Tip Of The Tower Podcast

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Tristan Garnett discuss the Buffalo Bills and their recent news from training camp.They discuss the team's recent injuries, including Reggie Ragland's season ending ACL tear, the increased usage of QB draws and keepers in the red zone, the offences' struggles, the team's first depth chart, Sammy Watkins health, their thoughts on the running backs and wide receivers, and Chris speaks with Sammy Watkins.Here’s a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:– We discuss the Bills growing list of injuries, including Reggie Ragland's ACL tear and how it will affect the defence (1:23)– Tyrod Taylor's injury scare and whether fans should be concerned about his long-term health (7:45)– Training camp notes, including the Bills increased usage of quarterback draws and keepers in the red zone, Charles Clay in the red zone package, and the early struggles of the offence (9:20)– We discuss the Bills first depth chart (16:36)– What to make of Samm

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz, Jake Middleton and Dave Morassutti discuss everything Jimmy Vesey, including the Toronto Maple Leafs chances of landing the Hobey Baker Award winner.They discuss the recent rumours surrounding Vesey, who they feel the frontrunner is, a scouting report on the Harvard star, and they each impersonate a team and make a mock pitch as to why Vesey should sign with them.Here’s a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:– We discuss the latest rumours surrounding Jimmy Vesey (1:35)– We debate whether there is a frontrunner to sign him? (2:20)– We each take turns making a mock pitch to Vesey, impersonating the Buffalo Sabres (4:55), New Jersey Devils (6:00), Boston Bruins (7:36), Chicago Blackhawks (8:52), New York Rangers (9:44), and Toronto Maple Leafs (11:38)– We discuss Lou Lamoriello's ability to recruit and whether Vesey can handle the pressure that will inevitably be attached to his decison (16:41)– A scouting report on what Vesey brings to the table (21

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Jake Middleton discuss the Toronto Blue Jays and their recent news.They discuss Kevin Pillar being placed on the 15-day disabled list, Aaron Sanchez and how the Blue Jays should manage him, five stats from the week that was, a minor league update, the American League East, and their upcoming games against Tampa Bay and Houston.Here’s a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:- We discuss Kevin Pillar heading to the disabled list (1:42)- The Aaron Sanchez conundrum; we share our thoughts on what the team should do with him, how many more starts he could make, his average velocity, and his innings (3:00)- Chris goes through five Blue Jays stats from the week that was (12:58)- Jake goes through the Blue Jays minor league system and provides a prospect update on: Richard Urena, Rowdy Tellez, Sean Reid-Foley, Jon Harris, T.J. Zeuch, Bo Bichette, and Connor Greene.- We sink our teeth into the American League East to discuss Manny Machado and how the pennant

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant are joined by Duane Watson, who can be found at a variety of outlets, including: TSN, MLSE, NBA TV, the Raptors post-game show, and Sole Shift.They discuss the Nike Crown League (Watson is the commissioner of the league), the development of the Toronto basketball scene, Watson's music career prior to sports media, the Toronto Raptors, and more.Here’s a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:- Watson discusses the Nike Crown League and where the idea originated from (0:48)- How they determine who plays in the Crown League (2:14)- Where the court design at Kerr Hall came from (5:10)- Why people should check out the Crown League (7:10)- We discuss the Toronto basketball scene as a whole, including phenom JR Barrett and the rising prep circuit (8:25)- Watson shares a few of his favourite outdoor courts in the city, plus a few stories from his days in the music industry and what led him to sports media (12:18)- We dive into Raptors talk whe

