The Roundup Podcast: Recent Episodes
Roundup Podcast
The Roundup features Vince and Brian, two friends and avid fans of the Big Three in American sports: the NFL, NBA and MLB. We watch sports continuously, listen to podcasts, absorb all the written media we can (sometimes while enjoying a frosty adult beverage) and talk sports every day, so we figured, why not do it on a show? There are already some great podcasts out there, but too few from the fan's perspective. The networks are full of insiders, but when everyone's an expert, the information that comes out is often just the same overplayed stories over and over again. I like to hear knowledgeable fans break down the leagues and players, seeing things from a perspective that's fresh and different, like when you talk sports with your buddies. And that's what this show is setting out to be. Knowledgeable sport's talk, from a fan's perspective, brought to you by fans. Thanks for listening.
On today’s show, we have a lot of NBA Playoffs to catch up on. Despite our best efforts, Gaber and I just couldn’t connect until today, so we’re gonna get in the way back machine to…
-
give our Warriors’ season a post-mortem…,
-
as well as recap what we saw elsewhere around the conference semis, before moving on to the…
-
Pacers’ unlikely Eastern Conference title, and how they beat the Knicks (pace, defense, sum of the parts, etc…) as well as examine…
-
the Thunders’ decisive series win against the Wolves (and continued pursuit of the “dream season”, with best record, scoring champ and mvp; just need the title and a Finals MVP for Shai for the perfect season).
-
Then we make our Finals predictions, preview the series and much, much more!
So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA today as the Finals are upon us, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
If you’re wondering what the intro/outro music on the show is, we lead off every episode with an amazing song by Calexico called Close Behind, and for the closing music, the same song we’ve used every single episode so far, a beautiful rendition of the standard I Wish You Love, performed by a group called Friends of Dean Martinez, and special thanks to Joe Burns for letting us use his music here. So as always, a shoutout to the music we love, Calexico, Friends of Dean Martinez, check it out…
On today’s show, it’s time for an NBA Playoff deep dive, as we…
-
commiserate over Steph Curry’s injury…,
-
look back at the opening round, ranking the series by intrigue and interest levels…,
-
analyze what we’ve seen in the first games of the Conference Semis, particularly the upsets…,
-
revise our predictions based on the surprising turn of events…,
-
and much, much more!
So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA here in Playoff time, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
If you’re wondering what the intro/outro music on the show is, we lead off every episode with an amazing song by Calexico called Close Behind, and for the closing music, the same song we’ve used every single episode so far, a beautiful rendition of the standard I Wish You Love, performed by a group called Friends of Dean Martinez, and special thanks to Joe Burns for letting us use his music here. So as always, a shoutout to the music we love, Calexico, Friends of Dean Martinez, check it out…
On today’s show, it’s NBA Playoff time, the “real season”, where the intensity ramps up, everyone plays thru injuries, the matchups are, for the most part, pretty competitive and it’s all happening every single night, so we’re breaking it all down, talking…
-
Warriors’ path to the 7 seed, including how…
-
Jimmy Butler impacts this team, as well as a look at…
-
Jimmy’s proclivity for getting to the line and whether he’s a free throw grifter or the whistles are legit…,
-
and a look at his unique career path and Hall of Fame chances.
-
(Plus, Steph’s end of season stats, Draymond’s DPOY chances and some other regular season awards talk…)
-
That takes us directly into our NBA Playoff Previews as we hit the Warriors/Rockets series first, then weave our way through each conference with picks, predictions and sub-plots, including…,
-
what the optimal LeBron/Luka dynamic looks like…,
-
is Rudy Gobert still the “Stifle Tower”…,
-
Kawhi’s rejuvenation and his possible return to that top elite level of NBA superstar who has shown he can lead a team to an NBA title, w/ Jokic, LeBron, Steph, Giannis, and KD, and maybe Luka. SGA and Ant might be there soon, maybe even Brunson or Donovan, Tatum is close, but it’s an elite group and Kawhi, looking as spry and efficient as ever, is definitely a part of it…,
-
and much, much more!
So sit back, it’s NBA Playoff time, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
If you’re wondering what the intro/outro music on the show is, we lead off every episode with an amazing song by Calexico called Close Behind, and for the closing music, the same song we’ve used every single episode so far, a beautiful rendition of the standard I Wish You Love, performed by a group called Friends of Dean Martinez, and special thanks to Joe Burns for letting us use his music here. So as always, a shoutout to the music we love, Calexico, Friends of Dean Martinez, check it out…
On today’s show, between March Madness and the Playoff positioning in the NBA, we’ve had a whole lotta hoops, and we have a lot to get into, including…
-
optimal Playoff scenarios for our resurgent Warriors…
-
as well as potential Playoff rotations…
-
watching your home team thru the lens of the visiting announcers…
-
the Thunder and Cavs’ push for a historically significant season win/loss record…
-
seeding battles in both conferences…
-
Tatum vs Giannis as an MVP candidate…
-
whether we would take Tatum or Cade moving forward…
-
Jrue Holiday’s HoF chances…
-
Final Four…
-
and more!
So sit back, baseball is here, the Final Four was electric, the NBA Playoffs are imminent, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
If you’re wondering what the intro/outro music on the show is, we lead off every episode with an amazing song by Calexico called Close Behind, and for the closing music, the same song we’ve used every single episode so far, a beautiful rendition of the standard I Wish You Love, performed by a group called Friends of Dean Martinez, and special thanks to Joe Burns for letting us use his music here. So as always, a shoutout to the music we love, Calexico, Friends of Dean Martinez, check it out…
On today’s show, only a month after the Super Bowl the NFL is already back in sports discussions, even as the NBA Playoffs approach, so today we’re…
-
examining new quarterback situations around the NFL…
-
as well as the most impactful signings and trades…
-
before evaluating the expectations for Sanders and Ward as the top 2 QBs in the draft.
-
But first, our Warriors are 12-2 in the Jimmy Butler era; can they keep moving up in the standings?
-
And can the Cavs and Thunder get into rarified air as far as single season records?
-
And can Jokic overcome the narrative of the season to win another MVP?
So sit back, player movement around the NFL keeps us busy while we wait for the draft as the NBA regular season wraps up with some drama, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
If you’re wondering what the intro/outro music on the show is, we lead off every episode with an amazing song by Calexico called Close Behind, and for the closing music, the same song we’ve used every single episode so far, a beautiful rendition of the standard I Wish You Love, performed by a group called Friends of Dean Martinez, and special thanks to Joe Burns for letting us use his music here. So as always, a shoutout to the music we love, Calexico, Friends of Dean Martinez, check it out…
On today’s show, with the NFL season a wrap, we’re all NBA all the time, and today we’re…
-
wrapping up All Star Weekend, including viewing strategies for getting the most entertainment out of the experience…
-
and whether anything the Association does to improve it even matters,…
-
delving into what we’ve see from the new look Warriors in the Jimmy Butler era,…
-
going All Around the NBA to evaluate what we’ve seen from the Western Conference, including,…
-
OKC running away with the 1 seed,…
-
fallout from the disaster in PHX &…
-
Laker upside with Luka.
-
Plus, can the Cavs win 66 games, draft lottery simulations and more!
So sit back, the NBA All-Star break is behind us as we head towards the Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, another NFL season and another Super Bowl is in the books so you’d think that’s where we’d start today but we’re somehow still more interested in talking about…
-
an NBA trade that happened almost a week ago but was so big, so unexpected and so ground shaking that we almost have no choice but to get into the Luka Doncic trade to the Lakers…
-
and look at possible Mavs’ motivations, as well as likely outcomes for both teams.
-
And of course we’ll discuss the newest Warrior, Jimmy Buckets in a “New Chapter” in GS…
-
as well as Fox to the Spurs, and other moves.
-
And all because the biggest game of the year, the sports’ ultimate matchup, the culmination of an entire season, was a snoozer, and not cuz the Eagles won, but because it was a blowout and lacked any drama whatsoever. But we’re still gonna talk about the Big Game,…
-
and more!
So sit back, the NFL season is over, the NBA trade deadline is behind us as the Playoff stretch drive begins and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s Super Bowl week, the NBA season is past the halfway point & All-Star rosters have been selected, and our Warriors are still mid, so we’re starting there,…
-
by trying to find the silver linings on the cloud that hangs over our Warriors…
-
and looking at possible trade options, before continuing all around the NBA…
-
comparing the actual NBA All-Star rosters with our personal selections,…
-
and breaking down the contenders from the East.
-
Then it’s onto the NFL Playoffs as we look back at how some of the top contenders like the Ravens, Lions and Bills ended up eliminated,…
-
make our Super Bowl picks…
-
and more!
So sit back, the Super Bowl matchup is set as the NFL season winds down, the NBA All-Star break is almost here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re back with more NBA and NFL talk, today (almost) completely Warrior-free…
-
as we select our own personal All-Star teams…
-
discuss who we think will actually make it thru fan balloting and coach/player selections…
-
and point out who might end up snubbed.
-
Then it’s onto the NFL Playoffs as we recap the results from Wild Card Weekend…
-
look ahead to the Divisional Round and make our picks and predictions…
-
discuss adding seasonal position player scoring leaders as a distinction in the NFL…
-
and more!
So sit back, NFL Wild Card Weekend is in the books as we head to the Divisional Round while the NBA All-Star break approaches and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re talking NBA and NFL, and we’re guilty of…
- more unrepentant homerism, as Steph gives us a classic performance vs the Sixers & our Warriors give us a win, but we’re still wondering, what will it take to improve our outlook on the season?…
- Then, we get into how the Thunder are currently dominating and still have upside when their 2nd best player returns…
- flawed teams around the rest of the West after Thunder and Mavs, and maybe the Grizzlies…
- handicapping Cavs vs Celtics vs Knicks almost halfway thru the season…
- the Bucks’ similarities to the Nuggets as dark horse contenders…
- NFL Week 18 slate, looking at games with stakes, as we’ll see the AFCN, NFCS, the #1 seed in the NFC, and the final seeding for 10 teams decided…
- our final MVP picks…
- the Vikings’ special season…
- and more!
So sit back, Week 18 will finalize the field for NFL Wild Card Weekend while the NBA approaches midseason and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s more NBA and more NFL, as we get into…
- my lack of disappointment in our Warriors’ NBA Cup loss to the Rockets…
- how good this Rockets team can be this season…
- Kawhi’s imminent return for the Clippers
- a crowded field for Western Conference All-Star starters…
- NFL Playoff picture…
- Ladd McConkey, Puka Nakua…
- how fluky is the Chiefs 12-1 record?…
- and more!
So sit back, there are just 4 weeks left before the NFL Playoffs while the NBA season has just passed the 1/4 way marker and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, with the NFL Playoffs just a month away and the NBA season already at the quarter way mark, Gaber and I have a whole lot to get into, starting with…
- adjusting expectations yet again with our Warriors following the Melton injury and a 4 game slide, then getting into…
- the disparity between the Eastern Conference and the West…
- the Grizzlies, the Magic, the Rockets, the Knicks on the rise…
- Sixers, Pacers, Wolves troubles…
- NFL overachieving teams and underachieving teams…
- Power Rankings 2.0
- wide receivers…
- more MVP talk re: Josh Allen recency bias, Lamar’s impeccable numbers, Mahomes as a candidate…
- and more!
So sit back, the NFL regular season is winding down as the NBA season and the NBA Cup tourney are heating up and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, Gaber and I are welcoming the NBA back into our lives and going deep on the Warriors early season success…
- talking about Jokic putting up monster game lines in what is probably the best statistical season ever for the 3x MVP…
- Donovan and the Cavs…
- KD, AD and more…
- and then we get into the most important matchups from NFL WK 11 including WAS losing @ PHI, KC @ BUF, BAL @ PIT, SEA @ SF & CIN @ LAC…
- MVP talk, where we have some NBA crossover with Lamar, like Jokic, already a multiple time MVP and is currently having his best statistical season, and can Allen or Mahomes or someone take it from him?…
So sit back, the NFL season is entering the home stretch, the NBA season starts to heat up with the NBA Cup tourney underway and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the convergence of my 3 favorite sports is here, at a time of the year I like to call the sports eclipse. The NFL season is coming off of a fantastic Week 7, with some big time matchups that ended up resulting in a few barnburners, as the Lions upset the previously undefeated Vikings in Minnesota and take over 1st place in the NFC North & the Packers make a statement vs the Texans as they come back late for the W. Plus, Washington, Baltimore and KC keep winning, the Jets keep losing, and Cincinnati finally seems to have righted the ship. And the injuries…Meanwhile, the World Series matchup is set and, while some may call me a hater, regardless of how much MLB loves the big market representatives, I find myself unable to root for either evil empire team. And here we go, as the NBA on TNT tips off another (and their final?) hoops season tonite as we wrap up our season previews out West. So sit back, the NFL season is about to hit the midway point, the NBA season is here, the World Series starts Friday and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, as we enter Week 6 of the NFL season, our sample size is now large enough to start to draw some solid conclusions. For starters, we can safely say that the NFC North is the best division in football, cumulatively with the most points scored, the fewest allowed, the best overall record, the most wins, fewest losses, and all teams with a positive differential, and the worst teams, the Packers and Bears, are a respectable 3-2. We have to start to take the Vikings seriously, given that they’ve actually beaten some real teams on their way to 5-0, and if the Commanders manage to upset the Ravens, we’ll have start to give them some credit too, and at the same time, we have to accept that preseason Playoff favs like the Eagles, Cowboys, Jets and Bengals may be more flawed than we knew, and to break it all down, we have our first Power Rankings of the season. Plus, the NBA season is just around the corner, so we’re getting ready with our season previews of the Eastern Conference. The Celtics are easily the betting favorites, but if the Knicks get the best version of KAT, if the Sixers stay healthy, and if the Bucks can hold off father time, we could get a new representative out of the East. So sit back, the NFL season is just cruising by as the MLB Playoffs play out and the NBA season approaches and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, 4 weeks into an NFL season that’s been anything but predictable, it’s time to start to readjusting our expectations. The Vikings have played great D and beat some real contenders to sit at 4-0, the Commanders rookie QB has led them to 3-1 and the top of the NFC East, and the Seahawks are better than expected on both sides of the ball and look like a lock for at least a Wild Card. Meanwhile, an injury to Tua has seemingly transformed the Dolphins from a Playoff team to one of the worst teams in the league, the Rams losing Aaron Donald to retirement then Puka and Kupp to injuries has proven devastating, and the Bengals terrible D is why they’ve struggled, but what excuses do we have for the Jags being 0-4? And are the Cowboys or Eagles really this bad? But first, it’s an NBA offseason blockbuster trade sending KAT to the Knicks and Donte DiVincenzo and Julius Randle to the Wolves. So sit back, the NFL season is just cruising by and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, things get messy in NFL Week 2 as upsets abound. Most of our top tier Super Bowl contenders, including the Cowboys, the Lions, the Niners and the Ravens all lose to underdogs, but the Bengals had the dubious distinction of losing to the defending champion Chiefs and Mahomes. But the dog show we got early made for perfect viewing, with the unbalanced 10 early/3 late slate, we got to keep up with all of the upsets on RedZone early, then focus on Bengals/Chiefs late. And now the questions start to pop up; what do we make of an 0-2 Ravens squad, or an 0-2 Bengals, or all of the Rams injury woes, or Dallas getting mollywhomped at home? Plus, passing yards and scoring are down, running yardage is up, are we seeing the newest trend in NFL offenses? We’ll look to Week 3 to provide answers. . . So sit back, the NFL season is underway and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, football is back! NFL scheduling was a thing of beauty, with potential Playoff matchups all over primetime, as we kicked off with as much excitement you could ask for between the Chiefs and Ravens, a solid Packers/Eagles tilt, OT in Detroit between the Lions and Rams, and a dominant performance by the Niners vs the Jets. Then on Sunday, it was RedZone time, as we watched Josh Allen work his magic, the Bears D looking dominant, Anthony Richardson’s tantalizing potential and more! Now granted, the level of play was spotty in some cases, like with the Bengals in particular, but also in the passing game for many QBs and teams not named Baker and the Bucs, but I’ll just chalk it up to early season rust and expect to see more dynamic passing moving forward. And now it’s on to Week 2 . . . So sit back, the NFL season is underway and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we had two conferences to cover, so we split it up into two separate parts, with episode 617 covering the South, and now here, as we wrap up our NFL season previews out west. Now we get to our defending conference champions, the favorites yet again, but we’ll take a look at what’s changed from last season and how likely a repeat Super Bowl appearance really is. Plus, there’s What to Watch For, with possible Rams, Seahawks and Charger Playoff runs, Kyler Murray, Jim Harbaugh and more! So sit back, the NFL season is just days away and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, as our NFL season previews continue the outlooks shift radically as we head down south. Between the North and the East divisions in both conferences, I counted no fewer than 8 teams with a viable chance to get to the Super Bowl, in the Eagles, the Cowboys, the Bills, the Jets, the Lions, the Packers, the Ravens and the Bengals, but as we look to the 8 teams from AFC and NFC South, outside of the Texans, is there anyone who can realistically make that title run? This has to be where the losses come from to offset all the wins we’ve been passing out and all of the overs we’ve predicted. But that’s not to say these divisions won’t be relevant; quite the opposite in fact. There are so many players and storylines to watch for, like maybe getting a full Anthony Richardson season; like whether Trevor Lawrence has another level to his game; like how far will Baker Mayfield take the Bucs; and how much can Bryce Young do on this pretty bad Panthers team to overcome his rough rookie year? So sit back, the NFL season is just days away and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s time to head to the heartland, as we take a look at what we might expect to see out of the black and blue NFC North and the AFC North. Three legit Super Bowl contenders, a boatload of superstars, and tons of storylines highlight our season previews; we’re talking Caleb Williams and the bandwagon Bears, the Lions, the Ravens, Joe Burrow, and thats just the tip of the iceberg. Week 2 of our 4 part NFL 2024 Season Previews is here, and it is loaded! So sit back, the NFL season is just weeks away and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we start to shift gears, going from pretty much just talking basketball since the Chiefs won the Super Bowl, back to football, as the 2024 NFL season just sneaks up on us after an extremely active NBA offseason. Sure, Gaber and I both have lots to say about what we saw in Paris, everything from Steph raining 3’s in the medal rounds and giving the world a Nuit-Nuit to close out France; LeBron leading this team at age 39 and taking home a well earned MVP; KD’s ruthless efficiency and mastery of the international game even tho he rarely plays FIBA rules; and just Team USA in general. And of course, you know we still wanna talk about the what this Warriors’ roster will look like going into next season now that the dealing is pretty much done, and we probably will sometime soon. But to get us ready for Week 1, it’s back to football, as we break down the NFC East and the AFC East, with team rankings, which players to watch for, odds, predictions, and more. So sit back, Team USA brings home the gold as we head into hoops hiatus just in time for football season and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, even tho the NBA Finals ended more than a month and a half ago, the hoops world hasn’t slowed down at all after the end of the season; it’s just been one event after another. The Draft, trades, Free Agency, then Summer League and Team USA Showcases, and now two weeks of Olympics’ hoops that takes us thru the middle of August and seamlessly merges into football season.Throw in watching some WNBA, some MLB, and other Olympics events, and summer on the sports calendar has been downright packed this year. And as of last night, NFL Preseason is underway and I can hear Week 1 calling, but today, we’re still on hoops, with a review of some new faces in new places, what we saw in Summer League, Team USA and more! So sit back, it’s been an entertaining NBA Offseason leading us right into football season and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, despite the season being almost two weeks in our rear view, the NBA hasn’t gone anywhere. We’ve had Bridges’ trade to the Knicks, among other deals of varying significance; the Draft, and why YMMV, we’re gonna try to refrain from deciding the career arcs of players who haven’t set foot on an NBA court yet; and now, Free Agency is underway, and while there haven’t been any mega-deals yet, we’re just waiting for the first Domino to fall. So sit back, it’s the NBA Offseason and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s all about perspective, as we reconcile endings with memories and new beginnings. The sports world lost an all-time icon, as Willie Mays passes away at age 93, but the outpouring of appreciation we saw immediately following the announcement was befitting of the legend he was, both on and off the field. RIP #24, I never saw him play but I was always acutely aware of how great he was, and that’s just how incredible the legacy he left behind was. And we bid farewell to another NBA season, as the Celtics are crowned champs, and we’ll recap what we saw throughout a somewhat lackluster NBA Finals, even as we look ahead to the NBA draft, free agency and Olympic hoops that are gonna help us get thru the offseason. So sit back, it’s Willie Mays love, an NBA Finals wrap up and a little US Open recap, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, finally, after what seems like forever, we have an NBA Finals game to look forward to, with the championship series starting tomorrow. After more than a month of at least one NBA game on every single night, two quick Conference Finals series of 4-0 Celtics and 4-1 Mavs left us with the awkward absence of NBA hoops for over a week. But it’s given us time to really marinate on the cutthroat dominance we’ve seen from Luka lately, on Jaylen outshining Jayson to win the series MVP, and how steadily spectacular Kyrie has been, and it let’s us make our predictions with the latest news from Shams on Kristaps Porzingis’ return from injury for Game 1. But what remains to be seen is how good he actually is to go, and how classic a performance Luka might be cooking up, and if Tatum can match him star versus star. Folks, I think we have ourselves a pretty good matchup! So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re wrapping up the Conference Semifinals and looking ahead to the round of four, and although ymmv on entertainment value, the sheer volume of games has been fantastic. NBA Playoff basketball has kept hoopheads busy, that’s for sure, with 74 games in 33 nights, and 31 nights straight with at least one game, and Playoff hoops at that. And we still have two rounds to go! Sure it would be great if every game came down to the last possession and every star was Jordenesque every night, but isn’t it enough to watch Ant become an established Playoff superstar, or see Jokic work his magic, or Brunson do the improbable and Luka do the expected while both are hobbled by injuries? And along the way, we saw amazing performances in losing efforts from LeBron, from Shai, from Donovan, from Embiid. The volume of short video highlights you can marvel at on your phone may be light, but there are legit NBA historical storylines playing out right now. Jokic doesn’t get the repeat, that’s the big one right now but there’s plenty more, like, does Tatum get over the hump, will Luka make his first Finals, how far could Brunson carry his team and how far can 22 year old Ant carry his, and what the heck are the Pacers doing here? Fortunately we have another month of hoops to watch it all play out, with up to 14 straight days of games starting tonite! But no matter what, youth will take over, cuz either Tatum, Ant, Haliburton or Luka is winning a title. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, with the NBA Playoffs in full swing it’s all hoops, all the time, and we have a lot to get into with Round 2 underway. But first, it’s a way too late post-mortem on our Golden State Warriors’ season; we’ve been so busy talking about actual Playoff teams that we didn’t get a chance to review the season and look ahead to next year, but rest assured, this will likely be the last Warrior talk til next fall. Then it’s a brief recap of Round 1 before we give our pre-series Round 2 predictions and take a look at what we’ve seen so far from Ant and the Wolves, Jalen and the Knicks and more. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re checking in on the NBA Playoffs midway thru Round 1 action, and so far, the “old” stars seem on their way out, even as the new generation appears ready to take over. Our guy Steph, now in his mid-30s, is out, sent home before it all even started, while 25 year old SGA is in, as in, likely in the Conference Finals this year with his Thunder, and the franchise looking to be in great shape for years to come. 28 year old Nicola Jokic is in, he’s the pinnacle of the game right now, while as great as he’s played, 39 year old LeBron is likely on his way out, both immediately and more long term. You get the picture; there’s a lot of new blood in title contention this year, with Ant, Brunson, Luka, and other leading the charge. Meanwhile, the NFL Draft is in the books and while we got a few surprises on Day 1, there was plenty that went as predicted. A lot of offense was picked on Day 1, high value positions in a deep draft for OT, WR and QB, as we see the top 6 QBs go in the first 12 picks. My winner was Chicago though, and Bears fans have to be excited to see the Caleb-Rome connection in action this fall. So sit back, the NFL Draft is in the books, the NBA Playoffs are underway, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, in part 1, we’re checking in on the NBA Playoffs midway thru Round 1 action, and so far, the “old” stars seem on their way out, even as the new generation appears ready to take over. Our guy Steph, now in his mid-30s, is out, sent home before it all even started, while 25 year old SGA is in, as in, likely in the Conference Finals this year with his Thunder, and the franchise looking to be in great shape for years to come. 28 year old Nicola Jokic is in, he’s the pinnacle of the game right now, while as great as he’s played, 39 year old LeBron is likely on his way out, both immediately and more long term. You get the picture; there’s a lot of new blood in title contention this year, with Ant, Brunson, Luka, and other leading the charge. Meanwhile, in part 2, the NFL Draft is in the books and while we got a few surprises on Day 1, there was plenty that went as predicted. A lot of offense was picked on Day 1, high value positions in a deep draft for OT, WR and QB, as we see the top 6 QBs go in the first 12 picks. My winner was Chicago though, and Bears fans have to be excited to see the Caleb-Rome connection in action this fall. So sit back, the NFL Draft is in the books, the NBA Playoffs are underway, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re catching up on a busy time on the sports calendar and we’re reveling in the abundance of stories out there for us to follow, as March Madness and the NBA regular season wrap-up, and as we get ready for the Masters, the NBA Play-in and Playoffs and then the NFL Draft. But what we really get into today are the various seeding battles we have in both the NBA's Western and Eastern Conferences with just a few games remaining before the finale on Sunday, as we examine a few different scenarios for teams like our Warriors, the Knicks, the Celtics, the Bucks and a few others. Plus, Giannis’ injury, the Warriors’ all time league record 3 point shooting nite in LA, Gaber's Masters picks and more. So sit back, April on the sports calendar is always a time of great abundance, especially in the NBA, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, as the NBA regular season comes down to the last 10 or so games and the playoffs get closer, we have teams jockeying for seeding position in both conferences, as well as Play-In tourney spots to fill. In the Eastern Conference, Donte DiVincenzo has been on fire for the Knicks, as they try to hold off the Cavs for the 3 seed and get the chance to avoid the Celtics before the Conference Finals, while the Heat and Sixers try catch the Pacers to avoid the Play-In. Meanwhile in the West, the top of the conference is all bunched up and the 1 seed is up for grabs, as is the final Play-In spot as the Warriors try to hold off a red hot Jalen Green and the Rockets, winners of 10 straight. But first, we’re talking NFL rule changes, as we give our reviews of the new kickoff format, onside kicks and the hip-drop tackle ban. So sit back, spring is here, and with it MLB and March Madness, the NBA Playoffs are almost upon us, the NFL is omnipresent and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, NFL free agency hit the sports world hard, and while the best players pretty much never hit the open market, there were still some potentially impactful moves. The Steelers are all about 2nd chance QBs, the Texans are building on last year’s success, the Panthers are trying to offer Bryce some more support, the Eagles and Ravens are retooling and the Bears are getting ready for the Caleb Williams era. Meanwhile, we have to wonder, where were the Cowboys during all of this? Plus, is Patrick Mahomes the best individual player in team sports right now? And in the NBA, the Celtics are on pace for maybe a top 20 all time regular season record, but can they seal the season with a title? And in the West, consistency and resilience have been key as the Thunder, the Wolves and Nuggets jockey for the top seed, while some less consistent but star studded teams vie for the 6-10. Plus, some Wemby DPOY discussion, Warriors updates and more in this supersized edition of the show. So sit back, NFL Free Agency has come and gone, the NBA season is down to about 15 games and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
9:49 - Is Patrick Mahomes the best player in any team sport right now? And how do you determine that?
27:10 - NFL Free Agency review,
1:11:24 - Celtics possibly headed for top 20 all time regular season record but some doubts as to whether they can seal it with a title. It's a tough path for Boston but is the path thru the West even tougher?
1:23:59 - Thunder, Nuggets, Wolves all bunched up at the top of the West; some trends on how they respond after a loss.
1:30:10 - Wemby DPOY consideration and speculating on the kind of numbers he’ll put up in his prime.
1:43:07 - Kuminga’s development, Klay’s improvement coming off bench, Moody as a starter
1:47:08 - Warriors updates, including Playoff situation.
1:51:50 - Warriors/Lakers game highlighted elite playmakers and passers in LeBron, Draymond, Steph and CP3; listing the top playmakers in the league right now.
1:51:50 - Perspectives on LeBron’s shooting, playmaking, stats, All-NBA likelihood and general late career performance.
