Pound The Rock: Recent Episodes
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theScore's Joseph Casciaro and Joe Wolfond break down the biggest storylines and hot topics in basketball.
For the final episode of the show, we’re joined by a quintet of returning guests to discuss the various trends shaping the NBA’s present and future:1:19 - Will Lou on potential rule changes, the league’s changing media landscape, and the influence of Nick Nurse’s Raptors teams.41:09 - TrillBroDude on the two sides of the Joel Embiid discourse, the marginalization of "unitaskers," and the future of Slop in a 2nd-apron world.1:24:44 - James Herbert on this age of skilled bigs, the new possession game, and defense getting increasingly weird.2:06:20 - Dan Devine on defense as a weak-link system, positional size and the phasing out of small guards, Julius Randle and the state of the power forward position, and trying to solve the Cavs’ big puzzle.2:44:25 - Seerat Sohi on the 3-ball as the last great paradigm shift, offensive rebounding, the homogenization of shot profiles, and the importance of stretch 5s.3:28:49 - Farewells and fan shoutoutsThank you all for listening!
Paul George to the Sixers, Klay Thompson to the Mavericks, Mikal Bridges to the Knicks, Chris Paul to the Spurs, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to the Magic, and much more! It's our annual breakdown of the biggest moves of the offseason so far.
We start this week's episode with an announcement about the future of PTR, before delving into some leftover Finals thoughts, including potential roadblocks for the Celtics and Mavs in the near and distant future. Then we assess the Alex Caruso-Josh Giddey swap for the Thunder and Bulls, wonder what the next move might look like for OKC, talk Pascal Siakam and Malik Monk's early extension agreements, the lack of such an agreement for Paul George, major coaching decisions in Detroit and L.A., and more.
We eulogize Jerry West, dig into Boston's commanding 3-0 lead over Dallas in the NBA Finals, and discuss Dan Hurley's decision to reject the Lakers' $70-million offer.
The Celtics looked very much the part of historically dominant team in Game 1 of the Finals. How did they neutralize the Mavericks, and what reasons for optimism might Dallas have going forward?
We break down what went wrong for Minnesota and Indiana after great seasons and runs to the conference finals, and what comes next for both teams. Then we dig into a scintillating Finals matchup between Boston and Dallas.
Our early takeaways from the Eastern and Western Conference finals, where the Celtics are (mostly) taking care of business against a(nother) overmatched and undermanned opponent, and the Mavs again showcased their newfound adaptability by grinding out a Game 1 win over the Wolves
After a week off, we check in on the wild Nuggets-Wolves rollercoaster ride and the tactically fascinating Mavs-Thunder clash as those Western Conference series hurtle toward their endgames. Then we shift over to the less interesting East, where the Celtics continue to elicit shrugs as they cleave through their bracket, the Cavs have some pressing offseason questions to answer, and the shorthanded Knicks try to survive the fast-paced Pacers.
We eulogize teams in Philadelphia, Milwaukee, Phoenix, and the Lakers, and honor an epic series between the Knicks and Sixers. Plus, we previewing second-round matchups - get ready for Knicks-Pacers and Wolves-Nuggets!
With every first-round playoff series at least two games deep, we check in on Knicks-Sixers (4:58), Nuggets-Lakers (23:55), Thunder-Pelicans (35:57), Cavs-Magic (43:07), Bucks-Pacers (48:10), Clippers-Mavs (52:52), Wolves-Suns (1:02:57), and Celtics-Heat (1:13:16)
Jontay Porter gets a lifetime ban, a number of stars limp into the postseason, and we (quickly) break down the six first-round series that are already set.
On our final episode of the regular season, we wonder what's up with Kawhi Leonard's knee injury, consider the implications of Giannis Antetokounmpo's calf strain, discuss Karl-Anthony Towns' impending return, and break down Jrue Holiday's extension. Then, we hand out some regular-season hardware.
Who's the second-best team in the East? Who's the fourth-best team in the West? Is there any path to a deep run for the Lakers or Warriors? What's with Jalen Green and the Rockets taking off without Alperen Sengun?
The Pelicans lose Brandon Ingram, Deandre Ayton loses sleep, and we check in on how all of this year's in-season trades have worked out.
On this week's episode, we're talking about two mirror-image teams having up-and-down seasons, and the threat level they might pose to top teams in the postseason. Are the Dallas Mavericks or Miami Heat ready to be playoff spoilers?
Last week we talked about the league's most volatile and confusing teams. This week we're talking about this season's exemplars of stability: the Timberwolves, Thunder, Nuggets, and Celtics.
How the Clippers, Warriors, Bucks, Cavs, Pelicans, and Kings have confused us thus far this season, and why each team is so fascinating to watch down the stretch. Plus, has Trae Young played his last game for the Hawks?
We dig into some lingering post-deadline thoughts and observations on the 76ers, Lakers, Warriors, Heat, Suns, Jazz, Mavericks, and Spurs - Trae Young to San Antonio, anyone? In addition, with the All-Star break upon us, we look forward to some of the most interesting second-half storylines to monitor.
We break down some of the most interesting moves and non-moves from a low-key trade deadline, focusing on the Knicks, Mavs, 76ers, Celtics, Thunder, Pistons, Bulls, and Raptors
How trading for Steven Adams can help Houston a year from now, more on Doc Rivers' postseason woes, and reflecting on Joel Embiid's knee injury, the games-played minimum for major awards, and the continued scoring explosion around the league. To conclude, we get to our biggest All-Star snubs and disagreements, as well as our thoughts on Donovan Mitchell and the surging Cavs.
Joel Embiid adds to his MVP resumé, Karl-Anthony Towns somehow comes out a loser while dropping 62, the Heat land a great-fitting Terry Rozier, and Doc Rivers replacing Adrian Griffin is downright hilarious (even if it ultimately makes sense).
Digging into the perfect fit between Pascal Siakam and the Pacers, how the Raptors got to a point where this was the best package available to them, and what's next for Indiana and Toronto.
We start with quick-hitters on the win-win Raptors-Knicks trade and the suddenly elite RJ Barrett, Utah's incredible turnaround, why a Markkanen trade could still theoretically be on the table, and a non-OKC destination that might make sense. Then we discuss Ja Morant's season-ending injury, a lost season in Memphis, and potential big-picture silver linings. We talk Kawhi Leonard's 3-year extension, which feels like a coup for the Clippers, and Erik Spoelstra's 8-year extension, which he earned by continuing to coach up a snakebitten Heat team that's been better than it has any right to be. Finally, some early impressions of the Suns' big 3, and some of the challenges they're running into.
Klay Thompson comes to grips with reality for himself and the Warriors, the Lakers are turning on Darvin Ham, the Pelicans demand our attention, and the Raptors and Knicks are enjoying some early returns from the O.G. Anunoby trade.
On our last episode of 2023, we go around the league and try to decide which teams deserve to be defined as title contenders a third of the way through the season.
The Bucks and Pacers squabble over a ball, Draymond Green gets himself suspended, and we count down the 10 best players of the 2023-24 NBA season so far.
With Cash out of town, Dan Devine of Yahoo Sports joins the show to discuss a wide range of topics, including: the relationship between fandom and professionalism, the current state of the Knicks, Julius Randle as a floor-raiser and ceiling-lowerer, impressions of the In-Season Tournament, what it feels like to watch almost-39-year-old LeBron keep doing this, the Bucks winning while figuring themselves out, the Pistons' muddled objectives, the undermanned Grizzlies weathering the storm, and the Wolves' proof of concept shining through after a disastrous first season with Rudy Gobert.
We check in on the increasingly moribund Pistons after a winless November, before turning our attention to the NBA Cup now that the eight-team field for the knockout stage has been set. Has the in-season tournament been a success in year one? What can or should change in the future? How do people around the league feel about it? And which matchup are we most excited about? After that, we take stock of the teams that have confused us most so far this season, including the Bucks, Clippers, Lakers, Pelicans, Cavs, Spurs, and Hawks.
We check in on the state of eight rebuilding teams around the league, assess where they're at in the present, and rank their long-term outlooks. How bleak or rosy do things look in Detroit, Washington, Portland, Houston, Utah, Orlando, San Antonio, and Oklahoma City?
We open with some thoughts on how the in-season tournament is going so far, and how it can be further legitimized, before turning our attention to some under-the-radar storylines that have caught our attention during the first three-plus weeks of the season. We hit on Tyrese Haliburton and the Pacers' historic offense, the Celtics' wacky cross-matching defense, Anthony Edwards' newfound mid-range mastery, the sorry state of the Warriors' starting lineup, the Knicks' hellacious rebounding and gargantuan possession differential, the Thunder's 3-point shooting, the Heat's 7-game win streak, and more.
How and why the Bucks, Austin Reaves and the Lakers, the Grizzlies, Julius Randle, Trae Young, and the Cavs have disappointed us, and how those teams and players can bounce back as the season rolls on. Plus, some encouraging signs from Pascal Siakam and the Raptors, Rudy Gobert and the Timberwolves, the Rockets, and the Pacers.
Don't call it an emergency pod, but we do offer our takes on the James Harden trade, breaking down what it might mean for the Clippers and Sixers. Then we go around the league and extol the players and teams that have impressed us most through the first week of the season, including the Suns' defense and depth pieces, the Nuggets' well-oiled machine, some young Pistons, a new dynamic duo in Philly, a new Russ, Cam Thomas, Luka, Chet and Wemby, LeBron, Jalen Johnson, and the enduring Warriors.
With opening week finally here, we go through 10 bold predictions - and our regular predictions, too - for the NBA's 2023-24 season.
With the new season on the horizon, we convene for one of our favourite annual traditions: picking the teams we expect to overachieve or underachieve relative to expectations in 2023-24. We explain why we're higher or lower than consensus on the Suns, Thunder, Grizzlies, Cavs, Wolves, Hawks, Knicks, Kings, and Nets.
The NBA says resting doesn't necessarily lead to healthier players, and we dive into some of the most interesting players of the coming season, including Chris Paul and Jordan Poole, Austin Reaves, Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren, Evan Mobley, Jaden McDaniels, and Scottie Barnes.
With training camps set to get underway, we start to prepare for the season by breaking down the implications of the Jrue Holiday for the Celtics, the Blazers, and the rival Bucks. Then we turn our attention to some Eastern Conference teams with less to be excited about. In short, we're bracing for whatever chaos James Harden is about to unleash on the 76ers, and struggling to understand what exactly the Raptors are doing.
Where the Bucks, Blazers, Suns - and Heat - stand after Milwaukee swooped in to acquire Damian Lillard.
Reunited to kick off Season 7 of the show and the unofficial end of summer, we unpack some news from the dregs of the offseason, including our thoughts on the new Player Participation Policy, Kelly Oubre reportedly signing with the Sixers, the ongoing Damian Lillard impasse, why the Raptors still make the most sense as a Blazers trade partner, and why Giannis decided now was the best time to start hinting at leaving the Bucks.
Pacers writer/analyst extraordinaire Caitlin Cooper (Basketball, She Wrote) joins the show to discuss the fascinating season ahead in Indiana, including how starting lineup changes might impact the team, how or if Bennedict Mathurin can take the next step, the extent to which "feel" can be learned, Myles Turner's offensive growth, the big power forward question, and how roster context can change everything for a player. Then we zoom out to explore some leaguewide stylistic trends, and talk about some ways defenses can adapt and innovate to keep up with today's explosive offenses.
Subscribe to Caitlin's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/basketballshewrote/posts
TrillBroDude of the You Know Ball podcast joins the show to discuss the state of the 76ers. Has this team's championship window already closed? How will the James Harden standoff end? Will the Clippers blink first? Would Philly have been better off just giving Harden the new contract he wanted? Is Tyrese Maxey ready to step into a lead-guard role right away? Are the Sixers doing the right thing by not extending him? What might they do with the cap space they're trying to carve out for next summer? What kind of stylistic changes might be in store for the team this year? We hit on all those topics, and much more!