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant discuss the Toronto Raptors and their recent news.They discuss the recent Serge Ibaka "rumour," if you even want to call it that, Jerry Stackhouse coaching the Raptors 905, Delon Wright's shoulder injury, and DeMar DeRozan's emphatic dunks with Team USA.Here’s a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:– We discuss the recent Ibaka speculation, including if the Raptors could pursue him next off-season, how he would fit in, and if he's a max player (0:47)– What Stackhouse joining the Raptors 905 could mean for the organization (11:52)– We share our disappointment for Wright and debate whether this season will result in another "developmental year" for him (15:38)– The Uthoff signing is official, we reiterate our thoughts on him (18:24)– The Raptors assistant coaching vacancy with Stackhouse heading to the 905 (22:25)– DeRozan continues to execute highlight reel dunks with Team USA and we debate whether they will cr

On this episode of the ToT-cast, Ryan Greco recaps week four of the Nike Crown League and is joined by Natalie Achonwa of the Canadian Women’s Olympic team and of the WNBA’s Indiana Fever, and Antwi Atuahene of 1LoveTO.Atuahene is first up (4:16) with an in-depth discussion of what it is like to play alongside NBA players, the challenges of meshing team chemistry as a point guard in a league such as the Crown League, and what he has taken away from his basketball experiences all over the world.Achonwa then joins the show just days before departing for Rio and the summer Olympics (18:15). She discusses what it is like to be a part of this new generation of basketball players coming up in Canada, the challenges she faced after tearing her ACL just before her rookie season in the WNBA, and why Canadian sports fans should get behind this team, which has already won gold at the Pan-Am games just last year.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Mak

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant discuss the Toronto Raptors and their recent news.They discuss the signing of Jarrod Uthoff, Jae Crowder's comments, DeMarre Carroll's comments about DeMar DeRozan, what DeRozan needs to do to take that "next step," and Kevin Durant's restaurant Yelp reviews.Here's a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:- Our thoughts on the signing of former Iowa Hawkeye, Jarrod Uthoff (0:22)- Where Uthoff could fit in on the Raptors (3:48)- We share our thoughts on Jae Crowder's comments about the Raptors (12:06)- We debate how close the Celtics and Raptors are and if they're on the cusp of a rivalry (14:36)- (15:58)- DeMarre Carroll speaks on DeMar DeRozan becoming a leader (18:42)- We share our thoughts on Carroll's comments regarding DeRozan (21:04)- Thoughts on DeRozan nearly pulling off an in-game 360 dunk versus China (32:02)- We discuss the Yelp reviews that were posted on Kevin Durant's restaurant in Ok

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz discusses the Toronto Blue Jays and their recent news and trade rumours.He discusses the week that was, Drew Storen being designated for assignment, trade rumours involving the San Diego Padres, the trade market as a whole, and the return of Jose Bautista.Here's a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:- Reviewing the week of July 18-24, discussing the Diamondbacks and Mariners series (1:03)- Five stats to consider involving the likes of Troy Tulowitzki, Michael Saunders, Aaron Sanchez, and Jason Grilli (4:16)- What to make of Drew Storen being designated for assignment (7:00)- Discussing the Melvin Upton Jr. and Andrew Cashner rumours (13:23)- Exploring the trade market and the value of players (16:12)- The return of Jose Bautista, where he will fit in with the lineup, and why the idea of trading him is just that, an idea (19:38)* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you no

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant discuss the Toronto Raptors and their recent news.They discuss Summer League, Norm Powell's dominance, the Raptors' depth chart, future story lines, and the idea of a franchise tag.Here's a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:- Summer League Thoughts + Revisiting the "NBA vs. Canada conspiracy" (0:22)- Thoughts on players at Summer League, including Norm Powell, Delon Wright and Fred VanVleet (2:08)- What to make of the Raptors surplus of guards (7:58)- Can Bruno Caboclo develop more? (11:18)- Discussing the Raptors depth chart and how the franchise is approaching "Atlanta Hawks territory" (15:58)- The Raptors backup centre situation (23:08)- Norm Powell vs. DeMar DeRozan. Could Norm eventually surpass DeRozan? (25:08)- The idea of a franchise tag in the NBA(32:56)* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the

