Advertise on podcast: Backchecking the Bolts

What does it take to go from Minnesota high school hockey to becoming a Stanley Cup Champion? Former Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Ben Clymer joins Jason Linkes and Justin Godfrey on Backchecking the Bolts for an exclusive interview about his remarkable hockey journey, winning the 2004 Stanley Cup, and building a successful career after the NHL. Growing up in Bloomington, Minnesota, Clymer developed his love for hockey in one of America's most passionate hockey communities. From winning a Minnesota high school state championship to reaching the NHL, Ben shares the experiences, challenges, and memories that shaped his career. We look back at his time with the Tampa Bay Lightning, including the unforgettable 2004 Stanley Cup championship season, his years playing under John Tortorella, and his eventual move to the Washington Capitals. But Ben's story doesn't end when he hangs up his skates! Today, Clymer is the Managing Partner at Abbey Street in the Twin Cities, where he has transitioned from professional hockey into financial and wealth management. We discuss what attracted him to the financial industry, the lessons he carried from the NHL into the business world, and his perspective on life after professional sports. In this episode: Growing up in Bloomington, Minnesota, and discovering hockeyWinning a Minnesota high school hockey state championshipThe journey from Minnesota to the NHLPlaying for the Tampa Bay LightningMemories of John Tortorella and the 2004 Stanley Cup championshipHis time with the Washington CapitalsTransitioning from professional hockey to financial managementHis role as Managing Partner at Abbey StreetLife after hockey and the lessons learned along the wayPlus, Ben steps into the penalty box for our rapid-fire segment, Two Minutes in the Box! Whether you're a longtime Tampa Bay Lightning fan, a Minnesota hockey enthusiast, or simply interested in what professional athletes do after their playing careers, this conversation offers a fascinating look at life on and off the ice. Subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for more Tampa Bay Lightning news, analysis, interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories from the NHL. Hosted by Jason Linkes and Justin Godfrey, Managing Editor of Raw Charge. Follow Backchecking the Bolts: YouTube: Backchecking the Bolts X: @Tampa_Bolts_Pod Email: [email protected] Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio. #TampaBayLightning #BenClymer #StanleyCup #NHL #TBLightning #MinnesotaHockey #TBL

The Tampa Bay Lightning are getting closer to the 2026-27 NHL season, and on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down some of the biggest questions surrounding the Bolts as training camp approaches. We start with the Lightning Prospect Tournament in Raleigh, September 13-15. Which Tampa Bay prospects have the most to gain, and which players need to make an impression if they want to push their way into the NHL roster conversation? Then it's time for our 3 Burning Questions heading into the 2026-27 season. Who grabs the second-line left wing spot? Who wins the battle for the sixth defensive position? And can the Lightning power play get back on track? We also debut Fringe, Rise or Regression, as we look at six Lightning players and predict what their upcoming seasons could look like. Are they on the fringe, ready to rise, or candidates to regress? Finally, Chris Kreider has been released by the Anaheim Ducks. The veteran forward is now available — but would he actually make sense for Tampa Bay? We look at Kreider's production, potential role and whether the Lightning should have any interest. On this episode: Lightning Prospect Tournament preview from RaleighProspects who need to impress3 Burning Questions for the 2026-27 LightningSecond-line left wing competitionTampa Bay's sixth defenseman battleCan the Lightning power play rebound?Fringe, Rise or Regression: 6 Lightning playersChris Kreider released by AnaheimCould Kreider be a fit in Tampa Bay?Subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for Tampa Bay Lightning analysis, NHL news, prospects, roster discussions and conversations that go beyond the box score. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #NHL #TBL #BackcheckingTheBolts #ChrisKreider #TBLightning