After a brief tangent on Jaylen Brown's record-breaking extension, the Rose Garden Report's Sean Highkin joins the show to discuss the ongoing Damian Lillard saga in Portland and Miami.
The NBA got it right when it comes to how to format an in-season tournament. Plus, we check in on Atlanta and Dallas. Are the Hawks ready to go all-in? Did Dallas improve enough to keep Luka Doncic happy?
We break down the trade requests issued by Damian Lillard and James Harden, why neither player may be able to get where he wants to go, how the Blazers are doing right by Dame no matter where they send him, why the Raptors make sense as a Lillard destination, and why returning to Philly might be the best outcome both Harden and the Sixers can hope for. Then, with the dust mostly settled on free agency, we discuss some of our favourite and least favourite deals, featuring the Lakers, Pacers, Kings, Rockets, Nuggets, Timberwolves, Raptors, Pelicans, and Suns.
On this post-draft episode, we try to figure out what Hornets GM Mitch Kupchak is trying to say, before digging into how the seven teams that made draft-day trades involving active NBA players made out. Breaking down the Celtics, Grizzlies, Wizards, Warriors, Mavericks, Kings, and Thunder.
We dive into the implications of the Suns-Wizards blockbuster, including how Beal fits in Phoenix, whether this was the best move the Suns could've made, why trading Deandre Ayton might not make sense, the challenges the Suns face in filling out the roster and fortifying their defense, a depressing rebuild ahead in Washington, the Wizards as a cautionary tale, the problem with the supermax, and more.
In this post-Finals episode, we dig into how the Nuggets won the franchise's first NBA championship and why Denver looks poised to reign supreme again, where the Heat go from here after another Finals loss in the Jimmy Butler era, and a closing note - or parting shot - on Joel Embiid.
With Cash back from Denver, we break down the first two games of the Finals, which resulted in a split after Miami's rousing Game 2 win. We hit on how the Nuggets' defense fell apart, how the Heat's offense helped make that happen, the impact of the Kevin Love adjustment, adjustments both teams can make moving forward, and much more.
With Cash en route to Denver for the Finals, old friend William Lou rejoins the show to discuss Nick Nurse's fit with the 76ers, what Adrian Griffin might bring to the Bucks, and why running it back is a perfectly reasonable path for the Celtics. Then we look ahead to Nuggets-Heat, with a particular emphasis on how Miami might go about trying to defend Denver.
We dig into the seesawing East finals, breaking down how the Celtics clawed back from the brink to force a Game 6 and wondering what the rest of the series might look like. Then we laud the Nuggets for a spectacular run through the West playoff bracket, before assessing the Lakers' strange but successful season and examining the choices they have to make this offseason.
We break down draft lottery night, in which the Spurs landed the No. 1 overall pick and the right to select yet another generational big man. Then we break down a wild Game 1 of the West finals between the Lakers and Nuggets, before diving into the latest in the Ja Morant saga, fraught offseasons for the Sixers and Suns, and the Celtics-Heat rubber match
With all four conference semifinals still active after five games, we break down our favourite storylines and biggest takeaways from each series and from this round as a whole, including the ever-evolving pick-and-roll dance between Steph Curry and Anthony Davis, the mismatch-hunting going on in Celtics-Sixers and Lakers-Warriors, the state of LeBron as a scorer, how the Nuggets are defending the Suns, the incredible play of Jalen Brunson, and how the Heat are finding different ways to win.
The Grizzlies have had enough of Dillon Brooks, Joel Embiid finally wins MVP, and we dig into some of our early second-round observations.
We break down what could be the final two games of a chaotic and unpredictable first round, reflect on the ends of the Clippers' and Cavaliers' seasons while pondering what's next for both teams, and finally break down the Bucks' catastrophic collapse, wondering if their season should indeed be deemed a failure.
The Bucks, Grizzlies, and Cavs must all win three straight to stave off elimination, while De'Aaron Fox and Joel Embiid become the latest stars to be slowed by postseason injuries.
On our second episode this week, we dig into the implications of Nick Nurse's ouster in Toronto, wonder if officials in Brooklyn doled out a makeup flagrant-2 call to the Sixers, and break down how the Warriors got back in their series against the Kings while playing without Draymond Green in Game 3, before dissecting three more first-round series in progress: Cavs-Knicks, Suns-Clippers, and Nuggets-Wolves.
Injuries throw an early wrench into the NBA playoffs - and fuel a debate on charges - while Draymond Green gets himself ejected from a playoff game (again), the Heat and Lakers steal huge road wins, and the Kings and Sixers hold serve at home. Plus Joel Embiid can't get Nick Nurse out of his head.
We catch up on the playoff race heading into the final weekend of the regular season, while also making our picks for every major NBA award and all three All-NBA Teams.
We discuss what we like and dislike about the NBA's new collective bargaining agreement, then select our All-Defensive Teams.
We check in on the perpetually confounding Timberwolves, who were finally hitting their stride before losing Naz Reid to a fractured wrist just three games after getting Karl-Anthony Towns back. Then we dissect the hugely disappointing Mavericks, who are 7-14 since acquiring Kyrie Irving and at real risk of missing the West play-in entirely. And in an even more depressing development, we discuss the news that Ben Simmons has been shut down for the remainder of the season after playing just 42 underwhelming games for the Nets.
Paul George is out, Ja Morant is in, and we dive into the Eastern Conference playoff picture with conversations around the Celtics, 76ers, Cavaliers, Heat, Nets, and Bulls. Plus can the finally healthy Timberwolves make their move? And is Lauri Markkanen having the most shocking season ever?
With less than a month remaining in the regular season, we check in on the biggest moves from last month's trade deadline to see how they're impacting the players and teams involved.
Ja Morant needs to be held accountable in order to get past this, Zion Williamson's latest setback is only one of a long list of Western Conference injuries, and the Knicks are ... cool?! Plus will the Warriors actually miss the playoffs, and who should Sixers fans be hoping for in the second round?
After a hiatus, we catch up on a wild week of post-All-Star happenings, including Kevin Durant's debut in Phoenix, the Quin Snyder fit in Atlanta, LeBron James' foot injury and the fanciful prospect of the full-strength Lakers, the Bucks' 16-game winning streak, the Blazers' disappointing season in spite of Damian Lillard's offensive heroics, the race for the four All-Defensive forward spots, and the fraudulence of the Clippers
The Athletic's Jeff Schultz joins the show to discuss the Hawks' firing of Nate McMillan, what went wrong, and what comes next in Atlanta. Should Hawks fans be concerned about Trae Young's future?
With the dust settled after a wild trade deadline week, we take stock of the landscape of the league, wonder what pitfalls the all-in Suns might encounter, scratch our heads at the Raptors buying instead of selling, applaud the Lakers' upgrades and medium-term balancing act, and rank the rest of the contenders in the West.
Making sense of the Kyrie Irving blockbuster from both Dallas' and Brooklyn's perspective. In addition, what do the Warriors' postseason hopes look like in light of Steph Curry's latest injury?
We break down the implications of Myles Turner's renegotiation and extension with the Pacers, and why we think it's more of a home-run deal for Indiana than for Turner himself. Then, we wonder whether Kawhi Leonard's resurgence is enough to propel the Clippers back into title contention, or whether they still need to make a big move at the trade deadline. Finally, assorted thoughts on the injured and scuffling Pelicans and Grizzlies, and a make-or-miss segment on balanced All-NBA teams, the Suns' flickering hopes, and the Jokic-Embiid MVP-ballot duopoly.
The You Know Ball podcast's Trill joins the show to help us break down the Sixers' hot streak. Then we discuss what the Raptors should do at the trade deadline, and make sense of the Rui Hachimura trade from the perspectives of both Los Angeles and Washington.
We make our annual Eastern and Western Conference All-Star selections, parsing the insanely stacked guard crop in the West, the equally crowded frontcourt field in the East, Shai vs. Steph, Giannis vs. Embiid, Jaylen vs. Haliburton, Brunson vs. Randle, Trae's absence, and much more.
Digging into the Thunder, Trail Blazers, Timberwolves, Clippers, Warriors, Suns, and Jazz, who are just seven of the nine West teams currently separated by only three games between fifth place and 13th. In addition, will OG Anunoby be traded, and is James Harden at risk of missing out on an All-Star spot?
Parity abounds in the NBA. We discuss what's behind it, and what that could mean for this year's playoffs. Then we break down the implications of Kevin Durant's injury, before delving into two contenders with opposite profiles moving in opposite directions. The Bucks are being carried by their defense, while the Nuggets are riding a white-hot offense. Who do we believe in more?
Digging into how the Pelicans might try to survive life without Zion Williamson(again), and what's behind Brooklyn's two-way turnaround.
With rival executives reportedly preparing for a Trae Young trade request, we delve into why things haven't clicked for the still-confusing Hawks this season, and how or if their situation can improve. Then, on the heels of their 8-game win streak, we discuss whether the Knicks have warranted newfound optimism, or whether they're destined to fall back into the play-in mix.
Will Lou joins the show to dive into what's ailing the slumping Raptors and where Toronto should go from here. Plus both New York teams are streaking, the Suns are teetering again, and is Franz Wagner the best of the 2021 draft class so far? Is Nikola Jokic the MVP again? All that and more in today's episode.
We break down the implications of Steph Curry's shoulder injury and minimum-two-week absence, and the shin surgery that will prematurely end Cade Cunningham's sophomore season, before discussing the enigmatic Clippers and where they currently fit in the Western Conference hierarchy.
With the unofficial start of trade season nearly upon us, we dig into which teams should be first in line to make a significant move. Included in today's episode: the Lakers, Suns, Bulls, Warriors, Heat, Mavs, Knicks, and Timberwolves, among others. Plus can the Kings defend? Are the Pelicans in line for some hardware? And are the Celtics overrated?
We discuss what we've seen so far this season from the Suns, Nuggets, Grizzlies, Pelicans, and Warriors, making the case for each as the best team in the wide-open Western Conference before poking some holes in those cases.
The already reeling Timberwolves lose Karl-Anthony Towns for 4-6 weeks. What's behind uneven starts for the Mavericks and Heat? Can the Sixers keep their improved defense up when healthy? Is Kristaps Porzingis quietly headed towards being a 2023 free-agent prize? Are the Suns now the team to beat out West?
We take stock of all the high-profile injuries currently afflicting the league, before diving into surprisingly plucky, surprisingly fun Pacers.
Kevin Durant and a ragtag supporting cast under Jacque Vaughn have the Nets playing more inspired basketball; can it continue when Kyrie Irving returns? The reasons to believe in - or doubt - Sacramento's encouraging start. Plus an Anthony Davis trade idea, Boston's league-best offense, and a rookie Sixth Man of the Year?!
James Herbert of CBS Sports joins the show to talk about his recent article on the NBA's upsizing trend, how the Orlando Magic's tall-ball experiment is going, the advantages and disadvantages of playing big, why things aren't working out in Minnesota, why the post-up might be making a comeback, the new possession game, and much more. Read James' piece here: https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/from-smallball-to-tall-ball-the-nba-is-resizing-again/
The Jazz, Trail Blazers, and Thunder have pleasantly surprised us, while the Timberwolves, Pelicans, Warriors, and Mavs have disappointed us.
We bounce around some recent league news - including a foot injury that's expected to sideline James Harden for at least a month - before delving into the ongoing tumult surrounding the Brooklyn Nets. Then, we look at the second (i.e. non-Bucks) tier of contenders in the Eastern Conference, breaking down what we've seen so far from the Celtics, Cavs, and Raptors, and what we expect to see from them moving forward. Finally, our make-or-miss segment tackles LeBron's war on Father Time, where the Grizzlies' backcourt ranks in the NBA, the odds of Jae Crowder rejoining the Suns, and whether a hard cap will actually be seriously debated in CBA talks.
