The JD Bunkis Podcast

JD gives his thoughts on the Maple Leafs' impressive win over the Senators in the renewed Battle of Ontario playoff matchup (00:00). Kris Versteeg, two-time Stanley Cup champion, breaks down the atmosphere at Scotiabank Arena, Toronto's discipline under Craig Berube amidst the animosity, Leafs' efficiency on the power play, Mitch Marner's effectiveness against the Sens, and the impact from the fourth line (06:12). After the break, JD takes a look at some Blue Jays' concerns following a weekend series loss against the Mariners' (45:12). Luke Fox, Sportsnet NHL writer, joins the show to continue the conversation around the Leafs' game one victory, Sens' coach Travis Green's post-game comments, fallout from the Ridly Greig crosscheck on John Tavares, Toronto's advantage on the blue line, and the advantage of experience for the Maple Leafs (51:02). Finally, JD and the producers take a look at “What We Missed” (01:22:29). 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.

JD is pumped for the "Battle of Ontario" to get underway (00:00). Justin Bourne, co-host of Real Kyper & Bourne, joins the show to break down the matchup (08:21). They discuss the keys to the Maple Leafs' success against the Senators, where the pressure lies amongst the Leafs' stars, what the Sens can do to make things difficult for Toronto, projecting the advantage in net with Anthony Stolarz, and how the Leafs' lines should shake out for Game 1. Frank Crupi, otherwise known as Hockey Illuminati, jumps in the studio with JD to go through the emotions of past "Battle of Ontario" playoff matchups, the differences between the Leafs' two goaltenders, the most important "curse-busters" for the Maple Leafs throughout the regular season, and the impact of past playoff experiences (49:45). After the break, they continue the conversation around the Leafs' recent playoff history and identify what's different about this team (01:24:28). 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.

JD opens the show with his Blue Jays' thoughts following their series win over the Braves (00:00). Former Leafs forward Steve Thomas jumps on to discuss his playoff runs with the Leafs and the intensity of the Battle of Ontario (12:42). They discuss the challenge of playing in the Stanley Cup playoffs, playing in front of Curtis Joseph at his peak, the impact of Pat Quinn, and how this current Leafs team looks heading into the latest series against Ottawa. Afterwards, JD runs through Masai Ujiri's end of season comments, and looks at the Raptors future after a disappointing season (38:57). DJ Bean, co-host of the What Chaos podcast, joins JD to chat about the best storylines heading in to the playoffs, including the Mikko Rantanen revenge series with Dallas against the Avs, the pressure on the Oilers to win amongst their injuries, and the expectations on the Capitals after an emotional season (48:46). Finally, JD and the producers take a look at “What We Missed” (01:26:42). 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.

James Mirtle, senior writer for The Athletic, joins JD to discuss the Leafs clinching the Atlantic Division to set up the Battle of Ontario in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs (11:05). JD and James talk through the excitement of the playoff matchup, the plan for Anthony Stolarz as the starting goalie, what the line combinations should look like, the plan for the final game of the season, and the effect on the backend with Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Jake McCabe's injuries. JD takes a look at Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors in their Play-In victory over the Grizzlies (50:13). Later, Caleb Joseph, Blue Jays Central analyst, jumps on to recap the Jays' offensive burst against the Braves (53:13). They react to Anthony Santander finding his groove at the plate, the challenge of keeping starting pitchers efficient, the plan at third base, and missing the power from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Finally, JD and the producers take a look at “What We Missed” (01:23:26). 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.

JD brings on Joseph Casciaro, lead Raptors and NBA reporter at theScore, to react to the Raptors locker room clean-out day and put a bow on their season (8:00). JD and Joseph chat about Scottie Barnes' improvements on defense and in leadership, how Darko Rajaković can be judged in a tanking season, what they'd like to hear from Masai Ujiri, next season's expectations and what may have gone overlooked. Afterwards, JD and Joseph look at the points of the interest in the first round of the NBA playoffs. Arden Zwelling, Blue Jays reporter, joins JD in-studio for the second hour to sift through the Jays' season thus far (52:00). JD and Arden discuss John Schneider's feel for taking out starting pitchers, how the Jays' base-running might improve, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. as a leader, how Guerrero Jr.'s contract extension impacts what's next with Bo Bichette, and the status of Daulton Varsho and Max Scherzer. The show finishes with discussion of Paddy Pimblett's star-power following his victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314 (1:29:00). 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.