2:07:32 - How to properly rate Steph Curry at this point of his career.
On today’s show, the NFL season is a wrap but the League never sleeps. With the draft the next big NFL event, the Bears hold the best hand and we discuss what course of action is best for the team with the #1 pick. But first, after taking our own All-Star break, we belatedly discuss the criticism of the NBA’s highest profile exhibition game, look ahead to the stretch drive and delineate the true contenders from the pretenders, and of course, discuss our Warriors’ recent improvements. Get ready for a few months of NBA-centric pods as the Association takes center stage; it’s right in our wheelhouse and we’re here for it!So sit back, NBA All-Star Weekend is in the books, the Playoff stretch drive is here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, Super Bowl LVIII is in the books, along with another NFL season, and we all suddenly have a lot more free time on Sundays. The Big Game started slow but ended with a performance by Patrick Mahomes worthy of the Vegas stage they were on. Mahomes was every bit the smart gambler; he folded a few hands, stuck with his system and in the end, hit the jackpot late in overtime, but as many people seem to want to blame the Niners for the loss as give the Chiefs credit for the win. We’ll play the blame game with the Niners like fans are doing all over the Bay Area, but what I take away from this one is that they just ran up against history and legacy in Mahomes. Plus, our Warriors are back to .500 and hope remains alive at the Chase Center, but with 30 games left to play, is the upside enough to promise the deep postseason run we all want to see? Steph is on a heater, Draymond is on his best behavior, the rookie Pods is precocious, Kuminga has made the leap, GP2 is back and basketball is fun again, and it’s past time to deep dive into some Bay Area hoops as we head into the All-Star break. So sit back, the Chiefs are champs again, All-Star Weekend is here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s time to make our Super Bowl picks, with just a few days before the Big Game, and let the equivocating begin! At first glance, it looks like the Niners have the superior roster; it’s practically an all-star team. But if you look closer, the Chiefs have the advantage at quite a few positions. And on top of that, after all we’ve seen these past 6 seasons, how do you bet against Patrick Mahomes? If you’re on the Niners, you believe that Brock can play a clean game, CMC will continue to dominate, and the stacked DL will play up to expectations. If you’re on the Chiefs, you’ve got the best QB in the game, Chris Jones disrupting up front and a killer secondary playing their best ball of the year. After we break down everything we’ve seen so far and expect to see Sunday, we’ll delve into a NBA trade deadline that lacks the big names but has a lot of contenders picking up what could be some valuable role players. So sit back, NBA trade deadline is here, All-Star Weekend is just around the corner, it’s almost Super Bowl Sunday and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the Super Bowl matchup is set and we’re recapping how the Niners and Chiefs got here. Now technically it’s a rematch of the big game from 2020, but in reality, these are much different versions of the teams we saw play just a handful of years ago. And we’re not gonna focus on tearing down the Ravens and Lions like other shows seem to be doing; the two best teams advanced, and we got the best possible matchup for the biggest game of the year. Then, with the NBA All-Star reserves being announced tonite on TNT, we’re giving our picks to round out the All-Star rosters, we’ll talk about Luka and Booker continuing the scoring explosion this year and arguing the merits of the NBA’s 65 game threshold for awards, as Joel Embiid and Tyrese Halliburton risk aggravating existing injuries to meet the new standard. So sit back, NBA All-Star Weekend & the trade deadline are just around the corner, the Super Bowl matchup is set and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the intention is to concentrate mainly on the NFL Playoffs this time of year, but the NBA keeps throwing big storylines at us that we just can’t skip past, like Embiid and KAT putting up monster scoring numbers on the same night, Terry Rozier getting shipped to the Heat and the 30-13 2 seed Bucks deciding to jettison their head coach midseason. But after we sort thru all that, we have to focus on the business at hand as we catch up on a fun Divisional Round in the NFL Playoffs and two high stakes matchups coming up this weekend in the Conference Championships. On Saturday, it looked like we might have a game for two quarters before the Ravens flexed on the upstart Texans with a big 2nd half, but the young Packers provided viewers with some drama as they hung in there with the Niners down the stretch, and in the end, the two #1 seeds advanced. On Sunday, the Lions continued their storybook run with a victory over the Bucs, and then in the nightcap, our game of the week provided all of the excitement we had hoped for. Josh Allen once again put the Bills on his broad shoulders but came up just a bit short against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. It came down to just a few key plays, but while Allen, and maybe head coach Sean McDermott, made a few key mistakes, Mahomes didn’t miss, and the Chiefs advance to yet another Conference Championship. And now, as we move ahead, it’s Chiefs/Ravens and Lions/Niners facing off for the chance to go to the Super Bowl. So sit back, the NBA is just past mid-season & the trade deadline is rapidly approaching, the NFL is down to the final four and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, Super Wild Card Weekend is in the books and we got the upsets we were looking for. The Chiefs and Bills rolled along as expected, and we called CJ Stroud and the Texans upsetting the Browns, while the Cowboys’ collapse to the Packers seemed par for the course for Dallas, but the Rams came up just a bit short against the Lions and I regret not having the nerve to pick the Bucs over the reeling Eagles. So now the Divisional Round is set, with the overlooked Jared Goff, the resurgent Baker Mayfield, the rookie Stroud, the late bloomer Jordan Love and Mr Irrelevant Brock Purdy in the same field as MVP caliber guys like Allen, Lamar and Mahomes. Who saw that coming midseason when the Cowboys and Eagles looked like powerhouses, and what happens now with these NFC underachievers? Plus, there’s talk that Atlanta may offer the Bears yet another high 1st round pick in exchange for Justin Fields, and we have to get Gaber, a lifetime Bears’ fan’s take on that. And breaking news today in the NBA has Pascal Siakem headed to Indy to join the Pacers so we have to touch on that. So sit back, the NBA approaches mid-season & the trade deadline is 24 days away, the NFL Playoffs are heating up in some wintery conditions and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s NFL Playoff season and we’re loaded up with previews for what should be a great slate of high stakes football over Super Wild Card Weekend, and we see the opportunity for at least a few upsets. Now the field looks a little different than what we saw coming into the season, with the Super Bowl representatives from last season looking far less dominant this time around, with the Eagles even opening up on the road in Tampa, the Rams, Steelers, Packers and Texans surprising a lot of people by getting in, and the Lions boasting home field advantage, but the Cowboys and Bills playing host this weekend worked out just as scripted. Best chances for an upset? I give the Texans, Packers and the Rams at least a puncher’s chance and the way the Eagles have looked lately, maybe the Bucs can pull off the most surprising upset. Plus, Black Monday means the coaching carousel is up and running again, and there have been some shocking changes around the league. And while we’re talking a lot of football this week, we’ll still find time to look at the NBA with some appreciation for NBAtv’s fantastic Crunchtime whip around show. So sit back, the NBA approaches mid-season, the NFL Playoffs are here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re zooming in on the NFL as we hit Week 18 and there’s still a whole lot to be decided. The 1 seeds are set in both conferences, but everything else will be sorted this weekend, with 2 games on Saturday and a busy slate on Sunday. The marquee matchup is for the AFC East, as the Dolphins and Bills play for the division, but the AFC South is still up for grabs between the Jags, Colts and Texans and there are 3 available Playoff spots for 5 teams with the Steelers, Colts and Texans all needing help to get in. In the NFC, the East is still up for grabs with the Cowboys in control over the Eagles and the Bucs needing a win to edge out the Falcons and Saints, and we have 2 spots for 6 teams with most of them needing help. It gets convoluted for sure, but that’s just more drama for Sunday. Meanwhile, in the NBA, we’re already more than a third of the way through the season, so we welcome the casual fans who don’t start paying attention until after Christmas into the fold, but that also means the trade deadline is about a month away, and the Knicks and Raptors got us started on what I predict to be a busy month in the talent exchange market, with OG Anunoby headed to NY. Then, we take a look around the MVP race so far, and give our takes on the three players who should be legitimately considered. I love SGA but Gaber shoots down his case, Tatum isn’t even close when Giannis is probably being overlooked, and AD is all but forgotten, so with Joel Embiid playing even better than he did when he won the award last year and Jokic still the best player in the world, who is our third candidate? The Christmas Day extravaganza is in the books, and as always, this is when things start to heat up. So sit back, the NBA season is hitting its stride, the NFL season is down to the final week and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we start off by trying to make some sense of a wacky Western Conference just past a quarter of the way into the season, talking some overachievers, underachievers and everything in between, while in the East, it’s all a lot more straightfoward, but today’s question is, are the Timberwolves, Thunder, Magic and Knicks legit top-6 Playoff teams and can they avoid the Play-in? Plus, our Warriors get over on the Celtics once again, and it’s Steph with a huge game winning 3 that we just have to celebrate, but we also have to credit the young Warriors, who are playing big roles with Draymond out. Meanwhile, the NFL season is down to 3 more weeks of regular season action and we could be in for a photo finish for Playoff berths, with up to 11 teams still mathematically alive in each conference, as well as some division races that could come down to Week 18. Then we continue our MVP discussion talking about how Purdy fits in when it seems obvious that Mahomes and Allen are two of the best players in football, and talk about how a QB like Purdy builds a legacy by looking back at the careers of Kurt Warner and Tom Brady. So sit back, the NBA season is just past the quarter way point, the NFL season hits the home stretch and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re just about down to just 4 more regular season games in the NFL season as no fewer than 22 teams jockey for Playoff positions, but we have to remember; a lot can change in a short time, as we’ve seen with the Niners, once losers of three straight and now the number 1 seed in the NFC and the Cowboys, leading the NFC East after a huge win vs Philly, themselves now losers of 2 straight. Meanwhile, the North divisions from each conference are well represented, QBs are banged up all around the league with 8 backups starting this week and Justin Herbert leaving Sunday with a broken finger and CJ Stroud with a head injury, and we had two marquee matchups this weekend, as the Bills were able to keep their postseason ambitions alive against the Chiefs, and the Eagles failing to bounce back in Dallas after their loss to the Niners. Then, it’s a wrap on the In-Season Tournament as the Lakers take the inaugural NBA Cup, and we marvel at the performances of two players at very different stages of their careers. Tyrese Halliburton is just getting started in this league as he carries the Pacers to a perfect 6-0 IST record entering the Final, while LeBron continues to put his team on his back in his 21st season, leading the Lakers to a perfect 7-0 IST record. Plus, we’ll try to sort through our Warriors’ continued struggles after another heartbreaker in OKC. So sit back, the NBA In-Season tourney is a wrap, the NFL season hits the home stretch and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, as Week 13 of the NFL season gets underway, I’m only seeing 5 legit title contenders. Sorry Dolphins, sorry Jags and sorry long suffering Lions’ fans, I know your teams are really good, but realistically, you’re just not Super Bowl champion good, and even despite a one dimensional, Josh Allen-centric offense, I might have included the Bills, were it not for devastating season ending injuries to 3 key defensive players. Now I know we’re gonna have 14 Playoff teams, and it’s not that I’m saying it’s a waste of time; I’ll enjoy Wild Card Weekend and the Divisional Round as much as anyone, but in reality, it’s all just a formality, cuz in the end, it’s all gonna come down to the Ravens, the Chiefs, the Eagles, the Cowboys and the Niners. Meanwhile, in the NBA, there are a few up and comers in the standings, as the Magic, Timberwolves, Pacers and Thunder enjoy early season success, and the In-Season Tournament seems to be a hit, with the opening round drawing a lot of attention as Group Play came to an exciting close and we head to the Knockout Round. So sit back, the NBA season is exciting early on, the NFL season hits the home stretch and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s midseason in the NFL and uncertainty abounds. Missing this season is the truly dominant team, the absolute can’t miss Super Bowl contender whom every other team fears and, to me, the any given Sunday cliche pretty much defines the season. Sure the Eagles are great, but even at 8-1 the assessment on them is that they’re not as good as last year’s version and their most reliable offensive option has been a QB sneak. Three preseason Super Bowl favorites like the Niners, Bills and Cowboys have all shown vulnerabilities as the season rolls on, while the Dolphins early season dominance hasn’t proven to be sustainable, especially on the road or against other contenders, and even the defending champion Chiefs, with their revamped defense and the best QB in the world have exposed a weakness in their lack of playmaking threats on offense. At this moment, the most complete teams in the league appear to be the Ravens, behind a resurgent Lamar Jackson and a solid defense, and the Bengals, who are rolling now that Joe Burrow finally appears healthy again but who still currently sit in last place in their division. But we have to remember, there’s a lot of football left to be played, and week to week evaluations are never reliable in the long run. Meanwhile, the NBA In-Season Tournament is underway and I have a few concerns, but one thing I’m not concerned about at all is how our Warriors are playing right now. So sit back, the NBA season is off to a rollicking start, the NFL season hits the midway point and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the sports eclipse is upon us, as the NFL trade deadline hits after Week 8, the Rangers go up 3-1 in the World Series, and the NBA season is underway. The Niners have lost 3 straight now, Brocktober is over, and the upside is definitely there in their acquisition of edge rusher Chase Young, but should they have targeted Rasul Douglas instead, who the Bills acquired to bolster their injury depleted defense? Elsewhere, the Vikings attempt to replace Kirk Cousins with former Cardinal Joshua Dobbs, even after an unexpected loss at Denver, the Chiefs elect to stand pat, and guys like Derrick Henry and Davanta Adams stay put. And trades are fun, but how about three headliner matchups for us in Week 9, as the Dolphins meet the Chiefs in Frankfurt, the Cowboys visit the Eagles and the Bengals host the Bills? Meanwhile, the Rangers lose arguably their two best players in Max Scherzer and breakout star Adolis Garcia yet stand on the precipice of their first ever World Series title after continuing to dominate on the road in the postseason. And in the NBA, Steph still looks like an MVP at age 35, Dametime is taking over in Milwaukee, Wemby gets the Spurs a big win in Phoenix, Jokic may somehow be even better than last year and James Harden forces yet another trade, getting his way and getting shipped to the Clippers. So sit back, the NBA season is finally here, the NFL season approaches the midway point, the Rangers are 1 win away from a World Series title and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the sports eclipse is here, as the NFL season heats up and we have half of our our World Series matchup, but what I’m most excited about today is the return of our Warriors and the NBA season. Blatant homerism notwithstanding, Steph Curry looks to be in prime form and I love this roster, but I’m also excited to see Wemby in action, the superteam Suns, Jokic and the defending champion Nuggets, and the new look Bucks and Celtics, and we’re sorting thru the Vegas odds to give our predictions as to how all plays out. Then, with the NFL season approaching the midway point, a few of the top teams in the league take a hit in Week 7, as the Niners, Bills, Dolphins and Lions all suffer losses and all of the sudden, things are a little tighter at the top. So sit back, the NBA season is here, the NFL season is in full swing, the World Series is almost set and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
9:39 - Warriors are back!
29:31 - All Around the NBA: Western Conference Preview
1:16:52 - Eastern Conference Preview
1:29:55 - Finals and MVP picks
1:34:02 - All Around the NFL: Week 7 upsets
On today’s show, with 6 weeks of the NFL season in the books, we’ve seen enough by this point to start making some judgements as to what we’ve witnessed so far. With losses by the Niners and the Eagles, there are no more undefeated teams left, and this is the perfect opportunity for us to assess the teams’ performances so far with our first power rankings of the season. Plus, with the NBA season starting next week, it’s time to get back to some hoops talk. Next week we’ll come strapped with our full predictions as to how we expect the season to play out, who will make the Playoffs, who will win it all, our MVPs and other awards, but today, we tip it all off with 11 burning questions a lot of people have on their minds about various players and teams heading into the season. Now, we’re not saying we have the answers today, these things are gonna have to play out but headed into the season, these storylines are among the most intriguing to watch develop over 82 games. So sit back, the NBA is almost back, the NFL season is as unpredictable as ever, MLB Playoffs are here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re amazed how fast this NFL season has gone by; it’s wild that we’re almost a quarter of the way through the schedule already but it proves the time honored adage that time flies when you’re having fun. The Niners and the Eagles are having a blast out there as the league’s last remaining undefeated teams at 4-0, but it’s always more fun when you’re winning and I’d have to say that based on expectations, after being drafted last 2 years ago, Mr Irrelevant Brock Purdy is probably having the most fun of anyone. The Dolphins have played the most fun style of football so far with their wide open offense, and the Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes are always exciting, but having Taylor Swift on their side has made their games fun for the whole family. Lions fans are having a good time for the first time in years, and Bucs fans are probably surprised at how enjoyable their Sundays have been this fall, but not everyone is having fun. Jets fans came in with outsized expectations and have been understandably miserable through 4 weeks, as are Bengals fans, who had realistic Super Bowl aspirations, and injuries to their star QBs have been the main cause for their consternation, but Bears fans can’t even blame injuries for their woes, as the team has seemingly imploded and Justin Fields has definitely had better days. But as an impartial observer, as a fan without any rooting interest, I’m having a great time watching it all unfold each and every Sunday, so shoutout to Stugotz and Billy Gil, God bless football. And as an NBA fan, I’m having fun already and the season hasn’t even started yet, just anticipating the return of hoops and watching the recent flurry of trades that have sent Dame to the Bucks and Jrue to the Celtics. And with MLB’s playoffs starting this week, we’re headed right into the sports eclipse, the most fun time of year for me as a sports fan. So sit back, the NBA announces its presence, the NFL season is as unpredictable as ever, MLB Playoffs are here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
14:39 - MLB Wild Card
17:41 - All Around the NBA: Dame and Jrue Trade Winners and Losers
48:20 - Evaluating College QBs
53:00 - All Around the NFL thru Week 4
On today’s show, we interrupt our regularly scheduled coverage of this already wild NFL season to get into some NBA talk, as we get a preseason blockbuster trade with Dame Lillard getting moved to the Bucks to team up with Giannis and getting his chance to win that elusive ring. Now, we all know that Miami was his destination of choice, and lately we had heard that the Raptors were in on the trade talks, but Dame probably landed in the best situation available so we’ll call him a winner here, and the Bucks got themselves a closer, and the Suns added depth and no longer have to overpay Ayton, so they won too, but what exactly did the Blazers accomplish with this move? They played hard ball with the future Hall of Famer all summer, but the haul they finally got for him hardly seems like it was worth all of the drama, and we’re left wondering what they left on the table and if they actually end up improving much with this move. Back on the gridiron, the Dolphins are proving the adage that speed kills scoring 70 pints this week, the Niners all star team looks dominant, and the Eagles are grinding out wins, but the mighty Cowboys got embarrassed in Arizona, so we’re left with 3 undefeated teams after 3 weeks of play. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift is now a Chiefs fan, the Browns have the best defense in the league, CJ Stroud looks like a star and Playoff hopefuls like the Broncos and Vikings have yet to get a win. Man, what a week in the sports world! So sit back, the NBA announces its presence, the NFL season is as unpredictable as ever and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re 2 weeks into the NFL season and as we should’ve expected after all of these years watching the NFL, things aren’t going exactly according to expectations. Now, the Cowboys and the Niners look as dominant as we thought they would, and despite Week 1 losses, the Bills and Chiefs were able to bounce back in Week 2, but I doubt anyone saw the Bengals starting off 0-2 with Joe Burrow still hobbled by a preseason calf injury. Meanwhile, the Dolphins are 2-0 and seem to be the early season bandwagon team that everyone is jumping on. Despite a 2-0 start, there’s some valid concerns about the Eagles offense, and the Chargers defense has let them down early and is largely to blame for their 0-2 start. Meanwhile, also rans like the Commanders, the Bucs, the Falcons and the Saints are all 2-0 to start the season, and no one could say they saw that coming, but their Week 3 matchups will provide a true test as to how good they really are. It all goes to show, the more we think we know, the more we realize that it’s all just speculation until we see these teams actually hit the field. So sit back, the NFL season is finally here in all its glory and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, football is back, and it’s time for that time honored tradition, you know the drill, where we make every result from Week 1 of the NFL season a referendum on how the season is gonna play out. Losses by top tier Super Bowl contenders like the Chiefs, the Bengals and the Bills, or Playoff contenders like the Steelers, the Seahawks, the Chargers or the Broncos, start an avalanche of analysis and send everyone scrambling to adjust their preseason predictions. So far I’ve heard that the Chiefs are in trouble offensively and that their WR corps are a mess, that the Bengals gave Burrow too much money too soon, and that Geno Smith’s rejuvenation last year may have been a mirage, but I say that we merely saw Kadarius Toney spiral out of control after starting off poorly, that Joe Burrow might be a little rusty after missing the preseason with an injury and that the Hawks ran up against an inspired game plan from Sean McVeigh and a beast in Aaron Donald and that all of these results should be taken with a grain of salt. But I don’t think we’d be overreacting to say that the Niners look like an All Star team out there, that the Cowboys defense is a monster or that Tua to Tyreek is a deadly combo. And one thing we can all be certain of after watching Aaron Rodgers tear his achilles on Monday night; with Zach Wilson at QB, Jets fans took the biggest L in Week 1. So sit back, the NFL season is finally here in all its glory and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we continue our NFL previews by going out west. The NFC West has a clear cut favorite, with the Niners looking to build on the surprise success of Mr Irrelevant, Brock Purdy, now fully recovered from his elbow injury, as well as fielding an all-star team on defense, especially now that Nick Bosa is back in the fold with a new contract, but the Seahawks appear to be ready to repeat their Playoff appearance from last year behind Geno Smith and a revamped roster. But that’s where the depth in this division ends, as the Rams attempt to rebuild after going all in to win a Super Bowl, and the Cardinals seem like they’re going full tank mode to get Caleb Williams in the draft. Meanwhile, in the AFC West, the champion Chiefs look good enough to make their 6th straight AFC title game, but like the Niners, they’ll need to sign their best defensive player, Chris Jones, if they want to repeat as Super Bowl winners. The Chargers are counting on Justin Herbert to make the leap to the elite level of QBs, and their offense is stacked with weapons for him to utilize, but aside from the secondary, their defense could be their weakness. And the Broncos brought in Sean Payton to help Russ return to superstar form, but their success hinges on a rebuilt defense. As for the Raiders, there’s not a lot to be optimistic about, but at least they have superstars on both sides of the ball in Davante Adams and Maxx Crosby, so at least they might have a few exciting moments. So sit back, the NFL season is just around the corner and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we continue our NFL previews looking at a loaded east. The AFC East boasts one of the most dominant teams of the past few years, albeit one that has fallen short in the Playoffs, as the Bills look to live up to high expectations behind a healthy Josh Allen. But all the attention is on New York, as the new look Jets, complete with Aaron Rodgers as their first franchise QB since Joe Namath, try to live up to the hype with all of their young talent, guys like Sauce Gardner, Garrett Wilson and Quinnen Williams. Meanwhile, the Dolphins are loaded on both sides of the ball, but the challenge will be keeping Tua upright in the pocket. And you can never count out the Patriots as long as Bill Belichick is still at the helm, and that defense is looking downright scary. In the NFC East, we have the powerhouse Eagles returning a lot of starters and looking for another Super Bowl win behind Jalen Hurts. And the Cowboys are always at the center of attention, and this could very well be their year behind a great defense and offensive line, but the hype always seems to be greater than the product on the field so we’ll see if this year is any different. Meanwhile, the Giants might not be able to repeat their Playoff appearance from last year, and some regression is expected, while the Commanders look to be on the rise, but unless Sam Howell surprises everyone, they might not be ready to make a Wild Card run just yet. So sit back, the NFL season is just around the corner and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
8:00 - AFC East Previews: Bills
24:23 - Jets
35:40 - Dolphins
46:41 - Patriots
58:30 - NFC East Previews: Eagles
1:13:24 - Cowboys
1:23:32 - Giants
1:30:32 - Commanders
On today’s show, we continue our NFL previews by going up north. The NFC North will be up for grabs, as the dominant team of the past 10 years, the Green Bay Packers, retool after losing franchise anchor Aaron Rodgers in the offseason, and this will be the first time in over 20 years that they don’t have a Hall of Fame QB. The Lions look set to take over, with the Vikings expected to come back down to Earth after over achieving last year, and the Bears continuing to rebuild. The AFC North on the other hand could see any of its teams make the Playoffs, and boast two legit Super Bowl contenders, as the Bengals just keep getting better and the Ravens appear ready to finally make a championship run. But the Browns and Steelers could be wild cards, both literally and figuratively, with both teams looking talented enough to impact the Playoff race. Most likely, we’ll only see one team emerge from the NFC North, but could we really see three Playoff teams out of the AFC North? So sit back, the NFL season is just around the corner and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we answer the question, are you ready for some football with a resounding “YES!”, as we begin our NFL season previews. We’re starting at the bottom, with what we expect to be the divisions that have the least likely chance to put a representative into the Super Bowl, and that would be the AFC South and the NFC South, and then, as we get closer to opening kickoff on September 7th, we’ll go through each and every division. This isn’t to say that there isn’t anything worth getting excited about in the South of each conference; on the contrary, these divisions have the best rookie QB prospects in the league, with Anthony Richardson, Bryce Young, CJ Stroud and Will Levis all set to make their NFL debuts this season. And it’s not to say that there aren’t any exciting teams in these divisions, with the Jaguars finally becoming truly competitive, the explosive offense we could see from the Falcons, and a Texans team loaded with young talent. It’s just that, big picture, no one really expects to see a true contender emerge from the South just yet. Plus, as promised, baseball is back here on the show, and I am finally going All Around MLB to highlight and contrast the best teams from both the AL and NL, as well as offer my comprehensive list of the most exciting under-26 year old hitters in baseball. So sit back, the NFL season is rapidly approaching and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
5:52 - All Around MLB: Contrasting the first place Braves and Orioles
18:37 - The best young hitters 26 years old and under
26:22 - FIBA World Cup and Team USA
38:54 - NFL season previews: Jaguars
51:24 - Titans
59:08 - Colts
1:04:52 - Texans
1:12:04 - Saints
1:19:27 - Falcons
1:27:36 - Panthers
1:31:58 - Buccaneers
