The Mismatch

Reporter LeBron, Mark Cuban’s Gripe, and a League Standings Check Mar 24, 2023

Verno and KOC discuss Ja Morant’s return in the Grizzlies’ win over the Rockets on Wednesday night (03:22). The guys discuss a pair of games from the Sweet 16: Kansas State’s overtime win over Michigan State and UConn’s dominant win over Arkansas (08:55). After LeBron James shoots down the reports of his potential return, the guys debate when he’ll get back on the floor for the Lakers (19:32). In looking at the crowded West standings, the guys debate whether Karl-Anthony Towns’s return is enough for the Timberwolves to make some noise in the playoffs and if the Mavs are in danger of missing the postseason (35:04). The guys also briefly look at the East standings before discussing the reemergence of the dominant big man and ask whether Immanuel Quickley is on his way to win this year’s Sixth Man of the Year award (51:59).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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'The Mismatch' LIVE! | The New Daisy Theatre, Memphis, TN Mar 22, 2023

In front of a sold-out crowd, Verno and KOC headline the New Daisy Theatre located on the world-famous Beale Street in Memphis! However, the guys are not alone, as The Ringer's Joe House joins the show, as well as some surprise guests from the Grizzlies. The first surprise was David Roddy. The guys discuss his progress in his rookie season; playing for the Grizzlies G League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle; as well as the team identity that the Grizz seem to be building. The second surprise was Jaren Jackson Jr. They discuss his hot streak, playing with Dillon Brooks, his relationship with the referees, and the desire to win Defensive Player of the Year. Also, the guys debate which teams in each conference have a true chance at winning it all.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guests: Joe House, David Roddy, and Jaren Jackson Jr.

Producers: Jessie Lopez, Elizabeth Fierman, and Ben Cruz

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Tournament NBA Potentials, Embiid Pushing for MVP, and the Feel-Good Kings Clinch a Winning Season Mar 17, 2023

Verno and KOC discuss Ja Morant’s suspension before turning their attention to Draymond Green’s suspension after he received his 16th technical foul this season. They then discuss the feel-good Kings, who clinched their first winning season since 2005-06 (01:40). With the 76ers riding a six-game winning streak, the guys note that Joel Embiid is making a strong push for MVP as they debate the current MVP standings (22:39). With March Madness still underway, the guys discuss some of their favorite players in the tournament, as well as those players' NBA potential (42:05).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Collapsing Celtics, Bucks Beam The Kings, and the Helter-Skelter Warriors With Rob Mahoney Mar 14, 2023

KOC and Rob Mahoney (who’s filling in for Chris Vernon) recap a fun night of NBA action, beginning with the Bucks’ comeback victory over the Kings (01:29). They discuss Giannis dropping 46 as well as Brook Lopez’s importance to the team. They also debate whether the Kings can make a run in the playoffs (10:22). After losing to the last-place Rockets, is it time to reconsider the Celtics as possible title favorites (17:03)? The Warriors looked like shades of their old selves, defeating the Suns for their seventh straight home win, and KOC and Rob discuss Deandre Ayton’s lack of impact before debating how the Warriors will fare without Andrew Wiggins (28:10). Without Kyrie or Luka, the Mavs lost to the Grizzlies; the guys discuss their disappointment with this Mavs team (37:58). They also discuss the good news about injured stars LeBron James and Karl Anthony-Towns (50:01).

Hosts: Kevin O’Connor and Rob Mahoney

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Warriors Road Struggles, Injuries Around the League, and "Prove It" Time for Jokic Mar 10, 2023

Verno and KOC discuss last night’s Grizzlies rout over the Warriors, whose season-long struggles on the road continue (04:35). If the Warriors don’t fix their road woes, they are in danger of missing the playoffs altogether. The guys also debate how the Suns will fare after the Kevin Durant injury (15:44). Plus, the hope for a Zion Williamson return this season is in doubt once again as the Pelicans announced he will be out for at least another two weeks (33:13). Despite being without LeBron James, the Lakers are rising up the standings as Anthony Davis and the rest of the solid core continues to step up in their playoff push (39:10). Also, the guys discuss why this season is a "prove it" year for Nikola Jokic, Fred VanVleet calling out the refs, Dillon Brooks, and Lonzo Ball’s latest setback with his knee (52:28).

*The ‘Mismatch’ is coming to Memphis for a live show at the New Daisy Theatre on March 21st! Get your tickets here!*

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Mismatch LIVE! | El Rey Theatre, Los Angeles Mar 07, 2023

Verno and KOC take over El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles for their first live show! And they’re not alone, as The Ringer's own Sean Fennessey, Chris Ryan, and Tate Frasier join in on the fun. They discuss all the hottest topics in basketball, from Ja Morant to the surging Knicks and James Harden to the best college prospects to keep an eye out for during March Madness.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guests: Sean Fennessey, Chris Ryan, and Tate Frazier

Producers: Jessie Lopez, Elizabeth Fierman, and Ben Cruz

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Bucks Continue to Dominate, Believing in the Knicks, and Yet Another Live Show Announcement Mar 03, 2023

Ahead of Monday’s live show in Los Angeles, Verno and KOC announce another live show! This time in Verno’s town of Memphis, Tennessee, on March 21! After announcing the Memphis show, they move on to last night’s Mavs win over the 76ers (07:56). The guys discuss Giannis’s dominance during the Bucks' 16-game winning streak, which shows why they deserve to be the title favorites (21:20). Speaking of winning streaks, the guys discuss the Knicks’ seven-game win streak and Jalen Brunson’s insane run (27:17). Also, they discuss the Washington Post story around Ja Morant, Kevin Durant’s debut with the Suns, as well as looking at the Clippers' and Warriors' schedules down the stretch (36:35).