The Tampa Bay Lightning are heading toward training camp with some major questions, and on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the biggest storylines surrounding the Bolts and the NHL. What will the Lightning do with Nikita Kucherov’s next contract, and what does the future hold for Jonas Johansson? With training camp approaching, we discuss the contract situations Tampa Bay will have to address and what Kucherov could command on his next deal. We also debate one of the biggest questions facing the Lightning this season: Who does Tampa Bay need a bounce-back season from more — Brayden Point or Victor Hedman? Both are critical pieces of the Lightning core, but which player returning to top form would have the greater impact? Plus, a potentially massive NHL storyline: Connor Hellebuyck has requested a trade. What could that mean for the Winnipeg Jets, what kind of market could develop for one of the NHL’s premier goaltenders, and which teams could potentially get involved? Finally, with NHL expansion continuing to loom on the horizon, could expansion finally lead the league to rethink the Stanley Cup Playoff format? We discuss possible changes and whether the current wild-card system should survive an expanded NHL. On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts: Nikita Kucherov’s next contract — what’s his number?What happens with Jonas Johansson?Brayden Point vs. Victor Hedman: Who needs the bigger bounce-back season?Connor Hellebuyck requests a tradeCould NHL expansion change the playoff format?If you’re a Tampa Bay Lightning fan or follow the NHL, subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for Lightning analysis, NHL news, rumors, trades, contracts and discussion that goes beyond the box score. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #NHL #TBLightning #TBL #NHLNews

What makes the Syracuse Crunch and Tampa Bay Lightning partnership one of the best in the AHL? We go behind the scenes with Lukas Favale, the voice of the Syracuse Crunch, to take a deep dive into the Crunch's 2025-26 season and the players who could be part of Tampa Bay's future. Lukas joins Backchecking the Bolts to recap Syracuse's season, discuss why the long-running Lightning–Crunch affiliation works so well, and identify some of the young players Lightning fans should keep an eye on. We also talk about one of the most entertaining features on the Crunch's social media: Walk and Talk, where Lukas catches up with Crunch players as they walk to the arena and gives fans a more personal look at the players behind the jerseys Follow Lukas Favale on X and Instagram @LukasFavale Do you want to watch the Walk & Talks? Go to the Syracuse Crunch Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/syracusecrunch Find out more information on the Syracuse Crunch at: www.syracusecrunch.com Watch their games on AHL TV at FloHockey Listen to the Crunch at www.espnsyracuse.com (ESPN 1200 AM or 97.7 PM) #TampaBayLightning #SyracuseCrunch #TBLightning #TBL #GoBolts #CrunchTime

The NHL continues to explore expansion opportunities—but could Houston become the league's 33rd franchise? In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes is joined by Matt Savage from the Mission Control: Houston Hockey Podcast to discuss one of hockey's hottest topics. 🏒 Topics include: Why Houston is considered a leading NHL expansion candidateWhy the NHL values Houston as one of America's largest media marketsThe challenges of launching another professional sports franchise in an already crowded marketHouston's hockey history and fan supportWhat ownership and arena questions still need to be answeredHow Houston compares to other expansion candidates If you're interested in NHL expansion, Houston hockey, the future of the NHL, or the business of professional sports, this episode is packed with insight. Guest: Matt Savage – Mission Control: Houston Hockey Podcast Host: Jason Linkes Mission Control: Houston Hockey Podcast X: @MCHockeyPodcast Instagram: @MCHockeyPodcast YouTube: @MCHockeyPodcast #GoBolts #NHL #NHLExpansion #HoustonNHL #HoustonHockey #Hockey #NHLtoHouston #NHL33

Are the Tampa Bay Lightning actually better on paper heading into the new NHL season? On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we take an in-depth look at the Lightning's offseason roster changes and whether they've improved enough to contend for another Stanley Cup. We also tackle one of the biggest questions facing Tampa Bay: Could the Lightning survive a long-term injury to Andrei Vasilevskiy? How much of the team's success still depends on one of the NHL's elite goaltenders? Plus, we discuss the future of franchise superstar Nikita Kucherov. When his current contract expires, what would a hometown discount look like for the Bolts? Leave your thoughts in the comments: Are the Lightning better than they were when last season ended? #GoBolts #TBL #TBLightning #NHL #HockeyPodcast #TampaBayLightning