We discuss the NBA's latest tampering penalty - which saw the 76ers docked two 2nd-round picks - and wonder if this is really the best system for curbing "tampering," or if such a system even needs to exist. Then, we delve into the Bucks' 6-0 start, which has been powered by the best player in basketball ... and Giannis Antetokounmpo. We also hit on the perplexing Hawks, who still can't defend and also have some kinks to iron out on offense. Finally, after reacting live to news of Steve Nash's firing, we conclude with a Make or Miss segment on the LaMelo-less Hornets, the upstart Blazers, the rip-roaring Cavs, and (sigh) Kyrie Irving.
Ben Simmons' struggles, the Blazers' hot start, Ja Morant's shooting, the Knicks' pace, Denver's porous defense, and more! What's real and what isn't through one week of the season?
With every NBA team having played at least one regular-season game, we break down what we've seen so far, with a focus on the Sixers, Lakers, Pelicans, Raptors, Cavs, Blazers, and Kings.
After touching on Jeanie Buss' decision to extend Rob Pelinka in Laker Land, and debating whether the Warriors can truly bury the drama between Draymond Green and Jordan Poole, we make 10 bold predictions for the new NBA season. Topics include the Kings, Pelicans, Joel Embiid, Pascal Siakam, the Timberwolves, Hornets, Christian Wood, Evan Mobley, and the Bucks.
We kick off this week's episode by delving into the potential implications and ramifications of the Draymond Green-Jordan Poole incident. Then we pick our favourite breakout candidates for the 2022-23 campaign, contemplating what this season could have in store for Trey Murphy, Bones Hyland, Jaylen Nowell, Onyeka Okongwu, Josh Green, Precious Achiuwa, and others.
We dig into why James Wiseman, Anthony Davis, Ben Simmons, Zion Williamson, Kawhi Leonard, Jamal Murray, Tyrese Maxey, and Anthony Edwards could be the eight most important swing players in the NBA this season.
Kyrie Irving continues to spew nonsense. The NBA could soon see high-schoolers drafted again, as well as welcoming a mental health designation on injury reports. How concerned should Celtics fans be about Robert Williams' knee? Robert Sarver prepares to sell the Suns.
We discuss the suspension and fine the NBA gave Suns owner Robert Sarver after a long investigation into his workplace misconduct, and lament the reasons the slap on the wrist felt like an inevitable outcome. Then, we delve into the teams we expect to over- and underperform expectations this coming season, explaining why we're either higher or lower than consensus on the 76ers, Pelicans, Blazers, Kings, Nets, Mavericks, Grizzlies, Heat, Raptors, and Bulls.
Samson Folk of Raptors Republic and Minute Basketball joins the show to discuss Donovan Mitchell's fit with the Cavs. We hit on the strengths and weaknesses of a Mitchell-Garland backcourt, the need for defensive effort from Mitchell, the insulating effect of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley on the back line, the NBA version of the Maginot Line, and trying to win without wings. Then, we delve into some of the tactics and stylistic trends that will define the NBA in 2022-23, from "grindball" to post playmaking to ghost screens to declining rim frequency and more. Finally, a look at the Raptors' innovative defense, and a case for the Pelicans as 2023 champions.
Anthony Irwin of Silver Screen and Roll joins the show to discuss the chaotic Lakers acquiring Patrick Beverley and Kevin Durant staying put in Brooklyn. In addition, Thunder rookie Chet Holmgren is sidelined.
Boston reportedly throws a wrench - and Jaylen Brown - into the Kevin Durant sweepstakes, while we ask the biggest lingering questions (non-KD, non-Mitchell division) still to be answered this offseason, including questions about Colin Sexton, the Heat, the Pacers, the Mavs, and the Lakers.
We discuss the long-simmering contract standoff between the Suns and Deandre Ayton that ultimately ended with Phoenix matching a max offer sheet to retain him (for now). We wonder how this reflects on the Suns, what's next for the Pacers, whether restricted free agency needs to change, and how likely it now is that Kevin Durant will start the season in Brooklyn. Then, we hit on Donovan Mitchell's availability, why going after him makes sense for the Knicks (and Raptors), and how prioritizing draft picks over flawed but talented young players can go too far. Finally, we discuss the gigantic new contracts signed by Bradley Beal and Damian Lillard, and weigh the pros and cons of NBA co-dependency.
We discuss the stalemate between the Nets, their two superstars, and the teams interested in trading for them. Then, we dig into our favourite and least favourite free agency signings so far, featuring the Blazers, Warriors, Kings, Sixers, Knicks, Nuggets, Wolves, Grizzlies, Lakers, Wizards, Clippers, Bucks, Pistons, and Mavs.
Kevin Durant hits the trade market, while Rudy Gobert, Dejounte Murray, Malcolm Brogdon, and Kevin Huerter find new homes.
After some time to reflect and digest the 2022 playoffs, we offer our big-picture takeaways from a postseason in which proactive, shape-shifting defense and scheme-proof shot creation took center stage. Then we react to the first two notable transactions of the offseason, with the Blazers acquiring Jerami Grant and the Mavs landing Christian Wood.
Appreciating this very different - yet somewhat similar - fourth championship in eight years for Golden State, while eulogizing a surprising Celtics team that ultimately shot itself in the foot.
Andrew Wiggins and the rest of the Warriors step up on a rare off-night for Steph Curry to push the sloppy Celtics to the brink of elimination.
How did the Celtics gain an advantage over the Warriors in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, and what can Golden State do differently to get back in the series?
We break down the rationale and implications of Quin Snyder's departure from the Jazz after eight successful seasons. Then we delve into the Warriors-Celtics Finals, currently knotted at a game apiece as the series shifts from The Bay to Boston. Looking toward Game 3, we talk about how the Warriors have simplified their offense and adjusted on defense, the decisions the Celtics have to make when defending Steph Curry in high pick-and-roll, the swing factor that is Jordan Poole, the full Draymond experience, and much more.
We put a bow on the Heat and Mavericks' impressive seasons, and wonder how or if they can improve in the near future. Then we break down the matchup elements of the Warriors-Celtics Finals that interest us most, including how the two teams will attack each other's elite defenses, how the Warriors will protect Jordan Poole, how Jaylen Brown's off-ball defense might get exposed, and whether either team will lean into playing big.
Should Nets fans be concerned about the futures of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving? Is Denver losing Tim Connelly a bad sign of things to come? Are the East finals basically done? How Dallas has lived to fight another day against the Warriors.
Just three total conference finals games are in the books, but we've already learned plenty about the two matchups underway and the four teams involved. So we break down our biggest early takeaways from Warriors-Mavs and Celtics-Heat.
The Suns suffer one of the most embarrassing playoff eliminations in NBA history, the Grizzlies, Bucks, and Sixers join Phoenix on the sidelines, and we preview the two conference finals series.
We address the news of Nikola Jokic's second consecutive MVP award - and the subsequent backlash to his reported win - before breaking down the compelling conference semis, in which three series are knotted at two games apiece and a fourth very nearly joined the party. We start out by examining how Joel Embiid's return has changed the shape of Heat-Sixers, before discussing the Mavs' adjustments in leveling their series against the Suns. Then we finish by hitting on the resilience and spirit of the Morant-less Grizzlies, and the ongoing defensive brawl between the Celtics and Bucks.
The Clippers and Robert Covington take care of some offseason business ahead of schedule, the Lakers continue their steady descent into becoming a laughingstock, the Celtics flummox Giannis and the Bucks, and what to make of Warriors-Grizzlies.
With all four conference semifinals underway, we sift through our takeaways from the opening game of every series, breaking down (in order) Grizzlies-Warriors, Suns-Mavs, Bucks-Celtics, and Heat-Sixers.
We look back on the Raptors' and Pelicans' seasons after both teams were eliminated, and look forward to what Toronto and New Orleans can become. In addition, we dig into the upcoming Eastern Conference semifinal series; Heat vs. Sixers and Celtics vs. Bucks.
We kick off a jam-packed episode by breaking down Boston's stunning sweep of Brooklyn, and wondering what the future holds for the Nets. Then, we give the Heat their flowers, eulogize a disappointing Hawks season, check in on an increasingly chaotic Grizzlies-Wolves series, speculate about the Raptors' chances of completing a historic comeback over the slipping Sixers, and issue a correction on Suns-Pelicans
James Borrego's firing has us confused about the Hornets, Khris Middleton's knee injury has us concerned for the Bucks, and Karl-Anthony Towns' pitiful postseason showing for the Timberwolves just has us perplexed.
With the playoffs officially in full swing, we check in on half of the playoff field. We break down what we've seen from Suns-Pelicans, Celtics-Nets, Sixers-Raptors, and Mavs-Jazz so far, and what we expect to see from those series moving forward.
With the postseason upon us, we touch on the play-in tournament and preview the six solidified 1st-round playoff matchups.
As we head into the final weekend of the regular season, we wonder how concerned the 76ers should be about the state of James Harden, before revealing our picks for each of the seven major regular-season awards.
Pound The Rock original William Lou joins the show to dig into Toronto's surprising season so far, the Raptors' potential to play spoiler in this year's playoffs, and the team's promising upside going forward.
How do injuries to Steph Curry and John Collins affect the Warriors, the Hawks, and each team's respective conference races? An embarrassing loss in Minnesota sinks LeBron, Westbrook, and the Lakers to new lows. Then theScore's Chicco Nacion joins the show to talk about his feature on top prospect Chet Holmgren's stunning development.
With Gregg Popovich on the cusp of becoming the NBA's all-time winningest coach, two-time NBA champion and Spurs TV analyst Matt Bonner joins the show to take us behind the scenes, into the locker room, and into the huddle with coach Pop.
76ers superfan and podcaster Trill Bro Dude joins the show to break down Philadelphia's first two games of the James Harden experience.
Whether it was leaving the door open to a Cavs reunion, taking subtle shots at the Lakers' front office while praising Sam Presti, or detailing his plans to play with Bronny James when the youngster is drafted, LeBron's All-Star Weekend comments have us heated.
With Zion Williamson' status still looming over the Pelicans' season, we're joined by Mason Ginsberg (Bourbon Street Shots and the In the N.O. Podcast) to talk Zion and everything else New Orleans basketball. Non-Zion topic include CJ McCollum, Brandon Ingram, Devonte' Graham, Garrett Temple, Larry Nance, Willie Green, and David Griffin.
James Harden and Ben Simmons swap homes, the Mavs ditch Kristaps Porzingis for pennies on the dollar, the Celtics steal Derrick White, and more from a wild NBA trade deadline day.
Teams are getting busy in the lead-up to Thursday's trade deadline, with the Blazers trading CJ McCollum to the Pelicans, the Cavs getting Caris LeVert from the Pacers, and the Nets pondering trading James Harden to Philly. We break down all that news, before reacting in real time to the shocking trade that sent Domantas Sabonis to the Kings in exchange for Tyrese Haliburton.
Which players deserve to join the current All-Stars as injury replacements, plus Ja Morant and Joel Embiid continue to troll opponents, and we break down the Clippers-Blazers trade that sends Norman Powell and Robert Covington to LA.
After Cash takes a victory lap on a Gary Trent Jr. take, we check in on the 8 swing players we picked before the season (Jaren Jackson, Michael Porter Jr., De'Andre Hunter, Klay Thompson, C.J. McCollum, Tobias Harris, Kristaps Porzingis, and D'Angelo Russell) and discuss the extent to which they have and haven't swung things for their respective teams.
How is Wolfond handling the news that Andrew Wiggins is an All-Star starter? Does Anthony Davis' return mean anything in the big picture for the Lakers this year? The Suns are by far the best team in basketball right now, and the Wizards are once again the Wizards.
We unpack recent rumors about the 76ers' inclination to wait until the summer to flip Ben Simmons for James Harden in a sign-and-trade, as well as Harden's reported disillusionment with his living and playing situation in Brooklyn. Is this a wise gambit for the Sixers given the alternatives available to them ahead of the trade deadline? Does Harden actually want to go to Philly? Could the Sixers make a Simmons trade now and get Harden in the offseason? Are we headed toward a sign-and-trade bidding war? After that, we discuss the impact of the injuries to Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso, and wonder if those injuries will change the Bulls' approach to the deadline. Finally, we check in on the surging Mavericks, who have yet to hit their stride offensively but are being carried by their 4th-ranked (!) defense.