*'The Mismatch' is coming to Los Angeles for a live show at the El Rey Theatre on March 6! Get your tickets here!*

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Previewing a Wild Final Stretch of the NBA Season Feb 28, 2023

Verno and KOC discuss nine things that have happened since returning from the All-Star break, beginning with the breaking news of LeBron James’s injury that will reportedly keep him out indefinitely (04:37). They then move on to discuss the 76ers-Heat game from last night before Verno shares why he’s coming around to the Knicks (13:53). After looking at Damian Lillard’s 71-point game, the guys discuss the record-breaking amount of offense this season and debate how long it will be before someone scores 100 again (25:02). Also, they discuss LaMelo Ball’s injury, Quin Snyder, the progressing talks of a new CBA deal, and seeing Scoot Henderson in person (50:17).

*'The Mismatch' is coming to Los Angeles for a live show at the El Rey Theatre on March 6! Get your tickets here!*

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Eight Story Lines for the Rest of the Year and a Live Show Announcement Feb 22, 2023

Verno and KOC begin with the announcement of their first ever live show in Los Angeles (00:53)! They then discuss this weekend’s All-Star festivities before diving into the low TV ratings (08:36). After the Hawks let go of Nate McMillan, the pressure is all on Trae Young to make it work or likely be the next one on his way out in Atlanta (27:46). Next, the guys discuss eight story lines to follow when the season resumes on Thursday. Some of the story lines include debating which teams in the crowded West will make it to the postseason (35:37), discussing the transactions made in the buy-out market (46:39), how will the final stretch of games impact the MVP voting (56:43), how important the top seed is to the Bucks (01:03:06), and so much more.

*The MisMatch is coming to Los Angeles for their first ever live show! Get your tickets here!*

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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That’s True, That Might Be True, That’s Ridiculous: An All-Star Break Rendition Feb 17, 2023

Ahead of this weekend’s All-Star festivities, Verno and KOC play a round of everyone’s favorite game: That’s True, That Might be True, That’s Ridiculous (10:46). They discuss Tim Bontemps’s MVP straw poll, whether Kyrie Irving will be only a rental with the Mavs, which team is the best fit for Russell Westbrook, if Scoot Henderson locked in as the no. 2 pick for this year's draft, and so much more. Also, before ending the show, the guys look at the pool of All-Stars and draft their team (01:05:10).

*‘The Ringer NBA’ squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!*

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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First Impressions After the Trade Deadline: Not Buying Into the Mavs, the Lakers' Ceiling, and More Feb 14, 2023

Verno and KOC discuss their first impressions on some of the traded players from last week’s deadline, beginning in Dallas with Kyrie Irving and their loss to the Timberwolves (04:46). It’s hard to believe the Mavs are true contenders with all the issues they have, including their lack of defense. In moving on to the Lakers, they discuss last night’s blowout loss to the Blazers, talk about LeBron’s strange injury, and debate what is really going on with Anthony Davis (15:29). They discuss the debut of Jalen McDaniels with the 76ers and Josh Hart with the Knicks before diving into Jalen Brunson’s rising star power and Jacque Vaughn’s comments about Ben Simmons (35:01). Also, the guys talk about the nearly nixed trade with the Warriors and Blazers centered on Gary Payton II’s failed physical (48:45).

*The Ringer NBA squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!*

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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NBA Trade Deadline Breakdown: KD to Suns, Big Lakers Moves, and Every Other Deal Feb 10, 2023

Verno and KOC react to all the trades made during what was a wild deadline, beginning with last night’s blockbuster that sent Kevin Durant to the Suns (02:07). The Lakers finally traded away Russell Westbrook and are set to reunite with D'Angelo Russell; the guys discuss how the Lakers were able to land DLo as well as a handful of other young promising rotation players (23:36). Also, they talk about how the trade will affect the Timberwolves going forward (27:20). Finally they move on to the rest of the transactions made today, including Gary Payton back to the Warriors, Luke Kennard to the Grizzlies, Jae Crowder to the Bucks, and so much more (33:58).

*The ‘Ringer NBA’ squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!*

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Kyrie Irving Trade's Ripple Effects and Previewing a Wild NBA Trade Deadline Feb 07, 2023

Verno and KOC react to Kyrie Irving being dealt to the Mavs for Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, and a handful of picks (01:17). They debate Kyrie’s fit with Luka Doncic and if defense will matter when playing them before focusing on Dorian Finney-Smith’s and Spencer Dinwiddie’s fits with the Nets. Also, why aren't the Nets done dealing, and what do the Mavs do with Christian Wood? The guys discuss the other reported Kyrie deals involving the Suns and Lakers (31:56). Lastly, they discuss why the buzz on Bojan Bogdanovic has died down before Verno addresses the incident involving a member of Ja Morant’s crew, and they debate what Kevin Durant’s next move could be (49:31).

*The Ringer NBA squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!*

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Latest Trade Rumors, All-Star Reserve Reactions, and NBA Rankings Feb 03, 2023

With Thursday's announcement of the NBA All-Star reserves, Verno and KOC discuss the players selected as well as all the snubs. They start in the East and debate whether Bam Adebayo’s selection was the right choice, if Trae Young or James Harden should've been selected over DeMar DeRozan or Jrue Holiday, and talk about the joy for first-time All-Star Tyrese Haliburton (03:30). Over in the West, the guys discuss Damian Lillard’s selection, question why Paul George was chosen over De’Aaron Fox or Ant Edwards, and more (21:18). With the NBA's trade deadline a week away, the guys debate whether this trade season will be an active one (47:06).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

*The Ringer NBA squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!*

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Kings-Timberwolves Takeaways, the Magic Are Special, and a Wild Weekend of NBA Story Lines Jan 31, 2023

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing the fun game between the Kings and Timberwolves (01:15). They discuss how much fun a potential playoff match would be between the two teams and debate if the T-wolves' better play as of late will continue once Karl-Anthony Towns returns. The Magic are showing glimpses of becoming something special, and Bennedict Mathurin is making his case for Rookie of the Year as well as Sixth Man of the Year (11:40). Also, the guys look back at some of the story lines that happened over the weekend, including the missed foul call on LeBron James (27:35), Jaren Jackson Jr.’s Reddit controversy (41:55), Joel Embiid vs. Nikola Jokic (51:44), and Giannis Antetokounmpo scoring 50 points in 30 minutes (56:53). They wrap up the episode with the latest trade rumors (01:03:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

