Kirill Marchenko trade, CBC–PWHL deal headline new THN Wraparound

The latest episode of The Hockey News’ Wraparound podcast brings together Emma Lingan, Michael Augello, Chris Sinclair and Andre Leal to cover a wide range of storylines ahead of the 2026‑27 season. At the top of the show, the panel tackles CBC’s new partnership with the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) before shifting to the Toronto Maple Leafs’ blockbuster trade for Kirill Marchenko from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

CBC–PWHL broadcast deal under the microscope

The episode opens with a discussion about how CBC’s agreement with the PWHL could influence the growth of women’s hockey. The hosts look at what broader national television exposure might mean for fan interest, attendance and long‑term stability for the women’s pro game in Canada. Rather than focusing on contract mechanics, the conversation centres on visibility and the potential to reach new audiences.

From there, the group turns to Caroline Harvey’s new three‑year contract, using it as a jumping‑off point to talk about how multi‑year commitments can help establish stronger foundations for elite women’s players. The segment ties the Harvey deal back to the broader theme of professionalization and security in the women’s game.

Marchenko’s fit with Maple Leafs and Knies’ future in Columbus

Marchenko’s move to Toronto is a major focal point of the show. The panel explores what the forward could bring to the Maple Leafs’ lineup and how his arrival might reshape their offensive identity. They also look at the Blue Jackets’ side of the deal, including what kind of impact Matthew Knies could have on Columbus’ future plans.

With the Leafs’ summer defined by this trade and other changes, the hosts debate what overall grade Toronto’s off‑season deserves. The conversation expands to potential trade candidates on Canadian teams and which NHL players might benefit most from a change of scenery heading into 2026‑27, with intriguing contracts in the Pacific Division coming under particular scrutiny.

Injuries, blue-line additions and Chabot’s captaincy

Injuries are another key theme, as the podcast examines how Brock Faber’s absence could affect the Minnesota Wild’s plans. The panel also considers how the Buffalo Sabres might manage their crease following Ukko‑Pekka Luukkonen’s injury, outlining the questions this raises about their goaltending depth.

The hosts highlight what defenceman Logan Stanley could add to the New York Islanders’ blue line, then close by weighing in on the most compelling home openers on the schedule and whether Thomas Chabot was the right choice to captain the Ottawa Senators. Together, the topics offer listeners a snapshot of the major NHL and women’s hockey storylines shaping the opening weeks of the 2026‑27 season.