It's been an up-and-down season for the Bucks, but the defending champs still feel like the safest best to come out of the East. We discuss their season so far, the impact of Brook Lopez's absence, Giannis Antetokoumpo's continued growth, and whether the team's offense has improved enough to offset some defensive regression. Then, we take a look at their steepest competition in the Eastern Conference, and wonder about the title prospects of the Nets, Heat, Bulls, Sixers, and Cavs.
The Bucks make a statement against the Warriors, the Blazers lose Dame, the disappointing Hawks start shaking things up, and the Kings troll Russell Westbrook.
With Kawhi Leonard reportedly ahead of schedule and expected to return this season, we take stock of the undermanned Clippers and wonder how much of a threat they can be at full strength. Then we assess the contrasting returns of Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson, look ahead to a blockbuster Warriors-Grizzlies matchup, discuss the Nets' ongoing offensive struggles, and anoint a new Eastern conference favorite.
What to expect from Kyrie Irving's (partial) return to the Nets and Klay Thompson's long awaited return to the Warriors. Plus we break down the many reasons the Knicks have come crashing back to earth so far this season.
For our final episode of 2021, we look back at some of our preseason predictions, some of which are looking prophetic and others woefully misguided. We hit on Celtics friction, the Lakers' foreseeable struggles, why the Grizzlies have outperformed our expectations, and just how far Cash's Pokusevski hype train has gone off the rails. From there, we wonder whether hating Trae Young is all Knicks fans have to hold onto right now, and explain what makes DeMar DeRozan, the Bulls, and the Timberwolves so interesting.
Are Luka Doncic's Dallas Mavericks wasting this season away? How real are the fourth-place Memphis Grizzlies now that Ja Morant is back? Plus Benny The Bull takes aim at the Lakers, and we preview the NBA's Christmas schedule.
The Nets are permitting a still-unvaccinated Kyrie Irving to return as a part-time player. Shortly after reporting to the team, Irving tested positive for COVID-19, and entered the NBA's health and safety protocols, along with Kevin Durant and 7 other Nets players. We sort through the fraught Kyrie situation, what his return means for the team, Durant's heroics up to this point, and how Brooklyn has managed to sustain the East's best record in light of so many absences.
Zion Williamson's latest setback might mean some tough questions need to be answered in New Orleans. Did Charles Barkley have a point in his criticism of Anthony Davis? What the over-achieving Clippers' start means for the rest of their season.
The Indiana Pacers are reportedly thinking rebuild. But what exactly does that entail? Will this notoriously tank-averse organization really push for a full-scale teardown, or will this simply be another soft reset? And which of their big men will they ultimately decide to trade? We delve into all that, before discussing the young trio powering the extremely legit Cavaliers. Finally, Cash takes us on a trip to Memphis to explain what he learned in writing about the bone-deep connection between the city and Penny Hardaway.
With Neil Olshey out the door, where do Damian Lillard and the Trail Blazers go from here? Should Portland trade for Ben Simmons? What's up with the Celtics' team broadcast taking shots at opposing players? Are the Bulls a contender? Is DeMar DeRozan a Hall of Famer?
What to make of injuries to Bam Adebayo, Damian Lillard, Devin Booker, and Brook Lopez. How concerned should we be about Zion Williamson's future after his latest setback? Suns vs. Warriors is awesome basketball. How Phoenix's success exemplifies a leaguewide trend of decreased rim frequency. And finally, are the Timberwolves finally figuring it out?
We react to the news that Michael Porter Jr. is undergoing his 3rd back surgery and will miss the rest of the season, as well as the Knicks' decision to pull the struggling Kemba Walker from the rotation, before discussing the Lakers' myriad struggles and what (if anything) they can do to turn their fortunes around.
Note: We'll be aiming to record two episodes a week for the foreseeable future
On this week's episode, we talk about what's propelling the ever-steady Phoenix Suns, who've won 14 straight without hitting their top gear. Then we dive into the teams that have made us scratch our heads most this season, including the Raptors, Grizzlies, Spurs, Pacers, Knicks, and Mavericks.
Alex Wong, whose new book Cover Story explores the stories behind basketball's most iconic magazine covers, joins the show. If you like hoops history, basketball nostalgia, and popular culture, this is the show - and the book - for you.
On this week's episode, we talk more about what's ailing the Celtics and whether a Jaylen Brown trade is the best solution, wonder how the Sixers' vastly improved guard play changes their playoff outlook if Ben Simmons stays put, discuss the work Nikola Jokic has done to paper over Denver's depth woes, delve into Portland's issues on and off the court, and marvel at the two-way dominance of a revamped Warriors squad.
We delve into the most disappointing (Celtics), most impressive (Heat), and most surprising (Wizards) teams of the early season, before breaking down some of the impressive showings we've seen from the most exciting rookie class in recent memory.
Luka Doncic's supporting cast, the Lakers, and James Harden look shaky, while the Grizzies, Hornets, Timberwolves, and Bulls look awesome. We dig into those early-season observations - and many more - in this week's episode.
Which teams will meet in the NBA Finals? Who takes home MVP honors this season? Which players and teams will surprise us and disappoint us this year? Catch all that and more in our annual bold predictions season preview episode.
For our 200th episode (Part I), Will Lou of Sportsnet and FAN590 returns to the show to discuss where the retooling Raptors are headed, and what the present and future might hold for their four core players: Scottie Barnes, Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, and Fred VanVleet.
We also hit on the rest of the East, including most interesting teams, teams set to move into or out of the playoff picture, and conference finals predictions.
On this week's episode, we're looking at players whose performances this season can tilt the balance of power in the NBA, depending on where they land within their broad ranges of potential outcomes. How can De'Andre Hunter, Klay Thompson, Jaren Jackson Jr., Tobias Harris, Michael Porter Jr., Kristaps Porzingis, D'Angelo Russell, and C.J. McCollum swing the '21-22 season?
A vocal minority of vaccine-hesitant players took over Media Day, and we talk about our breakout candidates for the 2021-22 season. Apologies for lagging audio, which caused some overlap in our voices at times
The great Caitlin Cooper of Indy Cornrows joins the show to talk all things Pacers, including: how injuries have made it impossible to know what this team's core is really capable of, how Rick Carlisle can make better use of the Sabonis-Turner pairing, why rebounding was such a struggle last year, how Indiana should tweak its defensive scheme, what Caris LeVert needs to improve upon at both ends of the floor, where a healthy T.J. Warren fits into all this, expectations for the coming season, and the type of roster move that can maximize this iteration of the team.
Read all of Caitlin's Pacers coverage here: https://www.sbnation.com/users/C.%20Cooper
We're back from a brief hiatus to catch up on an intriguing three-team swap that netted the Blazers Larry Nance Jr. and saddled the Cavs with Lauri Markkanen. Then, we pick our favorite over/under bets for regular-season win totals. How will the Blazers, Nets, Pistons, Heat, Raptors, Grizzlies, Jazz, and Spurs fare relative to the expectations of the betting public? Finally, another obligatory segment on the ongoing Ben Simmons saga.
With all the big free-agent signings out of the way, we offer our takes on some of the quieter but potentially still impactful moves of the offseason, including the Nets' excellent work in the margins, the Jeff Green fit in Denver, what Dennis Schroder can do for Boston, how Reggie Bullock does and doesn't help the Mavs, why it made sense for the Jazz to target Rudy Gay and Eric Paschall, Cody Zeller coming to save the Blazers, and more. Finally, a note on Ben Simmons, and why we need to get him to Sacramento.
On this week's show, we talk free agency splashes and offseason movers like the Heat, Bulls, Knicks, Lakers, and Pelicans.
We sifting through a draft night that sent Russell Westbrook to Los Angeles in a questionable trade for the Lakers, gave the Pistons a much-needed injection of hope in the form of Cade Cunningham, saw the Raptors veer off-script with the No. 4 pick, featured some interesting Knicks maneuvering, and more.
With the 2020-21 season in the books, we reflect on Milwaukee's championship, Giannis' staggering Finals performance, the roadblocks and roster holes the Bucks overcame en route to their vindicating title, the challenges the Suns will face in returning to this stage, and why it doesn't make sense to expect other stars to follow the one-franchise route Giannis is being celebrated for taking to this point. Then we turn our attention to the offseason and examine the questions facing the Sixers, Warriors, and Raptors.
The Bucks are on the verge of the franchise's first championship in 50 years, thanks to an all-time performance from Giannis Antetokounmpo, and some redeeming showings by Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday, and Mike Budenholzer. Also, why it makes sense for Damian Lillard to ditch the Trail Blazers.
The GyroStep Podcast's Ti Windisch joins the show to talk about how Giannis Antetokounmpo's star teammates are letting him down in the NBA Finals, and whether the Bucks have any chance of stopping Phoenix's run to a championship.
Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers have reached the point of no return, Giannis and the Bucks survive an epic Durant series, and unlikely heroes propel the Clippers to new heights. Also, welcome back, Paul George.
We sift through a barrage of NBA news, including Chris Paul's positive COVID test and Kawhi Leonard's knee injury, before marvelling at Kevin Durant's Game 5 masterpiece, trying to pinpoint the ongoing issues with the Bucks, and wondering where the Sixers-Hawks and Jazz-Clippers series go from here.
Was the way this season unfolded the beginning of the end for LeBron's reign over the NBA? Plus early series takeaways from Nets-Bucks, Suns-Nuggets, and Hawks-Sixers, and we preview the West semifinal between the Jazz and Clippers.
On a jam-packed episode, we take stock of a whiplash-inducing Clippers-Mavericks series in which Luka Doncic is evoking LeBron in '07 (:025), before assessing the state of LeBron in '21 and the odds that he and the Lakers can stave off elimination against the phenomenal Suns (17:30).
Then we talk about why Nuggets/Blazers is the best show in basketball (32:18), reflect on the Danny Ainge era in Boston after the Celtics' unorthodox front-office shakeup(53:31), and marvel at Trae Young's stage presence and Clint Capela's defense (1:02:55), before looking ahead to the East's second-round series: Sixers-Hawks(1:12:20) and Nets-Bucks (1:20:25).
Luka Doncic has the Clippers on the ropes, plus we catch up on some takeaways from Games 1-2 between the Lakers and Suns, the Bucks and Heat, and the Nuggets and Blazers.
With the play-in tournament half over, we take stock of the NBA's hugely successful experiment, before breaking down what we saw in Lakers-Warriors (7:34) and looking ahead to Pacers-Wizards (19:23) and Warriors-Grizzlies (25:09). Then, we preview the six series that have already been set in stone: Suns-Lakers (34:00), Bucks-Heat (44:26), Knicks-Hawks (53:00), Nets-Celtics (1:08:32), Nuggets-Blazers (1:10:52), and Clippers-Mavericks (1:19:39)
Picking the NBA's best 2021 award candidates among players who won't actually end up on the ballots.
On this week's episode, we react to recent reports that Nate Bjorkgren, Terry Stotts, and Mike Budenholzer are on the hot seat. We try to parse what's gone wrong in Indiana, how much of Portland's stagnancy can be blamed on Stotts, and what a successful playoff run for Milwaukee would look like. Then, we take stock of the Bucks-Nets mini-series, and wonder how much it can tell us about a likely playoff matchup. And finally, with the Lakers reeling, we reassess the pecking order atop the wide-open Western Conference.
The Wizards, Bulls, and Raptors - plus the Hornets and Pacers - are fighting for the Eastern Conference's final play-in spots. Who makes it, who gets left behind, and where does each team go from here?
We're back from a brief hiatus to check in on an NBA season that feels like it's been in the dog days since opening night. On this week's episode, we wonder whether it's time to start worrying about the availability of the Nets' Big 3, whether the Heat can recapture their bubble magic, what the Lakers' rotation will look like when they're whole again, and whether Nikola Jokic can swing a playoff upset on his own.
