Blueshirt Bandwidth
SportBlueshirt Bandwidth is a weekly podcast dedicated to the New York Rangers, brought to you by the team at Blueshirt Banter. Hosted by Joe Fortunato, Mike Murphy, and Eric Kohn, the show offers in-depth analysis, game breakdowns, and the latest news on the Rangers. Whether you're looking for player insights, trade rumors, or post-game reactions, Blueshirt Bandwidth delivers everything a Rangers fan needs to stay updated. Tune in each week for commentary, passionate discussion, assorted nonsense, and all things related to the New York Rangers.
Siste episoder av Blueshirt Bandwidth podcast
- #52: One Year of the Pod, When Rangers Takes Stop Being Polite and Start Getting Spicy (01:45:51)
This week’s Blueshirt Bandwidth is hotter than usual as Joe and Eric mark the show’s one-year anniversary with a fiery round of Rangers talk. From Brennan Othman’s setback and Noah Laba’s eye-opening preseason to the Conor Sheary roster conundrum and Scott Morrow vs. Urho Vaakanainen debate, nothing is off the table. Add in a few side rants about locker-room leadership, trade deadline possibilities, and even a live Yankees rollercoaster and outbursts from Eric, and you’ve got an episode packed with bite. If you like your Rangers analysis with a little extra spice, this one’s for you. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #51: Preseason Panic Button for Othmann, Perreault Impresses, and the Roster Squeeze (01:34:56)
The Rangers’ preseason is only two games old, but roster battles are already taking shape. Joe and Eric dive into the big questions: Could Conor Sheary really steal a spot from Brennan Othmann? Has Gabe Perreault played his way into the opening night lineup? And is Noah Laba forcing the team’s hand at center? Plus, the guys break down the third-line puzzle, the Adam Fox discourse they refuse to entertain, and why the Rangers’ power-play decisions still make no sense. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #50: Captain Miller, Wing Zibanejad, and Rangers Camp Storylines (01:31:23)
Joe and Eric hit the half-century mark of Blueshirt Bandwidth with a loaded episode. They break down the Rangers’ decision to name J.T. Miller the 29th captain in franchise history, what it signals about the team’s new identity under Chris Drury and Mike Sullivan, and why Miller’s fiery leadership makes sense now. The guys also dig into Mika Zibanejad’s move to the wing, what it reveals about the Rangers’ shaky center depth, and how young players like Brennan Othman, Will Cuylle, and Brett Berard fit into the lineup puzzle. Plus more on the prospect of acquiring Kirill Kaprizov and a tribute to Rangers legend Ed Giacomin, who passed away this week.Plus, listener questions on Igor Shesterkin’s workload, Dylan Garand’s chances, nostalgic trades of Brian Leetch and Mike Richter, “movies so bad they’re good,” and plenty of (Blueshirt) banter in between. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #49: Brennan Othmann’s Clock, Adam Fox’s Critics, and the Rangers’ Roster Crunch (01:00:55)
Joe and Eric dive into the final dog-days episode of the offseason, tackling the start of Rangers rookie camp and the growing scrutiny around Brennan Othmann. They debate whether Othmann is truly “on the clock,” what a successful season would look like for him, and how the roster logjam of young wingers complicates his runway. The hosts also unpack Mike Sullivan’s recent comments on Adam Fox, push back against the narrative that Fox isn’t elite, and highlight just how valuable he remains in the league’s hierarchy of defensemen. Listener questions spark discussions about Kaprizov’s rejected mega-extension, whether the Rangers should pursue Rasmus Andersson, the weirdness of Matt Grzelcyk still being unsigned, and what it might take to make New York a viable landing spot for McDavid, Eichel, or Kaprizov.As always, the banter is sharp, the analysis is strong, and yes—there’s even an enchilada tangent. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #48: Dog Days & Big Paydays—Kaprizov, Panarin, and the Rangers’ Burning Questions (01:24:52)
Joe and Eric return for the 48th episode of Blueshirt Bandwidth, where summer doldrums meet big-picture debates. They kick things off with some Notre Dame college football tangents. From there, it’s back to Rangers talk: Calvin de Haan’s NHL future (or lack thereof), the ripple effects of mega-contract rumors around stars like Kaprizov, and what those numbers mean for the salary cap and Igor Shesterkin’s deal. Listeners’ questions fuel the heart of the show: How excited should fans really be heading into 2025-26? Which Ranger must rebound most—Mika Zibanejad or Alexis Lafrenière—for the team to take a step forward? Is the fourth line truly set? Plus: Artemi Panarin’s next contract, his Hall of Fame case, and the most egregious movies Joe hasn’t seen (prepare to be appalled). Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #47: The Kreider Snub, Power Play Puzzles, and Eichel’s $15M Price Tag (00:50:56)