How much of an advantage do NHL teams in Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Nevada, and other no state income tax states really have under the NHL salary cap? In this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes sits down with renowned sports economist Victor Matheson, Professor of Economics at Holy Cross, to break down one of hockey's most debated topics. Does the salary cap truly create competitive balance, or do tax laws give certain franchises a significant edge? The conversation also explores many of the biggest business issues facing professional hockey, including: 🏒 Do no state income tax teams have a real salary cap advantage? 💰 The economics behind NHL arena financing and taxpayer-funded stadiums 📈 Why franchise values have skyrocketed in recent years 🏟️ Which cities could become future NHL relocation destinations 🌎 Expansion vs. relocation: What's next for the NHL? 📊 The biggest economic challenges the NHL will face over the next decade 💵 How salary caps influence competitive balance across professional sports Whether you're a hockey fan, sports business enthusiast, or simply interested in the economics behind professional sports, this episode provides an in-depth look at the financial forces shaping the NHL today and into the future. 🎙️ Guest: Victor Matheson – Sports Economist & Professor of Economics, College of the Holy Cross 👍 If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Turn on Notifications for more interviews covering the Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL news, player analysis, salary cap discussions, and the business of hockey. #NHL #SalaryCap #VictorMatheson #SportsEconomics #TampaBayLightning #NHLBusiness #SportsBusiness

The Tampa Bay Lightning made two intriguing additions this offseason in John Carlson and Jeffrey Viel, but what should Lightning fans realistically expect? On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, host Jason Linkes is joined by Patrick Present, Team Editor and Reporter covering the Anaheim Ducks for The Hockey News, to break down both of Tampa Bay's newest players and discuss the biggest story of the NHL offseason—the Leo Carlsson offer sheet. Patrick Present's Social Media and Contacts: Instagram: patrickcpresent X: @PatrickCPresent Facebook: PatCPresent The Hockey News: https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/anaheim-ducks If you enjoy in-depth Tampa Bay Lightning coverage featuring reporters from around the NHL, be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS so you never miss an episode of Backchecking the Bolts. #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #LetsGoDucks #TBL #LeoCarlsson #AnaheimDucks #NHL #NHLFreeAgency

The Tampa Bay Lightning have been busy during NHL free agency, and we're breaking down everything you need to know on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts. 🏒 In this episode: * Complete breakdown of the Lightning's free agent signingsWhich players left Tampa Bay and how those departures impact the roster* The biggest signings from around the NHL and which teams improved the most* What these moves mean for the Lightning heading into the 2026-27 NHL season Join the Backchecking the Bolts crew as they go beyond the headlines with analysis, opinions, and discussion on one of the busiest times of the NHL offseason. 📺 Listen & Watch 🎙️ YouTube: Backchecking the Bolts Follow us for more Tampa Bay Lightning coverage: 🐦 X: @Tampa_Bolts_Pod 📸 Instagram: @BackcheckingTheBolts 📘 Facebook: Backchecking the Bolts #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #NHL #NHLFreeAgency #Lightning #TBL

On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, Jason and Justin break down the latest NHL Trade Frenzy as teams make major moves before the NHL Entry Draft. 🏒 Topics on this episode: ⚡ Darren Raddysh traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs How does Tampa Bay replace a key defenseman?Did the Lightning make the right move? 🦅 Alex Tuch traded to the Washington Capitals Washington adds size, scoring, and another veteran weaponAre the Capitals loading up for another playoff push? 🔥 Bowen Byram traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in a blockbuster deal Chicago sends a package including the #4 overall pick in the NHL DraftDid Buffalo make the right decision moving on from Byram? 🎙️ Plus, Jonah Ahrens from The Sabre Report Podcast joins the conversation with his reaction and analysis of the Byram trade from the Buffalo perspective. We also open up the Backchecking the Bolts Mailbag and answer YOUR questions from social media! 🌎 Finally, Jason and Justin discuss the NHL’s latest expansion possibilities: ⭐ Could the league return to Texas with a new team in Houston or Austin? ⭐ Would another Southern NHL market work? #GoBolts #TampaBayLightning #NHLTradeRumors #NHLDraft #NHLExpansion #NHL