On this week's episode, we close the book on Paul Pierce's tenure at ESPN, wonder whether Playoff Rondo is ready to ride again, discuss the state of the Bucks now that Jrue Holiday is locked in for another four years, and sort through our feelings about Aleksej Pokusevski and the egregiously transparent tank job going on in Oklahoma City.
Which of the Spurs, Grizzlies, Warriors, Kings, or Pelicans will snag the Western Conference's final playoff spot? And please stop crying about the buyout market being unfair.
With the smoke clearing from a busy deadline day, we break down the most notable non-trade, discussing why Kyle Lowry remains a Raptor and what it means for his current team and the three teams that pursued him. Then, a look at how the day's most notable deals changed the outlooks for the Nuggets, Bulls, Magic, and Rockets.
On this week's episode, we scratch our heads over a Pat Riley casting decision and a cost-conscious Thunder trade before turning our attention to some of the best teams in the West. Who among the Suns, Jazz, Nuggets, Mavericks, and Blazers has the best chance to knock off one or both of the L.A. teams in the playoffs? And what roadblocks stand in their way?
The NBA needs to make an example out of Meyers Leonard, who deserves harsh punishment for dropping an anti-Semitic slur. What can the Nets expect from Blake Griffin? And how will the Raptors, Spurs, Bulls, Hawks, Pacers, Kings, and Magic shape this year's trade deadline?
The Hawks' firing of Lloyd Pierce doesn't make much sense, Houston's Victor Oladipo problem underscores how terrible the James Harden trade was for the Rockets, and we dive into the market for a quartet of washed big men: Al Horford, Blake Griffin, Andre Drummond, and DeMarcus Cousins.
On this week's episode, we react to the coaches' All-Star reserve selections, sort through the Timberwolves' strange and sudden new coaching hire and general aimlessness, and break down the Nets' sunny prospects in an Eastern Conference full of non-contenders
With the starters announced for the NBA's ill-conceived 2021 All-Star Game, we join forces to select the 7 most worthy reserves for the Eastern and Western Conference squads.
The players we thought were going to break out are all hurt or disappointing us, so which players have actually taken giant leaps this season?
On this week's episode, we hit on a fun matchup between two title contenders in Nets-Clippers, discuss Bradley Beal's reported desire to stay in Washington and craft a Dirk-like legacy with the Wizards, and dive into some early-season trends that have been pleasantly surprising, including Atlanta's defense, Utah's offense, Houston's pot-Harden bump, and Charlotte's suddenly bright future.
What's going on in Milwaukee, Brooklyn, Los Angeles, and New Orleans? In addition, we pay tribute to beloved NBA reporter Sekou Smith, and mark the one-year anniversary of Kobe Bryant's death.
Seerat Sohi of Yahoo Sports joins us to discuss her recent piece on the paradigm-busting influence of Draymond Green and the new crop of players following in his footsteps.
We talk about what makes Draymond special, how he's glamourized grunt work, the debate over his value, how this crop of players does and doesn't compare, which of them has the brightest future, self-perception as a skill, the new market inefficiencies, and hearing the vibes.
Read Seerat's piece here: https://sports.yahoo.com/the-draymond-generation-why-undersized-bruisers-are-ideal-in-todays-nba-140009989.html
James Harden's headed to Brooklyn to join a budding a super team, but there's plenty more to discuss after the four-team blockbuster involving the Nets, Rockets, Pacers, and Cavs.
With the NBA trying to navigate an outbreak of COVID-19 among its players, we discuss the updated health and safety guidelines, George Hill's complaint, why it might be time to vaccinate league personnel, the challenges that would come with suspending the season, and whether there are any good options when it comes to playing un-bubbled basketball at the height of the pandemic. We also delve into the latest in the James Harden saga, which appears to be reaching a breaking point, and Kyrie Irving's contentious leave of absence.
The Nets, Sixers, Pacers, Warriors, Pelicans, and Raptors have all had very interesting starts, for very different reasons.
On this holiday edition, we delve into the latest Rockets fiasco, James Harden's continued flouting of the NBA's health & safety protocols (and basic human decency), and the league's laughably toothless response. Then, we offer some quick-hitting takeaways from every team's season opener.
Are the Nets and Bucks in for disappointment? Are the Clippers better equipped to thrive? Can anyone challenge the Lakers? And wait, WHO did we just say is winning the 3-point title this year?
Giannis Antetokounmpo's supermax extension locks him into Milwaukee through his 20s, salvages a potentially catastrophic Bucks offseason, and leaves a few suitors out in the cold. We run through the implications for everyone involved. Is Giannis really destined to become a loyal loser? Are the Bucks out of the woods? Just how bleak is the once-ballyhooed 2021 free-agent starting to look? And how will the Raptors and Heat pivot from here?
Kyrie Irving's done dealing with the "pawns" in the media, Paul George commits to the Clippers, James Harden is anything but committed to Houston, and which players will break out and regress this season?
With Russell Westbrook and John Wall trading places, we sift through the implications of a blockbuster trade that doesn't seem to change all that much in the big picture. Does this make it more likely that James Harden and Bradley Beal stay put? Are the Rockets trying to get better, or eying a rebuild? How good can the Wizards be? Are there any winners or losers here? Then, with Lakers' Big 2 locking in long-term, we give a shoutout to GM LeBron.
We take stock of the Vegas over/under lines for regular-season win totals, and pick our favorite bets on the board. How will the Mavs, Jazz, Celtics, Raptors, Blazers, Pelicans, Hornets, and Suns fare relative to the expectations of the betting public? Then, we discuss how the bottom of the Eastern Conference playoff bracket might shake out, with the Hawks pacing an underwhelming pack.
We break down a chaotic draft day, including: - The implications of the Warriors losing Klay Thompson to an Achilles tear, and their choice to draft James Wiseman; - Why the Bucks-Kings deal for Bogdan Bogdanovic may have fallen apart, and what it means for both teams - Daryl Morey's first big showcase as Sixers president - Whether the Wolves are on the right track - The Knicks' potential free-agent plans - The Rockets' continued cost-cutting - The Clippers' trade for Luke Kennard - Much more
The Bucks go for broke to appease Giannis Antetokounmpo, while the Suns make their biggest splash in over a decade.
With rumor season in full swing, we react to Russell Westbrook's reported trade request, peer into the Rockets' potentially Knicks-ian future, and wonder if Westbrook's career was always destined to end this way. Then we parse the messy Victor Oladipo situation in Indiana, and eventually talk ourselves into him and Westbrook getting traded for each other. Finally, we assess the Chris Paul fit in Phoenix, and the challenges of squeezing DeMar DeRozan onto the Lakers. Plus a shout out to @yaboynimrit!
NBA teams have four weeks to prepare for the 2020-21 season. Can Daryl Morey solve a complicated equation for the Sixers? Where does Jrue Holiday end up?
The Athletic's Jovan Buha joins the show to talk all things Clippers, including how new head coach Ty Lue will differ from predecessor and mentor Doc Rives, whether Kawhi Leonard can adapt to a new offensive system, the roadblocks to adding a high-end point guard, the possibility of a Paul George trade, Montrezl Harrell's free agency, Ivica Zubac's role, balancing regular-season and playoff priorities, and whether shipping out the old guard can help solve the team's chemistry issues.
The Toronto Star's Doug Smith joins the show to talk about his book, 'We The North: 25 Years of the Toronto Raptors,' and to discuss a variety of topics related to the last quarter-century in NBA media and NBA "What-ifs?"
After a week off, we offer belated reactions to Daryl Morey's resignation, and ponder the Rockets' suddenly bleak future. Then, we react in real time to Indiana's hiring of Nate Bjorkgren as head coach, and discuss the fascinating offseasons awaiting the Pacers, Warriors, Raptors, and Thunder.
We put a bow on the longest, strangest NBA season in history by extolling LeBron James and his peerless longevity, considering the implications of Anthony Davis' narrative rewrite, eulogizing an inspiring Heat season, crediting the Lakers' phenomenal defense and surprisingly solid supporting cast, and tipping our caps to the NBA for pulling off the restart. A hearty thanks to all our listeners for following along this season!
Jimmy Butler and the Heat live to fight another day after an unforgettable showdown between Butler and LeBron James in Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
Breaking down Game 3 of The Finals, which saw Jimmy Butler put forth an all-time performance to lead Miami to victory over a lackadaisical Lakers squad. We discuss Butler's heroic exploits, whether he's actually better than Anthony Davis, how the Heat adjusted defensively to limit Davis and LeBron James, what LeBron can do differently, Kelly Olynyk's offensive impact, the disrespectful decision to play J.R. Smith, and more.
Anthony Davis, LeBron James, and the Lakers completely overwhelmed Miami in Game 1, and the Heat are already dropping like flies.
We build a strawman to defend LeBron James after he publicly admits to tampering with Anthony Davis, react to the news that Doc Rivers is out as Clippers head coach after 7 years, wonder whether the NBA needs its own Rooney Rule, marvel at the number of enticing coaching jobs up for grabs around the league, and eventually get around to previewing a fascinating Finals matchup between the Lakers and Heat.
Dissecting how the Lakers and Heat have moved within a win of the NBA Finals, and trying to figure out what a Mike D'Antoni-led Sixers team would look like.
We delve into the Lakers' Game 2 win, Anthony Davis' incredible buzzer-beater, Denver's botched coverage on the final play, some encouraging signs for the Nuggets, and the great big-man battle at the heart of the series. Then, some thoughts on Heat-Celtics following Gordon Hayward's return and a Game 3 Boston win. Plus: How should we feel about LeBron's MVP gripe?
We dig into Game 1 of Lakers-Nuggets, the first two games of Heat-Celtics, and ask some big picture questions about Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks in the wake of The Greek Freak's second straight MVP award.
We react to the Nuggets' second straight 3-1 series comeback and stunning Game 7 beatdown of the lifeless Clippers - a game that featured transcendent performances from Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic, and complete disappearing acts from Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Then, we marvel at yet another high-wire triumph for Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, Goran Dragic, and the seemingly unkillable Heat.
A Game 6 epic means Raptors-Celtics is going the distance, the eliminated Bucks are at a crossroads, Billy Donovan is out in OKC, Playoff Rondo strikes again, and a moment of appreciation for LeBron James.
With the conference semifinals in full swing, we break down what we've seen so far from all four series, with a focus on the Western Conference. We wonder: Did the Nuggets blow their shot to upset the Clippers with a back-breaking Game 3 loss, or can Nikola Jokic and a solid defensive game plan keep them in the hunt? Can the Rockets overcome Russell Westbrook's struggles? Can the Lakers bank on the kind of high-level production they got from their role players in Game 2? Are the Raptors running out of gas, or can they push the defensively dominant Celtics to a Game 7? And if he can't return in this series, have we seen the last of Giannis in a Bucks uniform?
Kyle Lowry and OG Anunoby breathe life into the Raptors, the Nets hire Steve Nash in a stunning move, and previewing the Western Conference's second round.
In this week's episode, we sort through the aftermath of the historic NBA players' strike, question Mike Budenholzer's decision-making in the Bucks' Game 1 loss to the Heat, re-litigate the Chris Paul-for-Russell Westbrook trade after the Thunder force Game 7 with another crunch-time victory over the Rockets, and marvel at the incandescent Donovan Mitchell-Jamal Murray shootout.
Yasmin Duale (@carmelohdrama) joins the show to break down the NBA playoffs so far and project where eliminated teams are heading. Also, what's wrong with Playoff P and the Clippers?
The playoffs are finally here, so let's dive into what we've learned from every series after one game, and what those observations might tell us about the rest of the playoffs.
With the seeding stage drawing to a close, we cap a wild two weeks by wondering whether the play-in should be here to stay, lauding the undefeated Suns and improbably plucky Nets, casting our votes for Bubble MVP and All-Bubble teams, and previewing the play-in ... thing (tournament? scenario? situation?) between the Blazers and Grizzlies. We also chat about the Bulls' long-overdue firing of coach Jim Boylen.