Live from a hotel room in New Orleans, Joe and Eric dive into Episode 47 of Blueshirt Bandwidth—the Steven Kampfer episode. With little real Rangers news to chew on, the guys still find plenty to debate: from the bizarre exclusion of Chris Kreider in the Rangers’ 100th anniversary video, to the power play puzzle without one of the NHL’s top net-front presences, to where Alexis Lafrenière actually fits in Mike Sullivan’s system. Listener questions take things further, sparking conversation about Adam Fox’s playoff performances, future free agent targets (yes, including Jack Eichel’s rumored $15M ask), whether Brad Park deserves jersey retirement recognition, and the ongoing development of Braden Schneider. Plus, a few tangents about hotels, Western Conference exec gossip, and Chip23’s uncanny knack for stirring up arguments. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #46: Mika on the Wing? Sullivan’s Big Bet for the Rangers (01:09:00)
Joe and Eric dive into Dan Rosen’s “Three Questions Facing the Rangers,” focusing on Mike Sullivan’s surprising plan to start Mika Zibanejad on the wing alongside J.T. Miller. They break down what that means for the team’s center depth, Vincent Trocheck’s role, and the futures of Brennan Othmann, Brett Berard, and Will Cuylle. The guys also tackle questions from subscribers on Braden Schneider’s development, Dylan Garand’s path to the NHL, the captaincy debate, and USA Hockey’s Olympic roster outlook and the insane Adam Fox slander. Plus, some shots at Dom Luszczyszyn’s contract grades, Marc Messier’s coaching “what-ifs,” and a hilarious look at Gerard Gallant’s Shanghai Dragons intro video. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!Shanghai Dragons Gerard Gallant announcement video
- #45: The Blueshirt Banter Fantasy Expansion Draft (01:40:26)
In the first-ever Blueshirt Banter Fantasy Expansion Draft, Eric, Joe, and special guest commissioner Roberto battle it out to build the best imaginary NHL franchise. With protection lists set, cap constraints looming, and plenty of chirps flying, the trio navigates surprising unprotected stars, risky long-term bets, and bargain gems—plus a few hilarious mispronunciations along the way. From strategic steals to baffling oversights, it’s part draft, part roast, and all Banter. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!Blueshirt Banter Fantasy Expansion DraftVote on who drafted the better expansion team
- #44 w/ Keegan Jarvis: What Does the Wolf Pack Say? (01:37:04)
In this week’s episode, Joe and Eric kick things off by embracing the dog days of summer with an unhinged examination of Rangers jersey numbers—including a nice one that has never been issued—and the return of Vitali Kravtsov (sort of). Then, they’re joined by Keegan Jarvis, Hartford Wolf Pack correspondent for Blueshirt Banter, for a long-awaited breakdown of all things Wolf Pack. Keegan shares insight on the Rangers’ AHL development pipeline, expectations for Brennan Othman, Brett Berard, and Gabe Perreault, and what Scott Morrow’s path to the NHL might look like. Plus: listener questions, predictions, PTO speculation, and a mini therapy session about the team’s drafting history. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #43: Conor Sheary and One Big Rangers AMA (01:08:12)
Joe and Eric return for Episode 43—the Marty Biron episode—with a mailbag special. They open with thoughts on Conor Sheary’s curious PTO and what it signals about Mike Sullivan’s influence, the logjam of forwards, and how the Rangers will handle their crop of young players, including Brennan Othman and Gabe Perreault. From there, it’s a listener-driven AMA covering Marco Rossi, regression to the mean, expansion cities, contraction debates, who they’d steal from the 1994 team (hint: it’s not Messier), and plenty more. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #42 w/ Scott Wheeler: Chris Kreider’s Exit Interview, Lafrenière’s Ceiling, & What’s Next for NYR Prospects (01:50:20)