Former Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Peter Taglianetti joins Backchecking the Bolts to look back on an incredible hockey journey that stretched from college hockey greatness to the biggest stage in the NHL. Taglianetti was a member of the inaugural 1992-93 Tampa Bay Lightning team and shares stories about playing for an expansion franchise built by Phil Esposito, what the early days of Lightning hockey were really like, and how Tampa Bay began building its NHL identity. Before arriving in Tampa, Peter played at Providence College under legendary coach and Hockey Hall of Famer Lou Lamoriello, was drafted by the Winnipeg Jets, and credits former Norris Trophy winner Randy Carlyle as an important mentor during his early NHL career. Taglianetti also reflects on his championship years with the Pittsburgh Penguins, winning back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1991 and 1992 alongside some of hockey’s greatest players. Plus — hear the unbelievable story of Peter’s appearance in the famous 1993 Yokozuna Body Slam Challenge aboard the USS Intrepid, one of the most memorable crossover moments between the NHL and WWE. Topics Include: ⚡ Joining the first-ever Tampa Bay Lightning roster ⚡ Playing for Phil Esposito ⚡ Lessons from Lou Lamoriello at Providence College ⚡ Being mentored by Randy Carlyle with the Winnipeg Jets ⚡ Winning two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins ⚡ Mario Lemieux, championship teams & NHL memories ⚡ The 1993 Yokozuna Body Slam Challenge Subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for Tampa Bay Lightning interviews, NHL stories, analysis, and conversations that go beyond the box score. #GoBolts #TampaBayLightning #NHL #LetsGoPens #StanleyCup #WWE

The Tampa Bay Lightning offseason rumors are heating up, and Backchecking the Bolts is breaking it all down! On this episode, Justin brings some big “What Ifs?” from the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2025-26. Jason and Justin discuss whether Nick Paul could become a trade candidate as the Lightning look at their roster, salary cap situation, and potential moves heading into the 2025-26 NHL season. We dive into the Dylan Larkin trade rumors and debate where Tampa Bay stacks up among possible landing spots for the Detroit Red Wings captain. #TBL #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #HockeyPodcast #TBLightning #StanleyCupPlayoffs

On this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we go north of the border for a deep dive into the future of the Tampa Bay Lightning organization as we are joined by Andrew Merrigan and Justin Born from The Aud Pod, covering the Kitchener Rangers. Andrew and Justin give us an inside look at two of Tampa Bay’s most exciting young prospects — Sam O’Reilly and Jack Pridham — after watching them up close during their season with the Rangers. A huge thank you to Andrew Merrigan and Justin Born of The Aud Pod for joining us and providing their firsthand insight into two players who could become important pieces of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s future. Subscribe to Backchecking the Bolts for Tampa Bay Lightning interviews, prospect coverage, NHL Draft analysis, and everything Bolts hockey. Follow Backchecking the Bolts on the following platforms. RawCharge: www.rawcharge.com Twitter: Backchecking the Bolts - Podcast (@Tampa_Bolts_Pod) / X Instagram: (1) Instagram Facebook: Facebook email: [email protected] Follow the Aud Pod on the following platforms: Instagram: Instagram YouTube: The AudPod - YouTube Facebook: Facebook   #GoBolts #TampaBayLightning #OHL #KitchenerRangers #SamOReilly #JackPridham #NHLDraft #TBLightning

The Stanley Cup Final is here, and on this episode of Backchecking the Bolts, we break down the biggest storylines surrounding the battle for hockey’s ultimate prize! We’ll discuss: 🏆 Stanley Cup Final preview and predictions ⚡ What the Tampa Bay Lightning can learn from this year’s finalists ⚡ The future of the Bolts prospect pipeline ⭐ Sam O’Reilly’s potential impact in Tampa Bay ⭐ Benjamin Rautiainen’s breakout and NHL future 💰 Which NHL free agents could be available on July 1st and whether any make sense for the Lightning #tampabaylightning #GoBolts #stanleycupfinals #NHLPlayoffs #TBL #StanleyCup

Former Tampa Bay Lightning forward and 2004 Stanley Cup Champion Eric Perrin joins Backchecking the Bolts for an in-depth interview covering one of hockey’s most unique career journeys. Eric discusses his path from the University of Vermont to professional hockey after going undrafted, eventually earning his opportunity with the Lightning and becoming part of Tampa Bay’s historic 2004 Stanley Cup championship team. The conversation also dives into his remarkable European hockey career, including his time in Finland’s Liiga, where he became the highest-scoring foreign-born player in league history. Eric shares stories from his NHL career, adapting to European hockey, playing overseas, and what it took to build a long and successful professional career. If you enjoy Tampa Bay Lightning history, NHL interviews, hockey podcasts, and stories of perseverance in professional hockey, this episode is for you. For more information on the Dayton Ice Arena and the programs offered, please visit: https://daytonaicearena.com/ To follow the University of Vermont men's hockey program, click the link below: https://uvmathletics.com/sports/mens-ice-hockey #TampaBayLightning #GoBolts #StanleyCup #TBLightning #Liiga #GoCatsGo #UVM