JD recaps The Masters alongside Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, and Sam McKee, host and producer at Sportsnet 590 The FAN, discussing Rory McIlroy's weekend performance at Augusta, the matchup with Bryson DeChambeau, the humanity of McIlroy's reaction after finally winning his green-jacket, and where the 2025 finish stands in the Masters hierarchy (00:00). Later, JD & Ben dive into the Blue Jays' comeback win in Baltimore, Jeff Hoffman's start to the season amidst injury fears in the offseason, and the expectations of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. after signing his big contract (36:33). Then, CBS & Sirius XM Golf Analyst Jason Sobel joins the show to continue the conversation around McIlroy's Masters' win, the history within McIlroy's play in the tournament, the adversity that he faced along the way, and what the next compelling story in Golf could be (52:15). Finally, JD takes a look at UFC 314 before he and the producers jump into “What We Missed” (01:20:56). 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.

JD is excited for baseball season. Kevin Barker, co-host of Blair & Barker, joins JD (6:00) to dive into the Blue Jays 14 games into the season; Vladimir Guerrero Jr. getting an early day off, Guerrero Jr.'s pressure and expectations following his pay day, Anthony Santander's slow start, what's working well for George Springer and the pathways to a successful season. Former CY Young Award winner, World Series Champion, and current Chairman of bat manufacturing company, B45, chats about the explosion of torpedo bats and the nuance of the closer role (51:45). Brent Gunning, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, touches on Rory McIlroy and The Masters (1:09:30). The week ends with 'What We Missed!' (1:17:00) 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.

JD is joined by James Mirtle, senior writer at The Athletic, to break down the Toronto Maple Leafs' crucial win over the Tampa Bay Lightning last night (6:50). They discuss Matthew Knies' exponential growth, Anthony Stolarz' edge over Joseph Woll as the postseason starter, Max Domi's imperfect bottom-six fit, and why the Leafs are set up better than ever for a long playoff run. Then, JD reacts to Ross Atkins speaking with the media yesterday, and a sudden feeling of optimism around Bo Bichette's future with the Toronto Blue Jays (47:18). Afterwards, JD catches up with Devante Smith-Pelly, Stanley Cup champion with the Washington Capitals (52:30). Devante reflects on being in attendance to see Alex Ovechkin break the all-time record NHL goal record, the Great 8's ability to bond an entire dressing room, and how the Capitals overcame their playoff ghosts to win it all in 2018. Later, the conversation shifts back to the MLB with Jared Carrabis, co-host of the Baseball is Dead and Section 10 podcasts (1:20:08). Jared comments on Boston Red Sox fans' hopes of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. reaching free agency and his impressions on the Blue Jays following three straight wins at Fenway Park. 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.

JD reacts to the Maple Leafs loss to their potential playoff foes, the Florida Panthers. Derek Lalonde (8:00), former NHL head coach, breaks down what the Leafs can takeaway from their loss to the Cats, what he's seen from the Leafs this season, what he'd emphasize in the Leafs' film room, and how long a coach needs to evaluate a depth line. Shane Ryan, writer from Golf Digest, joins JD to get into The Masters (52:45). JD and Shane chat about the course at Augusta, how competition is driving golf, interesting storylines, and Rory McIlroy's chances. The show ends with 'What We Missed!' (1:24:00) 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.

JD is joined by Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show (0:00), to discuss the emotional and psychological boost of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. re-signing with the Toronto Blue Jays, and Anthony Santander's slow start compared to George Springer's early bounce back. Later, JD and Ben entertain theories that the Florida Panthers are tanking their playoff position, before teeing up The Masters and familiar storylines surrounding Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy (42:30). Then, the focus shifts back to the Toronto Blue Jays with Sportsnet's Dan Shulman (53:30). The Jays' play-by-play voice reflects on what Guerrero Jr.'s new deal signifies for the team's identity and reasons for optimism based on Toronto's play through 11 games. Afterwards, JD and the producers close out the show with 'What We Missed!' 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.

