ZASLOW SHOW 2.0 - Can Both These Teams Lose | Joe Fortenbaugh Joins

The host of Zaslow Show 2.0, a staple of the Le Batard & Friends Network, opens with a bold claim: in the 2026 Stanley Cup Final, Carolina Hurricanes are the undervalued team, despite being overshadowed by Vegas Knights' dominant sweep of Colorado. He argues that Carolina’s 12-1 postseason record, rest advantage, and underpriced odds make them a smart bet—especially in Game 1. This contrarian take is backed by ESPN’s Joe Fortenbaugh, who admits he once mocked Carolina’s ‘8-0’ streak before being publicly corrected by the viral account ‘Freezing Cold Takes’. The episode pivots to the NBA Finals, where the host and Fortenbaugh debate the emotional weight of the Knicks’ run versus the Spurs’ dynasty narrative. While both sides are passionate, the host ultimately leans into the Knicks’ story as more compelling—especially with Jalen Brunson’s rise and the emotional letdown theory after a historic OKC win. The conversation then shifts to WWE, where Fortenbaugh reveals he was fooled by Brock Lesnar’s surprise return after retirement, calling it a masterclass in storytelling. The episode closes with a heartfelt tribute to Boog Shambi’s Main Street Foundation, founded in memory of a friend lost to ALS, and a pointed critique of media misrepresentation around Lucy Rodine’s departure from the Levitard Show—highlighting a deeper issue of visibility and authenticity in sports media.