*The Ringer NBA squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!*

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All-Star Starters, NBA Rivals Week, and Absurd Trade Values Jan 27, 2023

Verno and KOC debate whether the Knicks and Celtics are actual rivals before discussing Thursday night's fun game between two on TNT (02:00). The NBA All-Star starters have been announced, and the guys discuss Joel Embiid not making the cut and debate how the league could change the voting process in the future (10:42). Also, how do you think the NBA will handle the All-Star Game draft? The guys then get into James Dolan’s interview discussing Madison Square Garden’s use of facial recognition (30:11). The 76ers are on a roll, winners of six straight and trailing only the Celtics in the East (38:42).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Determining the League’s Buyers and Sellers, Plus Clippers Are Looking for Upgrades and Lakers Aren’t Done Yet Jan 24, 2023

Verno and KOC begin the show by discussing the Clippers, who are looking to upgrade their center and point guard positions (02:06). Could Fred VanVleet make his way to Los Angeles? After the trade for Rui Hachimura, the guys discuss his fit with the Lakers and why he’s the kind of player the team should be targeting (07:59). Does the Rui trade mean the Wizards are sellers now (16:29)? Also, the guys discuss more of the names being mentioned in the trade rumor mill before discussing the pretty bright future of the Magic and Jonathan Isaac’s return to the court (22:00). The guys remain in disbelief with what happened with Shannon Sharpe (33:12). They wrap up the show by debating which middle-of-the-pack teams in the crowded West should be buyers or sellers (43:02).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Celtics-Warriors Takeaways, Plus Cavs Love, Luka’s Demands, and the Hot Heat Jan 20, 2023

Verno and KOC open the show by discussing Thursday's NBA Finals rematch between the Warriors and Celtics (01:16), which they agree had a playoff-like atmosphere. While discussing the game in Paris between the Bulls and Pistons, the guys talk about how the NBA has been promoting top prospect Victor Wembanyama, and how the league can attract a younger audience (12:28). After seeing the Cavs in person, Verno shares why he is a believer (25:35). Also, the guys discuss the latest round of injuries with Mitchell Robinson and Christian Wood (44:12). They end the show by discussing the debut of KOC’s NBA Draft Guide (59:41).

Check out KOC’s NBA Draft Guide for all the latest prospect rankings!

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Bleak Future Suns, Kessler or Gobert, and NBA Trade Targets Jan 17, 2023

Verno and KOC begin the show by discussing Jayson Tatum’s 50-point performance versus the Hornets before moving on to the disappointing Suns and debating what they need to do to turn their season around (02:10). They discuss Jaren Jackson Jr.'s impact with the Grizzlies and why Mike Brown deserves so much credit for the Kings' success this season (20:26). Also, they dive into D'Angelo Russell’s strange comments and discuss the possible moves the Timberwolves can make to fix their issues (39:21). In looking at the latest trade rumors, the guys debate the fit for some of the players who are being shopped around (45:31).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Coach Verno, Scared Simmons, and the Latest Trade Rumors Jan 13, 2023

After discussing Verno’s newfound respect for coaches, he and KOC discuss Thursday night’s game between the Celtics and Nets, specifically looking at Ben Simmons’s lack of offensive production in the Nets' first game without Kevin Durant (09:40). The Thunder blew out the 76ers, and the guys discuss OKC’s talented team and promising future as well as Chip Engelland’s impact with players like Josh Giddey (19:40). The guys discuss the recent rumors surrounding John Collins and debate what the Pacers should do after Tyrese Haliburton’s injury (35:52). They last take a look at the standings and predict which teams on the outside still have a chance to make the postseason (51:44).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Why the Lakers Owe LeBron Nothing, Plus the NBA Halfway Point Check-In Jan 10, 2023

Verno and KOC begin by discussing Kevin Durant’s injury and debate whether the Nets can stay afloat without him (02:05). While the Nets are preparing to play without KD, the Warriors are getting ready to welcome back Steph Curry (10:55). The guys also discuss the Lakers' failures in building the roster around LeBron James and debate the team's options going forward (16:31). After Verno lists the six teams from each conference that he believes can compete for a title this year, the guys take a look at the current odds for MVP, Sixth Man of the Year, and more (39:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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All-Star Shocks and Disappointments, Plus: Trade Rumors and Early Prospect Comps Jan 06, 2023

Verno and KOC discuss the Celtics' blowout win over the Mavs as well the Magic’s bright future despite losing to the Grizzlies (01:19). The guys dive into the first results for the 2023 NBA All-Star game as they discuss what the fans got right, which players they were surprised to see, and which players they were disappointed were not on the list (16:08). The trade season is nearing in the NBA, and they discuss the rumors around D’Angelo Russell and Bojan Bogdanovic (39:50). Also, they discuss the latest injury news before ending the show with some draft talk (49:32).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Dissecting the League’s Exploding Offenses and Recapping a Night of Extreme Scoring Jan 03, 2023

Verno and KOC open the show by discussing last night’s historic performance by Donovan Mitchell, who scored 71 points to become the seventh player in the 70-point club (02:15). Klay Thompson dropped 54 points in the double overtime win over the Hawks as the Warriors are getting hot and riding a five-game winning streak without Steph Curry (12:30). After 12 wins in a row, the Nets seem like a completely different team under Jacque Vaughn (26:34). The guys debate why they think the NBA has exploded offensively this year (36:00). Also, they discuss Zion Williamson’s latest injury (46:26) and Christian Wood’s impact for the Mavs (53:52).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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A Christmas Embarrassment, the Thriving Nets, and Mailbag Questions Dec 27, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss why the growing rivalry between the Grizzlies and Warriors is good for the NBA (03:42). They also discuss the Celtics' blowout win against the Bucks before moving on to the 76ers, who are riding an eight-game winning streak (16:37). After the Bulls get blown out by the Rockets, the guys debate if it’s time for the Bulls to start tanking to give themselves the best chance to keep their first-round pick for the upcoming draft (27:44). In looking at last night's games, the guys discuss the red-hot Nets and Rudy Gobert’s benching (44:23). The guys go into their mailbag to answer listener questions to end the last episode of 2022 (59:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Time for a Raptors Reset? Plus, the Good Vibes Magic and Other Rising Teams. Dec 20, 2022