On today’s show, we return from our summer hiatus to transition from NBA coverage to the upcoming NFL season, in addition to recapping what we’ve been up to over our break. As we shift our focus from the hardwood to the gridiron, we still have some catching up to do on the hoops front, as far as what we saw during Summer League and what we think of all the moves our Warriors made in the offseason, and then we’ll move on to some first impressions on the impending NFL season. Over the next month we’ll start to get into our NFL season previews, but today, for the most part, we’re forgoing our usual in-depth analysis for a more conversational angle, just kind of easing back into the flow of the show with some more general observations, as well as breaking down our summer vacations, including a brief discussion on some of the sports documentaries we’ve seen recently, including the Steph Curry documentary Underrated, the Netflix series Quarterback, and Goliath, Showtime’s 3 part mini series about Wilt Chamberlain. I know, not the usual hard hitting sports talk you’ve come to expect from this show, but even with the hoopers hitting the beaches for their vacations and football players working in training camp, we’ve still got a lot to talk about. So sit back, it’s the post-NBA and pre-NFL doldrums and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, NBA Free Agency got off to a frenzied start, with the top names flying off the shelf on some hefty price tags as teams collectively spent over a billion dollars in total contracts on Day 1 alone, but even as the spending slowed down over the holiday weekend, Summer League tipped off, so we have a lot to catch up on. Yeah, we saw seven 9 figure contracts given out, a few at $40+ million per year, but the names of the players who got the big UFA money hardly include an All Star appearance among them. But a lot of the big money went to guys like Kyrie, Draymond and Middleton who anticlimactically all ended up just resigning with their current teams. From here we just watch as teams fill out their rosters with bargains and move on to Summer League, which tipped off Monday, and the biggest thing I need to remember as I tune in to watch Wemby and Brandon and Chet and Scoot and the Thompson Twins is that these games mean nothing, the results mean nothing, the stats mean nothing, they’re barely even real competitive basketball but they are enjoyable for NBA heads like us and if you watch for the right things, like positioning, playmaking, presence and other intangibles, you might take something away from the games. But mostly, they’re just for fun. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Offseason Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, only 2 weeks removed from the coronation of Jokic and the Nuggets, the landscape of the NBA has already shifted significantly, and we have a lot to catch up on. We all know by now that the NBA offseason holds a special place in the hearts of hoops fans, how the machinations and movement fascinate a segment of fans who rarely even actually watch the games. It’s probably one reason why NBA/Reddit is the single largest sports community on the site and NBA Twitter goes viral so much, but there is no doubt; the NBA never sleeps. Less than a week after the Finals ended, we got a potentially massive Bradley Beal deal that could alter the balance in the West, but the Suns know they’re taking a gamble; Beal can only be boom or bust in this situation and they’ve become the next in a succession of theoretical teams for us to speculate on until we actually see them play. Next up was one of the most unlikely of unions, as long time Golden State nemesis CP3 became a Warrior, to the vocal chagrin of many Bay Area faithful, but yours truly? I’m all in. Then it was on to Victor’s big day, as the NBA world welcomed the newest chosen one to the Association but found a few minutes to acknowledge Scoot and Brandon and the Thompson Twins as well. And now it’s on to the free agent signing period starting June 30th and Summer League starting July 3rd as the summer season pushes on. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Offseason Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s a wrap, with another NBA Finals in the books, and the 2022-2023 season ends with Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and the Denver Nuggets as our NBA champions. The Nuggets’ Playoff run was impressive, with only 4 total losses as they rolled through the postseason with never a series in doubt, and today we’re looking at what makes them a deserving champ. With the spotlight shining brightest, Nikola Jokic was dominant throughout, and regardless of the chatter, he’s dominant whether he scores OR passes, as evidenced by his 30 point near triple double average in the series, but what the numbers don’t show is how the entire flow of the Nuggets offense runs through him and how he anchors the defense down low. And we have to mention Jamal Murray, largely forgotten while injured over the past few years, we saw once again how this guy can impact a Playoff series. As for the Heat, hard to knock a team that wasn’t even supposed to be here. This was the first series this Playoffs that the Heat were ever down in and they were never able to recapture the magic that got them here. Jimmy Butler carried as much of the load as he could on an injured ankle, and did a respectable job but we never got to see Playoff Jimmy this series. In his stead, Bam stepped up and had a few huge performances, but ultimately, star power can’t carry the Heat like it does the Nuggets. This series hinged on the role players for Miami and when the threes are falling, the Heat can be almost unstoppable, but as we saw, they weren’t, and by the end of GM 5, after four more desperation misses from deep as the game slipped away, I think even Miami had to admit that Denver was the better team. In an authoritative title run, an MVP gets his ring, a franchise gets it’s first title, and I think most reasonable people could agree that we have a worthy champion. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Finals Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re getting ready to dig into a rather appetizing NBA Finals matchup for us basketball nerds, while acknowledging that at the same time, Heat/Nuggets might not have the appeal of Lakers/Celtics to the NBA League Office, nostalgia-buffs and casuals. But we have a 2 time league MVP making his first Finals appearance, and he legit has a title-worthy Nuggets team behind him. Jamal Murray made his name in the Bubble before suffering a serious injury, but we could see a super-star turn for him this series, and with Michael Porter Jr, KCP, Bruce Brown & Aaron Gordon leading the role players, they’re obviously big time favorites. But don’t count out the Heat, never count out the Heat, especially after they dispatched a 1 seed, a 2 seed and a 5 seed as the underdog just to get here. To say they’re overachievers is an understatement; their best player is just a fringe star player by the numbers, while in a big game, Jimmy Butler can turn into an all-time great, but I’m worried about an injury to his ankle. Bam Adebayo is his co-star on the Heat, another player whose contributions on the court belie the statistics, and beyond that, it’s all about Heat Culture reclamation projects like Max Strus, Gabe Vincent, Caleb Martin and Duncan Robinson staying hot shooting the rock. It may not be the Finals you wanted, but it’s the Finals true NBA fans deserve. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Finals Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we were all set to put a wrap on these Conference Finals and move on to the Joker vs Jimmy but the Celtics had something to say about that, taking Game 4 in Miami to avoid the sweep, and in doing so, created for themselves an almost ideal comeback situation, as well as the most probable scenario for a Heat collapse. So we postponed the pod til after GM 5 back in Boston; since we were almost giving that one to the home team, it made sense to wait and see what would happen. And now here we are, the Celtics clawing back to 3-2 heading back to Miami with some momentum and the Heat maybe questioning themselves, and then, if all breaks right, a GM 7 back in Boston. The Celtics have been a shell of what they were in the regular season while the Heat have played out of their minds for a month now, and the possibility of these trends correcting mid-series here is intriguing, even if it’s a long shot. So while we have the potential for a series in the East, the Western Conference Finals was more of a referendum on Nikola Jokic as a dominant force. For a sweep, we had more drama than you’d expect, with 3 close games that the Lakers might have won, but in the end, neither AD or LeBron had enough. The Nuggets are going to their first Finals, Jokic has lived up to some of his MVP expectations and we’re just waiting to see if they’re playing Jimmy or the Jays. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Playoff Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re done moping after watching our Warriors take an absolute thrashing in a clinching Game 6 with the Lakers, we’re ready to look ahead to the Conference Finals and wrap up Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs, and I’m wondering which fan base took their team’s Conference Semifinal exit the hardest. Warrior fans are coming off a title year so they’re out, we have nothing to complain about, but Suns’ fans legit believed KD could put them over the top, SIxers’ fans have waited out the process for a long time and had to believe that in his MVP season, Embiid would lead them to the promised land and Knicks’ fans, well, Knicks’ fans can’t be convinced that Julius Randle couldn’t carry them to a ring. As for the winners, we end up with some unlikely seeding matchups, with a 7 seeded Lakers at the 1 seed Nuggets, and the 8 seed Heat at the 2 seed Celtics, but before we preview these series, we’re wrapping up the Conference Semifinals, with an extended post-mortem on our Warriors. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Playoff Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re checking in on the Conference Semifinals heading into four high leverage Game Sixes starting tonite. We always love a Game 6 around here, one team with their backs against the wall, the other poised to advance, but what sets this scenario apart is that three of the teams facing elimination are the higher seeds and their Game 6 is on the road. The pressure is on both teams tho; the team up 3-2 has to close out or face a Game 7 on the road. It starts with the Celtics trying to bounce back on the road in Philly after losing Games 4 and 5; lose again and it’s over, but win, and all of the sudden they’re back in Boston and it’s the Sixers facing elimination. Same situation with our Warriors headed back to LA and the Knicks heading to Miami; win and the advantage flips in their favor. Meanwhile, the Nuggets and Suns have both defended home court, and Denver has a chance to take a road game and close out in Phoenix tonite, and failing that, another chance at home for Game 7. Round 2 already has delivered the drama, but we’re all still holding out hope that all four series go 7! So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Playoff Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
9:35 - The beauty of a Game 6
12:23 - Coach Bud fired and the NBA coaching carousal
21:07 - Warriors/Lakers
45:56 - Sixers/Celtics
1:02:34 - Suns/Nuggets
1:13:32 - Heat/Knicks
On today’s show, we’re live at Casa Goldfield, still celebrating a huge win yesterday by our Ws in an epic GM 7 but ready to break down what was an extremely unusual 1st round. We got 4 upsets that we’re gonna get into today, yet we only had one series that ended up really competitive, in Kings/Warriors, illustrating how decisive these other upsets really were. And we had injuries, lots of them and to some players who really mattered, and we’ll get into everything we saw over these past few weeks, as well as take a look at the Round 2 matchups, some already in progress. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Playoff Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the NBA Playoffs are off to a raging start, and even though we’re only a week in, there’s so much to catch up on. The Kings staggered the defending champion Warriors in Sacramento, with the Dubs losing both games as well as losing Draymond to a suspension, and the eulogies for the champs started coming from everywhere, but back in the Bay, Steph and Loon saved the day with a Game 3 win. LeBron and the Lakers made a statement and made it a series with a Game 1 win in Memphis, but the Grizzlies lost more than the game, as Ja went out with a hand injury, but the role players stepped up to tie the series going back to LA and the most hyped series of the postseason remains intriguing. Clippers/Suns has so much potential to be a great series, and with the Clippers stealing Game 1 in Phoenix with Kawhi in Jordan mode, it was looking that way, but after Kawhi missed Game 3 in LA and with Booker putting the Suns up 2-1, it’s looking like this series in hanging on the health of Kawhi’s knee. We have Jalen Brunson and the Knicks stealing one in Cleveland, we have Jimmy Butler and the Heat taking one on the road against the Bucks with Giannis questionable to play; we have 5, count them, 5 interesting series in the first round! Now, it’s too much to ask for the overmatched Hawks to challenge the Celtics, and while the Nets are gutty, Embiid and the Sixers have been sleepwalking through this series, and the fireworks from Game 3 might have awakened them, but with Ant starting to feel himself, maybe the Wolves can take one or two from the Nuggets and make it a series? Not likely, with Jokic playing half speed and Playoff Jamal Murray coming around, these three series will be quick, but the other five? Lock in, cuz we could be going for a ride! And it’s only the first round! So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Playoff Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, NBA Playoff season is here! Well, almost. There’s still the technicality of the final Play-In games tonite to determine who gets the dubious distinction of being first round fodder for the Nuggets and the Bucks, but the real action starts Saturday with a 4 game slate, and we’re ready for it with previews of each and every series. The East is looking pretty chalk, hard to anticipate the Sixers, Celtics or Bucks being challenged, but we may get a series out of Cavs/Knicks. But out West, that’s where the first round gets interesting, as the 6 seed Warriors face our NorCal neighbors in Sacramento, with the 3 seed Kings the rare higher-seeded underdog to the defending champs. Then Sunday, we get Game 1 of the 7 seed Lakers @ the 2 seed Grizzlies, and again, the lower seeded Lakers are getting a lot of love in what seems like a favorable matchup for them. The table seems set for some upsets, and I might even be looking at including the 5 seed Clippers in the action if they only had PG13, but against KD and Book and the Suns, the deck seems stacked against Kawhi. Looks like the West is gonna provide the entertainment value for Round 1, but looking ahead to the Semis, we have some Eastern Conference titans on a collision course. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, Playoff Edition, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, as the regular season races to a close, the Western Conference seeding is still falling into place, as the Clippers, Lakers, Warriors and Pelicans all look to avoid the Play-In and the Mavs and Thunder struggle just to get in. While the Clippers maintain without PG13, the Lakers have had a resurgence, but we’re starting to see some evidence that our Warriors may be forming into a postseason threat. Wiggins has returned to the team, the gang is back together and the vibes are getting right in the Bay Area. Plus, with the season wrapping up, it’s time to hand out some hardware as we give out our regular season awards, with everything from our All-Defensive teams to our MVPs. I know there are still a few games remaining, but 80 games in, we have all the data we need, the sample size is right, we’ve come to our conclusions and we’re ready to go! And, while we’ll have our full Playoff preview next week, we’re looking ahead to some potential matchups we’d love to see in the postseason. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, a tight Western Conference Playoff race looks like its gonna come down to the final day of the regular season, as 9 teams vie for the 5 remaining spots, but amidst the mad scramble, we might be seeing a new power emerging in the West. KD is in Phoenix now, and alongside CP3, Book and Ayton, the Suns are putting the West on notice. But it’s crowded out here, and to get to the Finals, they’ll have to go on the road to beat teams like the Nuggets, Grizzlies and Kings, and that’s after they face the likes of Kawhi and the Clippers, Steph and the Warriors and LeBron and the Lakers. These Western Conference Playoff matches are gonna be wild! Plus, we’ve got some player features on stars like Dame Lillard, Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler, Luka Doncic and others, as well as a look at the argument to change the qualifications for statistical leaders from per game stats to totals. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, SGA and the Thunder are on the rise, making the most unlikely of Playoff runs behind an All-NBA season from their star; Joel Embiid is making a strong push for the MVP, but as the Sixers hit their stride as the Playoffs approach, we’re appreciating what James Harden is bringing to the table, and we make our cases for how the Bucks and the Celtics stack up vs them; we’re looking at timetables for the return of three of the biggest names in the game, as Ja returns from his suspension, KD is expected by the end of the month and LeBron’s status remains nebulous; plus, as always, a whole lot of Warriors talk, as GP2 nears his return from injury, Wiggins remains absent, the Splash Brothers continue to relive their primes, Kuminga emerges & the Jekyll and Hyde regular season winds down. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the NFL offseason is taking all the headlines nationally with the Free Agency period underway, especially with an extremely thirsty Aaron Rodgers soaking up the spotlight, keeping us waiting with his “will he/won’t he” become a Jet, when all the signs indicated that he was going to New York this whole time. But Rodgers need for attention aside, as exciting as the Bears’ and Niners’ moves have been, as stoked as we are that Jimmy G was able to find a starting QB job, and as bummed as we are to see Zeke used up and let go by the Cowboys, chewed up and spit out by the system, this is hoops season, and at the Roundup, the NBA trumps the NFL offseason, especially after we just watched Bay Area legend Wardell Stephen Curry #30 drop a 50 burger a few nights after turning 35 years old. So yeah, we’ll get to all the biggest transactions around the NFL today, no doubt, but first, we have to take a look around the Western Conference to see where our Warriors fit into the Playoff seedings, to give big props to the Kings’ superstar duo, as Fox and Sabonis perfectly fill their clear cut roles in Sacramento, and to give a whole lot of love to the Splash Brothers, taking some time to notice and acknowledge how both Steph and Klay are performing at career high levels offensively this season. And then we’ll get to the football, but like I said, during hoops season, the NBA is king, because to quote Din Djarin, ‘this is the way.” So sit back, the NBA season is barreling down the stretch drive even as the NFL offseason takes the headlines and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s all NBA, all the time. With only 20 something games remaining post All-Star Break, there’s still a lot to be decided in the Playoff seedings, particularly in the West, and we’re starting to see the urgency of the situation related on the court, as player intensity picks up. An age old criticism of the Association is that the regular season doesn’t mean anything, that the players don’t try hard until the Playoffs, and while this argument is too nuanced for me to fully agree, I will concede that while pre All-Star is a light jog and the All-Star Game itself was a meandering walk in the park, teams are now running towards the Playoffs and will be in a full sprint throughout the postseason. So I’ll accept that there were a decent number of garbage games for 75% of the season, but to counter, I’ll document the past week of action where every day we had a close, high leverage and highly entertaining NBA game to enjoy, games with Playoff implications, and with players going all out. And in that spirit, we have a ton to cover today, including this year’s teams who fit under Phil Jackson’s 40 wins before 20 losses rule, why I think an Eastern Conference team will be champ this year, a critical analysis of all of Jokic’s MVP cases, Tatum’s MVP decline, four guys on pace for the rare 20 point and 10 assist season, and of course, some Warriors talk. So sit back, the NBA is headed full speed into the stretch drive and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, as we survey the sports landscape since the last pod, all is quiet. It’s kinda peaceful, we’ve had lots of time to catch up on some tasks around the house, spend some time with friends and family, get in that extra swim at the gym, or just read a bit, and nowhere to be found has been a single NFL or NBA game. It’s a huge switch from just a few weeks ago, when multiple screen viewing was almost mandatory in order to catch as much of the action as humanly possible, if The Association and The League are your thing, that is. But now, things have calmed down, with the Legend, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs crowned as NFL champs and the NBA on All-Star hiatus, and like I said, all is quiet. Awfully quiet. Maybe too quiet. . . So it’s with open arms we welcome back the NBA, as teams return from the All-Star Break to a full slate of games. There’s still a lot to be seen as we enter the stretch drive, the final 25 or so games of the regular season, as far as who can stay healthy, which teams solidify their chemistry, and which teams just fall off, and Gaber and I will be following it all through the Playoffs as the NBA takes center stage in the sports world. And in that spirit, even though there haven’t been any games besides the All-Star exhibitions, we’ve still got a ton of NBA takes for you today. See, with Patrick Mahomes doing legend stuff, Jalen Hurts and Joe Burrow looking incredible just trying to keep up, and in general, a pretty fun NFL stretch, we’ve had to cut short a lot of our NBA coverage and we have a ton of topics we’ve been waiting to hit lined up for you today. So sit back, the NBA is back from the All-Star Break and into the stretch drive and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, you’ll have to excuse us if we get all caught up marveling at the incredible championship run we just witnessed by the Kansas City Chiefs. A 13-1 record since October 23rd with rookies in the secondary and free agent wide receivers learning on the job, we watched this team come together, but none of it would be possible without the emerging legend. Gaber and I sorted thru our collective Super Bowl memories, trying to find the occasion where the superior overall opponent was defeated by the lesser team with the superstar QB but we couldn’t find many, but that’s what we saw as Patrick Mahomes upset the Eagles. We all know about Mahomes’ high ankle sprain, and that makes the story even more improbable, but forgetting the narrative, this man just balled out on the biggest stage, throwing 7 TDs and 0 INTs in his Playoff run. Two Super Bowls rings in 3 appearances, 2 Super Bowl MVPs, 2 regular season MVPs, thats good enough so that the only other QBs to ever do it were Montana and Brady, and these are the only names we should even mention when comparing Mahomes. Not Burrow, not Allen, not even Aaron Rodgers or Peyton Manning; Mahomes at age 27 has a top tier QB career arc and has already passed all these guys up in accomplishments. As the Guru has stated, “we’re in the Patrick Mahomes era”, and judging from his determination to play thru debilitating pain, the passion he shows for the game and his utter dominance, I think it’s safe to say this era will last for a while. So we’ll have to wait to see how he stacks up to Brady and Montana in the end, but with his numbers and accomplishments, I’d argue that no QB has had a better start to their career than the Legend, Patrick Mahomes. Oh yeah, and we have some hoops to talk too! So sit back, it’s come down to Chiefs and Eagles in the Super Bowl as the NBA season hits the trade deadline and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re getting hyped for one of the most promising Super Bowl matchups in the past few years, but with two weeks off between games, NBA trade season has been at the center of our attention. As the trade deadline hits today, no team has shifted gears more suddenly than the Nets, now minus their two stars but plus a bunch of 1st round picks and 3 and D wings. The continuing drama that surrounds Kyrie will follow him to Dallas, and maybe Luka helps him find a home, but KD has gone to Phoenix to join his fourth superteam and instantly become a title favorite. Oh, how the turntables turn. . . And after the dust settles around the NBA and Club 1 Dan shuts down the trade machine til free agency, all our focus shifts back to the NFL, as we look forward to the culmination of yet another football season. Gaber and I have been here for the whole ride, week to week, breaking it all down and trying to make some sense of it all but here we are, and in the end, it all makes perfect sense. We have a generational QB ascending to All-Time great in front of our eyes in Mahomes, in his 3rd Super Bowl in 5 years as a starter. We have the best overall team in the league in the Eagles, complete on both sides of the ball, and yet we still may be underrating them; given the context of the game and who they’re playing, if they dominate this game, we may end up realizing that we’ve been watching a historically great team in Philly this whole time! My money is on the Legend, Patrick Mahomes, but either way, with the two best teams representing, we’ll have a worthy champion. So sit back, it’s come down to Chiefs and Eagles in the Super Bowl as the NBA season hits the trade deadline and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, really it’s all about one dude. Sure, the Eagles looked dominant after they knocked “Super” Brock Purdy out of the game and they may have been the better team either way, but as fans, we missed out on seeing a great matchup unfold, so really not a lot to take away here. But the Bengals/Chiefs Conference Championship rematch, now that one gave us something. If you’re a Bengals or Burrow fan, you’ll point to the no PI call on Chase, the grounding call, the late hit on Mahomes but no call for roughing on Burrow and maybe feel like the game was stolen. If the Chiefs or Mahomes are your thing, you see Mahomes out there limping around, making plays and even running for a 1st down with an mix of desperation and determination, all in an effort to bring his team to its 3rd Super Bowl in his 5 years as a starter. Maybe Cinci fans have a point on some of the calls, but Mahomes had something to prove, and he wasn’t about to let the Chiefs lose a 3rd Conference Championship game. Burrow missed some targets and threw some picks while an injured Mahomes made the plays. Joe Burrow is great, I love Joe, but there is no comp to Mahomes. The only comp we should be making is Mahomes and Brady but let’s just wait and see if the Eagles have something to say about Mahomes getting another ring. Meanwhile, in the NBA, some stats on LeBron not getting to the line, I keep predicting the rise of the East and maybe it’s here, why it seems Jacque Vaughn doesn’t like Ben Simmons very much, our resurgent Warriors and more. So sit back, it’s come down to Chiefs and Eagles in the Super Bowl as the NBA season heads towards the All-Star break and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s more about the results than the method, and while a relatively lackluster Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs didn’t have us on the edge of our seats, we were rewarded with some marquee matchups for the Conference Championships. MVP candidate QBs lead three of the remaining teams, highlighted by the blockbuster matchup of Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs vs Joe Burrow and the Bengals, while Jalen Hurts and the Eagles are set to host rookie QB Brock Purdy and the Niners. Mahomes added to his legacy by returning from a serious high ankle sprain to help his team advance against the Jags, but how healthy will he be when he faces Joe Burrow and the Bengals, fresh off a dominant performance against the Bills and the subject of “legend” talk himself? Meanwhile, the Niners D has been impregnable but the moment of truth has arrived for Purdy, as he faces his toughest test against the leagues best regular season team in Philly. There’re only 2 games this Sunday, but they’re both headliners. Plus, you knew we weren’t gonna be able to go without talking some NBA; I mean, I know it’s Playoff time in the NFL but the NBA snuck some low-key great matchups in for us on Sunday, and with our Warriors still in Limbo, the Kings still rolling and trade season upon us, we’d be remiss if we didn’t at least check in with the Association. So sit back, the NFL Conference Championship matchups are set as the NBA season heads towards the All-Star break and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’ve got a lot to discuss from a wacky Wild Card Weekend, and what it lacked in marquee matchups, it more than made up for in drama, until Monday night’s blowout that is. We had upsets, as Trevor Lawrence went from the game’s goat to the maybe the Jags GOAT QB in the span of 4 quarters, and Danny Dimes dominated once again as the Giants exposed the Vikings. We had backup QBs going toe to toe with contenders, as Tyler Huntley and the Ravens put a scare into the Bengals, and Skylar Thompson and the Dolphins almost upset the Bills. Even the Seahawks had a halftime lead before getting rolled by the Niners. Surprisingly, the only team the didn’t even bother to show up for the Playoffs was the Bucs and Tom Brady, but with 5 solid games and only 1 dud for the weekend, this had to be one of the best Wild Card Weekends ever. But before the winners celebrate too much, they need to remember; Patrick Mahomes is still waiting in the wings. Meanwhile in the NBA, I say Giannis and the Bucks are in cruise control, but some pundits are mistaking their lack of early season urgency for weakness. Plus, some separation at the top of the standings, Steph Curry back in action dropping 41, and more! So sit back, the NFL Playoffs are off to an amazing start as the NBA season heads towards the All-Star break and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, as we close the books on another NFL regular season, we bid farewell to someone who became somewhat of a TV friend, with whom, if you watched DirectTV’s RedZone, you probably spent more time with than any other single media presence over the years. Since 2009, for 7+ hours each and every Sunday, Andrew Siciliano has guided us through the action from each and every NFL game on the slate, and the ease and joy and familiarity he did it with made our Sundays even better. He’ll move on to other endeavors and RedZone will be back next fall, but his presence will definitely be missed. In the meantime, as we transition out of our 18 week NFL induced hibernation, we have just a handful of football Sundays left, as Super Wild Card Weekend kicks off the Playoffs, and with a few possible upsets in the cards, we could be in for some excitement. That’s right Vikings and Cowboys, I’m looking at you, and I'm telling you, watch out for the Giants and the Bucs! Meanwhile in the NBA, we’re all over the place, as we bounce around from ranking the greatest championship runs since 2000, to the disrespect the Nuggets get, to KD’s injury, to properly rating the Pelicans, to our favorite non-Warriors, and of course, with some celebration that #30, Wardell Stephen Curry is coming back! So sit back, the NFL Playoff field is set as the NBA season hits the midway point and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we start by offering our thoughts and prayers to Damar Hamlin and family after his traumatic injury Monday night, and we’re happy to report that he has regained consciousness once again. We had intended to pod on Tuesday and I had been working on something quip-y for the intro but considering everything we witnessed, it became apparent that it was no time to talk about the stakes of the game when a young man was facing the highest stakes of all. Considering we had no news to offer, we decided the best course of action would be to give it some room, and move forward with caution. So here we are, a few days removed as the NFL gets set to resume action, and for the Bills, the season will go on but they’ll be playing for something else altogether now. We’ll be watching, with Damar in our thoughts and hopefully with a deeper reverence to the dangers these young men put themselves through for glory, money and our entertainment, but for all of us, players and fans alike, the memories of what we saw this night will stay with us. So sit back, while the NFL takes a moment, the NBA season continues on and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s time for some heavy lifting, trying to sort through everything we saw in an extended NFL Week 15 that featured 12 one score games and handful of wild finishes, but most importantly, I think we’re seeing some team’s true colors shining through. The Niners were beat up, on the road vs a division rival who needed a win and who the sharps all loved, but they showed why they’re legit contenders in the victory. The Bills came back late. The Eagles hung tough to win. The Chiefs dug deep in OT. The Bengals flexed hard. Meanwhile, a poor performance by the Cowboys vaunted defense combined with Dak’s late pick saddled Dallas with the L even as the Vikings stumbled into another win. These teams are trying to tell us who they are, and we’re listening, as we whittle our group of true contenders down to a group of five. Thats’ it, 5 teams worthy of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy this February. And in the NBA, we’ve bided our time, we’ve observed, we’ve been patient, but with All-Star voting opening up, it’s time to look at the best candidates from each conference and make some tough decisions. Will Steph’s injury cost him a starter spot? And would SGA, Ja or Dame be the best replacement? Is there room for Harden? Does Paolo make it as a rookie? Plus, as the Warrior’s figure out life without Steph, our rose colored glasses continue to help us see the upside of his little midseason respite, the opportunity for him to rest his aging legs for an extended postseason run while the team learns to play without being so dependent on him. See, everything’s going according to plan. . . So sit back, the NFL is all about the title run now, the NBA season is heating up and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, as we kick off Week 15 tonite with Niners/Seahawks, we close out Week 14 in the NFL with a whole lot of movement around the bottom of the Playoff seedings between teams vying to get in, and not a bit of shuffling at the top, as the TRUE contenders all took home wins. And yes, that’s a shot at the Vikings, somehow riding the wide shoulders of Justin Jefferson to their gaudy record, but also at the Titans, forever feasting on a mediocre AFC South, and to a lesser degree, the Seahawks and Dolphins, unable to maintain their early season success, all active in the Playoff hunt and all all losers Sunday. What we got with four games left in the regular season is clarification that the hunt for the title has been whittled down to 6 teams, oh, and the Ravens as an afterthought. BUF, PHI, KC, DAL, SF, CIN, that’s the list. That’s who’s left. Now, it’s on to Week 15, so let’s go! Meanwhile in the NBA, there’s a ton going on, what with the Pelicans taking over the West, the Nets and Sixers getting right back East, Giannis and Luka pacing a wide field of MVP candidates, but nothing seems as urgent as discussing the ups and downs of the Warriors’ season after a tantalizing win over the Celtics on Saturday and a couple of miserable losses to start a 6 game road trip, and now news that Steph could miss up to 4 weeks. Yes, we’re homers, but we’re breaking down the West today so technically it’s relevant, and with things going so bad right now, we need the therapy. So sit back, the NFL is all about the title run now, the NBA season is heating up and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re continuing to follow all the contenders in the NFL Playoff race, and after a pretty chalk Week 13, it would seem that the cream is rising to the top. With the notable exception of the Game of the Week in Cincinnati, nearly all the contenders held their ground, but even despite getting the win, the Ravens and the Niners took Ls. SF lost Jimmy G for the season, while Lamar Jackson is week to week for the Ravens, and while both teams are still atop their divisions, their hold seem tenuous at best. Meanwhile in the NBA, our Warriors are getting back on track, staying in the thick of a tight Western Conference race that even the Lakers might be a part of, but even with their recent improvements, they still have a ways to go to catch up with a couple of juggernauts back East. The Celtics have been far and away the best team this year, while the Bucks have maintained right behind them and could be even better now that Khris Middleton is back in action. And speaking of the East, there seems to be a conspicuous log jam of talent in the front court and noticing this, we just could hold out anymore; I know it’s still early but it’s time to start talking All-Stars. So sit back, it’s back to basics, the NBA and NFL, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we continue to focus on contenders only as the NFL season enters the home stretch. Most teams have 6 games left, a few have 5, and like we said last week, we know pretty much all the major players, from the Chiefs and Eagles at the top, to the Chargers, Pats, Falcons and Giants on the outside looking in, so we’ll continue to update and evaluate the seedings as they shift with every win and loss. Meanwhile, in the NBA, we suggested that everyone hold up on hitting the panic button on our Warriors over the past few weeks, advised against making any trades or benching Klay and we told you why, and now, things aren’t looking so bad. As the Warriors, and other preseason favorites like the Sixers and Heat, play catch up, they’re still mired in the middle in our quarter mark of the season updated tiers, and spoiler alert, parity rules as the top tiers are exclusive! We have 7 teams in the top two tiers, but outside of that, there’s a huge middle class, and one of the reasons behind the parity is the enormous influx of young talent that has flooded the league over the past few years, and today, we have your comprehensive list of the most promising and accomplished 24 and under talent in the Association right now. So sit back, it’s back to basics, the NBA and NFL, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, as we look ahead to Week 12 in the NFL kicking off with a Thanksgiving Day triple-header, it’s time to start to keep tabs on the Playoff picture. At this point of the season the real contenders have made themselves known, and with the exception of a few low seed Wild Card teams, we pretty much know who will be there in the end, but there’s still a lot of shuffling in the seeding to look forward to. That said, it’s time to narrow our focus, as we start to really hone in on who is establishing themselves as the real contenders, but that also means that we no longer have time to discuss the also-rans, so goodbye to the Packers, farewell to the Broncos, the Raiders and the Rams. We had such high hopes for you. Meanwhile in the NBA, the national media has seemed really concerned about our Warriors’ rocky start to the season, and everyone seems to have solutions, but I’m not sure how big of a problem there really is and I’m still not ready to hit the panic button. Plus, Sacramento is relevant again, and we’re showing some love for the 10-6 Kings, shoutout to the Eagle, some more discussion about this year’s scoring inflation and much, much more! So sit back, it’s back to basics, the NBA and NFL, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, with the NFL season past the midway point, it’s time to draw some conclusions. We’ve been patient, we’ve observed, we’ve deliberated, but now our sample size is sufficient so we’re revisiting our preseason tiers, throwing together some power rankings and deciding how much a mid-November Vikings road win over the Bills and an Eagles loss at home to the WFT really means. Meanwhile, the Chiefs stay winning, the Ravens, Dolphins and Niners are making moves, and somehow we are forced to include the Jets and Giants in the discussion! And in the NBA, we’ll be a quarter of the way into the regular season by the end of next week and surprise teams like the Blazers and Jazz are still winning but it’s still too early to pay too much attention to the standings so today, we’re taking a look at some of the individual performances that have stood out for us so far, highlighting guys like KD, SGA, Donovan Mitchell, Joel Embiid, Dejounte Murray and Luka. Plus, you know we have endless Warrior takes, as we sort thru the latest ups and downs and navigate the growing pains of a two timeline franchise. So sit back, it’s back to basics, the NBA and NFL, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
7:30 - Are things picking up for our Warriors?