Ben Simmons, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Jonathan Isaac go down, the West playoff race heats up, the Lakers are giving us cause for concern, and Michael Porter Jr. might be a budding star for Denver.
On this week's episode, we break down the first few batch of official games from inside the Disney bubble, including some thoughts on the Pelicans' roster construction, T.J. Warren's ascent, the continually confounding Sixers, the Raptors' defense, Kyle Lowry's brilliance, the Lakers/Clippers matchup, the Mavs' crunch-time struggles, the Thunder's playoff legitimacy, the Jazz's offensive struggles, and more.
With only a week to go until the NBA restarts in Disney World, we break down the most interesting teams - and potential matchups - to watch. In addition, Cash and Wolfond make their updated Finals predictions.
On this week's episode, we run down the latest dispatches from the Disney bubble, including Jimmy Butler's latest act of performative work ethic, injuries to Rajon Rondo and De'Aaron Fox, Zion Williamson's departure, and Victor Oladipo's $3-million change of heart. Then, we discuss Giannis Antetokounmpo's looming supermax decision, whether the Bucks would ever consider trading him, and the factors that might influence his (and any other superstar's)thinking.
Teams begin to arrive in Orlando with players complaining about food and lodging conditions. Meanwhile, Victor Oladipo and Bradley Beal are out, while Jamal Crawford and Michael Beasley are in.
On this week's episode, we discuss the NBA's reported plan to create a second bubble for its 8 eliminated teams to train in Chicago, how myriad player absences will affect the Nets and Lakers in Orlando, the Wizards' chances of making the playoffs, how Joakim Noah can help the Clippers, Maya Moore's humanitarian heroics, and the cognitive dissonance that comes with anticipating basketball's return amid a catastrophe.
In this week's episode, we honour the end of Vince Carter's career and discuss the players who have begun to opt out of the Orlando bubble, like Avery Bradley.
On this week's episode, we discuss the many legitimate arguments on both sides of the debate about whether or not to return to play, Kyrie as a messenger, what it would actually mean for the players to have a 'platform' in Orlando, and the many ins and outs of the NBA's exhaustive health and safety manual.
On this week's episode, we discuss the burbling tension within the player ranks over whether to return to play, the prospect of a condensed 2020-21 season, LeBron's 'More Than A Vote' initiative, and reasons for optimism for the teams whose seasons are over. Then, Cash talks to director Ryan Sidhoo about his documentary, 'True North: Inside the Rise of Toronto Basketball'
What to make of the NBA's 22-team return plan. How will it work? Can the league keep everyone safe? What are the Suns and Wizards doing here? And which teams are most affected by the unique, quirky format?
At at time when sports has rightfully taken a back seat to an important moment in history, we wanted to join the conversation, speak out against racism and police brutality, stand with those protesting, join the call to educate ourselves, educate others, and push this movement forward. We also join the NBA world in mourning the death of Hall of Famer Wes Unseld.
On this week's episode, we parse the latest reports on NBA return-to-play scenarios, wonder what the legacy of 'The Last Dance' will be, and discuss Cash's oral history on Steve Nash's 2005 playoff demolition of the team that had let him walk 10 months earlier.
In this week's episode, we discuss Michael Jordan's maniacal competitiveness, and predict what the 2020 NBA playoff bracket would look like. To conclude the show, we're joined by theScore's MLB Podcast hosts, Jonah Birenbaum and Michael Bradburn, to discuss Jordan's short-lived baseball career.
On this week's episode, we consider the roadblocks and bad optics standing in the way of the NBA resuming its season, then break down episodes 5 and 6 of 'The Last Dance,' and close with a discussion on the increasingly indefinable power forward position.
On this week's episode, we make our 10 All-Defensive Team selections and discuss the biggest takeaways from episodes 1-2 of The Last Dance.
With a resumption of the NBA regular season looking unlikely, we unveil our picks for MVP, Defensive Player, Most Improved Player, Rookie, 6th Man, Coach, and Executive of the Year. Then, Cash is joined by Stephon Marbury from Beijing to discuss his new documentary, 'A Kid from Coney Island,' his experience transitioning to coaching in China, how he's aiding COVID-19 relief efforts, and why he reached out to Adam Silver last month.
We talk about the plausibility of the NBA eventually resuming its season in a quarantined neutral site, before discussing and debating some ideas for improving the league in the future.
Which teams and players have the most to lose in the event of a lost season? Mavericks big man Dwight Powell joins the show to discuss the incredible charity endeavour he's part of with Luka Doncic and Mark Cuban.
The many potential ripple effects of a suspended NBA season, and what might come next for a sports world dealing with the COVID-19 crisis.
In this week's episode, we react to the "mutual" parting of ways between the Nets and coach Kenny Atkinson, the potential impact of the Coronavirus on the rest of the season, the Lakers' incredible weekend, the Clippers' Staples Center conundrum, the up-and-down Rockets, and the recency bias rollercoaster.
On this week's episode, Wolfond returns from his honeymoon, Cash helps get him up to speed on the NBA goings-on he's missed, and the two of us look ahead to the stretch run. We discuss: - The Bucks' dominance and who (if anyone) can challenge them. - Khris Middleton's unheralded superstardom, Jayson Tatum's in-season leap, and the race for the final two All-NBA forward slots. - The pros and cons of the Rockets' small-ball experiment. - What the Sixers slipping to the 6-seed would mean for them and the rest of the East. - Whether the Pelicans can usurp the Grizzlies' playoff spot, and whether that would be enough for Zion Williamson to steal ROY from Ja Morant. - The Knicks, for some reason.
Eric Walden of the Salt Lake Tribune joins the show to provide insight into a bizarre couple days in Utah, and what's gone wrong for a Jazz team that had championship aspirations coming into the season.
John Beilein's resignation is the latest chapter of Cavaliers dysfunction in Cleveland. Also, what's worth watching in the season's unofficial second half?
Were there any clear cut winners and losers from deadline week? Did the Heat give up too much for Andre Iguodala? What were the Pistons thinking in dumping Andre Drummond for nothing? Is Marcus Morris enough of an upgrade for the Clippers at power forward? Did Wolves or Warriors win the Russell for Wiggins blockbuster? Grizzlies and Hawks had solid weeks.
On the 1-year anniversary of the Kristaps Porzingis trade, we take a look at how the deal has worked out for all parties, and marvel at the enduringly dysfunctional state of the Knicks. Then we discuss the All-Star reserves, Bradley Beal's gripe, the Devin Booker snub, and the game's new format. Finally, we check in on the scalding-hot Damian Lillard and his tepid Trail Blazers.
We reflect on the devastating passing of Kobe Bryant. Our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of all those who lost their life in Sunday's tragedy.
Reposted after an audio issue cut off the original track at the 34-minute mark
We briefly hit on Zion Williamson's impending return before making our picks for the Eastern and Western Conference All-Star teams. Who should start in the East backcourt? Is Trae Young's offense alone enough to get him in? Should the Celtics send Tatum or Brown? Have PG and KAT played enough to merit inclusion in the West? Is it finally Gobert's time? With the starters set to be announced Thursday, we discuss all that and more.
We make our midseason selections for every major award, nominate a clown of the NBA's first half, and break down how the 76ers might fare without Joel Embiid.
In our first episode of the new year, we discuss what Blake Griffin's latest knee surgery means for him and the Pistons, the challenges of finding trades for Andre Drummond and Kevin Love, whether injuries will prevent the KD/Kyrie Nets from competing for a championship, and whether Zion Williamson's impending return can launch a second-half playoff push for the Pelicans.
Utah and Denver hit their stride while we try to figure out what the hell is going on in the bottom half of the Western Conference
Ahead of their blockbuster clash, we talk about how our feelings have and haven't changed about the league-leading Lakers and Bucks. Then, some thoughts on James Harden's outrageous season and whether it's enough to make the Rockets legitimate championship contenders.
The Knicks put David Fizdale out of his misery, and we check in on the 10 players we thought could swing the 2019-20 season.
In honor of our 100th episode, we bring former co-host William Lou back on the show to talk all things Raptors: Their amazing start, unpredictable defense, emergent depth, stiffest competition in the East, chances of re-signing Fred Vanvleet, and more. Then we return to an old segment with Make or Miss.
We dig into the proposed changes coming to the NBA schedule and playoff format, while checking the pulse of the Spurs, Rockets, and Mavericks.
On this week's episode, we talk about why the Blazers signed Carmelo Anthony and what (if anything) he can do to help them, what Paul George's impressive return portends for a fully healthy Clippers team, the meaningful changes Andrew Wiggins has made to his game, the Raptors' championship ring "controversy," and the surprisingly potent Wizards offense.
We recap an eventful weekend in the NBA, in which Dion Waiters took an edible on a team flight, the Knicks embarrassed themselves again, the thriving Raptors and Celtics suffered significant injuries, and Damian Lillard dropped 60 points in a loss.
Which teams have surprised us, and who has been disappointing, over the first two weeks of the NBA season?
On a wild night in the NBA, an already dispiriting Warriors season gets a bit grimmer as Steph Curry breaks his left hand, Joel Embiid and Karl-Anthony Towns take each other down on and off the court, the Rockets and Wizards combine for 317 regulation points, and the Kings somehow lose again. We break it all down on a bonus episode!
Bouncing around the NBA to find the good (Suns, Wolves), the bad (Warriors, Kings), and the ugly (uh-oh, Kyrie)of opening week.
In our final episode before the start of the regular season, we take stock of some extension agreements and non-agreements (note: we recorded before the Kings extended Buddy Hield), as well as Zion Williamson's injury-related red flags. Then we predict how the 2019-20 campaign will unfold, from standings to playoff outcomes to awards.
On our penultimate preseason episode, we discuss LeBron James' tone-deaf criticism of Daryl Morey and the ensuing backlash, then break down the championship prospects of the Rockets, Nuggets, Lakers, and Clippers.
In this week's episode, we discuss the NBA's current political issues in China, what to make of some early preseason observations, and why the Bucks, 76ers, Warriors, and Jazz can - and can't - win the 2020 title.
With Media Day in the rearview and the preseason about to get underway, we discuss the Raptors' unconventional title defense, the Knicks' latest self-own, the usefulness of James Harden's one-legged step-back, and the non-contending teams that fascinate us most.
Which up and coming players are ready to shine this season, and which stars are about to fall off?
How high can the Nets, Lakers, Raptors, Mavs, Pacers, Thunder, and Celtics climb? How low can they fall? On this week's episode, we're talking about the teams with the widest range of potential outcomes for the coming season.
France stuns the American "C Team," and we dig into 10 burning questions for the upcoming NBA season.
After a long hiatus, we're back to catch up on some summer goings-on: A spate of contract extensions that've made a weak 2020 free-agent class even weaker, Dwight Howard's return to the Lakers, a dark turn in the DeMarcus Cousins saga, Bradley Beal's trade value, and Carmelo Anthony's increasingly desperate search for an NBA job.
On this episode, Wael Saghir subs in for a vacationing Cash to talk about some regular-season over/under win total projections. We take stock of the 2019-20 outlooks for the Hornets, Timberwolves, Blazers, Celtics, Lakers, Nuggets, Bulls, Bucks, Heat, and Warriors.
On this week's episode, we bounce around the league looking for big-picture takeaways from a wild NBA offseason.
Examining the implications of the Chris Paul-Russell Westbrook blockbuster. Does anybody win? Did the Rockets get better, or worse? How can Westbrook and James Harden fit together? What's the Thunder's next move? And how does this affect Paul's legacy?
In this week's episode, we spend 2-3 minutes on where each of the NBA's 30 teams stands as the dust settles on the offseason.
Kawhi Leonard announces himself as the NBA's newest power broker, the Clippers become title favorites, the Lakers pivot, the Raptors reset, and the Thunder gear up for a long rebuild. We break down the implications of two landscape-altering moves for all four teams involved.
On this episode, we try to make sense of where the league's balance of power stands after Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Jimmy Butler, Al Horford, and D'Angelo Russell changed teams, while more than $3 billion worth of contracts were handed out.
theScore's resident draft expert, Wael Saghir, joins hosts Joseph Casciaro and Joe Wolfond to break down the winners and losers from the NBA draft.