Verno and KOC begin with looking at the Thunder-Blazers game from Monday night (02:30 ). They congratulate Damian Lillard for becoming the all-time scoring leader for the Blazers before discussing the great season that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is having for the Thunder and diving into the Hawks' struggles. With the Raptors on a six-game losing streak, the guys debate whether it’s time to blow it up in Toronto (21:52). What could the Raptors get for Pascal Siakam or OG Anunoby? The guys also discuss the Bucks' defense against the Pelicans, why Anthony Edwards needs to be the guy when KAT and Rudy Gobert return, Anthony Davis’s injury, as well as both New York teams, who are looking way better after shaky starts to the season (41:39).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Debating the NBA Rankings List, Plus the Grizzlies Dominate and What’s the Plan Without Steph? Dec 16, 2022

KOC congratulates Verno for his Grizzlies completely dominating the Bucks, 142-101, and taking over the 1-seed in the West (00:59 ). One of the reasons for the Grizz's blowout victory was Steven Adams’s excellent defense against Giannis. fter the Jazz defeated the Pelicans in overtime, the guys discuss the lack of 3-point shooting from the Pels, Walker Kessler's impact, and how Mike Conley’s playmaking ability is keeping the Jazz competitive (14:29). The guys debate how the Warriors will handle being without Steph Curry for the next few weeks (25:14). Are the Warriors now a play-in team? The Ringer’s NBA Rankings were released earlier this week and the guys debate some of the players ranked and the issues they have with Tyler Parker's League Pass rankings (35:50).

Check out The Ringer's NBA Rankings, ranking everything that matters in the NBA!

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Looking at the Top of Each Conference, New NBA Awards, and Reaction from Celtics-Clippers Dec 13, 2022

Verno and KOC briefly discuss the Alabama upset over Houston before shifting their attention to last night’s Clippers victory over the Celtics (06:39). Are these back-to-back losses for the Celtics something to be concerned about? They also discuss Kawhi Leonard’s night and if this version of Kawhi is enough to carry the Clippers to the Finals (17:27). Next, the guys discuss the top teams in each conference, beginning in the West with the Pelicans, Grizzlies, Nuggets, and Suns (24:59). In looking at the East, the guys discuss the Bucks and Cavs (55:08). Before ending the show, they discuss the impact of Cade Cunningham’s season-ending injury for the Pistons and give their thoughts on the new NBA season awards (01:05:34).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Which Middle-of-the-Pack NBA Teams Are For Real? Dec 09, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing tomorrow’s big college game between Alabama-Houston, which KOC will be attending (01:04). They then move on and discuss the middle-of-the-pack teams in the NBA and debate which teams are real, fake, or just plain average. They begin in the East with the Nets and Hawks (05:26) before moving on to the rest of the middle pack in the East (14:59). They debate if the 76ers can turn it around, why the heat are disappointing, and if the Bulls should take a chance to tank for Victor Wembanyama. In taking a look at the West, KOC believes the Kings will push for 50 wins and debate if the Mavs will make a strong push or remain a .500 team (44:37). They also discuss the organic rivalry that has grown between the Blazers and Nuggets, why they remain undecided on the Lakers and Clippers chances this season, then get giddy about Josh Giddey.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Recalibrating the Lakers' Chances, Kawhi’s Underwhelming Return, and Inside the Hawks-Trae Drama Dec 06, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss Kawhi Leonard’s return in last night’s Clippers win over Hornets (02:28). They debate whether his return was blown a little out of proportion before discussing the impressive Pacers' win over the Warriors. The guys dive right into the drama in Atlanta surrounding the Hawks' franchise player, Trae Young, and head coach Nate McMillan (17:02). After starting the season 2-10, the Lakers have won eight of their past 10 games with Anthony Davis playing out of his mind. The guys debate whether AD can continue to play this way while the team's working LeBron James back into the fold (31:21). With the West wide open, can the Lakers recover from their disastrous start?

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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KOC's Killian Hayes-gasm. Plus: Dallas Struggles, Star Performers, and the Royal Celtics. Dec 02, 2022

Verno gives KOC the floor to start the show because Killian Hayes had himself a breakout game last night against the Mavs (02:24). After giving Hayes his flowers, the guys discuss the Mavs' struggles and debate what moves, if any, they can make to give Luka Doncic some help. In looking at the Celtics, they agree that Jayson Tatum is special this year and give credit to the team for not allowing the offseason drama to carry onto the court (13:52). The guys also discuss the vast improvement of Devin Booker, as well as Anthony Davis’s revival into a dominant player (28:04). While discussing the next possible moves for the Lakers, the guys debate if it's time for the Bulls to blow it up (42:35). Lastly, they discuss the prime position the Pelicans are in and debate if KAT is really the issue with the T-Wolves (46:19).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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NBA Quarter-Mark Check-In, Plus Reacting to a Wild Night of Games Nov 29, 2022

Verno and KOC recap some of the exciting games from last night, including Lakers-Pacers, Magic-Nets, and more (02:05). While discussing the Wizards-Timberwolves game, KOC mentions that Tim Connelly could have other moves in mind to fix the struggling T-Wolves (20:41). In looking at the Thunder-Pelicans game, they discuss two of the league's up-and-coming stars in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Zion Williamson (28:54). They also discuss the Celtics' blowout win against the Hornets and the 76ers sneaking by the Hawks. The guys lastly discuss teams that are and aren’t playing up to expectations (46:57).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Ten Things We Are Thankful for This NBA Season Nov 22, 2022

With Thanksgiving this week, Verno and KOC each give five things they are thankful for this NBA season (06:15). Some of the things the guys are thankful for is Russell Westbrook accepting his bench role, the Spurs' tasteful tanking, the 'NBA on TNT' crew, Kevin Durant, and more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Good and Not So Good About the NBA This Week Nov 18, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss the good and bad from the NBA this week, beginning with the amazing run that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is on before discussing the Suns, the Kings' resurgence in Sacramento, and the Knicks, who are starting to look better (02:17). The bad takes a look at two teams who have a single player carrying them: the Warriors with Steph Curry and the Nets with Kevin Durant (38:14).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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12 Things We Like and Dislike from the NBA Nov 15, 2022