20:39 - Ime Udoka
23:26 - KD
25:15 - Donovan Mitchell
30:42 - Who is Will Hardy?. . . and some perspective on Utah
34:52 - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
38:52 - Joel Embiid
42:20 - HalleLuka!
45:44 - Spencer Dinwiddie
48:20 - Dejounte Murray
52:34 - All Around the NFL: Gaber at Niners/Chargers, GotY Vikings’ upset & Eagles go down
1:08:46 - Super Bowl odds and Saquon & his 7-2 Giants get no respect
1:12:50 - Power Rankings & updated tiers
On today’s show, there’s far too much Gaber and I have to catch up on to fully preview here in the intro; since we last spoke, we have two NFL Sundays in the books and hit the unofficial midway point of the season with a surprising Bills loss; we’ve seen the sample size of NBA games more than double; and we have a World Series champ! That said, I guess I should warn you that in addition to the talk of trades, triumphs and tribulations from the NFL, a look at the low profile teams doing well in the NBA standings early on, and some Astros love, this show may devolve into a therapy session about our defending champion Golden State Warriors and their troubling start. Just saying. . . So sit back, it’s been a whirlwind few weeks of NBA, NFL and MLB and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, NFL Week 8 is underway, and while there’s still plenty of time for underachieving teams to turn it around, the sample size is large enough for us to figure out pretty much what teams need to do to maintain their Playoff ambitions. TB12 has looked every bit of 45 years old, but in the putrid NFC South, the chances we see him in the Playoffs are still high, while Aaron Rodgers and the Packers would likely have to go 7-4 from here on out to get in, and even with the Bucs falling to 3-5, the Packers probably have the more difficult road. Meanwhile, the sample size after just over a week of NBA games is not nearly large enough to draw the same conclusions about Playoff hopes as in the NFL, so let’s not worry about the Warriors, Nuggets, Sixers, Nets or Clippers, and let’s not put lottery teams like the Spurs or Jazz in already. There are a few things we know for sure though, and that is that the Lakers really are bad, Ja is really great, it’s so fun to watch Zion play, SGA’s greatness is overlooked in OKC, Desmond Bane is making a leap, and no one in the game can make a shot like Steph Curry. These are some of the things we know, but there’s still a lot to figure out, like can Kawhi last the season, will James Harden infect or inspire the Sixers, and does the T-Wolves Twin Towers make sense? So sit back, the NBA has returned to join the NFL and MLB Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
6:52 - Steph in God-mode to start the season so we appreciate the experience
11:00 - All Around the NBA: Paolo!
14:54 - Desmond Bane breakout
18:29 - Blazers
22:45 - Spurs
27:00 - Jazz
31:50 - Nets
34:35 - Sixers
38:57 - Heat
46:12 - All Around the NFL: Playoff Target Wins Assessments (how many wins each team needs to most likely make the Playoffs and how conceivable that is)
On today’s show, even in the middle of a roller coaster ride of an NFL season, the return of the NBA takes center stage. It started with skinny James Harden and the Sixers getting run by an even scarier Celtics team than we saw last year, then moved to the Bay for a ring ceremony and a ridiculously deep Warriors squad flexing on LeBron and the Lakers, followed by a full slate of Wednesday games that featured the returns of players such as Zion, Ben Simmons, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr and after a few games Thursday, we’d seen all 30 teams in action. And then there was Paolo’s debut! It all made for some highly entertaining mid-week action, but more big picture, it heralded in the annual sports eclipse, with MLB Playoffs in full swing and the NFL already approaching midseason. Speaking of the League, coming off of a Week 6 full of upsets, it’s become increasingly harder to figure out who’s legitimately good outside of the Bills, Chiefs and Eagles. The Packers, Bucs, Niners and Ravens are all 3-3 and have some fearing that they might not be as good as we think, the Giants and Vikings might be better than we think, and who knows what to make of the Cowboys. And now as we enter Week 7, the Niners have made a big move to bolster their offense and with the trade deadline approaching quickly, we’re sure to see other contenders making moves as well. So sit back, the NBA has returned to join the NFL and MLB Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we know the almighty NFL is undefeated, but it can be pre-empted, especially when we’re talking about the return of the NBA, so in honor of opening tip-off this coming Tuesday, it’s time for our final NBA preview. We’ve got your true contenders and your title hopefuls; we have the teams who could steal a Play-Off round or two, maybe upset a high seed but not win it all, yet; and we have the fringe Play-In teams and the lottery teams for you as well. And of course, after Steve Kerr’s latest statements, we’ll continue to follow up on Draymond’s punch, because while I stand by my belief that its impact on the Warriors’ season will be minimal, the way the national media has run with the story has made it impossible to move on from. With our basketball jones sated, it’s on to NFL Week 6, where early in the season we find our field of contenders in the NFC crowded and confusing, while the AFC’s contenders are superior, but the field more sparse, top heavy but shallow. And NFL scheduling continues to come through, giving us our two best AFC teams head to head as the Bills visit the Chiefs in the late afternoon slot, leading us right into a SNF matchup between two of the NFC’s best, the Cowboys and Eagles. Throw in some MLB Playoffs and we’re in for a full weekend of sports, but I still can’t wait for some NBA! So sit back, the NFL has taken over our lives but there’s always time for the NBA and MLB Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, of course we’re gonna talk about Draymond punching Jordan Poole at Warriors practice, but we’re not gonna let it detract from how everything else in the world of sports seems to be falling nicely into place. In fact, because I have so much confidence that this was an isolated incident, I’m just gonna chalk it up to a little hyper-competitiveness and leave it at that. Besides, this Warriors title defense team is loaded and tip off is just over a week away. In the meantime, we’ve had preseason action to enjoy, including a few exhibitions between Scoot and big Victor, actual on court Kawhi and Ben Simmons sightings, Zion’s healthy, Jamal’s healthy, and just like that, the NBA, is, back! Meanwhile, over in the NFL, Week 4 brought a return to normalcy, where some of the upstarts came back down to earth and those we thought were the best teams reasserted themselves. I’m not saying it’s all chalk from here on out, but things are starting to make a little more sense. Throw in Judge hitting HR #62 and a fun MLB Playoff field and everything was going so smoothly in the sports world, and then, out of nowhere, fists start flying in SF, and we’ll get into it in detail, but really, nothing to see in GS, let’s keep it moving . . . So sit back, the NFL has taken over our lives but there’s always time for the NBA and MLB Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s been a whirlwind, but we’re already 3 weeks into an NFL season highlighted by a number of unlikely outcomes, leading me to wonder; could we be seeing some upstarts here? And whose success is just an aberration? The Sunshine State is well represented this season, but Tom Brady’s Bucs are only the third best team from Florida we’ve seen so far. Lamar, Jalen Hurts, Trevor Lawrence and Tua are the top performing QBs in the league and way too premature MVP favs; heck, even the Bears have a winning record! (Sorry Gaber.) And then there’s the underperformers, too numerous to name, and we’re gonna try to sort through and figure out what’s for real. Plus, NBA training camps are on, the season is just weeks away, and it’s time to preview the season, and giving the World Champion Warriors their due, we might as well start at the top. So sit back, the NFL has taken over our lives but we still find time to talk hoops and celebrate our Warriors and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we are recording live and in-person, as Gaber and I sit down just before kickoff of the TNF matchup between the Steelers and Browns to recap what we’ve seen through 2 weeks of NFL action while maybe having some second thoughts on our predictions, and to look ahead to Week 3. Now, normally, this is where you’d sit through my long soliloquy where I preview all the topics on the docket, but rather than make Gaber sit through all that, we’re gonna abbreviate this whole intro and get down to business! So sit back, the NFL has taken over our lives but we still find time to talk hoops and celebrate our Warriors’ and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s already time to kick off Week 2 of the fledgling NFL season with an early potential Game of the Year candidate for us tonight, with Justin Herbert, fresh off a Chargers’ win over the Raiders, vs Patrick Mahomes, riding high off a 5 TD performance in the Chiefs rout of the Cardinals. But before we get to this weeks matchups, Gaber and I still have a lot to catch up on from a wild Week 1. Now, by this point, after 500+ shows and decades of football viewing, we both know better than to try to take too much away from the opening week’s results, but I can say with absolute certainty that even if your team was on the wrong side of a decision, the main slate on Sunday was the most thrilling and captivating Week 1 in recent memory. We had the height of NFL star power with the aforementioned Mahomes performance, Josh Allen bullying defenders and Justin Jefferson juking jabronis, we had close games, we had upsets, we had a tie, we had OT…and we had injuries, and it all just came helter-skelter for 6 straight hours. And just like that, football, is, back! How about that Stugotz? The NFL, the 'ol pigskin? Yeah, we’re already in deep, so today, we’re going deep on everything we saw Week 1, and despite all the action, the non-stop excitement, there were a lot of teams that had flat out let downs, and we’re taking a look at how justified fans might be to be disappointed in their squads. Plus, we always have some NBA chatter for you, even in the absence of anything meaningful going on in the Association, but hey, we’re die-hards and the season is less than 5 weeks away! So sit back, the NFL has taken over our lives but we still find time to talk hoops and celebrate the Warriors’ title and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
12:43 - All Around the NFL WK 1: Bills & Rams meet expectations
20:42 - Early Sunday Slate
46:26 - Late Sunday Slate
1:04:53 - Bucs unimpressive, Dak goes down
1:10:42 - Broncos come up short, Gino comes up big
1:22:15 - WK 2 overview
1:32:30 - All Around the NBA Offseason: Trae Young & Luka trivia, EuroBasket tribute to hoopers from former Yugoslavia, What-ifs and more…
On today’s show, we’re ready, it’s time, and here comes the NFL, but wait, is that the NBA coming in with one more offseason bombshell for us? Yep, Donovan Mitchell going to the Cavaliers has definitely shaken up the Eastern Conference, and trust me, we’ll get to that in a bit, but we have to keep our priorities straight cuz football season is upon us! Big picture, we covered our tiers last episode, dividing the teams into the Contenders, the Hopefuls, the Sleepers and the Season’s Already Over but today, we’re gonna look a bit deeper at the most interesting teams coming into the season before making our final preseason predictions. There’s the Chiefs, minus Tyreek Hill and with a suspect D last year, but with a revamped offensive line, it doesn’t matter who he’s throwing to, there’s no way Mahomes doesn’t throw for 4500+ yards. And Tyreek has made his new team interesting as well, mostly by hyping up his QB, but everyone is now waiting to see if Tua and the Dolphins can deliver. Don’t sleep on the Saints, the team that owns TB12 and the Bucs. With a top tier defensive unit, playmakers like Kamara, they’re a Jameis Winston career year away from contention, but unfortunately, that’s worse than a 50/50 proposition. And Gaber thinks SF might have the best roster in football, but Trey Lance still has a lot to prove, and I’m saying Jimmy G is the one who leads them to the Super Bowl again. Are the new look Eagles for real? Are the Bucs in trouble? Can the Raiders make the leap? Can the Rams repeat? All this, plus, the Donovan Mitchell trade & some assorted NBA offseason chatter, as we close out the KD trade saga that never led anywhere & look at another year of the Theoretical Nets of BYK, laugh about Pat Bev to the Lakers, decide on next year’s contenders way too early and sulk over Chet’s injury. So sit back, the NFL is just days away while we’re still talking hoops and celebrating a Warriors’ title and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re continuing to get into football mode, and in doing so, like seemingly everyone does, we’re gonna take a look at the NFL’s premier position, the QB. But we’re not gonna talk about Josh Allen’s MVP possibilities, or debate Lamar’s objectively undebatable greatness, or speculate on whether Herbert or Burrow can have even better seasons than the one’s we just saw them have. We know what to expect from these guys, newsflash, they’re great, so today, we’re gonna spotlight the QBs who are just trying to make the most of the opportunities they have in front of them, and examine how their individual situations might affect their chances at keeping their jobs, but low-key, this whole segment might just be an excuse for me to rave about Malik Willis, so take from it what you will. We’ll have some other assorted football tidbits, I’ll touch on what’s happening in MLB and of course, Gaber and I will always digress into some offseason NBA chatter, but like Phil Collins, I can feel it coming, we’re heading straight towards the sweet spot on the sports calendar, when the NFL, NBA and MLB converge to give us the sports eclipse, and you know that’s right in me and Gaber’s wheelhouse. So sit back, the NFL is just weeks away while we’re still celebrating a Warriors’ title and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re back from hiatus just in time to get ready for some football. It’s not like we missed much; after all, July was a dead spot in the NBA offseason, my Giants fell out of the NL West race and the biggest news out there was from the train wreck that is the Deshaun Watson saga. But vacation is over, the busiest time of the year for us is coming and it’s time to delve back into the sports world. NFL preseason is already underway so today we’re weighing in with our most macro and reductionist of analyzations as to who should contend and whose season is over before it starts. Plus, Kevin Durant has doubled down on his trade demands and it’s looking more and more like a return to Golden State could be the best fit for all parties, except maybe for the Warriors themselves. So sit back, the summer sports drought is ending with NFL games just weeks away and the NBA following shortly after and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re back from our championship celebrations after closing out another NBA season in the best way possible around here, and that’s with a Warriors title, but the Association waits for no one, and the offseason action is already well underway. Paolo Banchero headlined the draft, but it’s Keegan Murray and Chet Holmgren who are already creating a buzz in Summer League. Rudy Gobert is in Minnesota, Dejounte Murray is in Atlanta, and Jalen Brunson is in New York, and while the rest of the league continues to fill out rosters, the biggest shoe has yet to drop. Everyone’s waiting on KD and Kyrie. The Nets seemed poised to challenge for a title when they put together their superteam a few years ago, but the end has come quickly, as two of the team’s remaining superstars seem ready to follow James Harden out of town. But the million dollar question remains; where will they end up, and can they make their new teams a winner? So sit back, the NBA season is over but the drama continues with offseason maneuvers and machinations and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s time to wrap up another NBA season, and we’ve got home court advantage talking about this one, as our Golden State Warriors win their 4th ring in 8 years in what very well may be the team’s crowning achievement in the Steph Curry era. The Celtics flexed early and their advantages in size and athleticism seemed to many to be too much for Golden State to handle. But in the end, the championship pedigree of the Warriors proved to be the difference, as the team made all the necessary defensive adjustments to neutralize the Celtics’ attack and Steph put the team on his back. Maybe it was enlightenment for the doubters, maybe it’s a middle finger to the haters, but the baby faced assassin put everyone on notice; do not doubt Wardell Stephen Curry. He’s a little man in a big man’s game, he’s friendly and unassuming and humble, but when it comes down to will to win and big game chops, and pardon the blasphemy here, what he showed us was vaguely reminiscent of that rarified Jordan air. The results? 4 rings, 2 MVP, All NBA, All Star, Finals MVP, nothing left to prove, but let’s put the legacy talk to bed for now, he’s not even done yet. Dude’s 34 years old and still going strong and if there’s one thing you should have learned about #30 by now, it’s to never doubt the heart of a champion. This Warriors team is loaded with young talent, that rare example of a team winning now while building for the future, and I fully expect him to be a part of it for years to come. And how lucky are we for that? So sit back, the Warriors dynasty is back on top of the basketball world and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, tied up 2-2 in the NBA Finals, it’s time to check in on a riveting Warriors and Celtics series that has seen each team trade wins from game to game, and headed back to the Bay for Game 5, the title is still very much up for grabs. There has been no momentum in this series, very little continuity, and with two elite level coaches making adjustments from game to game to counter the opponent’s strengths, trying to predict how this series might play out has become a lost cause. The Celtics size advantage and stifling defense has dominated the Warriors at times, and after taking Game 1 in the Bay and crushing the Warriors back in Boston in Game 3, it was completely understandable why the hot take artists out there were ready to crown the Celtics, but with a Game 2 win at home and an all time performance by Steph in Game 4 at Boston, the experience and star power of the Warriors seemed to be turning the tide. It’s a 3 game series now, with the Warriors having regained home court, but with the Celtics’ recent road success, there’s nothing about these remaining games that can be taken for granted, except of course, the greatness of one Wardell Stephen Curry. So sit back, the intensity of the NBA Finals continues to build, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s Warriors/Celtics, as the NBA Finals tip off and we wrap up what many consider a pretty lackluster postseason tournament, but I’m just here to say, who needs drama when your team is playing for a title? Of course, as a hoops fan I’m always hoping for a back and forth nail biter of a 7 game series, but when it’s 34 year old Steph putting the team on his narrow shoulders with a chance to reach the top of the mountain again; when it’s Klay coming back after a 941 day rehab and finding his form in the Playoffs; when it’s Draymond in the middle as the emotional linchpin; when it’s Looney leaving it all on the court every minute he plays; when it’s Wiggins finally fitting in somewhere; when it’s the future in Poole, Kuminga and Moody finding their way in big moments, the Warriors fan in me will take the gentleman’s sweep over Luka and the Mavs and get ready for all the drama I can handle in the Finals. So in the WCF, it was 5 games, and headed back to Boston with the Celtics up 3-2, it seemed like the ECF were a foregone conclusion, but Jimmy Buckets dug deep, scoring 47 to take the series back to Miami, and in Game 7 he played all 48 minutes and dropped 35, but it wasn’t enough. In the end, the defense of the young Celtics, and Al Horford, was too much for a depleted Heat squad, but we got our Game 7, an exciting finish, and our Finals matchup! All in all, not a bad little postseason after all. But there’s just one more thing that would make it complete, and that’s another ring for Steph and the Warriors. So sit back, the NBA Finals start tonight, it’s Warriors/Celtics, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, despite our longtime belief here in Luka Doncic, the Slovenian Prodigy, Luka Magic, Luka Legend, HalleLuka, we were just as shocked as you were to see the Mavs go in to Phoenix and knock off the regular season champs, but it was just the dose of excitement this year’s NBA Playoffs needed. After going chalk without a single Game 7 in Round 1 and with the Suns and Heat quickly going up 2-0 in the Conference Semifinals, the opportunities to inject some drama into this year’s postseason seemed to be dwindling. And I’m not even complaining, because even with each series ending early, there have been some all-timer individual games and performances, but I’m just saying; it would be nice to get a Game 7. Even though Joel Embiid came back from a broken face, mask and all, he couldn’t help the Sixers overcome their shortcomings, and when Ja went out, the plucky Grizzlies’ reserves couldn’t do enough to get past our Warriors. But the Celtics dug deep to make the Bucks travel back to Boston, and Luka continued his legacy leap, carrying the biggest individual load since ’07 Lebron to force a Game 7 in Phoenix, and although the games themselves lacked excitement, the results, both of last year’s Finals teams going home early, gave us the drama we were looking for, and the superstars, Luka and Tatum, cemented the foundations for their burgeoning legacies. So now it’s on the the Conference Finals, as Tatum and the Celtics head to Miami to face Jimmy Butler and the Heat, and Luka takes his Mavs to the Bay, ready to challenge the revitalized Splash Brothers, but before we preview these matchups, we’ve got to take a look back at the Sixers’ scapegoat, the Suns’ collapse, what went wrong for the defending champ Bucks, and what to look for with the Grizzlies. So sit back, the NBA Conference Finals are here, with the Heat, the Suns, the Bucks and our Warriors still standing and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re just into Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs and despite some post trade deadline super-team promise and the tease of a few upsets, it’s been all chalk so far. The Nets were swept what seems like months ago without Ben Simmons ever playing a minute, and the Sixers hopes died the moment Joel Embiid broke an orbital bone, since James Harden has clearly shown he’s incapable of carrying the team in the possible MVP’s absence. So the Heat look poised to advance, short of a miraculous Embiid recovery, with the Suns up 2-0 on the Mavs, and while Luka isn’t outmatched as a star, Dallas is outgunned as a team, so it looks likely that the chalk will continue with both 1 seeds advancing. And what do we have left? Possibly the most intriguing matchup of the entire season in Warriors/Grizzlies, as the bad blood boils over and this emerging rivalry continues to develop. Ja is torching the W’s, GP2 had his elbow broken by Dillon Brooks, Draymond got stitches, and this one looks like it’s going 7. And in the East, the Celtics might be swarming the Bucks on D but the defending champs are going home with the road split, and there’s no way I’m betting against Giannis, the real MVP! So sit back, the NBA Playoffs are heating up, the race for the title is still wide open and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s full speed ahead into the NBA Playoffs with Round 1 already underway, and in some ways, this year’s postseason could be marking the dawning of a new era in the Association. There’s the cohort of up and coming teams with young, dynamic cores who should become fixtures in the Playoffs for years to come, teams like the Celtics, the Grizzlies, the Timberwolves, the Hawks and maybe even the Pelicans, if Zion ever plays for them again. Then you’ve got your young guns, budding stars looking to make their marks on the big stage, like Ja, who already plays like a veteran, or Tyrese Maxey, stepping up as the #2 for the Sixers, or Anthony Edwards, who made a splash in his Playoff debut leading the T-Wolves to a Game 1 upset. In Golden State, a splash has turned into a Poole Party, as Steph and Klay welcome a new Splash Brother in Jordan Poole, and the 3 guard lineup has proven deadly early vs the Nuggets. And then there’s Jason Tatum, who on Easter Sunday in a game for the ages, broke the hearts of KD, Kyrie and the Nets. So yeah, with KD struggling, Harden looking washed, perennial All-NBA guys like AD, Russ, Dame, Kawhi, and PG home watching and most importantly, no LeBron, things are looking a little different, but somehow no less exciting. So sit back, the NBA Playoffs are underway, the race for the title is wide open and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, 82 games in an almost back to normal NBA season is in the books, and as we enter the Playoffs with a handful of legitimate contenders but no clear cut favorite, I can’t help but draw a parallel to this past NFL season. Yes, I’m gonna bring up that P word again, parity, the bane of those who love dynasties and the “clash of titans” championship matchups. And maybe the subtext here is unintentionally dismissive of the Phoenix Suns’ franchise record breaking season, but I count at least 7 teams who could hoist the trophy in the end, and from where I’m sitting, comfortably, on my couch, that suggests some juicy matchups along the way.
But what differentiates party in the NBA and the NFL is the 7 game series, the truest test of the superior team. In the NFL it’s one and done, and we get the whole “any given Sunday” factor, but in the NBA, with the 7 game series, there are no flukes. The better team almost always comes out on top. So yeah, NFL parity gave us the Rams as champs and left me feeling a bit unresolved as to who the best team I saw last year was, but I’m counting on the NBA’s tourney actually clarifying the issue. Give me Sixers/Nets, or Warriors/Suns or Bucks vs anyone, and 7 games will tell us which team is better. So sit back, the NBA Playoffs are finally upon us and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the NFL offseason shuffle slows down a bit, but not before Bruce Arians retires and Tyreek Hill heads to Miami for the hometown bag, and now that you stop to take a look around, the League looks a lot different than it did just a few weeks ago. On paper, you have your Broncos, your Raiders and your Browns going all in and ready to become contenders, and your Seahawks, your Saints, your Chiefs and your Packers, who could be standing pat, making lateral moves, or worse yet, possibly regressing, and that doesn’t even touch on moves by the other 25 teams. So strap in, we still have the draft and about 5 months of speculation before we actually see anyone play real football again, plenty of time to convince yourself that your team really can win it all. Meanwhile, the NBA season is down to about 5 games before the Playoffs, and we have pockets of intrigue all through the seedings. The top of the East is loaded with contenders still shuffling for the top seed, but aside from that, we have a pretty clear idea of who our Play-in teams will be, and a rough idea of where everyone slots in. In the West, the Suns have the best overall record locked down, and the Grizzlies have the 2 seed, but 3-6 should shuffle around and at the bottom, the Lakers are just trying to get in. The Playoffs start in a little more than a week but the excitement in the NBA has already begun. And none of that even begins to touch on the rest of the sports action over the next few weeks, and you know we’re watching March Madness, the return of MLB, the Masters and all the other glorious diversions the spring sports calendar brings us. So sit back, there’s yet more offseason movement in the NFL, the NBA season, like the weather, is heating up and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the NFL offseason continues to dominate the sports landscape despite the fact that the next game is still 6 months away, but at this point I think we’ve come to realize that for some fans, player movement is more exciting than the actual regular season match-ups themselves. There’s a season for the games, but there’s also a season for unbridled hope, unrealistic expectations and rampant speculation. Think about it; your team never wins it all, but in March when they pick up that high-priced free agent or make that blockbuster trade, or in June when they draft that #5 overall pick, there’s hope, and that hope will sustain you until Week 9 when you realize that your team is, after all that, still just trash. Picking up where we left off, last week Tom Brady decides the other QBs are getting too much attention and, somehow unsurprisingly, unretires after 6 long weeks out of the League, and even March Madness brackets get overshadowed. But it didn’t stop there, not with free agency underway as of Thursday, and the hits just kept on coming. The biggest signings so far have seen a lot of talent head to the AFC, with Za'Darius Smith going to the Ravens, Von Miller to the Bills, Chandler Jones to the Raiders and Myles Jack to the Steelers, and that doesn’t include the trades that sent Khalil Mack to the Chargers, Amari Cooper to the Browns and Davonte Adams to the Raiders, but the topper came on Friday in a news dump announcing the move that sent controversial superstar QB Deshaun Watson to the Browns. Meanwhile in the NBA, we’re down to it, just about 10 games remaining in the regular season so it’s time to take a serious look at which contenders to take seriously, and who has the superstar capable of taking their team all the way. Plus, Steph goes down, and the show must stop to assess the situation. So sit back, there’s always offseason drama in the NFL but the NBA is still where the action’s at and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the NFL shrugs and the sports world moves, as the League’s off-season drama comes at us fast and furious. We were prepared to settle into our NBA groove, get into some talk about a dynamic and very fluid Playoff picture, look at some injured stars who could be on their way back to the court, talk about Nets/Sixers last nite, even deep dive into CJ McCollum’s fit with the Pelicans and more, but no, the NFL always has to have all the attention. The big news day was led by the announcement of the mega-deal that would keep Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay. But just about an hour later Rodgers would have to relinquish the spotlight, as Russell Wilson got his wish and was shipped out to Denver, with the Broncos ending up the beneficiaries of his unhappiness in Seattle. Oh, and the short-lived Carson Wentz era in Indy is over as well, as he ends up in DC, but that’s where I draw the line on the NFL’s encroachment on today’s show. Enough with the NFL out here football thirst trapping, this is the NBA’s time! With stars like Jokic, Embiid, Giannis, Ja, DeMar, Luka and Tatum putting on a show every night, the NBA season is hitting its stride, and we’re here for it! So sit back, there’s offseason drama in the NFL but the NBA is where the action’s at and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, Gaber and I are catching up on a busy few weeks in the sports world, with another NFL season in the books and the NBA season entering the home stretch. First we have to get in the way-back machine to wrap up yet another NFL season for this pod, following the Rams’ comeback win over the Bengals in Super Bowl LVI, and two weeks after the Big Game I’m left feeling like this whole season still feels unresolved. By all metrics and standards of the NFL, and hopefully not taking too much away from them, the Rams did everything required to be called champs, but I still didn’t feel like they were the best team this year. But then, really, looking back, was any team actually the best this year? This was the ultimate season in parity, with the Bills, the Cardinals, the Packers, the Ravens, the Patriots, the Titans, and yes, the Rams, all at moments this year looking like they may be, the One. But now, it’s on the offseason soap opera that is player movement, and we’ll be all over that of course, but in the meantime, there’s plenty of NBA to get into. With a little more than a quarter of the season remaining, we’ve got star players like KD, PG13 and Kawhi presumably returning from injuries and others like Harden and Ben Simmons settling in on new teams, so the push to the Playoffs looks to be exciting. But today, we’ll pick up at Steph Curry’s explosion at the All-Star Game and sort through all kinds of assorted detritus and errata as we hit the Playoff stretch. So sit back, Super Bowl LVI is history and football winter looms ahead but the NBA is here to save the day and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
12:02 - Our better late than never Super Bowl LVI takes and NFL season wrap
41:33 - All Around the NBA: MJ owns All-Star Weekend
54:00 - Warriors talk: James Wiseman’s imminent return
58:52 - Jonathan Kuminga’s learning curve
1:02:02 - Draymond Green’s injury
1:05:34 - Klay Thompson slander debunked
1:10:21 - Harden trade clinched MVP for Embiid? How the narrative swings the the vote
1:19:20 - Ben Simmons and the “Theoretical Nets”. . . (TheoNeticals?)