Joe and Eric are back and they’re joined by The Athletic’s Scott Wheeler to break down the Rangers’ draft strategy, prospect development, and why Gabe Perreault and Scott Morrow could play big roles this season. They also dig into Chris Kreider’s amicable departure and Wolverine-hand saga, reassess the upside of Alexis Lafrenière, and debate the risks and rewards of trading for a top draft pick. Whether you're high on the Rangers' young core or skeptical about their timeline, this one’s for you. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #41: Safe Moves and Spicy Takes: Maloney, McDavid, and Most Punchable Faces (00:54:51)
Joe and Eric tackle the dog days of summer with no shortage of hot takes. From the Rangers’ safe pick of Dave Maloney to join Kenny Albert in the MSG broadcast booth, to the team’s flavorless schedule reveal, the guys dive into all things off-ice—and offbeat. They debate Chris Kreider’s reported anger over a missing tribute video, fantasize about Connor McDavid trade scenarios, and break down where Brennan Othmann and Brett Berard might fit in Mike Sullivan’s system. There’s also talk of power play shakeups, punchable NHL faces (looking at you, Paul Maurice), and the most iconic Rangers moments since 2010. It’s a little messy, a little emotional, and very Blueshirt Banter. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #40 w/ Vince Mercogliano: Rangers’ Offseason Moves Under the Microscope (01:53:50)
Joe and Eric are joined by Vince Mercogliano of lohud.com and the New Ice City podcast for an in-depth conversation about the Rangers' offseason moves. They break down the Gavrikov signing, the K'Andre Miller trade to Carolina, and what the new defensive pairings could look like under Mike Sullivan. Plus: what to expect from Scott Morrow, where Mika Zibanejad fits in the lineup, and why patience might be key for prospects like Brennan Othmann and Gabe Perreault. And, critically, is it sauce or is it gravy? Give it a listen!Vince Mercogliano on XLoHud.com Rangers CoverageNew Ice City PodcastSubscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #39: Drury’s July 1 Masterclass, Miller Out, Gavrikov In (01:44:43)
Joe and Eric are back to break down one of the most pivotal weeks in recent New York Rangers history, covering everything from the K'Andre Miller trade and the signing of Vladislav Gavrikov to a surprisingly savvy draft and the possibility of a looming Jack Eichel disappointment. They dive into what Chris Drury got right, what it means for the team's future, and why the Rangers' new defensive core might be better than expected. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #38: Rangers Send Pick to Penguins, Miller Out and Gavrikov In? (01:14:16)
Joe and Eric are back to break down a pivotal week in the New York Rangers' offseason, starting with Chris Drury’s decision to send the 12th overall pick to Pittsburgh and what it signals for the team’s short- and long-term strategy. They dig into the implications for K’Andre Miller’s future, debate the rumored signing of Vladislav Gavrikov, and discuss how the Rangers’ blue line could take shape under Mike Sullivan. Plus, they explore the fourth-line makeover, potential Brendan Othmann trade chatter, and why Adam Fox might finally get the ideal partner. A must-listen for Rangers fans tracking every move ahead of the NHL Draft and free agency. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #37: Kreider Fallout, More K'Andre Rumors, and Mika is Staying (01:16:33)
Joe is out this week and Eric is joined by the inimitable Chip23 for a summer episode that covers everything from Sam Bennett’s playoff payday to the Rangers’ evolving roster. The duo dives deep into Florida’s playoff run, Edmonton’s goaltending woes, and what New York should and shouldn’t emulate from either. They break down the Chris Kreider trade, K'Andre Miller’s uncertain future, and what a Mika Zibanejad rebound under Mike Sullivan might look like. Plus: spicy food regrets, Taco Bell hazing stories, and Yankees vs. Astros rage. It’s a mix of hockey insight, offbeat tangents, and offseason optimism. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #36: Kreider Trade, David Quinn Returns, K'Andre Trade Rumors, and Sam Bennett’s Payday Looms (01:26:47)
This episode comes in two parts. First, Joe and Eric talk after they recorded most of this episode about the now all-but-official Chris Kreider trade. Then, in the main episode, Joe and Eric are back with a packed episode breaking down all the latest rumblings around the New York Rangers. They dive into the return of David Quinn—as an assistant coach this time—and explain why fans should maybe relax. The duo also tackles the future of K'Andre Miller, the rumors surrounding Chris Kreider, and whether the Rangers are actually undergoing a real culture shift. Plus: what kind of contract is Sam Bennett about to land after his playoff explosion? And why is everyone losing their minds over a silly draft combine numbers game? All that and more in this week’s no-holds-barred episode of Blueshirt Bandwidth.Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #35: The Mika Dilemma, Knoblauch Envy, and Why the Rangers Must Risk Youth (01:05:24)