The Lakers and Pelicans won, the Celtics lost, and the Raptors' championship parade offered a glimpse into the relationship between Kawhi Leonard's uncle Dennis and Raptors president Masai Ujiri.
The Raptors sit atop the basketball world, but the wounded Warriors might be broken beyond repair.
We reflect on a bizarre, somber, ultimately inspiring Game 5, in which the Warriors pulled out a gutsy, series-saving win after Kevin Durant suffered a devastating Achilles injury
How the Raptors picked apart a depleted Warriors team in Game 3, and how we see the rest of the Finals unfolding.
On this episode, we recap the end of a wild Eastern Conference final, wonder what the Bucks will do this offseason, and preview Raptors-Warriors
Mena Massoud, the star of Disney's Aladdin, drops by to discuss his passion for the Toronto Raptors, and we discuss the best players of the postseason thus far.
The Bucks and Raptors are now in a best-of-three for a right to challenge the Warriors, and the Lakers remain a franchise in chaos.
In this episode, we recap three indelible closeout games and put a bow on the most entertaining 2nd round in memory, before looking ahead to Bucks-Raptors and Warriors-Blazers
On this week's episode, we wonder whether the remnants of the '15-16 Warriors can finish off the Rockets, before putting a bow on the Celtics' dreary season, looking ahead to a pair of closeout games in Philly and Portland, and checking in on the Lakers' coaching search
In this week's episode, we break down what we've seen from each of the NBA's 2nd-round playoff series.
On this week's episode, we talk about the Warriors' lack of urgency, what's next for the Thunder and Jazz, and how we see the Eastern Conference 2nd round shaking out
In this week's episode, we break down what we've seen from all eight 1st-round playoff matchups.
On this week's episode, we break down and pick winners for all eight 1st-round playoff series. In addition, we examine which postseason coaches are on the hot seat.
On this emergency mini-episode, we recap the head-spinning penultimate day of the NBA season, which saw Magic Johnson abruptly resign, Dirk Nowitzki and Dwyane Wade drop 30 apiece in their home farewells, the Rockets lose their grip on the 2-seed, and much, much more.
On this week's episode, we take stock of Ernie Grunfeld's shambolic 16-year Wizards tenure, shout out a pair of teams peaking at the right time, and make our end-of-season awards picks.
On this week's episode, we discuss how Eric Bledsoe and the Bucks slowed down James Harden, how Jusuf Nurkic's horrific injury derails the Trail Blazers, and we make our picks for the NBA's All-NBA and All-Defensive teams.
On this week's show, the new-look 76ers go streaking, Pascal Siakam looks like a budding superstar, the Thunder hit a road bump, and are the Bucks still the favorites to emerge from the East?
On this week's episode, DeMarcus Cousins picks the Rockets apart, the Spurs are heating up, Lou Williams and Danilo Gallinari are carrying the Clippers, and James Dolan is The Mad King of the NBA.
On this week's episode, we discuss whether there are any takeaways from Boston's big win over Golden State, the recent play of Karl-Anthony Towns, Andre Drummond, the Houston Rockets, and New Orleans Pelicans, and whether or not LeBron James passing Michael Jordan in all-time scoring is tainted by a disastrous Lakers season. Later, former NBAers Darius Miles and Quentin Richardson join us to talk about their new podcast.
On this week's episode, we highlight some players with "sweet" moves and teams bringing a bit of "heat" lately, then break down the chances of the 5 teams currently fighting for the Western Conference's last two playoff spots
On this week's episode, we wrap up an underwhelming All-Star Weekend, take stock of the Anthony Davis mess, look ahead to some storylines we'll be watching down the stretch, and talk to former Cavs general manager David Griffin about his role on the forthcoming reality TV show 'GM School'
Topics for this week's episode include: - Winners: Bucks, Raptors, 76ers, Celtics, Mavericks - Losers: Lakers, Wizards, Hornets, Pelicans - Buyout candidates
Topics for this week's episode include: - Kyrie Irving retracts commitment to Celtics - Is Irving headed to New York? - Knicks trade Kristaps Porzingis to clear cap room - How good will the Mavericks be with Porzingis and Luka Doncic? - Anthony Davis doesn't want to play in Boston - All-Star snubs
Topics for this week's episode include: - Anthony Davis wants out of New Orleans - Davis wants to play in Los Angeles - Lakers, Knicks, Bucks, Raptors to prepare offers
Topics for this week's episode include:
- The return of DeMarcus Cousins
- Wizards thriving without John Wall
- Ramifications of Victor Oladipo's season-ending injury
- Trade proposals for Marc Gasol and Mike Conley
Topics for this week's episode include:
- Buyers: Rockets, Lakers, 76ers, Thunder, Raptors, Pacers
- Sellers: Bulls, Cavaliers, Hawks, Suns, Knicks
- On the fence: Grizzlies, Magic, Heat
Topics for this week's episode include: - Jaylen Brown and Marcus Morris get into a shoving match - Spurs-Thunder takeaways - How the Bucks guarded James Harden - Midseason award ballots
On this week's episode, we get the inside scoop on why the Timberwolves fired Tom Thibodeau from Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic.
Topics for this week's show include: - Reliving the emotions of Raptors-Spurs - Are the Raptors still the second-best team in the East? - What's behind the Spurs' turnaround? - The numbers behind James Harden's incredible run - Is Harden the leading candidate to repeat as MVP? - How should the Wizards approach their inevitable rebuild? - Plus: Luka Doncic's contrived nickname, Brooklyn's emergence, Kevin Love trade talks, and more
Topics for this week's show with Alex Wong include: - Who's the second-best team in the West? - Do the Lakers have enough assets to swing a trade for Anthony Davis? - Have the Celtics fixed their offense? - What to make of the emerging Pacers - Plus: Kawhi Leonard, James Dolan, James Harden's double stepback, and more
Topics for this week's show with John Chick includes: - Bulls nearly stage mutiny against new head coach Jim Boylen - Clippers pursuing both Kawhi Leonard and Kevin Durant - Where should Leonard sign this summer? - Gregg Popovich passes Pat Riley in coaching wins - Suns threatening to relocate to Seattle - LeBron James faces off against Dwyane Wade for last time
This week's topics include:
Teams on the rise: - Lakers - Sixers - Timberwolves - Mavericks Teams on the fall: - Spurs - Blazers - Rockets
Topics for this week's show include: - Raptors-Warriors reaction - Potential Finals matchup? - Underrated teams: Thunder, Grizzlies, Pacers, Nuggets, Clippers - NBA awards at quarter mark
Here's one way each contending team can improve: - Raptors: Develop some better crunch time offense - Celtics: Start attacking the rim -76ers: Find a reliable stretch four - Bucks: Defend the 3-point line - Rockets: Add more depth through buyout market - Pelicans: Complete the starting lineup with a 3-and-D wing - Blazers: Stagger minutes between Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum - Lakers: Trade for Bradley Beal
This week's topics include: - What's going on with the Wizards? - Will the Wizards tear everything down or give it one last run? - Is Ernie Grunfeld the man to lead the rebuild? - What could John Wall and Bradley Beal fetch in trades? - How to fix this team moving forward
This week's topics include: - All the fallout from Draymond Green and Kevin Durant's dispute - Can the Warriors get everyone back on the same page? - Is Durant being unfair to his teammates? - Where does Carmelo Anthony end up next season - Will the 76ers punt on Markelle Fultz - Dwane Casey's return to Toronto
Topics for this emergency episode includes: - How does this deal affect the 76ers? - Can Jimmy Butler co-exist with Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid? - What's the future for Markelle Fultz? - How should the Celtics, Raptors and Bucks react to this move? - Is Butler the third piece that completes "The Process" - Was this the best trade the Timberwolves could make?
Topics for this week's show include: - Should the Lakers fire Luke Walton? Does Tyson Chandler resolve any of their issues? - The ongoing mess in Cleveland - Why the Wizards are falling short of expectations - Who is the second-best team in the West: Blazers, Nuggets or Rockets? - Who is the third-best team in the East: Celtics, Bucks or 76ers? - Make or Miss: Anthony Davis, Omri Casspi, Jimmy Butler, Donovan Mitchell
The 10 early trends we discuss are the following: 1. Spurs have the worst defense in the league 2. Kyle Lowry leads the league in assists 3. JaVale McGee, Josh Hart, and Lonzo Ball thriving for Lakers 4. Kings are surprisingly competent 5. Blake Griffin looks reborn 6. Stephen Curry playing at 2106 7. Celtics have the 29th-ranked offense 8. Karl-Anthony Towns looks out of it 9. Thunder are winless and can't score, at all 10. Cavaliers on the verge of trading Kevin Love
Topics for this week's episode include: - Rajon Rondo exchanging punches with Chris Paul - Roster concerns popping up for Lakers - Celtics look rusty to start - Kawhi Leonard and Kyle Lowry strong for Raptors - Nikola Jokic dominant to start - Can the Pelicans keep it up?
Topics for this week's episode include: - Breaking down the extensions that were signed on Monday - Handing out every award for the 2018-19 season (see voting here) - Predicting which teams will make the playoffs - Raptors or Celtics - who will come out of the East?
Topics for this week's episode include: - Jimmy Butler straight-up punking the Minnesota Timberwolves - Is San Antonio in danger of missing the playoffs? - First impressions of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors - Is the Warriors' lack of wing depth a concern? - Do the Philadelphia 76ers have a game plan for how to rebuild Markelle Fultz's confidence?
Topics for this week's episode include: - Kawhi Leonard looks strong in his return to action - Wizards head coach Scott Brooks already admonishing his team for their lack of discipline - What will the Lakers do at center? - Celtics off to sluggish start as Gordon Hayward remains limited - Markelle Fultz slowly regaining his confidence - Andre Drummond continues to try (but not make) threes - Bold predictions
Topics for this week's episode with special guest Stephen Jackson includes:
First half with Will, Wolfond, and Cash: - The latest on Jimmy Butler's trade demands - Make or Miss: Kawhi Leonard, Kyle Lowry, Kevin Durant, Lonzo Ball, Anthony Davis, Carmelo Anthony, Kyrie Irving
Second half with Cash and Stack: - Squashing the Andrew Wiggins beef - How Tristan Thompson is hungry for attention - Stack his all-heart team (P.J. Tucker, Patrick Beverley, John Wall, Russell Westbrook, Giannis Antetokounmpo)
Topics for this week's episode with Darren Wolfson of 5 Eyewitness News: - Wolfson gives the inside scoop on the mess in Minnesota - Why does Jimmy Butler want out - is it money or the players? - Should Tom Thibodeau be the one calling the shots? Is the owner going to get involved? - Andrew Wiggins and Karl-Anthony Towns being under the spotlight - Why doesn't Butler and other stars want to play with LeBron James? - Building hypothetical Butler trade packages
Topics for this week's episode include: - Russell Westbrook undergoes fourth surgery on his right knee - Knicks want Kyrie Irving next summer - Must-watch NBA League Pass teams, and those to avoid - Most overrated acquisitions: DeAndre Jordan, Dwight Howard, Mike Budenholzer - Most underrated moves: Fred VanVleet, Seth Curry, Julius Randle
Topics for this week's episode include:
- Remembering the best moments of Manu Ginobili's career
- Will Jimmy Butler re-sign with Minnesota or will he bolt?