1:27:17 - Lakers’ best case scenario
1:31:53 - The Suns and the rest of the West
1:37:01 - The Bulls and the building drama in the East
On today’s show, we’re back with the Guru, Gabe Goldfield, just in time to preview the final NFL Sunday of the season with our Mega Super Bowl Podcast Extravaganza! There’s a whole lot of how we got here, what we’ve seen and what to expect in LA this Sunday, as a way ahead of schedule Joe Burrow leads the upstart Cincinnati Bengals into SoFi to face Aaron Donald and the home team, high-roller Rams. It’s high priced free agents vs homegrown talent, two #1 overall pick QBs at very different stages of their careers going head to head, it’s mentor vs protege with Sean McVeigh vs Zach Taylor, it’s Aaron Donald vs everyone! Ladies and gentlemen, we have ourselves a Super Bowl! Oh and we can always find some time for the Association, as the NBA’s trade deadline approaches and the opening salvos have been fired. The biggest names moved so far are Sabonis, Halliburton and McCollum, but everyone is still holding out for Harden/Simmons. Will they, or won’t they? We’re here on the deadline to let you know. Plus, we’ve got some Warrior talk, some Bulls talk and more. So sit back, the NFL’s big day approaches with Super Bowl LVI, the NBA trade deadline is upon us and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
7:12 - Questioning TB12’s retirement
12:50 - Conference Championship recaps: Bengals @ Chiefs
26:12 - 49ers @ Rams
31:10 - Super Bowl LVI preview: Rams @ Bengals
46:30 - All Around the NBA: NBA Trade Deadline - Simmons/Harden
58:15 - Sabonis/Haliburton
1:05:15 - McCollum to the Pelicans,
1:08:59 - Blazers questionable moves
1:12:51 - Lavert to Cavs, KP to Wizards, and more!
On today’s show, we’re going deep on the best Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs in recent memory . . . ok scratch that, let’s give last weekend it’s just due; the best NFL weekend ever, a weekend where three underdogs advance to the Conference title games, where both #1 seeds went down, and where all four games came down to a winning score on the final play. Joe Burrow advances while TB12 goes home, and even in a loss, it still seems like Josh Allen was a winner this postseason. There’s a ton to recap from this past weekend, but we’ve got a couple of pretty intriguing matchups to look ahead to as well; let’s just hope they can measure up to what we just witnessed. Meanwhile, in the NBA, Joel Embiid is making his MVP case, AD is back & the Lakers’ second half doesn’t seem quite as bleak and we pick our own personal All-Star rosters. So sit back, the NFL’s greatest Divisional Round ever has left us with our final four teams, the NBA season is heating up and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
12:30 - All Around the NFL - Divisional Round Recaps: Bengals @ Titans
20:15 - 49ers @ Packers
29:55 - Rams @ Bucs
38:18 - Bills @ Chiefs
51:38 - Conference Championship Previews: Bengals @ Chiefs
56:40 - 49ers @ Rams
1:03:49 - All Around the NBA: Joel Embiid making his MVP case
1:10:30 - AD back and the Lakers’ revived hopes in the West
1:19:37 - Draymond’s extended absence
1:23:27 - Our own personal NBA All-Star rosters
On today’s show, it’s a whole lotta NFL Playoff talk, as Super Wild Card Weekend has weeded out the 1st round fodder and left us with 4 solid matchups for the Divisional Round. The Eagles and Steelers were easy marks, playoff pretenders from the start, and I’ve been calling the Cowboys frauds for months, but the Pats' and Cards' no-shows caught me by surprise. At least the Raiders could provide a worthy first round foe for the Bengals. And while lopsided matchups are a hallmark of Wild Card Weekend, with the caliber of teams playing in the four Divisional games we’re previewing today, Round 2 promises to be much more competitive. But first, in the NBA, the Suns are separating in the West while the Warriors go through midseason growing pains and the Lakers try to keep their heads above water. Meanwhile, in the East, KD goes down for 4-8 weeks, leaving the Nets vulnerable to plummet in an extremely tight conference seeding race. So sit back, the NFL Playoffs are ramping up in the Divisional Round, the NBA is just past the midway point of the season and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
6:24 - All Around the NBA: Jonathan Kuminga ahead of schedule?
10:41 - Suns undisputed best in West!
15:09 - KD out, Nets’ position in East
20:34 - Luka and the Mavs
25:49 - LeBron dominant but Lakers have roster issues
30:30 - All Around the NFL - Super Wild Card Recaps: Raiders @ Bengals
34:32 - Patriots @ Bills
36:58 - Eagles @ Bucs
39:30 - 49ers @ Cowboys
48:00 - Steelers @ Chiefs
50:47 - Cardinals @ Rams
53:38 - Divisional Round Previews: Bengals @ Titans
57:42 - 49ers @ Packers
59:50 - Rams @ Bucs
1:03:08 - Bills @ Chiefs
On today’s show, we continue celebrating Klay Thompson’s return to the court this past Sunday after 941 days away like the true Warrior lifers we are, and take a look at how the Warriors’ rotation might look moving forward, the burgeoning rivalry with the Grizzlies, and more. Then, after a wild Week 18 that featured back to back to back OT games where a team clinched a playoff berth with the win, the NFL Playoffs are upon us, and we’ve got the first ever 6-game Super Wild Card weekend to break down. It’s gonna be tough to match the intensity of last week, but there’s a few things we’re watching for; there are always a few upsets in the mix, and the Niners and Patriots are looking like prime candidates; Joe Burrow is making his highly anticipated Playoff debut; Rams/Cards is gonna be a slugfest; and once again, Tom Brady is right in the middle of it all. Some things never change. So sit back, we’re still celebrating Klayday, the NFL Playoffs are here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
6:22 - Revisiting Klay’s return Sunday
10:44 - Warriors/Grizzlies rivalry? & Ja’s emergence
17:46 - Warriors’ rotation ?s
32:33 - Potential pitfalls in Golden State?
38:00 - Justifying why we talk so much GS Warriors' hoops here
41:25 - All Around the NFL: WK 18 review
49:20 - Tua ≥ Mac
52:52 - Raiders/Bengals preview
55:54 - Patriots/Bills preview
59:23 - Eagles/Bucs preview
1:02:10 - 49ers/Cowboys preview & some overdue credit to Jimmy G
1:07:20 - Steelers/Chiefs preview
1:10:36 - Cardinals/Rams preview
On today’s show, as the first ever NFL Week 18 approaches and since I’m decidedly all-in on this great slate of games we have lined up, we call back to my preseason take on whether we should even have a 17th game. Like a lot of NFL fans who were critical of the idea, I am now hypocritical, but we all knew that once we were presented an extra Sunday of football we’d be right there, front and center. So here we are, and man, is it fantastic. Matchups with Playoff implications for as far as the eye can see. So yeah, there’s gonna be a lot of Week 18 talk today and you know what? That’s fine with me. I’ve come to terms with the issue. And don’t think we’ve forsaken the NBA; we’ll have a full NBA segment again next episode and we might even fit a bit of Association chatter in here today but with 12 meaningful games on deckington, football has taken our focus. So sit back, the NFL regular season is coming to a dramatic crescendo and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we bid farewell to a sports legend and a football icon, Coach John Madden, who passed last night at the age of 85. Football fans of all ages will always remember his name, which has become practically synonymous with the game he loved. Rest in paradise Coach, where every day is a Sunday.
When we get back to sports, there's Omicron, just lurking. All across the sports landscape, it’s the same story. Replacement players everywhere. In the NBA, it means we get to welcome back 40 year old Joe Johnson, and fellow retiree Greg Monroe became the 541st player to appear on an NBA floor through just 30 odd games this year, usually the same number of players who appear in an entire season and we still have 50 games to go! In the NFL, we were most recently treated to Ian Book’s decidedly premature NFL debut for the Saints on MNF, in addition to any number of practice squad players getting unexpected playing time in the League, which has obviously diluted the talent pool on Sundays. It’s like this throughout the sports world, college hoops, NCAA Bowl games, hockey, Omicron is everywhere. While recent adjustments to Covid protocols will spell a change in how much time most players might miss moving forward, we’re in it right now, and teams like my Warriors, sans Draymond and Poole, just have to push on for hopefully just a few more weeks. In the meantime though, it’s plug and play, cuz seemingly everyone’s out. So sit back, we’ve got all the NBA and NFL replacement player action that anyone could ask for going on right now and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, scoring is down in the NBA, the usually strong Western Conference has been mediocre outside of the Warriors, Suns and Jazz, it would seem like there are only two viable MVP candidates out here but you know me, more than a quarter of the way into the season, of course I’m still all in on the Association. Maybe it has to do with all the young talent in the league, players who are developing jaw dropping skills in front of our eyes, like Cole Anthony, or Miles Bridges, or Alperin Sengun, or Jonathan Kuminga. Or maybe it’s that my Warriors have rediscovered the Beautiful Game in the wake of KD’s departure; Warriors’ games seem to be in high demand lately as Steph Curry nears the All-Time 3 Point Made record and all of their games are on national TV. Shoutout to Steph, the greatest shooter of all time, hands down. But whatever it is, Gaber and I are always tuned in, and we have a lot to talk about, including early MVP odds, the Suns and more. Meanwhile, back in the NFL, we’re just going week to week. In a season where we’ve already prematurely crowned and dethroned the Bills, Ravens, Titans, Cowboys and Rams, we’re now looking at the Patriots as the powerhouse of the league, while licking our chops for a Brady vs Belichick Super Bowl. But hold up, wait a minute, we still have five weeks of football left, and we still have Kyler and the Cards, Rodgers and the Pack and Mahomes and the Chiefs lurking in the cut, ready to make their moves. We’re heading into Week 15 and the one thing I can safely say about the NFL is, with 9-10 contenders still hanging around out there, it’s still pretty much anyone’s game. So sit back, we’ve got all the NBA and NFL action that anyone could ask for going on right now and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we bounce back from a tryptophan induced coma to catch up on all things NBA and NFL. In the Association, we’re about a quarter of the way into the season and what better way to mark that checkpoint than with the first matchup of the two best teams in the league, so we’ll check in on the results of the Warriors/Suns matchup in Phoenix from Tuesday before looking ahead to tonight’s rematch. Next up is a closer examination of a revitalized Andrew Wiggins and a look at the seven teams that have distinguished themselves as NBA contenders early on. Then it’s on to the NFL to check in on a season that seems to be wide open for any of a number of teams to sneak in and steal a championship. Sure, the Patriots and the Packers are the flavors of the week, but it’s still pretty much anyone’s game, I count at least 10 legit contenders, and with only a little more than a handful of games remaining, every win and loss starts to mean a little bit more, so we’re looking ahead at a busy Week 13 slate in which almost every game will affect the Playoff picture. Plus, we’re amazed at 44 year old Tom Brady being atop the current MVP odds and still slightly dubious about all the Mac Jones hype and we’ll get into all of this and more. So sit back, we’ve got all the NBA and NFL action that anyone could ask for going on right now and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s the return of the Guru, back to help us break down everything we’ve seen over the first month of an NBA season that might best be described as, “not quite what we expected.” Among the pleasant surprises have been an out of nowhere torrid start for the Wizards in the post-Westbrook era, the emergence of a bull market in Chicago, and the wild ride the Warriors give us every single game, but some unexpected struggles by the Lakers, Bucks and Hawks have left fans of these contenders wondering, what’s gone wrong? And as the NFL hits the midway point of the season, the recent successes of the Titans, Colts and Patriots have only added to the murkiness of an already muddled AFC Playoff picture, while in the NFC, the contenders seems to be more clear cut, but when it comes down to it, isn’t the NFC really just Tom Brady’s to lose? This is it, the sweet spot for the show, as winter is coming and we settle in for a few uninterrupted months of hoops and football. So sit back, we’ve got all the NBA and NFL action anyone could ask for going on and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
15:10 - All Around the NBA: Hot starts from the Warriors,
30:33 - . . . Bulls,
39:15 - . . . & Wizards
42:48 - Early season struggles from the Lakers, Bucks and Hawks
48:08 - All Around the NFL: Power Rankings and more
On today’s show, I’m still catching up on all the news from the sports world that I missed while on vacation last week. Now, with the NBA 3 weeks into the season and the NFL passing the midway point of theirs, the plan for today was for Gaber and I to go deep on both, but unfortunately, work gets in the way of fun sometimes and we weren’t able to hook up this week, so we’ll catch up with the Guru on the next show, but at least we were able to get together wile I was in town last week and I’ll tell you all about it. In the meantime, I’m going solo here today in an effort to get myself back up to speed with all of the stories I missed last week. So sit back, we’re right in our wheelhouse this time of year with NBA and NFL action dominating the sports landscape and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . .
On today’s show, we’ve already had a full week of NBA hoops and right off the bat, you can see the infusion of new blood into the Association, in terms of both rookies ready to perform and teams on the rise. Chris Duarte, Scottie Barnes, Jalen Green, Evan Mobley and Davion Mitchell are already easy fits for any rotation, and while we have yet to see what Cade Cunningham, Jalen Suggs, Alperen Sengun and many others will bring to the table, the 2021 Draft returns are looking promising. Speaking of promising, how about some hot starts from our Warriors, Wizards, the Hornets and the Bulls? The Lonzo/DeMarr/Lavine trio is legit, LaMelo might be All-NBA, Beal got Kuz and Trez added to the mix, and Steph finally has a crew behind him again. Meanwhile, in the NFL, there were a few significant storylines out of Week 8, including the Bengals’ continued surprise success and the Chiefs’ ongoing struggles, and if you listened to sports talk this week, you might have heard something about Mahomes being overrated and Burrow being underrated but I’ll tell you now; only one of these things is true. And finally, we have a World Series going on and I’m doing my best to be a good sport about my Giants not being in it. So sit back, the NFL, MLB and NBA converge for the magical annual sports eclipse and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, I bounce back from my absolute sickness over that Giants/Dodgers series last week with some help from the return of the good ol’ Association and my Dubs. A one run game in the 9th with a runner on and the 1st base ump calls a horrendous check swing strike? Made me so ill I couldn’t even watch sports for a whole day. Good thing I’m over it, (not really tho), cuz there’s a magnificent, only could be made better if the Giants were still alive, sports eclipse going on right now, and it officially tipped off last night with the return of the NBA. Bucks/Nets and Warriors/Lakers was a great way to set the table, but before we settle into the feast that is the NBA season, we’re gonna break down how many teams actually have a window of hope to get to the Finals this year. And with the NFL a third of the way into the season, it’s time to start our assessments and figure out who’s shaping up to be contenders. The Cards and Cowboys have come out of nowhere to rise straight to the top, while the Bengals and Raiders easily exceed expectations. But there’s one big mystery out there overshadowing them all, and that is, what do we make of the Chiefs? The consensus preseason AFC favorites are a mess, and so far even the magic of Patrick Mahomes hasn’t been enough to get them over .500. And then there’s the baseball, the one that broke my heart. We’ll see . . . So sit back, the NFL, MLB and NBA converge for the sports eclipse and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
7:25 - NBA: Warriors/Lakers
9:40 - All Around MLB: Giants/Dodgers from the ground perspective
16:38 - All Around the NBA season preview
40:24 - All Around the NFL: Power Rankings and more
On today’s show, we’re breaking into our regularly scheduled NFL Week 4 talk to acknowledge a very special season for my SF Giants. 107 wins from a team no one, I repeat, no one saw coming, and an exciting postseason still to come. Who’da thunk it? Let’s hope the wild ride continues for another month or so, but for the moment, all the focus is on the Dodgers. Meanwhile, back in the NFL, recently drafted QBs were having their moments, with Joe Burrows edging Trevor Lawrence in Cinci, Josh Fields getting the W in the Chi, Daniel Jones wrecking the heavily favored Saints in NO, and Zach Wilson showing glimpses of upside in a W over the Titans. Some solid performances in there, and a few upsets to boot. Again, we have to ask, who’da thunk it? You spend decades watching the games, analyzing the results, you even do a podcast where you break it all down, and just when you think you’ve got this sports thing all figured out, you realize that you can always still be surprised. So sit back, we’re already four weeks in to the NFL season, MLB Playoffs are here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, three weeks into the NFL season, we’ve seen enough to make some educated assessments, and the moratorium on jumping to conclusions is over. First, there’s the obvious, and it’s safe to say that; Matt Nagy is a liability in Chicago, and if he’s not fired soon, Josh Fields might not survive the season; or, Big Ben is cooked, done, finished, washed, and the Steelers have no back up plan; and KC’s D looks like a bottom 5 unit, and even Patrick Mahomes might not even be able to overcome how bad they are. Then there’s the debatable, like; the Raiders have played great, and Derek Carr has been fantastic at QB, but despite the record, they’re not contenders; or despite a 3-0 start, the Broncos will finish under .500. But much more than this, there’s still a lot we don’t know, like whether teams like the Chargers and Cowboys are contenders, how good the Bills, Packers and Niners can be, and whether the Colts can stop their tailspin. There’s still a long ways to go and a lot we don’t yet know, but if there’s one thing for sure, it’s safe to say that we’ll be here every week trying to figure it all out! So sit back, we’re headed into Week 4 of the NFL season and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re doing what we alway do after a few weeks of NFL action; trying to figure out what the heck is going on. It’s still far too early to speak in absolutes, to anoint the teams off to hot starts as Super Bowl contenders or write off teams with some some early season struggles, but there must be some way to try to understand exactly what it is we’re seeing. Take the Raiders for example. 2-0 after beating two playoff contenders, but are we really buying Vegas as a powerhouse and Carr as a premature MVP candidate? And people loved the Colts coming into the season, but after a 0-2 start, is it time to sell your stock in Indy? The AFC West is topsy turvy, the AFC South is a tire fire, there’s a 44 year old QB throwing TDs like it’s light work while a bunch of 20-something QBs with all the talent and athleticism in the world struggle to look competent, and all we can do is try to make some sort of sense out of it all. So sit back, the NFL season is here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, the NFL is back! Now, we’ve all been preparing ourselves for the season, everybody all studied up and opinions fully formed, but were you really ready for Aaron Rodgers' total collapse and the rise of Jameis? Or Kyler and the Cards utter domination of the Titans? Or the Bengals opening the season with a W? Or the Bills getting upset at home?Or Tyrod Taylor, yes, Tyrod, not TIE-rod, and the Texans not being terrible? I’m telling you, this is wild, wacky stuff, and we can’t wait to get into it all, so today, we’re gonna try to decide if we’re really buying what we saw in all the chaotic action from this weekend’s games, as I ask Gaber, “Do you believe?” So sit back, the NFL season is here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
3:45 - MLB Pennant Chase Updates
17:18 - All Around the NFL: Week 1 in Review
On today’s show, we’re trying out a different approach to our NFL season preview, with the exciting new podcast game show, “Slander, Pander or Candor?” We’ve been busy gathering hot takes from around the NFL world as the season approaches, and today, we’re gonna decide if each particular take is just slander, as in, to make false and damaging statements about someone; pandering to the hot take audience that dominates the sports talk world by providing exactly what that person or group wants, especially when it is not reasonable; or simply, a refreshing candor, the quality of being open and honest in expression. Now, full disclosure, I may or may not have thrown in a few Strawman arguments to spice things up, but in all honesty, most of theses are actual takes you could have heard on any of the major sports talk shows. Kinda makes you realize how critical we can be of the athletes we love to watch, but you have to admit, it makes for solid debate. So sit back, the NFL season is almost upon us and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, summertime rolls on, and while MLB relinquishes its brief time center stage in the sports world to the NFL preseason, I still have the Association on my mind. In a world where my Giants still boast the best record in MLB and we’re lined up for some great pennant chase drama, and with Justin Fields and the other rookie QBs making their debuts this weekend, how is it that I’m so focused on exhibition Summer League basketball? But I mean, have you seen the talent from this year’s draft in action yet? Just in case you haven’t, we have, and we’re here to tell you all about them. And of course, we have some baseball talk too, in the form of a National League division race review, as well as some takeaways from NFL Preseason Week 1, but still, somehow, in mid August, we’re still talking a whole lot of NBA. . . So sit back, the NBA 2021 draft class preview in underway in Vegas, it’s pennant race time in MLB, NFL Preseason is here and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
9:40 - Team USA Hoops Gold
18:17 - All Around the NBA: Summer League Rookie Reviews
55:05 - Obligatory Warriors’ Roster Evaluation
1:03:17 - All Around the NFL: Preseason Week 1 QB Talk
1:19:14 - All Around MLB: NL Division Races
On today’s show, Gaber and I are back from our respective summer travels and ready to get back into all the news that the NBA has thrown at us over the past two weeks, but don’t worry, we’ve kept up to speed on everything. As of the last pod, the Bucks had evened the Finals at 2 games each; between Giannis’ miracle recovery and digging back from down 0-2 that seemed far-fetched enough, but little did we know how much more magic the Bucks had in them, or that Giannis still had an All-Time game still in the bag. MVP, DPOY, Champion and Finals MVP; those are lofty accomplishments Giannis, welcome to the NBA’s most elite club. Then it was on to Draft Day, never a disappointment for the hardcore NBA fan, but when your team hits on a pick or two, it’s even better; spoiler, a lot of Warriors draft talk upcoming. And of course, we saw Russ go to the Lakers, and it’s anyone’s guess what will happen there. Less than a week later, NBA Free Agency started, as the offseason action hits its peak. And to top it all off, we got an action packed MLB trade deadline, with All Star players switching teams at an unprecedented rate, and almost every contender making moves, including of course, my Giants. So sit back, the NBA season is a wrap but the offseason is heating up, it’s pennant race time in MLB, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
7:56 - Gratuitous Giannis applause
16:00 - . . . and accolades
19:05 - The Wayback Machine: Finals Retrospective
33:17 - Russ to Lakers
45:55 - Gut reactions to the NBA Draft
1:02:09 - Free Agency after 2 days
1:29:20 - MLB at the Trade Deadline
On today’s show, we’re still in awe of what we saw way back in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, as Giannis unexpectedly returned to the court just 7 days after suffering a traumatic knee injury, and suddenly, with their superstar back, it looks like the Bucks might make it a series. And this wasn’t Willis Reed; Giannis put up monster double-doubles while still noticeably hobbled in Phoenix, yet still, as Game 3 approached, the Suns were headed to Milwaukee up 2 games to none. In Phoenix, Chris Paul was running the show, doing pretty much whatever he wanted, while outside of Giannis the Bucks just couldn’t get it going. But a little home cooking goes a long ways, and just as the Bucks rebounded on their own court in GMs 3 & 4, the Suns struggled on the road. Just like that, what was thought to be Suns in 4, turned into a best of 3, and as I’m sure everybody has heard, the series doesn’t really start til the road team gets a win. So here we are, the Bucks back in business and Giannis showing no indication that he was ever hurt at all, but with the Suns holding home court, there’s a good chance we may even get a Game 7! Yeah, this may not have been the Finals we wanted, but it certainly is showing the potential to turn into a great one! So sit back, it’s the NBA Playoffs, all NBA Playoffs, and nothing but the NBA Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we’re back to put a bow on the Conference Championships and look ahead to the Finals, breaking down the Suns’ decisive series win over the Clippers, and the battle of attrition between the Hawks and Bucks. Chris Paul deservedly gets a ton of credit for carrying this Suns team to the Finals, and all recognition to Devin Booker, DeAndre Ayton and the Suns’ role players as well, of course, but it was fitting that in the deciding Game 6, it was CP3 who had the big night clinching at Staples Center, while the Clippers and Paul George faded away at home. Meanwhile, the Bucks/Hawks series had a promising start, as the Hawks stole Game 1 and it looked like we might be in for a true battle, but freak injuries to both Trae and Giannis completely changed the dynamics of the series. We never got the chance to see it play out, but even against a deeper, more experienced team, with what Trae Young had been doing all postseason, it became hard to even consider him an underdog, and it felt like the Hawks had a real chance. Instead, we saw KM and Jrue and Brook pick up the slack and propel the Bucks into the Finals. But the million dollar question remains; will Giannis play in the big series? So sit back, it’s the NBA Playoffs, all NBA Playoffs, and nothing but the NBA Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s a wrap on Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs, a two week journey that, despite being marred by injuries to key players such as CP3, Joel Embiid, James Harden, Kyrie Irving & Kawhi Leonard, and tainted by the first round exits of flagship franchises of the Association like the Lakers, Celtics and Knicks, was about as exciting as it comes, featuring a few all-time great superstar performances from KD and Kawhi, breakout Playoff performances from Trae and Book, feel good stories from Atlanta and Phoenix, the Clips and Bucks coming back from down 0-2, and to top it off, two great Game 7’s! So yeah, there’s a lot for Gaber and I to catch up on, but on top of all of that, we’ve got our previews and predictions for the first Conference Finals since 1994 that doesn’t feature a 1 seed! So sit back, it’s the NBA Playoffs, all NBA Playoffs, and nothing but the NBA Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast so let’s get rolling . . .
