Frank Becerra Jr./The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/153bc13f-094d-47cf-b93b-508987b26044.jpeg] Frank Becerra Jr./The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK Everyone and his Uncle Dudley seem to have a hockey website. Ah, but which one is THE best? For the answer I asked my esteemed hockey seer, Rangers historian George Grimm, to check out the field. Here's what the author of "We Did Everything But Win" – and other fine Blueshirt books – discovered. The winner is "NHL Wraparound" and it's hosted by two of the smartest minds in the puck universe. But I'll let Brother Grimm tell you the rest. Take it away, George: "From former players, to sportswriters, to avid fans (like me), it seems as if everyone has a hockey-related podcast these days. Some are good, some not, a few are too bland while a number of them try to be too 'edgy.' "The very best among the crowded field happens to be NHL Wraparound orchestrated by – and starring – Neil Smith and Vic Morren. "You have to love Smith's insights. He's the former President and General Manager of the only Ranger team to have won the Stanley Cup in the last 85 years (and counting). "Morren's resume is equally impressive. Vic is a long time ESPN veteran with other notable achievements including the first hockey analytics book. "As a team, they play off of each other well, delivering and producing multiple shows every week, each with a different take on the NHL, its players, and hockey in general. "Their NHL Wraparound episodes usually feature a GM, coach, beat writer or broadcaster as a guest, while their 'New York Centric' show drills down on the Rangers, Islanders and Devils and often features a reporter or broadcaster from the local tri-state market. "The pair also offer 'Short Shifts,' including a few minutes now reviewing opening round playoff games. In addition they offer a delightful feature called 'The Human Side.' It highlights the kindness, selflessness, and humor of the hockey community. "Not surprisingly, Smith’s expertise lies in evaluating the teams, players, trades and playoff analysis, while Morren relies heavily on analytics and statistics to support his views. "Each is highly respected within the hockey industry as evidenced by Florida coach Paul Maurice coming on the show on the same day as the NHL Trading Deadline. "Smith and Morren are both knowledgeable and more than willing to share their opinions, but they don’t force them on the listener. There’s no nastiness, hidden agendas or BS, just an eyes-wide-open, 360-degree view of the NHL." The Grimm Bottom Line: "NHL Wraparound, with its multiple shows and formats is an all-encompassing concept that works very well." The Maven's Bottom Line: It's the best in the business. Check it out and you'll see!
