta remains one of the NHL’s most physical rivalries with major implications for both teams.
• Burke shares how managing Pittsburgh post-dynasty required tough decisions amid aging stars and a shifting NHL landscape.
• The PWHL is poised for long-term success thanks to strong ownership, smart rules, and a growing fan base.
• Teams like Colorado, Vegas, and Philadelphia are navigating the trade deadline with caution and long-term planning in mind.
• Burke’s advocacy for inclusion, his championship run with the Anaheim Ducks, and career-spanning leadership lessons serve as inspiration for hockey's next generation.

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major podcast 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 BRIAN BURKE:

Brian P. Burke is a decorated hockey executive, having served as GM of the Hartford Whalers, Vancouver Canucks, Anaheim Ducks (winning the Stanley Cup in 2007), and Toronto Maple Leafs. He was also president of hockey operations for the Calgary Flames and Pittsburgh Penguins, and served in the NHL’s league office. Now Executive Director of the PWHLPA, Burke is known for his outspoken leadership, integrity, and advocacy for inclusion in hockey.

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