13:23 - NBA Awards annoyances
16:54 - All Around the NBA: Playoff Injuries
19:27 - Eastern Conference - Bucks/Nets
33:13 - Hawks/Sixers
44:15 - ECF Preview: Hawks/Bucks
56:06 - Western Conference - Nuggets/Suns
1:07:37 - Clippers/Jazz
1:24:53 - WCF Preview: Clippers/Suns
On today’s show, it’s a wrap on Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs following our only Game 7 Sunday, as the Clippers knock off the Mavs, and we’re taking a look at all of the outstanding performances, the major letdowns and the most intriguing storylines from each of the opening series. And then, it’s on to Round 2. . .The Bucks/Nets series we’ve all been waiting for comes a bit early in the Playoffs, and even after the Nets Game 1 win on the road, it might just be the best matchup we have left. The Nuggets have shrugged off injury as Jokic has put them on his shoulders, but will they haven enough to get by the surprising Suns, fresh off a series where they knocked out the defending champs? And with the Hawks are riding high after a series win in Trae’s first Playoffs and a Game 1 win in Philly, you have to wonder if they can really knock out the Sixers. Finally, we have the top seeded Jazz, resting and waiting, while the Clippers come off of a grueling 7 game series. So sit back, it’s the NBA Playoffs, all NBA Playoffs, and nothing but the NBA Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, it’s a celebration! It’s finally here, the “real season”, and you just know we’re talking about Playoff time in the NBA! We got a nice warm up with the Play-In Tournament, six extra games for our viewing enjoyment, and now, with the field almost decided, it’s time to get down to business. Circumstance and injuries have brought us some intriguing Round 1 matchups this year and the very real possibility for a few upsets, with the Lakers in the 7 seed and easily the favorite over the 2 seed Suns; a rematch of last year’s Heat/Bucks; a too close to call Hawks/Knicks series; and a full strength Blazers squad visiting an injury depleted Nuggets team. But first, it’s the final draft of our regular season NBA awards. So sit back, the NBA Play-In Tourney has been a blast, the Playoffs start tomorrow and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
7:00 - All Around the NBA: Hall of Fame Inductions
11:18 - Regular Season Awards
30:35 - Play-In Tournament
43:13 - Playoff Preview: Wizards/Sixers
46:03 - Celtics/Nets
48:02 - Heat/Bucks
50:29 - Hawks/Knicks
52:48 - Grizzlies/Jazz
54:25 - Lakers/Suns
1:00:21 - Mavs/Clippers
1:02:49 - Blazers/Nuggets
1:09:24 - How did the Andrew Wiggins trade work out for the Warriors?
On today’s show, we start the transition from the NBA regular season to the Playoffs, as we examine all of the shuffling going on as we head into to the Play-In Tournament, we look ahead to potential Round 1 Playoff matchups, and we make some difficult choices in selecting our forwards as we complete our All-NBA rosters. Then, it’s a deep dive into what’s behind the incredible statistical achievements of two of the most dynamic and athletic players in the game today. Russell Westbrook broke the all time triple double record as Zion wrapped up a historically efficient sophomore campaign, and while Russ’ numbers get all the hype, we're here to tell you why we find Zion’s accomplishments even more impressive. So sit back, the NBA regular season comes down to one more weekend and then it’s Playoff time, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
On today’s show, we don’t have NFL Draft takeaways as much as we have gut feelings, we’re gonna have to see these guys play before we name them to the All Pro teams, but one thing we all agree on is that the Round 1 experience was absolutely fascinating to watch unfold in real time. Plus, Aaron Rodgers wants out of GB and Gaber is ready to drive him to the airport. And, as the NBA regular season comes down to the last 2 weeks, some big name stars are back from injuries, but some results have been underwhelming. Then there’s the Nuggets, thriving despite the absence of key players; the Knicks are on fire; the Wizards and the Pelicans are trying to sneak into the Play-In, all this and much, much more. And let’s not forget my Giants, battling the Dodgers and Padres to sit in first place in the NL West. So sit back, the NBA regular season is winding down as the Playoffs approach, MLB is just getting going, the NFL Draft eclipses it all and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
10:20 - All Around the NFL Draft
22:18 - Aaron Rodgers' Draft Day bombshell
32:20 - All Around the NBA: Bucks vs Nets
37:14 - Knicks hype; Hawks on the rise; Russ and the Wizards
53:45 - Jazz & Suns dominating in relative obscurity; Booker vs CP3 as Suns team MVP
1:00:21 - Nuggets success without Murray; Jokic’s MVP
1:04:55 - Lakers/Blazers/Mavs logjam for the 5/6 seeds; AD’s shortcomings
1:12:35 - Clippers upgrades for Playoffs
1:14:55 - Obligatory Steph appreciation
1:22:34 - All Around MLB: SF Giants and the NL West
On today’s show, we’re proceeding with an abundance of caution. We don’t want anyone getting hurt before the Playoffs, and considering the ramifications of Jamal Murray and Donovan Mitchell’s recent injuries, you can understand why teams play it safe with their star players’ health. LeBron, AD, Kawhi, Harden, all crucial components to a championship team, and all continuing to miss time, but fear not, I guarantee you that they’ll all be back just in time for a Playoff tuneup. Meanwhile, Steph is on fire so you know we have to recognize, we take a look at the potential fatal flaws for each of the contenders, and more. And of course, baseball is back, and I’m continuing my journey to rediscover the grand ol’ game, so today, it’s a focus on the White Sox, as well as a little appreciation for my Giants. So sit back, the NBA Playoffs are just a month away but there’s lot still up in the air, MLB is just getting going and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
5:02 - James Wiseman goes down with an injury while Steph turns his game up
21:36 - Injury updates, starting with Jamal Murray & the Nuggets
27:00 - Donovan Mitchell & the Jazz
29:49 - AD, LeBron & the Lakers
36:12 - Kawhi, PG13 & the Clippers
39:13 - KD, Harden, Kyrie & the Nets
45:00 - 2021 as the “Covid season”
51:22 - Odd NBA Factoids, credit to u/88Childish on Reddit: The Fashion of Rick Barry Edition
55:24 - Potential fatal flaws in each of the NBA contenders
1:35:07 - All Around MLB: SF Giants
1:37:44 - White Sox
On today’s show, we catch up with a runaway NBA season just over 50 games into a shortened 72 game slate, which means the Playoffs are sneaking up on us and it’s time to separate the contenders from the pretenders with a little tier work. But first, it’s hoops nerd heaven, as we go All Around the NBA to explore the most arcane minutiae of the Association, including a head to head comp between De’Aaron Fox and Ja Morant; making Donovan Mitchell’s case for All-NBA at a crowded Guard position; Steve Kerr backlash in the Bay and more. I mean, we’re talking about Mugsy Bogues, James Wiseman, Theo Maledon, Aleksej Pokusevski and Moses Brown today, so you know we’re going deep. Plus, MLB is back and I continue to make excuses as to why I’m still not up to speed on baseball yet. So sit back, it’s the NBA, pretty much all NBA & almost nothing but the NBA and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
10:37 - March Madness takeaways
16:13 - Welcome back KD!
19:30 - Sam Darnold to Panthers
24:28 - All Around the NBA: Top 5 must watch players today
34:51 - Odd NBA Factoids, credit to u/88Childish on Reddit
39:03 - Making a case for an All-NBA honor for Donovan Mitchell
48:20 - Bay Area Twitter vs Steve Kerr
103:42 - Some Theo Maledon, Aleksej Pokusevski, Moses Brown & the Thunder rebuild
109:45 - De’Aaron Fox vs Ja Morant: Who you got?
114:13 - Kawhi Leonard to Heat rumors
118:51 - Contenders/Pretenders/Irrelevant Playoff stretch tiers
142:30 - Gaber talks Masters
On today’s show, what else could we possibly be talking about but all of the fallout from a busy NBA trade deadline? While there were no real blockbusters this year, we definitely still see the landscape shift in the NBA Playoff race. For some teams that is. While the Celtics, the Heat, the Blazers, the Clippers, hell, even the Bulls all made significant improvements, we’re all left wondering about the moves that weren’t made. What happened with Lowry or Lonzo being on the block? Where were the Lakers or the Knicks or our Warriors in all the action? Well, it’s complicated, but we’re keeping it simple, breaking down the trades that happened, and a few that didn’t. So sit back, it’s the NBA, pretty much all NBA & almost nothing but the NBA and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
5:31 - Niners/Dolphins/Eagles draft pick trade
17:30 - Odd NBA Factoids, credit to u/88Childish on Reddit
19:30 - All Around the NBA - Injury goss, regarding: LaMelo, KD, AD, Embiid, Steph & LeBron
31:13 - Trades that never happened
47:15 - All the trades and how they affect the Playoff stretch
On today’s show, we have far too many NFL transactions to cover to even begin to tease them here in the intro, but trust me, we’re going to try to hit on as many of them as is humanly possible. The NFL offseason has already taken over, and it’s only just begun. Meanwhile, in case the sports world has forgotten, there’s an NBA season going on and a damn intriguing one at that. The top of the East is on the rise, there’s a whole lot of struggle in the West, and players are already on the move as the trade deadline looms, but it’s a high ankle sprain suffered by LeBron last night that’s the biggest news today. Get well soon, Baller. And if that weren’t enough, March Madness is back as well! So much sports to talk. . . So sit back, the League is shaking things up this NFL offseason, there’s moves to be made in the NBA, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
5:15 - LeBron James suffers high ankle sprain
10:50 - How this injury affects the MVP race
32:30 - Odd NBA Factoids, credit to u/88Childish on Reddit
34:40 - All Around the NBA - PJ Tucker to MIL, T Ariza to MIA, CJ McCollum back, what is OKC’s plan, how good is KAT & more . . .
1:01:44 - A little March Madness
1:07:50 - All Around the NFL Offseason - Every significant move, rapid fire style
I have to warn you, on today’s show, I may get a bit controversial. I have an opinion that doesn’t really seem to be very popular among many of those who talk about sports for a living, and could possibly have a negative impact on the credibility of this very show, but I don’t care. I’m gonna say it anyways; I love NBA All-Star Weekend. Always have, always will. Now, NBA sophisticates/burnouts would argue that the dunk contest is usually trash, and that the game itself is a sloppy and meaningless exhibition where no one plays D. And they’re right, but they miss the whole point, and in doing so, miss out on all the fun. Granted, the games and the events seem aimed at the younger audience, but for hardcore hoops heads, there’s a certain historical significance in All-Star Weekend. Every year we see a collection of the best the Association has to offer, giving us the opportunity to compare All-Star rosters to those that we’ve seen before, and really gauge where the league is at, talent wise, at the moment. If you saw the starting 5 for Team LeBron on Sunday, you know how deep the talent runs, and if you didn’t, well, your loss. Meanwhile, the NFL offseason dominoes continue to fall, as Dak re-ups with the Cowboys, JJ Watt ends up in Arizona, and Big Ben opts in for another run in Pittsburgh. So sit back, another NBA All-Star Weekend is in the books as the NFL offseason picks up, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
9:45 - All Around the NFL Offseason - Dak stays in Big D, Big Ben stays in PIT, JJ Watt to AZ
28:46 - NBA All-Star All-Time starting fives
47:45 - All-Star Game highlights
1:07:35 - NBA season 2nd half outlooks
On today’s show, we take a look at how much the addition of Carson Wentz might improve the Colts’ Super Bowl chances; we critique the NBA All-Star reserve selections and I definitely have a few issues with the selections from the Eastern Conference. And speaking of the East, and after declaring the West likely the best, or at least the deeper, conference last episode, it’s past time to check in on the contenders from the Eastern Conference, like the Sixers, who have topped the standings all season so far; the uber-talented Nets, hot on their tails; and the Bucks, still looking to make a Finals. Can the Celtics turn it around, can the Heat repeat their bubble run, can the Raptors overcome a terrible start? All this and more, as we’re joined again as always by the Guru, Gabe Goldfield. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, well, that was the intention, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
8:30 - Obligatory Warriors talk/Steph appreciation. Sorry, not sorry...
19:50 - NBA All-Star Reserve Snubs
32:50 - Eastern Conference Deep Dive
1:37:30 - Carson Wentz to the Colts
I’m not gonna lie, this isn’t how I wanted to see the Super Bowl end. I have no skin in the game, the Chiefs aren’t even my team, but as a football fan I hate to see it. This Tom Brady guy is ruining the game, with his leadership, and his playmaking, and all the damn rings! It’s getting to the point that he can do no wrong, that people think the guy can walk on water, but as someone who has watched Brady’s whole career unfold and spends all day on Sundays parsing the League from year to year, I’m here to tell you, you’re probably right. But that doesn’t make it a good thing. You see, there’s no context for what he’s done, we’ve never seen this once in a lifetime convergence of both skill and luck on our playing fields before and likely never will again, and the end result is that there is no way to compare him to other QBs. And therein lies the problem. Brady’s accomplishments have put him so far beyond everyone else that there is no other way to assess his career other than titles, effectively anointing him as football perfection, but that only does a disservice to both Brady and his peers. Not only does it minimize the accomplishments of other stars, but it fails to take into account the most important aspect of Brady’s greatness; that he wasn’t always the best QB in the League, but he has consistently been able to grow as a player, even into his 21st season. So yeah, Brady’s great, but we didn’t need a 7th ring to tell us that. Nor do we need an 8th next year. And so, as we bid farewell to another football season, we continue our journey through another NBA season, and today, we’re looking around the West to check in on some contenders. So sit back, Super Bowl LV and the NFL season are in the books, the NBA season is about to take over and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
5:01 - Super Bowl analysis & love/hate regarding Tom Brady
38:55 - Excessive Stephen Wardell Curry love
51:58 - A balanced Utah Jazz team
54:43 - LeBron & AD’s roles w/ Lakers
1:01:49 - Clippers’ improved chemistry
1:05:24 - Suns as dark horse contender in the mold of last year’s Heat?
1:10:39 - Spurs: playoffs or bust
1:13:30 - Young Kings on the rise
1:16:52 - Zion going off for Pelicans
1:21:12 - Mavs' struggles
And the headlines write themselves . . . It doesn’t really matter which Super Bowl matchup resulted from Conference Championship Weekend, the angles for sports talk were coming from everywhere, but this one is a layup. So we get the best young QB in the game in Patrick Mahomes leading his Chiefs against the consensus GOAT in Tom Brady and his Bucs in Tampa? Are you kidding me? Only thing is, with the Super Bowl matchup decided, we had to survive our first weekend without football in months. What a perfect opportunity for sports fans to catch up on the NBA, especially with a quarter of the season already in the books and All Star roster discussions about to take over sports talk. And about to take over this show. For your listening pleasure, Gaber and I will once again engage in one of our favorite annual NBA thought exercises, as we each select our perfect 12-man All Star rosters. There will be disagreements, there will be arguments, there may even be some ridicule, but I guarantee you one thing; we will have a great time doing it. Plus, If you want to see the direction the Association is heading in the next few years, you might want to tune in and watch some of the possible emerging future stars who we’ll be focusing on today, as we take a look at the young players having breakout seasons early in their careers. So sit back, we have your Super Bowl LV previews today as the NFL season comes down to just one more Sunday, the NBA season is about to take over and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
5:00 - Random sports detritus, including, saying goodbye to football Sundays; Patrick Reid; what we’re watching in the NBA; Beal trade destinations; & Matt Stafford/Jared Goff trade.
26:10 - Super Bowl Preview
48:54 - NBA All Star picks
1:13:48 - Up and coming NBA players
It’s only been a week since our last pod but so much has happened since then, I don’t even have time for my usual long winded soliloquy to open the show. I mean, the James Harden experiment has produced incredible returns since the trade broke last week, we saw Ja Morant return from injury nearly two weeks early and lift his Grizzlies team like a future MVP might do, and NBA fans have to be bummed for CJ McCollum, as the Blazers’ star is seeing his All-NBA caliber season halted for a few months with a foot injury; get well soon baller. And of course we had our last full weekend of football for the season, as a field of eight teams was whittled down to four. Baker and his Browns put up a good fight against the Chiefs, and almost pulled off the upset after Patrick Mahomes left the game with a neck injury. Tom Brady likely ended Drew Brees’ career, Aaron Rodgers took another step towards his second ring and Josh Allen took another step towards establishing his Playoff credentials, and the stage is set for Conference Championship Weekend! Whew, and that only gets us started with what we have to get into today; good thing I skipped the long winded soliloquy! So sit back, the NFL Playoffs are down to the final four teams, the NBA season is all over the place and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
What a mess. I really feel for Rockets fans right now, as the James Harden to Brooklyn trade awaits finalization. This loyal fanbase must feel betrayed after basically giving the keys to the franchise to their superstar, signing him to a long term contract, and then watching as he held the team hostage over his trade demands. Well, he got his wish. The Nets are a superteam, the Rockets are rebuilding and sports media gets the juiciest story of the new year, but something here feels wrong. At least this blockbuster trade temporarily overshadows the Association’s Covid problem, as games are postponed and players miss time on the Covid reserve list. Now there’s no use in speculating on how this will all play out, so today, we’re just gonna focus on the basketball. Oh, and some football too, of course. Speaking of which, I gotta admit, I was wrong. Wild Card Weekend, excuse me SUPER Wild Card Weekend, was everything the league said it would be, and adding two more Playoff teams didn’t destroy the integrity of the postseason tournament like I worried it might. In hindsight, adding more games to the weekend slate was a gimme, but it took the experience of reveling in two days of back to back to back games for me to be sold. As for the games themselves, we got a few upsets from the Rams, Browns and Ravens, and we may have seen the final performance from Philip Rivers in a nail biter vs the Bills, but the story of the weekend was a trio of young QBs from the 2018 draft class who all managed to advance their teams to the next round. Josh Allen ran the show, Lamar Jackson took over when it counted, Baker Mayfield made plays, and they all took the next step by winning Playoff games for their teams, so for just a moment, let’s ease off of the criticism of these young men a bit and give them the credit they deserve, and then we can all see what they do this weekend. So sit back, the NFL Playoffs are just getting going, the NBA season is already on overdrive and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
We could all use a fresh start. The trials and tribulations of 2020 have been documented ad nauseam, no use in rehashing old stuff now, so it’s with great anticipation that we welcome in 2021. Just think, in 2021 it just might finally be time for Buffalo to brush off decades of futility and bask in the successes of the Josh Allen era as it unfolds. 2021 might see Lamar or Baker carry their teams deep into the Playoffs. Maybe 2021 is the year that Aaron Rodgers or Drew Brees win that elusive 2nd ring, or Rivers gets his chance to win his first. 2021 may be the year that KD reclaims his rightful place among the greatest active NBA players, or that we get to watch Steph on the court for the whole season, maybe scoring 62 or something? It’s not out of the realm of possibility to think that 2021 is the year Luka or AD win an MVP, or Ja sneaks into the conversation when he gets healthy. For that matter, neither is the idea of Giannis winning his first ring, or LeBron winning his 5th. Now for you skeptics who say January 1st is just another day, you’re right, time is contextual, but forgoing a discussion on the discrepancies of the Gregorian calendar, there’s a special kind of symbolism in the new year, the possibilities that despite whatever came before, something new lies ahead. The point is, in the immortal words of KG, “Anything is possible!” So sit back, the NBA season is already all the way up, while the NFL Playoffs are just getting going and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
My story is like that of many others this holiday season. The best laid plans plans to travel home and spend the holidays with the family were preempted by some pandemic, you may have heard of it, but needless to say, it’s obviously a huge bummer. So what’s a marooned sports fan to do over the holiday weekend? Well fortunately, the NFL and NBA have it all laid out for me, and with a nice holiday meal, it might be a pretty good weekend after all. Christmas Day I’ll wake to a full day of NBA action, including my Warriors vs the Bucks, and mix in a little Vikings/Saints around dinner time. Then Saturday we get an NFL special tripleheader, followed by a full slate of football on Sunday, and cap it off with MNF. Sprinkle in some more NBA throughout the weekend and that’s a pretty nice little holiday schedule. Not bad for making do over a Covid Christmas! So sit back, the NBA season starts today, the NFL is hurtling down the stretch drive and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Sneaky great sports weekend we’re coming off, and lots to talk about today, with NBA previews and Week 14 of the NFL season in the books, but first, a tribute to some great scheduling. Granted, the NFL action was hit or miss in Week 14, but my standards for football are pretty low; give me any two teams in an NFL game that means something and I’m in, so Thursday night’s Ram victory was good enough for me. Then Friday we got our first glimpses of NBA preseason, enough to tide me over til Saturday night and what I was really waiting for; the Warriors first preseason game. Now, I’d be watching under any circumstances, sure, but my anticipation was through the roof for this meaningless exhibition, and the payoff was extremely satisfying. It might not seem like much, but after all the Warriors have been through the past few years, seeing Wardell Stephen Curry take the court was a special kind of thrill. I was still buzzing as I coasted through the Sunday slate of NFL games, some good action here and there, but preseason hoops again preempted everything, as we got to see KD return to action for the Nets in another feel good moment. Wrap it up with the Bills flexing on the Steelers and a great Browns/Ravens tilt that went down to the wire, interspersed with the return of Zion on Monday, and it was sports fan nirvana! But the best part? This is what the sports calendar will look like for the next 2 months, hoops and football all week, every week, and while these NBA preseason games mean nothing in the standings, there was something magical about seeing some of those guys out there on the floor again and seeing the new teams together for the first time. The NBA is back baby! So sit back, it’s NBA preview time, the NFL is hurtling down the stretch drive and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
The pressure is on! In Week 12 in NFL, we saw a Broncos team playing without a real QB and a Ravens team missing 9 starters, including MVP QB Lamar Jackson, but even with decimated rosters, the games went on. It’s a race against time, and a virus, for the NFL, as they push on with their schedule through Covid and criticism, doing everything they can to keep the season on track. In the moment, the cliches all seem true; the, as they say, “optics” aren’t great. This is uncharted territory, and in choosing to push on, the League has had to make some tough decisions, but all in all, the season seems salvageable and I’d bet as much money as the league stands to gain that we get a Super Bowl. Hopefully the NBA has observed and learned from the NFL’s struggles and has a plan of their own ready to go, but the dynamics of an NBA season are so much different than those of an NFL season, and with smaller rosters, more star power, and multiple games per week, there will be a different set of challenges. While I’m confident in both leagues seeing their seasons through to the finish, I fully expect to hear more criticism of how the leagues are handling this unprecedented situation, but to sports fans I’d ask one simple question; would you rather have no NFL or NBA at all? Not me, I’m ready for a full winter of hoops and football, so if they’re gonna decide to play the games, bring it on, depleted rosters and all! So sit back, the NBA is less than 3 weeks away, the NFL is hurtling towards the stretch drive and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
From the Roundup Podcast to you and yours, best wishes for a happy and healthy Thanksgiving! We’re back in the studio this week, fighting through some technical issues, and we’re about to get with the Guru, Gabe Goldfield, to break down a busy weekend of NBA offseason action, which started with the NBA Draft and moved straight into a wild flurry of free agent signings. But just hours before it all got underway, the NBA world suffered a collective gut punch, agonizing along with Klay Thompson as we learned of his devastating, season ending Achilles injury. What followed was a universal outpouring of support from nearly every sports media pundit and outlet, which makes sense cuz Klay is as beloved an NBA player as anyone out there, but the love you could feel being expressed was a nice surprise. Get well soon baller. Meanwhile, the NFL elite continue to separate from the pack, but if you look close enough, you see that the balance of power leans heavily towards the AFC, and we can show our work with our updated tiers. So sit back, it’s a rapid fire NBA offseason, the NFL is barreling towards the stretch drive and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
We are doing something special here today on the show; I’m in Santa Cruz, chilling in person with Gaber a few days after enjoying a fabulous football Sunday at Casa Goldfield for Week 9 of the NFL season. As if that wasn’t awesome enough, we just got the news Saturday that the NBA will be starting the 2020-21 season on December 22, just a few short months after crowning the Lakers champs in the bubble. You know the motivation behind the decision, as Wu Tang told us, C.R.E.A.M., but to hoops aficionados, the why isn’t as significant as the fact that we’re gonna have Christmas Day basketball after all! As we said in last episode’s intro, life as we knew it pre-Covid may still be a ways off, but I guarantee you that sports fans are grateful for any semblance of normalcy that sports can offer us. So sit back, it’s the NFL at Midseason and the return of the NBA, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
While societies around the world are still adapting to a new reality seven months into this pandemic, very few things feel quite like they used to. That’s why it hit me last week, as we approached Week 7 of the NFL season and the World Series got underway, with the bizarro bubble NBA season over, at times it almost seems like a, dare I say, normal, pro sports fall in the US. After a while you get used to the masks and social distancing, you almost don’t notice it anymore, and as I followed the NFL and MLB this week, in proper context, there was something almost comforting about what a regular week it almost was in sports. And that’s what sports are really for, to provide respite from all of the real world issues you take on every day. So yeah, after what i think I can reasonably classify as a rough 2020, I’m jumping headlong into a classic David vs Goliath World Series matchup between the Rays and the Dodgers, and I’m enjoying every NFL moment just trying to figure out who might actually be a contender, and for a few hours at a time, everything seems as it should be. So sit back, it’s the NFL, the World Series and the omnipresent NBA, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Twenty years from now sports fans might read about the 2020 NBA campaign, about how the Association dealt with the Covid-19 pandemic by playing out their season in a bubble, and they’ll see that LeBron collected his 4th ring as the Lakers won the title. Jimmy Butler’s huge performances might even get a footnote in the history books as well, but what the records won’t show is how much fun this topsy-turvy hoops “bubble season” was. Dedicated viewers were rewarded with a packed schedule that would make the NCAA tournament seem modest in comparison. We got multiple games nearly every day for months, and down the stretch, got to mix in some MLB and NFL games as well. Never in my life as a sports fan have I experienced anything like it, and likely, never will again. And now we return to a more normal fall, as the NFL enters WK 6 and as MLB’s Playoffs wind down, and don’t get me wrong, there’s still plenty of sports, but forgive me a moment if I’m already feeling nostalgic about what an unlikely yet glorious summer it was for hoops heads. So sit back, it’s the NFL, MLB Playoffs and a farewell to the NBA, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
The batteries in my remote are worn out, my internet is struggling to keep up with multiple streams, and my couch has a large human size indentation, all the results of the Great Sports Overload of the Fall of 2020. To quote the great American philosopher Kanye West, “That’s why I’m in it and I can’t get out”. Ideally, one would practice restraint and choose a few delectable morsels from the veritable cornucopia of sports delights offered each and every night, but no, I have to sample them all. So it’s LeBron chasing down another ring one night, the plucky Rays going up against the villainous Yankees another, and if all goes well, a complete slate of NFL games over the weekend. And here’s your rationalization for watching it all: this is a once in a lifetime occurrence, so you have no choice but to ride it til the wheels come off! Which, given the ongoing situation with the Titans, is always lingering as a possibility! But in the meantime, sit back, it’s the NFL, the NBA Finals and MLB Playoffs, now eclipsing on your screens, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
And away we go! This is the very reason we do this show in the first place. We’re in the middle of unprecedented times in so many aspects of our lives, and as society tries to put everything back together again, so too does the sports world. For sports fans, the calendar suddenly becomes crowded with events, as each league rushes to complete their season. The NBA Playoffs roll on in Orlando, as the Heat and Lakers are set to face off in the Finals. The NFL season has come on strong, all gas, no breaks, per usual, and football Sundays almost feel normal. And to top it all off, here come the MLB Playoffs, starting Tuesday in an expanded tournament format. This is it, the great sports eclipse of 2020, and we’re strongly advising you to look directly into it and not to miss a second! So sit back, it’s the NFL, the NBA Playoffs and MLB Playoffs, all at once for the first time ever, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Alright, extenuating circumstances kept us off the mic last week, and there’s so much that happened around the sports world for us to catch up on, we have to just jump right in. First off, this little thing called the NFL is back, minus the usual crowds in the stands, but right on schedule. Week 1 felt almost normal, watching Mahomes and the Chiefs, Lamar and the Ravens, even Rodgers and the Packers dominate, but we got some pleasant surprises as well, as Kyler and the Cardinals, Josh Allen and the Bills, and the whole Washington Pro Football team showed big upside. On top of that, we’re also enjoying the unprecedented experience of watching the NBA Playoffs during football season, basically creating a perfect storm of sports viewing for fans. It’s Jimmy Butler vs the World, and also the Celtics, the Joker and the Nuggets vs the King and the Lakers, and football filling in the blanks. Who has it better than us? No-body! So sit back, it’s the NFL eclipsing the NBA Playoffs and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
For about 24 hours I, like many others, was thinking that the NBA season had ended. As Black Americans worked on processing the fact that another Black man had been the victim of another unwarranted police shooting, NBA players decided they’d had enough. As games were suspended all throughout the sports world, fan reactions ran the entire spectrum. Some were openly supportive, others critical, but what I, or anyone else, make of their decision is irrelevant. What is relevant is why they did it. It was first a reaction to grief, and then, a declaration of unity and strength, and a plea for help at the same time. Why would anyone want to play a game at THAT moment with feelings like those being so completely overwhelming? I love sports, I love the games, and I love basketball in particular, but if the human beings who play them can’t find the peace they deserve, I understand why they would walk away. In the meantime, the games go on, most likely with heavy hearts, but hope, as always, endures. So sit back, the players want to play and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
The NBA Playoffs look and feel different in the bubble, no doubt about it, but don’t be fooled; the competitiveness is contagious and the stakes are as high as ever. While the backdrops are reminiscent of the Vegas Summer League, the schedule feels like March Madness, and the intensity is all NBA. There was some doubt as to the validity of an NBA postseason in the middle of a pandemic, but as Round 1 progresses, it’s feeling more and more like the Playoffs we know and love. After all, there’s a whole roster of superstar players with impressive resumes for the Hall of Fame out there who have yet to secure the key to their legacy by carrying their team to title contention. Giannis, Harden, Embiid, AD, superstars every one of them, but they still have something to prove, and that desire, that need, that motivation, that’s what drives the NBA Playoffs. Bubble or no bubble, this year’s NBA title means as much to these players as any, and because the players bought in, the competition is fierce, and we the fans end up the real winners. So sit back, it’s NBA Playoff time once again, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
