Empty The Benches

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 Ca

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 playof

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

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

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

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,

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

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 Walte

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 And

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

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 matchu

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

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

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 Da

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

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

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

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 Erickso

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

USA Hockey Takes Gold In Milan (EP. 292)

In this episode, hosts Nick Mannella and Mackane Vogel celebrate the historic achievements of USA Hockey at the Olympics, discussing the thrilling victories of both the m