Verno and KOC each give three things they like and three things that they don’t like from this NBA season so far.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Luka Needs Help, Believing in the Blazers, and Do We Really Need All These Jerseys? Nov 11, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show previewing Timberwolves-Grizzlies before diving into last night’s Blazers-Pelicans game (01:59). As the Jazz keep winning, the guys debate if it’s time to consider them a playoff team and whether or not Danny Ainge would make a move (23:44). They also discuss Luka Doncic’s struggles after the Mavs dropped their last two games against the Magic and Wizards. KOC then ponders if we truly need all these new City Edition jerseys before getting into the latest about Kyrie Irving, then previews his newest podcast, 'The Ringer’s NBA Draft Show' (44:58).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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A Loaded NBA Night, the Hot Jazz, and a Pelicans Debate Nov 08, 2022

Verno and KOC open up the show discussing the Celtics-Grizzlies game and Jayson Tatum’s hot start to the season (02:42). After praising last night’s staggered start times in the NBA, they discuss the special bond that’s forming in Portland and dive into the Warriors' struggles. Despite not being given any chance to compete, Utah is in first place in the West—the guys discuss how the Jazz are winning and why they are not a fluke (30:29). Also, they discuss the Hawks after they took down the Bucks and debate the Pelicans' future (46:24).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The NBA’s Disgusting Off-Court Stories Overshadow a Competitive Start to the Season Nov 04, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing Kyrie Irving’s apology (02:11). James Harden is expected to miss a month with a foot injury, but the guys believe the 76ers will be just fine (22:02). Also, they discuss the Cavs-Celtics game from Wednesday night, Darvin Ham finding his groove with the Lakers, and the terrible start for the Warriors (28:05).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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BREAKING: Nets Fire Nash, Eye Udoka, Plus: Siakim’s Dominance, Cade’s Rise, and Kawhi’s Weird Season Nov 01, 2022

The Nets and Steve Nash agreed to mutually part ways, so Verno and KOC discuss the fallout in Brooklyn before briefly discussing the noise around Kyrie Irving (01:09). They next discuss last night’s Pistons-Bucks game and go through Giannis’s monster start, which has helped the Bucks remain the NBA’s lone undefeated team (28:19). As the Jazz continue their winning ways, the guys debate how long it will last before Danny Ainge decides to do something (37:57). Kawhi Leonard has played only two games this season; the guys discuss his continued absence from the Clippers and debate whether there is something else going on (58:25). They lastly go through the Josh Primo situation, Myles Turner calling his shot, Jimmy Butler's belief that the Heat will win the chip, and Donovan Mitchell’s resurgence with the Cavs (01:10:17).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of the NBA Season So Far Oct 28, 2022

Verno and KOC go through the good, the bad, and the ugly of the NBA season. Some of the good includes stars playing like stars, the higher scoring around the league, Jalen Brunson and Christian Wood fitting in with their new teams, the excitement of being able to watch all of Victor Wembanyama’s games for free, and more (01:11). The bad focuses on teams that have been most affected by injuries, as well as the winless Kings (40:21). Don’t give up on the Kings just yet! Finally, the ugly features the struggles going on with the Nets and 76ers, while the guys also debate what moves the Lakers can make to turn things around (59:52).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Another Rendition of That’s True, That Might Be True, or That’s Ridiculous Oct 25, 2022

Verno and KOC go through a list of the hottest NBA topics in ‘That’s True, That Might Be True, or That’s Ridiculous!’ They discuss whether the Nets are a potential play-in team, the Blazers' hot start, and whether there’s growing concerns with the Timberwolves (01:34). Also, the guys debate whether Kyle Lowry is toast after his poor start to the season, whether the Lakers will ever figure it out, and whether Doc will still be in Philly by the time Christmas rolls around (25:42). They finish up the conversation by discussing the resurgence of Lauri Markkanen and the Jazz before looking at the Spurs and Ja Morant’s MVP chances (39:05).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Early First Impressions of the NBA Season Oct 21, 2022

With the NBA season officially underway, Verno and KOC go through their first impressions. They begin discussing the bad vibes in Philadelphia before moving on to the 0-2 Lakers, how the Knicks look with Jalen Brunson, and KOC’s beloved Pelicans (01:56). Also, they discuss the brilliant debut of Paolo Banchero, not being impressed by what Steve Nash has done, and debate whether DeMar DeRozan will go off again this season (36:42).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Semi-Bold NBA Predictions, Extension Talks, and the Philadelphia 76ers Oct 18, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss who did and didn’t get contract extensions as NBA rosters are now set for the start of the season (01:59). Then, the guys discuss KOC’s latest article on The Ringer, a profile on 76ers GM Daryl Morey (20:58). The NBA returns Tuesday, and the guys are ready to give you their semi-bold predictions for the year (38:40).

You can find KOC’s article here: Daryl Morey Changed the Game, but He Still Hasn’t Beaten It

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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10 Questions for the Upcoming NBA Season Oct 14, 2022

Vernon and KOC begin the show discussing reports that the Lakers are planning on moving Russell Westbrook to the bench for their final preseason game (01:58). Could this bring out the best of Russ on the Lakers? Next, the guys answer 10 questions about the upcoming NBA season (11:53). Some of the questions explored: Which team could push for 60 wins? Which team are you least likely to watch? Which game would you get courtside seats for? and more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Most Interesting Players Going Into the 2022-23 NBA Season Oct 11, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss the only potential flaw for Victor Wembanyama, before discussing Nikola Jovic’s near-perfect pairing with the Heat, and the latest going on with Jae Crowder (01:38). With the NBA starting up next week, the guys each pick five players they are most interested in going into the season (16:41).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Draymond Green Punch, the Victor Wembanyama Experience, and NBA Season Predictions With Adam Lefkoe Oct 07, 2022