JD begins the show reacting to reports that the Toronto Blue Jays and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. have agreed to a 14-year, $500-million contract extension. The conversation continues with Sportsnet's Ben Nicholson-Smith (10:30) to detail the timing behind the second-richest deal in MLB history, why Toronto was comfortable going past their offseason valuation, the elevated expectations for Guerrero Jr., and whether the Blue Jays will turn their spending focus to Bo Bichette or the pitching staff. Then, JD touches on Nick Robertson's two-goal performance for the Toronto Maple Leafs over the weekend (48:30). Afterwards, Washington Capitals play-by-play voice Joe Beninati (54:15) joins to discuss his call on Alex Ovechkin's 895th goal to break the all-time NHL record. Joe shares his thoughts on how the perception around Ovechkin has evolved over the years and what yesterday's moment meant to the Washington sports market. JD and the producers conclude the show with What We Missed (1:17:00). 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.

JD starts the show with a look at the Blue Jays ahead of their weekend series in New York against the Mets, and Jon Heyman's latest reporting on the Vladimir Guerrero Jr. contract negotiations (00:00). Then, Jake Mintz, Senior Baseball Writer for Yahoo, joins the show to discuss the hype around Torpedo Bats in the MLB, the Yankees' role in fueling the fire, and where the trend may be heading down the road, before chatting about Jackson Merrill's nine-year contract extension, and where the Vladdy story could head if an extension isn't reached soon (06:28). Later, JD touches on The Gr8 Chase, the coverage that's surrounded Alex Ovechkin throughout the season (43:02). Jeff Blair, Host of Blair & Barker, jumps on with JD to break down George Springer's start to the season, the strengths of the bullpen, the Vlad distraction heading into New York and Boston, and where Bo Bichette fits into the plan (50:41). Finally, JD and the producers take a look at “What We Missed” (01:23:15). 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.

JD starts the show giving the Maple Leafs props for winning a big game against the Florida Panthers (00:00). Kris Versteeg, two-time Stanley Cup champion, breaks down the importance of Mitch Marner's clutch moment, trending positively at the right time, Bobby McMann's impact on the Leafs' second line, if this the best version of William Nylander, John Tavares aging like wine, the locker room motivation to chase the first seed, and concerns about the third line (8:00). JD then touches on the Blue Jays sweep of the Washington Nationals (44:00), before bringing on Sportsnet hockey analyst, Jason Bukala (50:00). Bukala discusses the pressure on the Leafs, the injury-riddled Panthers, where the Leafs have an edge on the Panthers, special teams margins, and takeaways for the playoffs (1:26:00). 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.

JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, dive into the positives of the Blue Jays' start to the 2025 season, including Andres Gimenez' surprising offensive output, Bo Bichette's return to form, and the strength of the bullpen, before getting into how the offence will look going forward, how the fifth starter spot should be managed with Max Scherzer on the shelf, and Gimenez' spot amongst the best starts as a Blue Jay (00:00). Later, they shift to the Leafs, and the importance of winning the Atlantic Division to having playoff success (44:20). Then, former NHL forward Matthew Barnaby jumps on to discuss his new podcast The Blue Line, and continue the conversation around the Leafs ahead of their latest matchup with the Panthers, who has the edge if they meet in the playoffs, Anthony Stolarz' struggles against his former team, the effect Brad Marchand can have in Florida, and the prospects of a Battle of Ontario first round series (52:46). Finally, JD and the producers take a look at “What We Missed” (01:29:38). 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.

JD and Blake Murphy, co-host of Jays Talk Plus & The Raptors Show, start the show discussing the start to the Blue Jays' season following their win over the Nationals, the pitching staff amidst Max Scherzer's injury, and Andres Gimenez' solid first impression (00:00). Then, they dive into the NBA, starting with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP campaign, before projecting prospects that may be available to the Raptors in the draft, and react to the news that Darko Rajaković's contract option was picked up for 2026-27 (29:44). Later, The Ringer's Tate Frazier joins the show to break down the NCAA Tournament, the feelings around Duke without Coach K, Cooper Flagg's dominance on the run to the Final Four, the depth amongst the top prospects in this year's draft class, and the future of NIL in college basketball (49:40). Finally, JD and the producers take a look at “What We Missed” (01:29:07). 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.