- Philadelphia continues their search for a general manager while Ben Simmons promises improvements on his jumper
- Why the Pacers, Heat, Clippers and Blazers will regress
Topics for this week's episode includes: - Four breakout players to watch: Myles Turner, Pascal Siakam, Buddy Hield, Dennis Smith Jr. - Four regression candidates: LaMarcus Aldridge, Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, Nikola Jokic - Joseph Casciaro delivers a behind the scenes look at the making of his video with Lance Stephenson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOl5gaEyhBY
Part two of this week's episode covers Eastern conference Vegas win totals: - Why Sixers might not meet expectations - Can the Raptors and Celtics win 60+ games? - The sad morass at the bottom of the East
Topics for this week's episode with Alex Wong includes: - Reviewing the Vegas over-under totals for every Western conference team - Why the Rockets, Timberwolves, Spurs, and Blazers might regress - Are the Lakers the third-best team in the West? - Why the Jazz, Thunder, and Nuggets will exceed expectations
Topics for this episode include: - Breaking down the NBA's deal with MGM - How will legalized betting impact how fans watch the NBA? - Does the league need to solve tanking and resting before accepting bets? - How can the integrity of the game be maintained? - Breaking down the new hierarchy in the East
Topics for this week's episode include:
- East winners: Toronto, Indiana, New York
- East losers: Philadelphia, Miami, Cleveland
- West winners: Los Angeles, New Orleans, Oklahoma City
- West losers: Houston, Minnesota, Sacramento
Joseph Casciaro gives a live report from Vegas on this bonus episode: - Gregg Popovich giving special attention to DeMar DeRozan - John Wall's unfortunate mugshot - Kevin Durant's spat with C.J. McCollum and how he can rebrand his image - Checking in with Tobias Harris and Isaiah Thomas - Most impressive and least impressive player at camp
Topics for this week's episode with Jerome Williams a.k.a Junk Yard Dog include:
- DeMar DeRozan upset with Masai Ujiri over being traded for Kawhi Leonard
- Cleveland clinches mediocrity by extending Kevin Love
- Carmelo Anthony takes the minimum in Houston, yet maintains he won't sacrifice his role
- Knicks quietly operating as a rational franchise for once
- JYD joins the show to discuss Big 3, misconceptions about playing in Toronto, and what it would take for DeRozan to forgive the organisation
Topics for this edition include: - Is Leonard worth the risk for the Raptors? - Should Toronto be worried about its league wide perception after moving DeRozan? - Is this really the best San Antonio could do for Leonard? - How do Jakob Poeltl and Danny Green factor in to their new homes? - Is there any chance Leonard stays in Toronto beyond 2019?
Topics for this week's episode: - Is there a sadder NBA story than Isaiah Thomas taking the veteran's minimum to play in Denver? - What is Houston doing this summer, and can Carmelo Anthony help them close the gap against the Warriors? - How real are these Kawhi Leonard rumors, and should the Raptors make an all-in push on a one-year rental? - Jimmy Butler makes a logical move to turn down extension, but is he a long-term fit with the Timberwolves? - Plus: Zach LaVine, LeBron James body swap movies, and more
On this bonus episode, William and Joseph dial up John Chick in Las Vegas to get some insight into Summer League.
- What's the hype behind Knicks lotto pick Kevin Knox?
- Mo Bamba showing All-Star potential and freakish tools
- Trae Young's bounceback performance after a concerning start
- Collin Sexton appears ready to carry the Cavaliers
- Catching up with Gar Forman after re-signing Zach LaVine
This week's topics include: - What are the Lakers doing with these awful signings? - Who else is joining LeBron James in L.A.? Kawhi Leonard? - Why didn't the Lakers sign DeMarcus Cousins? - How will Cousins fit with the Warriors? - Can the Celtics and 76ers win the East without making a move? - Why the Raptors should go all-in for one last push
On this edition of Pound the Rock, the usual co-hosts give their immediate reactions to LeBron James signing with the Los Angeles Lakers.
- Did this announcement surprise anyone?
- How does this affect a potential Kawhi Leonard trade?
- Can the Lakers compete with their roster as is?
- Will there be titles down the line for the Lakers?
- What should Boston, Philadelphia, and Toronto do now that LeBron went west?
- Should the Cavaliers trade Kevin Love and start over?
On this special edition of Pound the Rock, the usual co-hosts review every deal that was struck in an eventful Day 1 of NBA free agency.
- Thunder reportedly re-sign F Paul George to 4-year, $137M contract
- Rockets reportedly re-sign PG Chris Paul to 4-year, $160M contract
- Warriors reportedly re-sign F Kevin Durant to 2-year, $61.5M deal
- Mavericks reportedly sign C DeAndre Jordan to 1-year, $24.1M deal
- Suns reportedly sign F Trevor Ariza to 1-year, $15M contract
- An update on free agent LeBron James
- Should the Thunder stretch Carmelo Anthony?
- Who takes a risk on DeMarcus Cousins?
- Plus: Best bargain deal? Worst signing?
Welcome to the Pound the Rock podcast, a weekly NBA show hosted by William Lou, Joseph Casciaro, and Joe Wolfond.
This week's topics include: - Previewing free agency: What's the future for LeBron James, Chris Paul, Paul George and DeMarcus Cousins? - Trade candidates: Kawhi Leonard, Kemba Walker, DeMar DeRozan, Kyle Lowry - Top restricted free agents: Clint Capela, Julius Randle, Zach LaVine, Jabari Parker - NBA Award show: Breaking down every award pick
On this special edition of Pound the Rock, the usual co-hosts invite draft expert Wael Saghir to give immediate reactions to the 2018 NBA Draft.
- Did the Mavericks find their future star in Luka Doncic?
- How will Trae Young fare with the Hawks?
- How does this draft impact the Lakers' chances of landing Kawhi Leonard?
- Who were the biggest steals of the draft? Biggest reach?
- Adrian Wojnarowski steals the show
- Cavaliers nab Collin Sexton in hopes of keeping LeBron James
Welcome to the Pound the Rock podcast, a weekly NBA show hosted by William Lou, Joseph Casciaro, and Joe Wolfond.
This week's topics include: - Kawhi Leonard wants out of San Antonio - Who is to blame in this split? - How much could the Spurs get back in return? - Can Leonard lure LeBron James to the Lakers? - Raptors hire Nick Nurse as head coach - Warriors made silly mistake with Kevin Durant - Plus: Previewing this Thursday's NBA Draft
Welcome to the Pound the Rock podcast, a weekly NBA show hosted by William Lou, Joseph Casciaro, and Joe Wolfond.
Topics: - Behind the scenes from the Warriors' locker room celebration - Was LeBron James using his broken hand as a distraction? - Where will LeBron take his talents this summer? - What's the next move for Kevin Durant? Will he eventually find the validation he so badly craves in a new city? - Can the Warriors keep their roster intact despite enormous luxury tax bills? - Can Dwane Casey get the Pistons back to the playoffs? - Who will the Raptors hire as head coach? - Plus: Donovan Mitchell, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, and more.
On this special edition of Pound the Rock, co-host Joseph Casciaro catches up with Alex Wong in Cleveland following Game 3 of the NBA Finals.
Topics: - Kevin Durant's isolation game gets validated - Warriors losing their luster by being too talented - How would Kyrie Irving have affected the series? - Should Durant's titles be discounted? - Bryan Colangelo fired over his wife's burner accounts - Plus: Pelicans extend Alvin Gentry, Bulls being too cheap to scout,
Welcome to the Pound the Rock podcast, a weekly NBA show hosted by William Lou, Joseph Casciaro, and Joe Wolfond.
Topics for this week's episode show include: - J.R. Smith messed up, but is Tyronn Lue also at blame for Game 1 error? - Warriors burning Cavaliers on switches - The experience of watching LeBron James' efforts go to waste - Stephen Curry favored to win elusive Finals MVP award - Bryan Colangelo's burner accounts and the Sixers' future - Building the dream broadcast crew
Topics for this week's bonus Finals preview show include: - The Warriors survived Game 7 of the Western Conference finals - Houston inexplicably missing 27 straight threes - Will the Finals be competitive? - Which player is a bigger loss - Andre Iguodala or Kevin Love? - How can the Cavaliers make it competitive - Golden State's slowly adopting many of Cleveland's shortcomings - Is viewership fatigue catching up to the fourth iteration of this match-up
Topics for this week's show include: - LeBron James plays all 48 to get past the Celtics - Jeff Green's feel-good performance - Jayson Tatum on the Paul George trajectory - What do the Celtics do with Marcus Smart and Terry Rozier? - Kevin Durant under the microscope in Game 7 - Plus: Vlade Divac's rendezvous, Carmelo Anthony's insecurity, Kobe Bryant butting into the GOAT conversation
Welcome to the Pound the Rock podcast, a weekly NBA show hosted by William Lou, Joseph Casciaro, and guest host Wael Sagir.
Topics for this week's show include: - How did the Cavaliers pull even with the Celtics? - ECF series prediction - Warriors dismantle Rockets in Game 3 - Stephen Curry snaps cold streak in emphatic fashion - Scouting reports for Marvin Bagley, Deandre Ayton, Luka Doncic
Welcome to the Pound the Rock podcast, a weekly NBA show hosted by William Lou, Joseph Casciaro, and Joe Wolfond.
Topics: - Reacting to Game 1 between Celtics and Cavaliers - How did the Celtics shut down LeBron James? Will it continue? - Contrasting how Koby Altman and Danny Ainge built their teams - Raptors fired Dwane Casey, so what's next? - What will Masai Ujiri do with his roster? Move one of his stars or add a third piece? - Warriors-Rockets preview
Welcome to the Pound the Rock podcast, a weekly NBA show hosted by William Lou, Joseph Casciaro, and Joe Wolfond.
Topics for this week's show include: - Cavaliers return to dominance, appear to be Finals bound - LeBron James elevating his game to new levels - How would the Celtics match-up with the Cavaliers? - What do the Raptors do from here? - Warriors-Rockets series preview - Plus: Knicks hire David Fizdale, Pistons fire Stan Van Gundy, Patrick Patterson randomly takes a shot at his former team
Topics for this week's episode: - Is LeBron James vulnerable in the East? - What can the Raptors learn from the Pacers? - OKC's uncertain future with Carmelo Anthony and Paul George - Next steps for the Bucks, Wizards, Pacers - Plus: DeMarcus Cousins, Hassan Whiteside, and Victor Oladipo
Topics for this week's show include:
- Russell Westbrook's meltdown and the under-performing Oklahoma City Thunder
- Do the Portland Trail Blazers blow up their core?
- Can the New Orleans Pelicans scare the Golden State Warriors?
- Plus: LeBron James looking exhausted, Wizards leveling with Raptors, Lance Stephenson's antics, and NBA fights.
Topics for this week's show include:
- Pacers trounce Cavaliers in shocking upset
- Kawhi Leonard and the Spurs heading toward ugly split
- Sixers continue rolling with dominant start
- Which player had the most impressive Game 1 performance?
- Playoff Rondo and Playoff P
- Raptors show changed culture vs. Wizards
- Nobody is forgetting about the Warriors
On this bonus episode, the roundtable previews each first-round playoff series.
Topics: - Can the Wizards upset the Raptors? - Will Giannis Antetokounmpo put the Bucks on his back? - What struggles will Ben Simmons and the red-hot Sixers encounter? - Is this the year that the Pacers finally beat LeBron James? (No.) - Will the Rockets sweep the Timberwolves? - Did the Warriors get lucky in drawing the Spurs? - Are the Pelicans being overlooked? - Why Paul George is the pivotal figure for the Thunder
Welcome to the Pound the Rock podcast, a weekly NBA show hosted by William Lou, Joseph Casciaro, and Joe Wolfond.
Topics for this week's show include: - Is Oklahoma City Thunder the third-best team in the West? - Which West team would be most devastated by missing out on the playoffs? - Are the Philadelphia 76ers a serious treat to win the East? - Award ballots: Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Sixth Man of the Year, Most Improved Player, Coach of the Year, Executive of the Year - Plus: Ben Simmons and Tinashe, Andre Iguodala as the Warriors' mole
Welcome to the Pound the Rock podcast, a weekly NBA show hosted by William Lou, Joseph Casciaro, and Joe Wolfond.
Topics for this week's show include: - Exploring the Kawhi Leonard trade market - Is this another classic Toronto Raptors meltdown in April? - Which injured team is more likely to be upset in the 1st round: the Golden State Warriors or the Boston Celtics? - Plus: Ben Simmons, Anthony Davis, Hassan Whiteside, and "Blog Boys."