Verno and KOC return and are joined by TNT’s Adam Lefkoe. They discuss KOC’s trip to Las Vegas to watch top prospects Victor Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson (01:44). Everyone gushes about Wembanyama’s skillset, but Henderson’s star potential is also can’t-miss. Next, the guys dive into the video of Draymond Green punching Jordan Poole (24:46). They discuss what the leaked video means for Dray, Poole, and the Warriors. Adam puts on his host hat and unveils his Lefkoe Awards! They give their futures picks, predictions for all the major awards, and debate which teams will have more wins (41:41).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guest: Adam Lefkoe

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Suns Drama, Sixers Hype, and an NBA Media Day Recap Sep 27, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show by discussing the 76ers after KOC attended their media day (01:35). He shares his excitement to see a full season of Joel Embiid and James Harden playing together, and Verno asks if this is the year Embiid becomes the best player in the league. The guys move on to teams that are carrying the most drama right now in the Suns, Nets, and Celtics (10:54). They debate if the Suns are making a mistake with Jae Crowder, and discuss Ben Simmons’s interview on ‘The Old Man and The Three.' Also, will this be the year that Russell Westbrook learns to adapt? And KOC gets a Peloton (47:37).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Rest in Peace, Jonathan Tjarks Sep 13, 2022

Before starting today’s show, Verno and KOC share memories of our friend and colleague Jonathan Tjarks, who passed away over the weekend due to cancer (01:30). Then Kevin and Chris answer your mailbag questions. Topics include the Magic’s future, which player on the Grizzlies will make the biggest jump, and tips to staying young (16:33).

You can donate to the Tjarks family here:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/Lets-help-our-friend-jonathan-tjarks?utm_campaign=p_nacp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer

Read Jonathan’s piece mentioned in the episode here:

https://www.theringer.com/2022/3/3/22956353/fatherhood-cancer-jonathan-tjarks

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Looking at the Mitchell Trade From the Cavs’ and Jazz’s Perspectives, Plus ‘2K’ Ratings and Wembanyama Coming Soon to the U.S. Sep 07, 2022

Verno and KOC give their first reaction to the Cavs’ trade for Donovan Mitchell (01:07). Can Cleveland take the next step to compete for a championship with Mitchell? They also look at the deal from the Jazz’s perspective (15:30). Even though Utah is set up for a “tank-tastic” season, Danny Ainge has primed the franchise for future success. After some offseason trouble, Montrezl Harrell signed with the 76ers; the guys react to the signing (33:16). Finally, they go through the release of the 'NBA 2K' ratings and Victor Wembanyama playing in the United States (42:34).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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What Barrett Extension Means for Donovan Mitchell, and Your Mailbag Questions! Aug 30, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss the Knicks signing R.J. Barrett to a four-year extension and what this means for Donovan Mitchell (00:58). The Wizards are being mentioned as a possibility for Mitchell, but the guys don’t believe he’s a fit next to Bradley Beal (09:51). The fellas go into your mailbag questions next (24:00), with topics including the Pelicans, national vs. domestic MVPs, and Tyrese Haliburton. They also discuss KOC’s old Letterboxd reviews before diving into why video game culture is the worst (47:10).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Reading Between the Lines of the Pat Bev Trade and the Real Impact of Chet’s Injury Aug 25, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss the latest trade in the NBA as Patrick Beverly makes his way back to Los Angeles, but this time he’ll join LeBron James and the Lakers (01:05). Could this be the first step in the Lakers' attempt to move Russell Westbrook? The Thunder’s Chet Holmgren injured his foot in a pro-am game and will now miss the entire 2022-23 season, and the guys discuss how players with bodies like Chet’s are getting more frequently injured (17:43). Could the Thunder potentially make Shai Gilgeous-Alexander available? While discussing the young stars in the NBA, KOC brings up the idea of a Rising Stars Week, where young stars get a chance to shine on national TV (33:10).

Got a question for the guys? Send it to us for our next episode at nbamailbag@gmail.com.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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BREAKING: Kevin Durant Staying in Brooklyn. What’s Next for the Nets? Aug 23, 2022

Verno and KOC return as they discuss Kevin Durant backtracking his trade request to remain with the Nets (01:14). Verno shares what he believes to be the turning point on KD changing his mind (07:40). Now that KD has decided to stay, the guys debate how the Nets will look this season (24:55). Is it possible KD asks for another trade? Or would the Nets explore moving any other players? Also, why the Lakers have a better chance of winning the championship than the Nets, and how the Rudy Gobert trade simply ruined everything (35:28).

Have a question for us? Send us questions for our next episode at nbamailbag@gmail.com.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Remembering Bill Russell, Tampering Unfairness, and Your Mailbag Questions Aug 02, 2022

Verno and KOC open the show by sharing their memories of NBA legend Bill Russell, who passed away over the weekend (01:02). As more charges of tampering continue in the NBA, the guys wonder if it’s time for the NBA to consider how they handle these charges (09:12). The guys open up the mailbag to answer your questions (15:12). Some of the topics they discuss include Zion Williamson’s impact, the best game the guys have watched live, wild trade deadline predictions for next season, the Hornets' future, and more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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What Would It Take to Get KD to Boston, Can Tatum Be the Guy, and Latest on Mitchell Jul 26, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss whether the Celtics should go for it all and trade for Kevin Durant (03:25). As the guys debate what it would take for the Celtics to get KD, KOC points out that Brad Stevens has not been afraid to make trades. They debate whether a Jason Tatum–KD duo will be enough to put the Celtics over the top before discussing whether KD got a pass in last year’s playoffs after the Nets were the only team who got swept (18:39). After we all thought Donovan Mitchell was going to become a Knick, he remains a member of the Jazz as the guys discuss the latest teams who have shown interest in him (37:00). The guys also share what shows they have been watching while we wait for the basketball season to return (52:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Top Summer League Performances, Interesting Teams, and Lakers Drama Jul 19, 2022