We’ve had two straight weeks of multiple NBA games every single day to close out the regular season, leading into another two weeks of daily quadruple headers starting on Monday and what do I do on the only day without basketball? That’s right, we’re doing a podcast about basketball. What can I say, the Playoffs start tomorrow, so today, it’s a full-blown, knock-down, drag-out Playoff preview. If we’re gonna settle in for hours of high stakes hoops every day, might as well be prepared and know what to watch for. You want specifics? First off, everyone wants to see if Dame can continue to carry his Blazers, but we also have Luka’s Playoff debut, Gobert vs Jokic in an epic battle for dominance of the paint, the OKC/HOU grudge match, and that’s just the beginning. It was a long road here hoops heads, and there were times the whole bubble concept was in doubt, but it looks like this season might actually be decided on the court after all. So sit back, it’s NBA Playoff time once again, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
I don’t want you to be worried, but the symptoms are all there; lethargy, lack of focus or attention, occasional hypertension, maybe a shortness of breath at times, but, again, don’t be alarmed, it’s not Covid that’s afflicting me. You see, since last Thursday, every day has featured multiple back to back NBA games, many of them matchup gems, and like a fiend having jonesed for over 4 months, I’ve just been on NBA OD. It’s painful to have to pull myself away from the TV, knowing I have real world responsibilities and can’t reasonably rationalize watching basketball for at minimum, 10 straight hours everyday. It’s ridiculous! But, uh, low-key, I hope it never ends, regardless of the fact that it’s turning me into Michael Anthony from the Bodega Boys Pod, fiending for that hot bag. So sit back, the NBA is returned, coming to you live every night from the bubble, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Even discounting my fanboy bias, all things considered, the NBA’s comeback is already an incredible accomplishment. After all the preparations, everything was looking good, with over a week of clean tests, a slate of scrimmages played without a hitch, and tonite, finally, after four long months, the season resumed. The Association has done everything in their power to assure their success and to keep the bubble intact, but there’s one last factor they’ll need to pull this off. The NBA has to convince fans to suspend their disbelief, to somehow complete the illusion that this is actually a real season. The bag is secure, the players are ready for action, the fans are jonesing for games to watch, but as it all plays out, will everyone buy in? The way it’s all lining up, this will either be the most memorable end to an NBA season ever, or the most forgettable. So sit back, the NBA season finally continues, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
For months, we as sports fans have collectively waited for the games we love to resume, patiently maintaining, and keeping on keeping on, as society dealt with much larger issues. While it was inevitable that sports would eventually return, the question was always, when, and under what circumstances? As plans were conceived, protocols enacted, deals brokered and preparations made, it actually started to seem like it was really happening. And now, here we are. Pro sports are back! MLB led off with a season-opening doubleheader Wednesday, while the NBA resumes their season in less than a week, and while we celebrate by binge watching nearly every game, I think we all realize how tenuous it all is, and how each sport faces challenges specific to their circumstances. But because of the financial implications, the show must go on, and I have a feeling that there will be no short supply of viewers. Early on, it’s the NBA that seems best prepared to handle these challenges; the bubble seems secure, with 100% of NBA personnel testing negative this week. Given the strict enforcement of bubble life, there’s a great chance we’re watching high level NBA action through October. MLB is back in action, but their players are out there, traveling from city to city, and how things play out for them will definitely influence how the NFL manages their return. Let’s face it, given the current conditions, each league’s season is a gamble, a gamble that most players seem willing to take, and considering how much I’ve missed baseball, football, and oh yes, pro hoops, I’ll be there for it all, watching each and every minute. So sit back, the Big Three in American sports are making their return and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
First off, apologies that it’s been three weeks since the last show, but when you do a podcast about sports and there are no games, content tends to run a bit thin. Sports is a world that is based in absolutes, wins vs losses and raw statistics, but without any actual games, all we’re left with is the theoretical. So we wait, we speculate, all the while running through all the hypotheticals for the the games’ eventual returns. And now we watch as the major sports leagues slowly start to make their way back, and while I’m sure many sports fans are encouraged and excited to see the action resume, a cloud of uncertainty still lingers. It’s not gonna be easy, it might not be pretty, but sports are gonna try to make a comeback. And if they do, maybe, just maybe, we might actually get to actually see Cam Newton in a Patriots jersey this season. So sit back, by all accounts, the games are returning and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Times have been tough, there’s no two ways about it. Even as the global pandemic shut down society a few months ago, we wondered how soon it would be before we could get back to normal. But after the murder of George Floyd triggered widespread social protest across the nation, the very definition of normal seems to be changing. Even as society slowly starts to reopen for business, a clear call goes out demanding an end systemic violence against people of color and for a new era of opportunity for those who have traditionally been left behind by society. Among the loudest voices calling for change have been those of professional athletes, and as we excitedly look forward to the return of the NBA, it’s important that we hear the words the athletes say. Not as role models, not as exceptionally skilled athletes, not as heroes, but as human beings. And these are human beings saying that they are hurting, that the people that they love are hurting, and asking you to listen to those whose voices aren’t heard. If you’re excited about the NBA coming back like we are, if you’re counting the days til play resumes, 52 for what it’s worth, remember what Jalen Rose wished for a few weeks ago, when he said: “I wish America loved black people as much as they love black culture”. Words to remember as we welcome black athletes into our homes this summer as we watch the Playoffs. Maybe we can really listen to what they’re saying while we enjoy the games. So sit back, times have been tough but a new day is coming, and spoiler, it includes real NBA action, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
22 years after his sixth and final title, Michael Jordan’s star shines just as bright as always. In the continued absence of live sports, The Last Dance has been a saving grace, providing sports fans with appointment viewing and for the most part, hitting all the right notes. Whether it’s the game highlights, the behind the scenes footage or simply the storylines that grab your attention, there’s been something to see for both avid hoops fans and casual observers alike. For those new to the story, there were plenty of plot twists to accompany all of the visual evidence anyone could possibly need to realize that they were watching the greatest of all time. For seasoned fans who saw it all go down the first time, 22 years is long enough to necessitate a refresher course in the story of His Airness. And what a story it was. Good enough to capture our attention and help us fill the void until the games return. In the meantime, sit back, social distancing goes on but we’ve had The Last Dance to break the monotony, there might be a light at the end of the tunnel, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
If there was ever a sign of the times for sports fans it’s this; every Sunday I prepare to watch The Last Dance like it’s the NBA Playoffs. I’ve got my beverage of choice, a whole menu lined up, and absolutely nothing else on the docket. And then, over the next few days, I’ll tune into my favorite sport podcasts and listen to a painstakingly detailed analyzation of everything I just watched, just like we were breaking down a game. That’s just where we are right now. Ten hours of historical documentation on the Greatest of All Time, Michael Jeffery Jordan, is keeping sports fans going while we wait for live action to resume. The NBA, NHL and MLB are all in holding patterns, planning for the moment to be right to get things going, but it’s just still too early to set any firm dates. And that’s how it is in the Covid-19 era. You learn to be patient, to accept that a virus doesn’t abide by our timetables, and to make the best out of what we have. For the next few weeks we get more MJ and the Bulls, we already got some Kobe and some Sir Charles, and we’ll look forward to some Reggie and some Shaq. For two hours each of the next two Sundays, the magic will be back, and after that, who knows, maybe we’ll get some good news. But in the meantime, sit back, social distancing goes on but The Last Dance is here to break the monotony and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Let’s face it, after weeks of self-quarantine and with so much uncertainty from day to day, a little escapism can sure do a lot of good. Sports fans got to enjoy some healthy anticipation, and a good deal of pay off, from what these days passes as an eventful week. Whether it was reminiscing about His Airiness and Co. with a look back at the '97-98 season in the Bulls documentary, welcoming Gronk back from retirement, or looking ahead at the future of the League through the lens of the NFL draft, even in the absence of live action sports, fans got a break from the present. If we’re lucky, this MJ doc might help us through these next four weeks and maybe we’ll see a light at the end of the tunnel. . . So sit back, social distancing goes on but The Last Dance & the NFL Draft are there to break the monotony and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Pandemic update, self-quarantine week 4, and there’s still no end in sight. It’s hard to believe that less than month ago our biggest concerns on this show were who was the true MVP of the NBA and which team could win 16 Playoff games. Today, it’s a new world, and we’ve all had to make some adjustments in a collective effort to right the ship. Physical distancing is the new reality, an all-too necessary inconvenience, but one that can, hopefully, stem the spread this Covid-19 pandemic. For sports fans, this new paradigm had demanded a shift in priorities, as we lose the games we love but accept the bigger picture. We miss the games, we want them back as soon as possible, but we’ve also had to accept that there is no timetable and that when they do return, things will be different. In the meantime, we wait out the storm, do our best as a society to protect our neighbors by doing everything we can to flatten the curve. But we can still dream, of 2-on-1 fast-breaks off the rebound, of long-range pull-up threes, of rookie phenoms and of unicorns winning rings, and we can hope beyond all reasonable hope, for MLB and NFL seasons that just might come to be, and maybe even some NBA Playoffs. So sit back, it’s a state of emergency, but sports still lives inside us all and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
We said last week that things were getting real, and with some time to acclimate to this sudden departure from all normalcy, we’re all adjusting to our new harsher realities. Life as we know it has changed, and for how long, no one can really say. It could be weeks before we see the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel, it could be months, but when it comes down to it, all we can do is take it moment by moment, make the best out of each day and do our best to slow this virus. For sports fans, this means the games won’t be returning in the immediate future, but it doesn’t mean that there isn’t anything to talk about. The start of NFL Free Agency was a welcome reprieve from more serious topics, providing sports talk shows desperate for content plenty of fodder for speculation, and for fans, something to look forward to; the idea that normality will return. There was some criticism out there that the NFL should have postponed Free Agency until the disaster had subsided, and that’s valid, but as a sports fan, just getting that glimmer of hope from seeing the teams start to form for the 2020 season, that we were preparing to move froward at some point, that was invaluable to me. So sit back, it’s a state of emergency, NFL Free Agency is somehow helping us get through it, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
I had a whole segment prepared for today’s show about NBA teams playing with something to lose come Playoff time, but as it turns out, there’s more on the line in the world today than rings and titles. The NBA has postponed the season, with good reason, and it makes sense that the rest of the sports world follow their lead in order to prevent even more widespread contagion. After all, sports are a mere diversion, and with real lives on the line, priorities must shift. I’m not sure where we’re going today, this obviously won’t be a normal show, but in the spirit of using this forum to follow the sports world, we’re gonna try to make some sense of everything that’s going on, so let’s keep on rolling . . .
If you want to understand why Luka vs Zion, Part 1 was so intriguing, just do the math; as Gaber texted me last night, Luka + Zion = Heaven. ‘Nuff said. Elsewhere in the Association, with around 20 games left to play in the regular season, Playoff seedings are coming down to simple mathematics and teams just need to add wins in order to move up. All credit to Giannis and his Bucks, but we’re looking at the potential for the most competitive title race in decades and every edge could count, so if you want that home court early on, it’s put up or shut up. With a 10 game lead in the East, the Bucks have wrapped up home court advantage, but expect a lot of shuffling in the 2-8 seeds and some statement wins down the stretch, as contenders build up momentum towards that inevitable trip to Milwaukee. In the West, things are a little more tight, as the Lakers have left a slight opening for the Nuggets or Clippers to make a move, however unlikely that might be, but what’s really intriguing about the Western Conference race is that only 4.5 games separate the 2 and 7 seeds. Any of these teams could realistically end up a top 4 seed with home court in the first round, and I’m betting on Luka and the Mavs to make that push. And that brings us to the 8 seed. Ja and the Grizzlies are sliding but Zion and the Pelicans haven’t been able to make up any ground, and time is running out for all of us for the chance to catch our first glimpse of Playoff Zion. Let’s go Pelicans, pick this kid up, carry him to the Playoffs, for fulfilling all of the prophecies while exceeding all expectations, and for all he brings to the game. It’s only fitting. This has, after all, become the Season of Zion. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Man, it’s good to have the NBA back. How is it that the three days without hoops after the All Star Break felt like weeks? It can only be that the product is so darned good. Regardless of how interminable the wait seemed, things picked up right where we left off, with Giannis & his Bucks and LeBron & his Lakers continuing their winning ways as frontrunners, and that’s all for the good, that’s where we are right now, but who might win the title is just one of many intriguing NBA storylines. Night to night, I find myself tuning in to watch some pretty middling teams with no real championship hopes just to catch a glimpse of the future. Right out of the break, for our viewing pleasure, Trae Young dropped 50 points on 25 shots to further validate his All Star selection, Luka Doncic keeps putting down 30 point near triple doubles every night and 6’6” Zion Williamson is posting up every big man in the Association at a historic level of efficiency, and every one of these phenoms are 21 or under! I’ve said it before, with all of the established talent and star power, we’re already in a Golden Age in the NBA, but when you look at all of the emerging young players, you can’t help but wonder if the best is yet to come. The NBA, it’s still FANtastic! So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA, well, almost, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
For the record, I’m a sucker for All Star Weekend, so my objectivity is questionable when it comes to critiquing the Association’s annual celebration of everything NBA. It is, for the most part, fairly predictable; you skim through All Star Saturday Night on the DVR, culling through the commercials and filler to get to the events. This year, we got a particularly memorable win by Buddy Hield in the 3-Point Contest, but the Dunk Contest was marred by controversy, as flaws in the archaic scoring system eliminated any chance of getting a clear winner. As for the game itself, anytime you put the best payers in the world on the court at the same time, I’m watching, even if what I’m seeing bears only a passing resemblance to the game we love. But this year, thanks to the Elam Ending, that now-famous game deciding math equation, we got a competitive game played at an intensity normally reserved for the Playoffs. Guys played defense down the stretch, players argued calls like the season was on the line, and in the end, Team LeBron, loaded with at least three of the best five players in the game, emerged as the victors. But if you watched the game, you don’t need me to tell you that the real winners were the fans. All Star Weekend was already fine, definitely worth my time but not necessarily appointment viewing, but if this is what we have to look forward to next year, I’m already counting down the days til next year’s event. The NBA, it’s fantastic! So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Talk about perfect timing. It’s been a long, wonderful winter spent following another great NFL season, and while I wouldn’t trade lazy football Sundays for anything, I’m about ready to focus my attention on the Association. We got an exciting Super Bowl comeback win for the Chiefs, followed by a bye week for sports fans, and now, we get the NBA All Star break to kick off the exciting stretch drive of the season, taking us right into the Playoffs. The first 55 games or so of the season were instructive, both for teams learning to come together and for the fans who follow the Association, but they were for the most part, low stakes affairs set in the periphery of football. But as LeBron and Giannis lead their All Star teams into Chicago this weekend, the NBA takes over center stage. The games start to mean a bit more, the contenders and the pretenders start to show their true colors, and we can finally trade in our speculation for cold, hard facts. Everything up to now has been a prelude for the real season, so buckle up hoops-heads, it’s that special time of year again for all of the hard-core basketball fans out there, when the NBA stands alone in the spotlight. So sit back, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Patrick Mahomes was having the worst game of his career. Through three quarters of Super Bowl 54, he was easily being outperformed by Jimmy Garoppolo, and I’m pretty sure the 49ers thought they had him beat. But there’s something special about this kid that on this particular Sunday evoked memories of the recently departed Kobe Bryant, specifically a story about how Kobe used to rig games in high school so his team was down and he could bring them back. As Mahomes carved up SF late in the game, he seemed to be channeling the Mamba. In true Kobe fashion, Mahomes is single minded in his pursuit of victory. Every game this postseason has seen Mahomes in a double digit deficit, and very game has ended with him emerging victorious. Now he stands alone, as the youngest QB ever to win an MVP, a Super Bowl, and to cap it off with a Super Bowl MVP. But what about the team on the other side of a comeback? Though they’d never say so, the 49ers had to be starting their celebration as the 4th quarter began, up 10 points and thoroughly dominating the contest. You could see it in their eyes, victory was so close they could almost touch it. Almost. Some will criticize Jimmy G for not making the plays, some will put the loss on Shanahan for his play calling and clock management, and some will point at the D for allowing Mahomes to make plays, but parsing the blame only deflects from the fact that the 49ers collapse was as a team. Mahomes and the Chiefs rose to the moment and not a single Niner was able to do anything about it. In the end, what we got was the NFL’s version of a referendum; the Chiefs were just the better team this year. So sit back, the NFL season is over and the Chiefs are the champs as the NBA All Star break approaches and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
As the NFL’s biggest celebration approached in the week leading up to the Super Bowl, it was sadness that gripped the sports world. The outpouring of grief for Kobe Bean Bryant & the 8 passengers who lost their lives was bigger, more significant than any story in sports could possibly be. Yes, Kobe was a star, and his high public profile made this story headline news, but it was his humanity that really struck a chord in our collective consciousness. It was the randomness of Sunday’s tragedy that reminded us of our mortality, and seeing the news that a family had lost a father and daughter really hit us where it hurts. We grieved for Kobe, for the devastated families who lost loved ones, but we also grieved for how tragedy can hit anytime, anywhere, anyone, no matter who you are. It didn’t matter if you were a fan or not, whether Kobe was the “beloved” superstar didn’t matter like it used to in the NBA arguments we all had over the years, if you felt human emotions, Kobe’s way-too-young death hit home. For once, credit the media for collectively handling a delicate situation with sensitivity and class, in particular Scott Van Pelt, who hosted one of the most memorable and real SportsCenters of my life Sunday night, & the emotional tribute from the guys on Inside the NBA on Tuesday, as the sports world came together to remember the Mamba and try to work through the grief. In the NBA, the games went on, with heartfelt tributes to Kobe from all around the Association, and on Sunday, the Super Bowl will still be played. The game was life to Kobe, and to Gigi too, and in many ways, the games are life to us, as we take our kids to practice, watch games with friends and family, or podcast about them with a buddy, and when you’re doing what you love, that’s when you’re truly alive. So rest in peace Mamba, you’ll be honored at the Super Bowl, the NBA season will play out as a tribute to your legacy and we’ll keep breaking down how it’s all unfolding, here on the Roundup Podcast, so after a moment of silence, let’s keep on rolling . . .
When the NFL regular season ended, it was time to say goodbye to RedZone, to 17 weeks of multi screen NFL viewing, to lazy Sundays on the couch with nothing to do but revel in the glory of watching football. But we still had the Playoffs, three more weeks of exciting games that were almost enough to make us forget, football season is almost over. It’s that time of year again, that moment of existential crisis football fans collectively feel as we face the end of another season. It takes a few weeks to get used to the change, but after a while, as the actual seasons turn and spring approaches, you learn to venture outside again and life moves on. I know it’s hard sports fans, I’ve been there, but I’m telling you as someone who knows things about sports, the NFL will be back. But in the meantime, we still have one more glorious football Sunday to enjoy, the high holiday of the NFL and the matchup couldn’t be better. The Chiefs endured an up and down season, with injuries to Patrick Mahomes and unsteady defensive play counterbalancing an exciting and explosive offense. Meanwhile, the 49ers were the model of consistency, pretty much staking their claim to the NFC in September and never looking back. Their defense is at times unblockable, impenetrable, unmovable and inextricable, and the running game, unstoppable, but their QB? In a word, unpredictable, just like this NFL season was, and today, we’re looking back at a campaign that was all over the map, with erratic betting patterns, trojan horse Playoff teams, sudden ascensions and a fallen dynasty. The big game is still a ways away, so no previews just yet; today it’s all about celebrating another great year and how we got here, to Chiefs/Niners in Super Bowl 54! So sit back, the Super Bowl matchup is decided, the NBA season is just getting going and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Title aspirations can end quickly in the NFL Playoffs; its one and done, and as the Ravens learned Saturday, even a 14-2 record earns you nothing more than the opportunity to advance. And the road to the Super Bowl is anything but easy to navigate, with potential hazards at every turn. The Ravens had home field advantage against the Titans, everything seemed aligned for them to advance, but the Tennessee defenders were as slick and stealthy as black ice on a winter’s road, and Lamar Jackson and the Ravens got caught slipping, just like the Patriots had done the week before. It’s by no means the end of the road for Lamar, he’ll be back in the driver’s seat before we know it, and next time, he might be better prepared for the hazardous conditions. Meanwhile, Derrick Henry was carrying his Titans like a human snowplow, unimpeded by any obstacles in his path to the Super Bowl and it doesn’t look like anything can stop him. So now we’re left with four teams, and the road to Miami goes through San Francisco and Kansas City, as the Niners host the Packers and the Chiefs host the Titans. SF and KC are prohibitive favorites, but TEN and GB offer some intriguing matchups. The Titans have defied all odds just getting to this point, and their run-first and defensive-oriented approach is diametrically opposed to the Chiefs aerial attack. And for the Packers, all hopes hinge on the performance of Aaron Rodgers, as the future Hall of Fame QB looks to silence his critics by getting that all-important second ring. And if we’ve learned anything this NFL season, it’s that you should expect the unexpected, and you can’t write off GB and TEN just yet. So sit back, the NFL Playoffs are unpredictable, the NBA season is just getting going and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Coming off maybe the most entertaining Wild Card Weekend ever, you have to be excited for the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs. With the fall of the Patriots, we’re guaranteed a new champ, and the field seems fairly open for a handful of contenders. But all of the winners from Wild Card Weekend will advance as road dogs, and in order to survive another weekend, they’ll need to move past last week’s wins and keep their eyes on the prize, cuz the matchups are tough. The Titans rode Derrick Henry to victory over the Pats, but face long odds and a far less favorable matchup vs the Ravens and Lamar Jackson. The Vikings are coming off a huge upset win in New Orleans, only to travel to SF to face the mighty Niners. Houston will need more magic from Deshaun if they’re gonna get by Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. And in what should be the Game of the Week, Danger Russ will go head to head with Aaron Rodgers at Lambeau. Look at the matchups; the top 5 QBs in the game are all still playing this week and we’re almost certain to see something special. And in the NBA, the news of the day is injuries; there’s a whole All Star roster of players inactive at the moment, and title hopes could likely be determined by who wins the war of injury attrition. So sit back, the NFL Playoffs are already just magnificent viewing, the NBA season is just getting going and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Happy New Year’s to everyone out there, may your 2020 be filed with joy and prosperity. And with the New Year, it’s out with the old, in this case, the NFL’s regular season, and in with the new, and that could only mean it’s Playoff time. Wild Card weekend starts off as it always does, with the AFC South champ in the early game. It’s the Texans hosting the wild card Bills, and from this angle, it looks like the Bills just might be the better team, so upset potential is definitely there. Speaking of upsets, the one all the pundits are predicting involves the defending champion Patriots, hosting the red-hot Titans. The Pats are in a rare WC weekend game, and have been known to struggle against defense-oriented, run-first teams. And that’s just the beginning. Sunday’s action kicks off with Vikings/Saints, with two legit NFC powerhouses facing off early. Both teams are supremely talented, and with the recent history between them, we might get some fireworks. And to close it all out, Russell Wilson will lead his overachieving Seahawks into Philly to take on the injury riddled Eagles. And if that wasn’t enough to sate even the most avid sports fan’s appetite, there’s an amazing NBA season going on as well! So sit back, the NFL Playoffs are here while the NBA season is just getting going and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
I just couldn’t stay away. Even with the holidays, traveling to see the family, we had to find a way to keep up with the NFL as the season winds down. With the Playoffs looming, there’s just too much going on, and there was no way we were gonna pass up the opportunity to break it all down; the schedules have been flexed, the seeding scenarios have become clear, and we have 10 games with possible Playoff ramifications this week. While the Ravens rest in the 1 seed, the Pats and Chiefs are both gunning for the 2 seed and home field advantage, while the Steelers, Titans and Raiders just want to get into the postseason. In the NFC, the 1 seed is up for grabs between the Niners, Packers, Saints and Seahawks, while the Cowboys and Eagles are playing to keep their seasons alive. It’s Week 17 in the NFL, we have games that matter and we’re just happy to be here talking football with you! And as if that wasn’t reason enough to get on the mic today, there’s a really intriguing NBA season going on as well. So sit back, it’s the Roundup New Year’s Special; the NFL season is wrapping up while the NBA season is just getting going and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
As we bring you our last episode of the year and close out 2019, we want to wish everyone out there a safe and happy holidays. We’re taking next week off to celebrate with our families, but as always, stay tuned, cuz no matter what the season, when we return in the new year, we’ll keep bringing you the best in sportstalk each and every week. But for today, it’s time for a little reflection, a look back at all the players, all the hustlers from all the leagues, that made 2019 special. The year started with Tom Brady and the Pats winning their 6th Super Bowl of the century, then we saw Kawhi and his Raptors, upsetting our Warriors in the NBA Finals, and of course, gotta credit the Nationals for the way they upset everyone on their way to their first World Series title. But what I’ll remember 2019 for most is how it transitions us into the 2020’s. The NBA, NFL and MLB all saw a huge influx in talent this year, as all the players came from far and wide to test their skills on the biggest stages. 2019 was the year that Giannis became an MVP, that Luka Doncic became a star and that Zion joined the Association. It was the year that Patrick Mahomes became the best QB in the league and then promptly lost the title to Lamar Jackson, but either way, both made the leap to the elite level. And in MLB, we watched as 20 year old Juan Soto led his Nats to the Series. Even as we close out the decade, with all of the emerging talent in all three leagues, I’m here to tell you there’s even better days ahead, and as these young players take over the sports world, chances are we’ll look back at 2019 as a sort of beginning of a new era of superstars. So sit back, it’s the Roundup Christmas Sports Extravaganza, the NFL Playoff race is underway, this NBA season is out of control entertaining, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Week 15 of the NFL schedule is kinda of a transition point in the season, and as the temperatures drop and the weather comes more into play, the action heats up with postseason positioning and we usher in winter football with meaningful games with Playoff implications. For most of the season, teams play in good weather, the occasional storm notwithstanding, but often in optimal conditions, and everyone takes the season one week at a time. Win or lose, it’s a long season, there’s always next week and to quote Bill Belichick, we’re looking ahead to Cincinnati. But at this point of the season, the elements are often in play, and for the contenders, every game counts. And what better way to welcome winter football back than to kick Sunday’s games off with a classic. The frozen tundra of Lambeau Field will be the setting when the Bears and Packers meet Sunday in the midst of a Playoff race, and it will be the 200th time these teams have faced off in a rivalry that dates back to 1921. Division rivals in a big game with Playoff implications, the possibility of snow, the perfect way to usher in the final chapter of the 2019 NFL season. Meanwhile in the NBA, the season is just heating up and the only thing cold is the ice running through the veins of my boy Luka Doncic. Outside of Giannis, no one is carrying their team more than the Slovenian Prodigy, HalleLuka!, and I have to say, the 20 year old has been the second best player in the league this season and I dare you to tell me he hasn’t. So sit back, the NFL Playoff race is underway, this NBA season is out of control entertaining, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