James Mirtle, senior writer at The Athletic, gets into everything Maple Leafs after a successful weekend in California (6:00). JD and James get into Auston Matthews' recent play, Craig Berube's approach, the depth lines, rest versus accountability, faith in Anthony Stolarz, and what they want to see against the Florida. JD then lists some 'Stats You Should Know' from over the weekend (48:00). Blue Jays reporter for MLB.com, Keegan Matheson, analyzes the Blue Jays bullpen and Yariel Rodriguez's place in it, Max Scherzer's thumb injury, Andrés Giménez as a clean-up hitter, George Springer's start, and the torpedo bat (52:00). JD wraps with thoughts on March Madness, before finishing the show with 'What We Missed!' (1:25:00) 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.

JD and Ben Ennis, co-host of The FAN Morning Show, break down a disappointing Opening Day for the Toronto Blue Jays (0:00). They discuss their experience attending the game, the importance of avoiding a slow start, how Alan Roden factors into the Blue Jays' path to success, and what George Springer can contribute in year four with Toronto. Then, they debate how much Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s performance in 2025 will influence the fanbase's eagerness to re-sign the star slugger. Afterwards, Blue Jays broadcaster Buck Martinez joins JD (50:15) to share his perspective on fan pressure, Andrés Giménez and Roden flashing some offence in their Blue Jays debuts, and why he's confident in Alejandro Kirk taking on a heavier load behind the plate. Later, JD turns his attention to the Toronto Maple Leafs and Joseph Woll's worrisome start in San Jose, before closing out the show with What We Missed (1:13:30). 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.

JD explains the thoughts and feelings surrounding the Blue Jays home opener. Dan Shulman, Blue Jays play-by-play voice, chats about Opening Day, underdiscussed storylines, who he thinks may be the Jays' fourth-best hitter, and March madness (6:00). Jon Morosi, MLB Network insider, talks about Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s continued contract extension rumors, the fallacy of the Spring Training 'deadline', and the most important sticking points (36:00). Kevin Pillar, former Toronto Blue Jay and current Texas Ranger, chops it up about his memorable seasons with the Jays, deciding to push his retirement back, clubhouse dynamics, embracing the veteran role, and being an American-born athlete playing in Toronto (52:00). JD then reacts to a report that the Blue Jays made another offer to Guerrero Jr. and lays out a couple of his Jays bets and predictions (1:25:00). 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.

Luke Fox, Sportsnet NHL writer, joins JD to chat about what the Leafs have left to figure out down the stretch of the season (4:00). JD and Luke get into the success of the Leafs' second line from their win over the Philadelphia Flyers, John Tavares' longevity and value, and Scott Laughton's fit in Toronto. JD then outlines a version of the Leafs lines that he'd like to see the team try (30:00). JD then breaks news of Alphonso Davies' injury (40:00). Blue Jays reporter Arden Zwelling joins JD in-studio to discuss Bo Bichette's upcoming season, expectations for George Springer, which Jay that didn't make the major league roster could be the first to join the team, and important factors to start the season (50:00). 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.

JD discusses Scott Laughton before the Maple Leafs face-off against his former team (00:00). Blue Jays analyst, Joe Siddall, talks about if Alejandro Kirk will be able to handle a bigger offensive load, expectations for the Jays' lineup, where the Jays stand in among American East teams, and Bo Bichette being poised for a comeback season (8:00). JD then lays out the lost feeling(s) around this version of the Toronto Raptors (40:00). Kevin Woodley, goaltending expert from InGoal Magazine, analyzes the drama-filled Vancouver Canucks season, the pressure on the Leafs' goaltenders, and what the underlying numbers on Jospeh Woll and Anthony Stolarz may signal (50:00). The show ends with 'What We Missed!' (1:29:00) 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.