With the Nike Crown League’s third week set to begin tonight, Ryan Greco kicks off the event with a few interviews from the previous week, including an exclusive with former Toronto Raptors forward James Johnson just hours before he signed a one-year deal with the Miami Heat.The episode kicks off with Ryan speaking a little on Canada’s professional domestic league the NBL (1:11) before speaking with Windsor Express forward and Team Ace member Shaq Keith (7:32).Next, Ryan catches up with Orangeville A’s forward, and Team Ace forward, Tyrone Watson (15:11), and discusses the challenges of playing overseas, the thrills that come with playing alongside former opponents, and the overall enjoyment that comes with playing in such an event as the Nike Crown League.Finally, Ryan sits down with former Toronto Raptors forward James Johnson (23:00) just hours before he officially signed with the Miami Heat.Johnson discussed why he enjoys playing in events like this, some of the wisdom he imparted on his younger teammates

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant discuss the Toronto Raptors and their recent news.They discuss the signing of Jared Sullinger, the departure of James Johnson, Summer League, and other news and notes involving the Raptors.Here's a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:- Thoughts on the signing of Jared Sullinger (1:40)- How Sullinger fits in with the Raptors (3:05)- Thoughts on the departure of one of the most polarizing players, at least among the fan base, James Johnson (10:35)- Demar shares his thoughts on interviewing Johnson at the Nike Crown League (14:12)- Raptors scheduled to host San Lorenzo de Almagro during preseason (15:45)- Raptors905 will host 2017 D-League showcase (17:50)- A brief Raptors salary cap update (19:12)- Thoughts on "Bebe the reporter" at Summer League (23:10)- Norm Powell's dominance at Summer League (25:02)- The signing of Fred Van Fleet (29:54)- More Summer League talk (33:14)* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-ca

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz, Demar Grant and Ryan Greco discuss Canada basketball's disappointment in the Olympic Qualifiers, as well as the Nike Crown League.The trio shares their thoughts on what's next for Canada basketball, how the Nike Crown League has gone thus far, why fans should attend the event, and what we could expect in the coming weeks at Crown League.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipoftheTower, and like our Facebook page @Tip of the Tower.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz, David Morassutti and Jake Middleton discuss the Toronto Blue Jays at the MLB All-Star break. The trio debates whether Josh Donaldson is the first half AL MVP, if Marco Estrada's back injury is a concern, the biggest surprises and disappointments of the the first half, and more.Here's a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:- The Blue Jays recent stretch of hot play (1:00)- Thoughts on the team having five All-Stars (2:50)- Is Josh Donaldson the first half AL MVP and can he keep it up? (7:22)- How concerned should we be about Marco Estrada's back injury? (12:03)- Biggest surprise of the first half (17:10)- Biggest disappointment of the first half (22:25)- What the Blue Jays need to add as we approach the trade deadline (29:55)- Predictions on where the Blue Jays will finish this season (41:31)* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show

In this episode of the ToT-cast, David Morassutti and Jake Middleton discuss the Toronto Maple Leafs recent signings of Matt Martin and Roman Polak, developmental camp, news about the Centennial season, and the upcoming Maple Leafs top 100 list.Here's a rundown of what was discussed on the podcast:- Thoughts on the signings of Roman Polak and Matt Martin (1:00)- Should fans be worried about Auston Matthews' contract, or Lou Lamoriello's approach with bonuses? (11:28)- Thoughts on the Leafs development camp and who to keep an eye on for next years Marlies' roster (15:21).- News about the Centennial season, including uniform news, possible events, and the outdoor game (17:37).- Who could end up on the Maple Leafs top 100 players list (23:15)- Thoughts on the Maple Leafs' arbitration cases (28:50)- Discuss whether Luke Schenn would have been a better option instead of Roman Polak (33:15)* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website.

