The FAN Morning Show

Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi are joined by Jason Bukala to discuss the Auston Matthews incident and the Leafs' lack of response. They explore the team's DNA, potential changes in coaching or management to boost passion, and whether this core is fixable. How should Matthews feel about his teammates’ support? Afterward, MLB Network's Adnan Virk (28:50) joins to discuss Canada’s quarterfinal matchup against America, their chances, and the implications for both teams.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi begin the second hour by previewing Canada’s World Baseball Classic quarterfinal against the United States. They break down how the Canadian roster matches up, what a successful start from Michael Soroka would look like, and James Paxton’s impressive return from retirement. The guys also examine which Canadian hitters need to step up, what’s at stake for the Americans, and the controversy around Team USA wearing Olympic hockey jerseys for the game and how Canada should respond. After the break, Sportsnet.ca Raptors reporter Michael Grange (29:07) joins the show to discuss the Jamal Shead incident and whether it reflects a lack of leadership or edge within the team. They explore whether the Raptors need a more aggressive presence to take the next step, if their fourth-quarter struggles stem from leadership issues or poor shooting, Immanuel Quickley’s season and the expectations tied to his contract, and whether NBA fans are becoming desensitized to greatness given Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s performances.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Brent Gunning and Daniele Franceschi wrap up the week by recapping the Maple Leafs’ victory over the Anaheim Ducks. They look into the fallout from the game including Auston Matthews’ injury and the team’s lack of response, along with the post-game comments from team leaders and ongoing questions about the group’s toughness, cohesion, and mentality. They also discuss Radko Gudas’ role in the incident, whether he could face supplemental discipline, and how the Leafs might respond in their next meeting with Anaheim. After the break, the guys preview the Raptors taking on the Suns, what’s at stake for Toronto, and the disappointment over the team’s lack of response to Jamal Shead on Wednesday, before wrapping up the hour with a first-round recap of The Players Championship.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning wrap up Thursday with Toronto Star writer and Leafs historian Damien Cox. They discuss how the Maple Leafs can return to playoff contention, the need for a president of hockey operations, and whether Brad Treliving deserves another chance. They also explore accountability within the front office, the implications of no-trade clauses, and potential leadership candidates. After the break, they welcome new TFC player Josh Sargent (24:38), who shares his excitement about joining the team, his impressions of Toronto, and the perception of MLS in Europe. He reflects on his World Cup experience and the budding rivalry in CONCACAF between Canada and the U.S. They conclude by previewing the Leafs' game against the Ducks tonight.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Ben Ennis and Brent Gunning open the second hour by welcoming MLB Network insider Jon Morosi to the show. They discuss the strong play of Team Italy and the impact the tournament is having on the global growth of baseball, before the conversation shifts to Canada reaching the quarterfinals. The boys take a look ahead to their matchup with the United States, discuss the potential significance of a Canadian victory, and examine the pressure on Team USA manager Mark DeRosa. After the break, Sportsnet's Adam Stanley (25:34) stops by to preview The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass. He shares his expectations for Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka in his return to the PGA Tour, what the tour might look like under new commissioner Brian Rolapp, and potential improvements to the PGA playoff format.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.