Joe and Eric are back with a jam-packed episode covering everything from Stanley Cup handshake drama to the Rangers’ high-stakes offseason ahead. They dive into Paul Maurice’s bizarre coaching etiquette, the Knoblauch vs. Laviolette hindsight debate, and whether Edmonton’s success means anything for New York. Then it's on to potential trades—Jason Robertson, Marco Rossi, JJ Peterka, and even Mika Zibanejad—and what the Rangers can actually do with their cap and assets. Plus: Kreider sentimentality, the Knicks’ coaching change, and why the Rangers (and Knicks?) might finally be run like real organizations. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #34: How Much Would You Pay for Will Cuylle? (01:01:03)
Joe and Eric are on the road in different cities, but they're still here to discuss all the news that hasn't happened in Rangersland. How much would you pay Will Cuylle and K'Andre Miller with the risk of offer sheets looming out there? Who would you trade Lafrenière for? Is the only way the Rangers are getting culture change coming from Mike Sullivan? Plus, who will be Kenny Albert's broadcast partner? Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #33: John Tavares, New York Ranger? (01:12:44)
With Eric out this week, Joe is joined by Chip23 (who still proclaims that he is not actually Chris Drury) to give his take on the upcoming Rangers offseason. Should the Rangers go after that big name former Toronto Maple Leafs free agent? No, not Mitch Marner. John Tavares. Will they go after Sam Bennett and, if they do, will be just be the next Bobby Holik? Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #32: How Much Can the Rangers Change This Roster? (01:14:58)
This week, Joe and Eric take a look at the NHL playoffs up to this point and wonder if what we've seen tells us anything about what the Rangers should do this offseason. How much can they do this offseason? Is building a team from goaltender out the best way to do it? Does it matter? Plus, thoughts on Joe Micheletti's retirement and who might replace him in the broadcast booth. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #31: The Difference Mike Sullivan Can Make (With Jon Basti, SHU Lacrosse Coach) (01:17:22)
This week, Joe and Eric are joined by Jon Basti, the head coach of the Sacred Heart University men's lacrosse team, as they discuss Mike Sullivan and the kind of difference new—and good—coaching can make. Will Sullivan be enough to keep Chris Kreider around? Does he believe he can fix Mika Zibanejad? Also, how on earth has Joe seen "A Clockwork Orange" but not "Back to the Future"?!? Give it a listen.Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #30: Mike Sullivan, Come On Down (01:24:17)
Joe and Eric prepare to welcome Mike Sullivan as the next head coach of the New York Rangers. What does that mean for Chris Drury? What does that mean for the roster? Will John Tortorella join as an assistant? Plus, why does Canucks president Jim Rutherford keep talking? He knows he can stop before he talks Quinn Hughes out of town, right? Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #29: See Ya, Peter Laviolette & Breaking Down Break-Up Day (01:26:44)
Joe is reporting in from his basement, and Eric is reporting in from Guatemala (yes, you read that correctly) as they address the Artemi Panarin settlement story and the firing of Peter Laviolette. What should we make of the player's comments from break-up day? Plus, the guys answer a long and thorough (and very good) email argument against Chris Drury's tenure as Rangers GM (and whose contract extension was announced after this podcast episode was recorded). Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!
- #28: The Season Ends and The Real Chaos Starts (01:29:12)
The New York Rangers miserable season is over. Buckle in, because now the real craziness is coming. Chris Kreider's time as a Ranger probably over. Is Mika next? When will Laviolette be fired? Chris Drury likely won't be fired, but if you want him gone, who can realistically replace him? Plus, Calvin de Haan's pot stirring comments, and more. Give it a listen!Subscribe to Blueshirt Banter for as low as $30/year to comment and submit your podcast questions, or $65/year to read and comment on all of our great content!