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant discuss Kevin Durant's decision to join the Golden State Warriors, the Nike Crown League, and Tim Duncan's possible retirement.They open with the obvious topic -- Durant to Golden State. The two debate whether anyone can beat the Warriors, discuss what it means for the league, and share their excitement to watch this team play.From there they discuss the Nike Crown League and Demar's first experience at the event, plus they opine on the development of Toronto Raptors forward Bruno Caboclo, who played in week one of the Crown League.They close out the show by discussing a personal favourite of both Chris and Demar, which is the legendary Tim Duncan. The two share their love for Timmy D and possibly say farewell to the Big Fundamental.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a n

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant preview NBA Free Agency and what the Toronto Raptors might do.They discuss the Raptors cap situation, DeMar DeRozan, Bismack Biyombo, and debate whether the Raptors should sit out this free agency class.They then dive into a more broad question and discuss why Masai Ujiri has a major decision to make with this Raptors roster, and why it might not sit well with the fan base.They close out the show by discussing which free agents are compelling, which storylines interest them, and which teams fans should keep an eye on in free agency.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipoftheTower, and like our Facebook page @Tip of the Tower.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivac

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz, David Morassutti and Jake Middleton discuss day one of NHL Free Agency and what was a quiet day for the Toronto Maple Leafs.To start the show they discuss the mass amounts of money being spent around the NHL today and share their thoughts on the Maple Leafs being quiet (We recorded prior to the Matt Martin signing).From there they discuss former Maple Leafs players signing with other teams, including James Reimer, who the Leafs might pursue, and whether we would prefer Kris Russell or Jason Demers.To close out the show they discuss the fantastic job Steve Yzerman has done in Tampa Bay, who was the biggest surprise signing of the day, and who was the best and worst signing on day one of NHL Free Agency. * * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for liste

In this episode of the ToT-cast, David Morassutti and Jake Middleton preview the Toronto Maple Leafs free agency, review their draft strategy and much more.Unfortunately, this podcast was recorded prior to Steven Stamkos re-signing in Tampa Bay, so enjoy the brief Leafs and Stamkos rhetoric!To start the show they discuss Frederik Andersen's contract and what it means(0:30), the Leafs qualifying offers (8:45), and a review of the team's draft strategy (16:00).From there they examine the Steven Stamkos saga (30:45), other free agents they could pursue, including Jimmy Vesey (41:50), and the Kerby Rychel trade (47:20).To close out the show they discuss Mike Babcock saying that Auston Matthews will be their third line centre (53:58), and if the Leafs should make an offer sheet to any restricted free agents (58:20).* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but le

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz, Ryan Greco, Jake Middleton and David Morassutti preview the 2016 NHL Draft and what the Toronto Maple Leafs might do.They open up the show by sharing their thoughts on the Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins, more specifically former Maple Leafs' forward Phil Kessel.From there they dive into NHL Draft talk and provide a "what to know for dummies" guide for Ryan, who seldom watches hockey. They fill Ryan in on Auston Matthews, what the hype is about him, why he is so special, and who he might play with when he officially joins the Toronto Maple Leafs on Friday.They also discuss other holes on the Toronto Maple Leafs roster, the recent Las Vegas expansion team, and other potential storylines they’re looking forward too.*This podcast was recorded prior to the Frederik Andersen trade, and it also contains NFSW language.** * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz, Ryan Greco and Demar Grant preview the 2016 NBA Draft and what the Toronto Raptors might do.The trio opens the show by discussing LeBron James' announcement that he plans to stay with Cleveland next year, as well as the New York Knicks acquisition of point guard Derrick Rose.From there they dive into NBA Draft talk and debate who the Toronto Raptors will take at No. 9, if they will even keep the pick, who they could draft at No. 27, and who the better prospect is between Skal Labissiere and Domantas Sabonis.They also cover draft rumours surrounding the Celtics and Jimmy Butler, what kind of outside the box trades could happen, and other potential storylines they're looking forward too. * * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and