For fans of the Bills, 49ers or Ravens, it’s been a dream season, exceeding all but their most ambitious expectations. But for all of the feel good stories in the NFL this season, there have been a few letdowns as well, teams with high expectations that find themselves mired in mediocrity. After the Thanksgiving Day games and then tonight’s loss to the Bears, not a lot of Cowboys fans are feeling particularly thankful, even if the Eagles don’t find a way to take advantage of the opportunity. With three or four games remaining, there’s still time for these teams to get it together, maybe hit a lick and make a run at the title, but at this point of the season, it’s do or die. But for fans of the Bears or Chargers, the letdown occurred weeks ago, when it became obvious that there would be no repeat of last year’s success. And after all the preseason hype in Cleveland, there may not be a bigger letdown than the Browns. Meanwhile, about a quarter of the way into the season, nothing about the NBA has let me down, even my Warriors sporting the worst record in the Association. I’m all in on for the #1 pick next June, and more Ls equals more ping pong balls. Draft high, trade D'Angelo Russell and return Steph and Klay, we’re back in the championship business and you won’t be able to tell me nothing. But that’s next year, and for now, my attentions are All Around the NBA. Without the Warriors dominating, the Association is as wide-open as we’ve seen in years, and as a result, we have so many incredible storylines to follow. So sit back, the NFL Playoff race is underway, this NBA season is out of control entertaining, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
The annual holiday tradition of food, family, friends and football makes for an excellent reminder of all we have to be thankful for. Here at the Roundup, we have a lot to be grateful for, but today, we want to express our gratitude to you, the listeners, for tuning in and giving us this forum to discuss the sports we love. And there’s a lot to discuss. Along with full plates of turkey tomorrow, we have a full slate of NFL games as well, and I’m even thankful for the ugly Bears/Lions tilt we’ll all have on in the background as the turkey finishes roasting. Bills/Cowboys might be a good enough game to rouse us from a tryptophan-induced food coma, and if you can make it to the evening, the Saints and Falcons might provide some fireworks. And that’s only the beginning, because on Sunday we get Niners/Ravens and Patriots/Texans, with a MNF nightcap of Vikings/Seahawks. That’s a lot to be grateful for, if it weren’t for all the NBA action we get interspersed throughout the weekend, highlighted by one Slovenian Prodigy, HalleLuka!, facing off with the King on Sunday. So sit back, it’s an abundance of Thanksgiving weekend sports, the NFL Playoff race is underway, the NBA is dominating my sports consciousness, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
The insta-take culture is officially out of control. Each and every week the sports media takes us on an awards tour, handing out imaginary hardware to the MVP de jour or the best team of the moment, all based on recency bias. At various points in the season, the Patriots, Cowboys and 49ers have each been the best team in the League, and now, to many people, it’s the Ravens as unquestionably the team to beat come February. I know they’re playing well, and Lamar Jackson is a revelation at QB in Baltimore, and to hear some talk about them, you’d think they already punched their ticket to the Super Bowl. But there’s still a lot of football to be played, and there are still a couple of Patriots legends in their way. And as far as the MVP goes, the whole concept of the award is based on a player’s performance over the course of a whole season, so with 6 games still to play, how are we already deciding who deserves an end of the season award? Things can change quickly in the NFL, and over the next month and a half, we’re gonna get the answers we’re looking for, but while it’s all playing out, what we should be doing is observing and asking questions. Like, is the Ravens’ D really championship material, and can Lamar Jackson keep carrying his team through 16 games? And what will Tom Brady look like in Week 17? Does Dallas have a run in them? Can Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs get it together? With so much still upon the air, how can we even think we have all the answers yet? So sit back, the NFL Playoff race is underway, the NBA is back to dominating my sports consciousness, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
There’s a good reason franchise quarterbacks are like the Holy Grail for NFL teams, most recently illustrated on Monday Night Football’s Seahawks/49ers tilt. The difference between Russell Wilson and Jimmy Garoppolo couldn’t have been more obvious, as one QB virtually carried his team to victory, while the other was conspicuously unimpressive. As dominant as SF has been this year, these days a team is only as good as their QB. With the increased emphasis on the passing game, QBs are being asked to do more than ever, and it might be a while before we see a mediocre quarterback guide a run-heavy offense and dominant defense to another Super Bowl win. It’s no coincidence that the best teams in the NFL this season, outside of SF, have the best QBs in the game. Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Deshaun Watson, Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Drew Brees and Russell Wilson run the show for 7 of the best 8 teams in football. Sure, some teams think they have a franchise guy, Eagles, Rams, Vikings, Niners, I’m talking to you, but if you don’t already know you have one, you don’t have one. And speaking of franchise guys leading their teams, have I mentioned what Luke Doncic is doing in the NBA so far? Oh yeah, just about every week. Well, we’re doing it again. More Luka, and more NBA talk as well, cuz damn it’s good to have the Association back in our lives! So sit back, the NFL Playoff race is underway, the NBA is dominating my sports consciousness, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
I’m on a mission. Time and time again in this space, I’ve propped up a certain Slovenian NBA prodigy, HalleLuka, quite possibly to the point of redundancy, but until the entire sports world listens, I’ll continue to make my case. Luka Doncic is for real, and I’m excited to say, the NBA world has finally started to take him seriously. His incredible rookie year wasn’t enough for a lot of you out there, as many denounced his stats as the result of ball dominance on a terrible team, but if you watched him play, it was always easy to see something special in his game. But now, after a scorching start to his sophomore campaign, highlighted by a transcendent head to head duel with his idol LeBron James, in which he more than held his own, the kid is finally getting his props. He is a top 15 player in the Association right now, at the age of 20, with nowhere to go but up. So if you love basketball but haven’t watched Luka Doncic for a whole game, do yourself a favor and put in the time. It’s well worth it. Meanwhile, as the NFL enters the second half of the season, the push for the Playoffs really begins, and at this point, football fans would think they had a pretty good idea of who’s a contender and who’s a pretender. But I’m not quite sure any of us has a firm grasp on how well any of these teams stack up against each other. As much as we like to think we know what’s what in the NFL, no one could really see the Packers losing to the Chargers last week, or the Niners going 8-0 to start the year, or even the Falcons being this bad. But there’s still a lot of football to be played, and many fortunes to be lost or made. So sit back, we’re halfway through the NFL season, the NBA is back big time, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Sam Darnold appeared to be in the Halloween spirit a bit early this year, as millions of TV viewers watching his Jets a few weeks ago on a national broadcast against the Patriots overheard him muttering to himself that he was seeing ghosts on the field. Sure, the NE defense is scary good, and while there’s nothing supernatural involved, they can be terrifying for opposing QBs. Speaking of fear, there was a time when the baseball world lived in a collective fear that prized Nationals pitching prospect Stephen Strasburg would see his career derailed by injuries, and for years the Nationals protected him from any potential overuse. But their much criticized caution payed off big time this year, as Strasburg finally emerged as a true ace and dominated both the regular season and Playoffs, leading them to a championship with two incredible World Series wins. And then there’s my boy, Luka Doncic, the Prodigy, HalleLuka, at 20 years old already a nightmare for opposing teams. Sure he was rookie of the year last season, but what’s really scary to me is how many pundits out there who supposedly follow the Association are still sleeping on how good he is. If you’re not watching the Mavs this year, you’re missing out on watching an All-NBA player in the making, now teamed up with a star running mate in Kristaps Porzingis, turning into a monster on the court in front of our very eyes. Like an entertaining horror movie, these guys are scary good, and always a bit of a thrill to watch. On the other hand, seeing Steph Curry go down with a wrist injury was simply a horror show, a trick with no treat, and from all Warrior fans, get well soon baller. So sit back, we’re halfway through the NFL season, the NBA is back, the World Series was historic and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Now, back to our regularly scheduled programming. It’s been a wild week in the sports world, with the NFL season rolling along, MLB Playoffs in full swing, and in order to properly welcome the NBA back into our lives, we had to put out a special bonus podcast to fit it all in! It’s a sports fan’s favorite time of year, the annual convergence of the Big Three of American sports, and this Sunday marks a special day on the sports calendar, what I like to call the sports eclipse, where we get a full slate of NFL games, a World Series game, as well as multiple NBA games to watch. In the NFL, good matchups are few and far between, but Panthers/Niners could be good, and Browns/Pats will likely draw some ratings. In the Series, we should, if it’s not a Nationals’ sweep, get a rematch of GM1’s battle between aces Gerrit Cole and Max Scherzer, always a possibility to see a historical postseason pitching duel. And in the NBA, it’s my Warriors visiting OKC, and HalleLuka, my boy Luka Doncic vs the Blazers, so I wouldn’t be surprised if it was early season hoops dominating the main screen in my house that night. If you want find me Sunday, on the couch is your best bet. The sports eclipse is rare, it’s beautiful, and unlike an actual eclipse, I’m actually encouraging everyone to watch. So sit back, the NFL season nears the midway point, the NBA is back, the Nationals are dominating the World Series and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Sure, we just wrapped up Week 7 in one of the most unpredictable NFL seasons we’ve seen in a long time. And yeah, sure, the World Series starts tomorrow and we have a great matchup between the Astros and the Nationals. But all of that can wait. The moment we’ve really been waiting for is here. The NBA season has finally arrived, so we’re back with a special bonus episode continuing our season previews, breaking down the Western Conference favorites and how the competition stacks up between all of the West’s dynamic duos. The Clippers have a monster roster but how well they do depends on how much Kahwi and Paul George actually play. The Lakers boast two of the game’s biggest stars, but is the roster deep enough to support them? Can the Jazz or the Nuggets make the leap, how will the Warriors and Rockets adjust to significant roster changes, and which up and coming team can grab the 8 seed? Stay tuned and find out, cuz today, it’s the NBA, all NBA and nothing but the NBA. So sit back, the Association has finally returned to our lives and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Fall football Sundays, the weather turning crisp, Redzone on one screen, the Game of the Week on the other, the days were golden. Or maybe that was just the number of flags being thrown each play. And the missed calls don’t help either, but the real problem with football Sundays is that the games just keep getting stopped in mid-action, giving the viewer a stunted experience with no real flow. We all want for refs to get the calls right, and with replay review rules in a constant state of flux, their job becomes much harder, but there must be something the League can do to improve officiating. With the way the season has played out so far, a lot of middling teams that will be fighting for Playoff spots, every call could be the one that affects the outcome of a critical game, so let’s figure out a way to let the players decide it. It’s time to do away with replay review, and to change officiating as we know it altogether by moving into the 21st century and embracing the available technology to help get things right. Meanwhile, as Week 7 kicks off, Patrick Mahomes exits with a knee injury on Thursday Night Football, and for about 24 hours, Patriots fans might have been making early Super Bowl plans. But for those who want a more competitive AFC race, and for those who just love watching great players, good news came Friday, in the form of a clean MRI for Mahomes. He may miss a few games rehabbing, but he’ll be back soon to see if he can’t stop the Pats AFC Manifest Destiny. So sit back, the NFL continues to be unpredictable, MLB Playoffs are bringing the excitement back to baseball, the NBA is on deckington and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
What if there’s only one truly good team in the NFL this year? With all the talk of parity in the recent years, we’ve come to expect to see a handful of championship caliber teams each season, and this year was no different. Everyone held the Chiefs in the highest regard, the Saints seemed due for a title run, the Eagles were healthy and there seems to be a handful of potential contenders as well. But through five weeks of action, its starting to look like it’s just the Patriots and then everyone else. Whether due to injury or some shortcoming, to this point, no other team has shown that they might have what it takes to unseat the champs. KC’s O behind Patrick Mahomes is nearly unstoppable, but the D is highly questionable. The Saints are missing Drew Brees, the Eagles are up and down . . . is there any team that can measure up to the champs? Meanwhile, MLB’s Playoffs got off to an exciting start, with three Game 5’s and a few upsets to boot. And if that weren’t enough to sate our sports jones, the NBA has returned, albeit in preseason form, and definitely not in China. So sit back, the NFL season is nothing like we expected, MLB Playoff are bringing the excitement back to baseball, the NBA is on deckington and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
Does the NFL ever get a bit too predictable for you? The Patriots and Chiefs keep winning, the Dolphins and Bengals keep losing, you start to think you’ve seen this all before. But then Week 4 happens, all hell breaks loose and everything you thought you knew goes out the window. Underdogs of the NFL, please step up and let the upsets commence. It all started on Thursday Night Football, as the Eagles went to Lambeau and somehow upset the Pack. Then on Sunday, we saw Baker and the Browns go into Baltimore and roll the revamped Ravens. The upstart Bucs put up double nickels to obliterate the undefeated Rams in LA, undrafted backup QB Kyle Allen and the Panthers go into Houston and beat the Texans, the Titans exposed the struggling Falcons at home. . . no home field seems safe after what we saw last week. You wanted thrills, you got them, but after the Week 4 roller coaster ride, you may have had to trade in your beer for some Dramamine. It just goes to show, the old adage “any given Sunday” exists for a reason and you can never get too comfortable predicting the outcomes in the NFL. But after four weeks of action, some weaknesses have been exposed and some strengths revealed in certain NFL teams, and maybe, just maybe, these can help us make some sense out of what we’ve seen so far. So sit back, the NFL season is already out of control, MLB Playoff are underway, the NBA is on deckington and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling . . .
We’re all glad the NFL is back. Lazy Sundays, (sometimes) exciting prime-time matchups, the thrill of competition, and at the end of it all, the stories. Daniel Jones is a huge feel good story after his debut Sunday, and to say he shocked the world might only be a slight exaggeration. The Niners and Bills have been feel good stories as well, surprising everyone with 3-0 starts. But not every plot line is so idyllic, and some team’s storylines have viewers wondering “what happened?” Everyone would love to know what happened with Antonio Brown, but it’s up to the courts to figure that one out. What I want to know is what happened to the Eagles. They were among the Super Bowl favorites coming in, but at 1-2 and looking up at a loaded Cowboys team, something’s gone wrong. And while we’re at it, what happened to the Chargers, coming off a 13-3 season, or the Browns, or the Falcons, or the Panthers? These teams were supposed to be good. And while we’re at it, what happened with NFL officiating. After multiple high profile miscalls, the NFL seems to have responded by calling more penalties, but overcompensation can’t erase past mistakes. The only result of refs calling tighter games is a general loss of flow in the action, which negatively affects both the play on the field and the viewer’s experience. We already love the NFL, no need to sell us. Just let us enjoy the games, and the stories, on those perfect lazy Sundays. So sit back, the NFL season is already out of control, MLB pennant races are in full swing, the NBA is on deckington and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling…
Last week we warned against Week 1 overreactions in the NFL, advising caution in evaluating early season performances. But there are certain events that transcend the subjective, specific turning points in a team’s fortunes that will objectively alter our outlooks moving forward. Big Ben going out for the year for the Steelers? Thats a turning point, and to say it basically eliminates them as contenders, well, that’s no overreaction. Eli Manning being benched in favor of rookie Daniel Jones is a turning point for a franchise that has had the same QB for the past 16 years, but contrary to Giants fans’ expectations, it won’t be a turning point in their season. In fact, the Giants will likely be worse as they play out their schedule, but moving forward, change was a necessity. And in Jacksonville, the Jaguars face a turning point for their franchise, but whether it’s for better or for worse remains to be seen. If the team trades Jalen Ramsey, I see things getting worse, but maybe the situation can be improved with a coaching change instead. After Week 1 we were just getting our bearings, but as the games plays out, certain teams hit turning points in their seasons, and you really start to get an idea of where each team is heading, for better or for worse. So sit back, the NFL season is already out of control, MLB pennant races are in full swing, the NBA is on deckington and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling…
With the opening slate of NFL games in the books, naturally, what followed was the inevitable, time-honored tradition of Week 1 overreactions. Everyone warns against jumping to conclusions after just one game, it's everything or nothing, never or forever, but everyone seems to do it anyways, so today, we’re debunking (and maybe bunking; is that a word?) all of these overreactions. Are we really shoveling dirt on the Bears, the Falcons, the Steelers and the Texans’ seasons after one game? Remember back to last season, when the Texans, Colts, Saints, Seahawks and Bears all lost WK 1 and still made the POs, so lets not get too carried away. Yes, Mitch Trubisky looked less than capable of running the Bears’ offense, but the D was monstrous, and yes, Baker Mayfield got pounded into the turf, when he wasn’t throwing picks, but that was on the offensive line, and if you don’t think Baker bounces back against the Jets this week, my boy has a surprise for you. And no, despite his emerging greatness, Lamar Jackson likely won’t lead the Ravens to 16-0. And then there’s the Patriots. . . so sit back, the NFL is back in a big way, USA Basketball takes a big L, and we’re breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let’s get rolling…
I guess it’s to be expected in the Communication Age, but the usual summer sports wasteland was unseasonably eventful. The NBA just refused to go away after the Finals, with more than a month of headline worthy transactions coming through well into July. By that time, NFL training camps were opening and the teams just rolled into the preseason. Meanwhile, MLB was always on in the background, the ever-present soundtrack to the summer, now streaming from my phone instead of from a radio. No summer sports drought this year, and in the blink of an eye, the sports seasons change and it becomes prime time. And it all starts tonight, as the NFL regular season kicks off with the Packers and Bears, so let the games begin! This is it sports fans, the moment we’ve all been waiting for, and as always, we’re here for you, each and every week, covering each and every NFL game, the coming NBA season, and occasionally sprinkling in some MLB talk as the Playoffs approach. So sit back, the NFL season is finally arrived and we're breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
Over the past few weeks, we’ve set out to preview the upcoming NFL season and prognosticate the outcomes. We started in the East, with what appears to be another clear path to a division title for the Patriots, and another knock-down, drag-out brawl between the rival Cowboys and Eagles. From there, we set our sights out West, eying the potential battles between the Chargers and Chiefs, and the Rams and Seahawks. Last week, we went down South, both divisions loaded with contenders, and Gaber was super-high on the Colts, but who knew Andrew Luck would suddenly walk away from the game just weeks before the season? Just goes to show how everything can change in an instant, how fluid the NFL really is. So we have to keep that in mind as we move on to the North, and what look to be the two most competitive divisions in football. In the AFC North, the Browns are the new public team, the Steelers are the favorites, but can Lamar Jackson and a stellar D carry the Ravens to a division title? And in the NFC North, expectations are high for the Baby Bears, but Aaron Rodgers is back in the saddle for the Packers, and you can’t sleep on the Vikings. We’re gonna make a lot of calls here, but the only thing we really know for sure is that something unexpected is bound to happen to spoil the season for some unlucky team. So sit back, the NFL season is less than a week away, real football is almost here, and we're breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
We all know that NFL quarterbacks get the big bucks, and there’s good reason why. If you look at the QB situations of various teams, the differences between the sure things and the question marks at the position are the difference between the contenders and the would -be’s. The Pats have Tom Terrific, the Chiefs, Mahomes, the Saints, Drew Brees, so you know they’ll be fine, but what if your star QB is injured, like Andrew Luck or Cam Newton? Suddenly your Super Bowl contender may be looking in from the outside. In the South, AFC and NFC alike, there are more question marks than sure things at QB, as we wait to see if Marcus Mariota, Jameis Winston, Deshaun Watson and Nick Foles have what it takes to lead their talented teams to the Playoffs, and whether Luck and Newton can stay upright through January. In the NFL, now more than ever, it’s a QB’s world, and we’re all just living in it. So sit back, the NBA news cycle has finally slowed but MLB is in the dog days of summer, the NFL season is rapidly approaching, and we're breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
It’s just like Eric Dickerson said on the Dan Patrick show the other day; “you can smell football season in the air”. Even as Major League Baseball slogs through the dog days of summer, you can just sense that big things are coming. September approaches, and with it, MLB pennant races, the NFL season and NBA training camps. In a matter of weeks we’ll go from the slowest time of the sports calendar to the most exciting, as the Big Three in American sports near their annual October convergence, the only time of year when all three are active. For the moment, the indefatigable NBA news cycle has slowed, but MLB pole positioning has started and NFL training camps are in full swing, and today, we’re looking at the West Divisions of the NFC and AFC, loaded with contenders, like the Chiefs, Chargers and Rams, as well as storylines, like those out of San Francisco, Arizona, Seattle and Oakland. The long, hot summer days just seem to grind by sometimes, but there’s plenty of action and excitement to look forward to. So sit back, the NBA news cycle has finally slowed but MLB is in the dog days of summer, the NFL season is rapidly approaching, and we're breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
In a sports era where everyone seems to be testing the free agent market or holding out in order to “secure the bag”, leaving money on the table seems counter-intuitive. But when a legend like Tom Brady routinely signs for less than market value, he’s giving his team an advantage in the form of the opportunity to spend more on other players, and you’ve seen how that’s worked out for him. You can’t fault any player for wanting to make as much as possible in their uncertain career window, but it’s no coincidence that the most successful teams often have the most favorable contracts. Even the GOAT, Michael Jeffrey Jordan himself, the richest American pro athlete ever, was paid under market value most of his career. And that brings us to the Golden State Warriors and Draymond Green, signing for well under market to keep the Warriors core together. A lot has to go into the decision to leave up to $100 million on the table, but we think we might have some idea of why Day Day chose to take a discount to stay in the Bay. So sit back, the NBA wheels keep turning, the NFL season is rapidly approaching, MLB has the spotlight and we're breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
After a particularly tumultuous ending to the Warriors season, what looked to be a bleak summer for Bay Area sports fans has suddenly taken a turn. With the NBA offseason fading and the NFL season still over a month away, the Giants and A’s have stepped up to capture the imaginations of Northern California sports fans. Despite unfavorable outlooks and slow starts, both teams from the Bay suddenly find themselves eyeing playoff spots, but what kind of chances would these fringe playoff teams have in the postseason against the likes of the Yankees, Astros or Dodgers? Better than you think. In the NFL or NBA, an underdog making a prolonged playoff run is rare, but this is MLB. Get in the playoffs, get hot at the right time and any team could win it all. Sure, the Bay Area is mourning the departure of Kevin Durant, but it’s nothing a Giants or A’s postseason run wouldn’t cure. So sit back, the Summer of 2019 Free Agent Extravaganza is over, the NFL season is approaching, MLB has the spotlight and we're breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
How many times have I proclaimed my love for MLB in this space over the years? Too many to count, and I’ve told and retold the story of how my grandparents Ross and Barbara instilled a love for the SF Giants in me from the tender age of 5. But there’s something happening here with baseball, there’s something wrong, and I know it’s not just me who is noticing. Here we are 100 games into the season, yet from Opening Day the NBA has grabbed all the headlines and hot takes. And now that the Summer of 2019 Free Agent/Draft/Trade Extravaganza has wrapped up, the NFL training camps are open and football has started to take over. And there are some great stories in MLB, despite the Yankees and Dodgers being the most boring of frontrunners, like the Rays’ creative use of their bullpen helping to revitalize a moribund franchise, or the Twins and Braves resurgence, and hell, even my Giants are back from the dead. Christian Yelich and Cody Bellinger are having dueling historic seasons, there’s a whole crop of young talent, but on the national stage, MLB just doesn’t seem to ring bells. There’s a whole lot to unpack there, but it’s slow summer in the sports world so we’ve got plenty of time to try to make some sense of it all. So sit back, the Summer of 2019 Free Agent Extravaganza is over, the NFL season is approaching, MLB has the spotlight and we're breaking down how it’s all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
It’s been everything we expected and more. The biggest NBA offseason in history has offered a little bit of everything, from future Hall of Fame free agents choosing their new teams, to trades of All-NBA caliber players, to the dawning of the Age of Zion. Never has this much talent been reallocated throughout the Association. The Board Man’s decision to go to the Clippers creates a log jam of contenders in the West, but through his unexpected behind the scenes machinations, Kawhi has put himself in the best possible situation and has called out the league. The Warriors are depleted, the Raptors lost Kawhi, but the Jazz, the Sixers, the Nuggets, the Pacers and yes, even the Lakers are on the rise, and don’t forget about the Blazers, Bucks and Celtics, still hanging around. And then, just when we thought the offseason madness was winding down, we get a mega-trade between the Rockets and Thunder, as the two teams swap discontented point guards. It’s gonna be an exciting season . . . oh wait, I’m getting ahead of myself, it’s only July. We’re gonna have to wait til October to see how this all plays out, and we may still see another big move if OKC decides to ship out Chris Paul. But in the meantime, we still have MLB, and what’s that, is that the NFL’s music I hear. So sit back, the Summer of 2019 Free Agent Extravaganza is all but in the books and we're breaking down how it all unfolded, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
It’s the moment NBA fans have been waiting for all season long; the start of Free Agency. Not the All Star Game, featuring all the best players on the planet on one court; not the Playoffs, the highest level of basketball played anywhere, ever. The most anticipated event of the season is not an actual basketball game, but rather the soap opera around the Association and it’s stars. Since the opening tip last October, speculation on where the top free agents might end up has been a daily staple of sports talk; heck, even people who don’t actually watch NBA games can be counted on to weigh in on the behind the scenes machinations from around the league. So here we are, a live pod, from the opening hours of Free Agency and so far it’s been world altering with Kyrie to the Nets, Kemba to the Celtics, Klay staying with the Warriors and DeAngelo Russell to join him in the Bay, and Jimmy Butler to the Heat, but the biggest story of course is Kevin Durant’s decision to leave the Warriors to join Kyrie in Brooklyn. And that leaves Kawhi, sitting out the first day of free agency, and keeping the fans in suspense. So sit back, the Summer of 2019 Free Agent Extravaganza is underway and we're breaking down how it's all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
It’s the moment NBA fans have been waiting for all season long; the start of Free Agency. Not the All Star Game, featuring all the best players on the planet on one court; not the Playoffs, the highest level of basketball played anywhere, ever. The most anticipated event of the season is not an actual basketball game, but rather the soap opera around the Association and it’s stars. Since the opening tip last October, speculation on where the top free agents might end up has been a daily staple of sports talk; heck, even people who don’t actually watch NBA games can be counted on to weigh in on the behind the scenes machinations from around the league. So here we are, a live pod, from the opening hours of Free Agency and so far it’s been world altering with Kyrie to the Nets, Kemba to the Celtics, Klay staying with the Warriors and DeAngelo Russell to join him in the Bay, and Jimmy Butler to the Heat, but the biggest story of course is Kevin Durant’s decision to leave the Warriors to join Kyrie in Brooklyn. And that leaves Kawhi, sitting out the first day of free agency, and keeping the fans in suspense. So sit back, the Summer of 2019 Free Agent Extravaganza is underway and we're breaking down how it's all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
It’s the moment NBA fans have been waiting for all season long; the start of Free Agency. Not the All Star Game, featuring all the best players on the planet on one court; not the Playoffs, the highest level of basketball played anywhere, ever. The most anticipated event of the season is not an actual basketball game, but rather the soap opera around the Association and it’s stars. Since the opening tip last October, speculation on where the top free agents might end up has been a daily staple of sports talk; heck, even people who don’t actually watch NBA games can be counted on to weigh in on the behind the scenes machinations from around the league. So here we are, a live pod, from the opening hours of Free Agency and so far it’s been world altering with Kyrie to the Nets, Kemba to the Celtics, Klay staying with the Warriors and DeAngelo Russell to join him in the Bay, and Jimmy Butler to the Heat, but the biggest story of course is Kevin Durant’s decision to leave the Warriors to join Kyrie in Brooklyn. And that leaves Kawhi, sitting out the first day of free agency, and keeping the fans in suspense. So sit back, the Summer of 2019 Free Agent Extravaganza is underway and we're breaking down how it's all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .
With the beginning of Free Agency just days away, big decisions loom for some of the biggest names in the NBA, as guys like Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson and Kemba Walker approach diverging roads in their respective career paths. Never before has there been so much talent on the market in the Association, the potential impact is huge, so the stakes are high for free agents and everyone wants to choose correctly. I was an English major, so this whole situation draws parallels to the narrator in Robert Frost’s classic poem, The Road Not Taken. The Free Agents have come to a fork in the road, and are face to face with the unknown future, at the same time knowing their decision will have huge repercussions throughout the league. Do you take the supermax and lock down your future, or do you gamble on yourself with a one year contract? Do you stay or do you go? And what goes into the decision? Is it the money, the team, the city, or not one, but all three? Or will it make all the difference that you took the path less traveled by? Only time will tell, but we’ll all be watching as the first few pieces fall into place for next season in the Association. So sit back, it’s momentarily quiet in the Summer of 2019 Free Agent/Trade/Draft Extravaganza, but we're still breaking down how it's all unfolding, next on the Roundup Podcast, so let's get rolling. . .