Verno and KOC congratulate the Blazers for winning this year’s summer league tournament before discussing the top performers (02:00). The guys debate how many interesting teams there really are in the league right now before discussing whether the Raptors would be a possible destination for Kevin Durant (17:26). It has been reported that James Harden will return to the 76ers on a discounted rate and they discuss Harden’s impact fit with Joel Embiid (33:15). The guys also discuss LeBron James playing in the Drew League and all the noise surrounding Russell Westbrook and the Lakers (42:44). Despite the Knicks being the overwhelming favorite to land Donovan Mitchell, he still remains on the Jazz as the guys debate why Mitchell hasn’t been dealt yet (01:02:19).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Ayton Returning to the Desert, Do What You Can to Get Mitchell, and Summer League Prospect Watching Jul 15, 2022

Verno and KOC are back home as they discuss the Suns matching the Pacers' offer sheet for Deandre Ayton (01:30). While it’s been extremely quiet with Kevin Durant, Verno points out why it truly is only a matter of time before he is traded (13:21). The guys also discuss what it's going to take for the Knicks to acquire Donovan Mitchell (22:39). Despite the obvious flaws in a Mitchell-Jalen Brunson backcourt, KOC suggest you do what you can to acquire the star and figure it out from there. They last discuss which prospects have stood out to them in summer league (32:56).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Young Warriors, Paolo’s Proportionate Size, and Thanks Steph Curry Jul 11, 2022

Verno and KOC report from Las Vegas one last time, as they discuss the latest news on Deandre Ayton before going into James Wiseman’s Summer League debut and how good the young Warriors looked (01:03). Paolo Banchero has been one of the most talked about players in Summer League because of his play and his unexpected size when seeing him up close (13:08). They also discuss the strange comments made by Cam Thomas before diving into how much fun they’ve had at this year’s Summer League (26:06).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Summer League Observations and the Mavs' Future With J. Kyle Mann and Jonathan Tjarks | The Void Jul 11, 2022

Hey, it's Kevin; thank you for listening to The Void. Today’s guests are The Ringer’s own J. Kyle Mann and Jonathan Tjarks from Upside High. We are all about the NBA Summer League as we discuss the performances of Paolo Banchero, Chet Holmgren, Jabari Smith Jr., and more. Here are today’s time-stamps:

(02:14) - On Paolo Banchero

(09:16) - The Magic's roster and how it fits with Paolo

(14:55) - Jabari Smith Jr.’s Summer League struggles

(17:27) - How do you see Jalen Green and Jabari playing together?

(22:28) - On Chet Holmgren

(28:02) - Watching Josh Giddey play with Chet is so much fun

(32:00) - The difficulty of scouting basketball players

(38:35) - Can Keegan Murray become a true star?

(44:28) - The importance of De’Aaron Fox

(47:45) - On Bennedict Mathurin and his role with the Pacers

(53:58) - State of the Mavs after losing Jalen Brunson

Hosts: Kevin O’Connor

Guests: J. Kyle Mann and Jonathan Tjarks

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Summer League Recap, Preview, and Speeding Tickets Jul 08, 2022

Verno and KOC are live from Las Vegas for the NBA summer league as they recap the debut of Paolo Banchero, Chet Holmgren, and others (01:05). They also discuss the unfairness of players like Josh Giddey and Paul Reed playing in the summer league. Verno mentions seeing Otto Porter in Vegas, which leads to a conversation about speeding tickets (15:13). While discussing Isiah Stewart, the guys take a look back at the 2019 high school prospect list to see where those players are now (29:48). Finally, they go through who they are excited to see play this weekend (45:02).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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All Quiet on the Free Agency Front, The Gobert Gamble, and Summer League Excitement Jul 05, 2022

After the initial wave of signings, free agency has hit a stall as Verno and KOC discuss how the league is waiting for Kevin Durant to get traded (01:17). The T-Wolves traded for Rudy Gobert over the weekend, and Verno shares why he doesn’t like the trade for the Jazz while KOC defends the move and shares why Gobert will flourish in Minnesota (10:15). Staying with the Jazz, the guys discuss how Danny Ainge always manages to get what he wants and why the Gobert trade is all about Anthony Edwards (29:31). Also, the guys discuss the Malcolm Brogdon trade and share their excitement for going to this year’s Summer League (44:19).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Where in the World Will KD Go, and Recapping the Early Free Agency Moves Jul 01, 2022

Kevin Durant ruined all of free agency, so Verno and KOC open up the show by going through the potential teams that can put together the historical package for KD that the Nets are asking for (00:54). Despite KD putting the league on hold, the guys go over some of the deals that were completed yesterday (21:08). The guys debate the Thunder’s decision to give Lu Dort close to a $90 million contract (36:11). They last go through some of the under-the-radar signings before discussing the situation with Miles Bridges (43:28).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Brunson to New York, Implications for the Knicks and Mavs With Marc Stein | The Void Jun 29, 2022

Hey, it’s Kevin! Thank you for listening to 'The Void.' With the news of Jalen Brunson possibly leaving the Mavs for the Knicks, I bring on Marc Stein to help break down all the implications from both sides. You can subscribe to Marc’s Substack by using the link below. Here are today’s timestamps:

(03:30) - How much of a blunder is this for the Mavs?

(05:18) - Why Jalen Brunson is worth the money he’s getting

(12:44) - How can the Mavs replace Brunson?

(18:52) - The Dejounte Murray sweepstakes

(22:23) - Any other potential targets for the Knicks?

Marc Stein Substack link: https://marcstein.substack.com/

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Marc Stein

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Post-Draft Stories and Getting Ready for Free Agency Jun 28, 2022

Verno and KOC return to give their reaction to how the NBA draft shook out (01:20). With free agency starting up this week, the guys dive into the hottest stories leading into Thursday (13:02). They discuss the Nets drama, where Deandre Ayton will go, John Wall to the Clippers, and more. While Russell Westbrook and Draymond Green calling out Skip Bayless is fun for Twitter, the guys hope Dray evolves his podcast skills to discuss basketball rather than calling out people (34:07). Lastly, Steve Clifford returns to Charlotte and Verno makes KOC’s day (43:39).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Seven Lingering Questions Following the NBA Draft With Logan Murdock | The Void Jun 24, 2022

Hey, it's Kevin! Thank you for listening to 'The Void'. Today The Ringer's Logan Murdock is joining the show to discuss some of our takeaways from the draft and then look ahead to the NBA offseason, which will be ramping up next week. For a full draft analysis, check out my grades in my Draft Guide (link below) or listen to Thursday's 'Bill Simmons Podcast'. Here are today's timestamps:

(03:35) - Did the Knicks make all those trades just for Jalen Brunson?

