Sep 22, 2026 · 3h 42m
Central Division contenders face a crowded playoff race
Spittin' Chiclets Episode 670: Featuring MacKenzie Weegar, Ryan Reaves + Barstool Chief
The episode tests every Central Division team against rising expectations, salary pressures, uncertain leadership, and Utah’s rapid emergence.
- 1Utah’s growing hockey culture and improved roster make the new market a serious Central Division playoff factor.
- 2Ryan Reaves’ retirement reflection shows how an enforcer’s role, longevity, and post-playing identity have changed.
- 3The hosts question whether Colorado, Dallas, and Minnesota have enough depth and stability to survive the division race.
Don't miss
Ryan Reaves explains how he maintained confidence and purpose while moving through a long career as a fighter and fourth-line player.
The brief
The Central Division preview finds no easy favorite: Colorado and Dallas carry familiar doubts, Minnesota faces depth and salary questions, and Utah enters with a stronger roster and a fast-growing hockey culture.
The contract discussion widens into an argument about timing and fairness, as young stars secure future value while retired players and alumni remain less protected by the league’s economics.
Ryan Reaves reflects on retirement, fighting, protecting elite teammates, and building confidence as a fourth-line player across a long NHL career.
MacKenzie Weegar describes Utah’s new era, from the market’s developing identity to its facilities, leadership, coaching, and belief that the team can start quickly.
The episode’s sharpest forecast is also its most debatable: Minnesota could miss the playoffs, while Utah’s rise threatens to reorder the Central Division field.