(08:15) - What are the Spurs up to?

(13:35) - Deandre Ayton’s future

(22:18) - The best spots for John Collins

(25:47) - What to do with D’Angelo Russell

(32:11) - Should the Bulls go all-in on Rudy Gobert?

(38:07) - On Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving

KOC's 2022 NBA Draft Grades: https://nbadraft.theringer.com/draft-grades/

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Logan Murdock

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Gearing Up for the NBA Draft, Players on the Move, and Potential Sleepers Jun 21, 2022

With the draft just days away, Verno and KOC discuss whether the top of the order is set in stone, or if we should expect moves to be made (00:56). Anything can happen in the draft, as KOC mentions some names we could see on new teams next season (10:00). The guys discuss how teams use numbers to scout players, and potential low-risk, high-reward prospects (20:07). Finally, they go through Dyson Daniels’s NBA potential, Paolo Banchero playing football, and KOC gives his thoughts on some of the lesser-known prospects (40:16).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Drafting the Magic’s Future With Kevin Clark and Steve Ceruti | The Void Jun 18, 2022

Hey it’s Kevin, on today’s podcast I spoke with The Ringer’s resident Magic fans, Kevin Clark and Steve Ceruti. With the draft less than a week away, we’re diving deep into the Orlando Magic and their future. The fit for all the options at no. 1, the roster structure, and why the Magic’s narrative will soon change. We get into this and so much more.

(04:31) - Who Ceruti and Clark would choose no. 1

(16:55) - Would there be disappointment if the guy you want isn’t chosen?

(26:52) - On Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs

(33:03) - Are you hopeful for the future?

(39:49) - Can the Rockets put together a godfather offer?

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guests: Kevin Clark and Steve Ceruti

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Warriors Are Champions Once Again, Disappointment in Tatum, and Memories About Fathers Jun 17, 2022

Congratulations to the Golden State Warriors for beating the Boston Celtics and winning the NBA championship! Verno and KOC give their first reactions to the Warriors winning their fourth title in eight years (01:21). Even though Boston reached the Finals, KOC believes the Celtics are still ahead of schedule because of how young the core of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are (14:45). Verno also points out how rare it is for young stars to win it all in the NBA. Speaking of youth, the Warriors still have the young depth that could keep them Finals contenders as Steph and the rest of the core grow older (24:15). The guys reminisce about going to sporting events with their fathers before Verno asks KOC how Celtics fans will look back at this season (36:53). Lastly, KOC gives an update to his NBA draft board and briefly discuss the Mavs trading for Christian Wood (01:08:34).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Game 6 Preview, Playoff Lessons, and Lakers Rumors With Daman Rangoola | The Void Jun 15, 2022

Hey, it’s Kevin. On today’s podcast I spoke with Daman Rangoola from NBA and Lakers Twitter. We talk Game 6 of the Finals, Andrew Wiggins, Russell Westbrook, and Anthony Davis. We get into that and much more on today’s episode.

(02:48) - On Jayson Tatum

(09:40) - Why Andrew Wiggins for Finals MVP is disingenuous

(12:57) - Teams that don't spend money shouldn't complain about teams that do

(24:47) - The Lakers' path to becoming a championship contender again

(34:14) - The disappointment with Anthony Davis and fanfiction trade ideas

(41:57) - Russell Westbrook should be flipped for role players

(44:16) - Why the Lakers won’t trade LeBron James unless he asks for it

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guests: Daman Rangoola

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Andrew Wiggins Game, What Went Wrong With the Celtics, and Meeting Paolo Banchero Jun 14, 2022

Andrew Wiggins has arrived! Verno and KOC give high praise to Wiggins after his stellar Game 5 performance that helped the Warriors take a 3-2 series lead over the Celtics (00:48). They discuss how the Warriors' willingness to go into the luxury tax is what differentiates them from other franchises. The Celtics lost back-to-back games for the first time this postseason, as the guys discuss what went wrong for them in Game 5 and what they need to do differently to keep their title hopes alive (17:24). Plus, Verno shares his experience meeting Paolo Banchero and the Thompson twins (42:04).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Aftermath of Game 3 in Boston, Is Draymond Confident or Arrogant, and Who Would You Take No. 1? Jun 10, 2022

The Celtics took Game 3, and Verno and KOC discuss what the win means for Boston (01:00). Despite the Warriors' loss, Draymond Green remains confident, but his bad play in the Finals has the guys debating whether Green is just becoming arrogant (14:36). Also, the guys discuss the importance of role players stepping up (32:42). Lastly, they briefly discuss who they would take if they had the no. 1 pick in this year’s draft (42:04).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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How the Warriors Bounced Back in Game 2, Our Favorite Beatles, and a Head-Coaching Update Jun 07, 2022

Verno and KOC recap the Warriors' Game 2 victory that tied their series against the Celtics (01:49). They detail how the Warriors were able to bounce back and discuss different defensive ideas for the Celtics to try to slow down Steph Curry in Game 3. While in New York, Verno found out that Yoko Ono still lives there, so the guys briefly discuss the Beatles and make player comps for the band members (28:46). They last discuss Quin Snyder’s departure from the Jazz and the coaching searches for the Hornets and Kings (42:10).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Recapping an Amazing Game 1 and Witnessing the Birth of a Star Jun 03, 2022

After most of the conference finals games were blowouts, Game 1 of the NBA Finals had it all, and Verno and KOC recap the Celtics' comeback victory (01:01). The guys look at Game 1 from both the Celtics' and Warriors' perspectives (09:20). In a game where Jayson Tatum didn’t score, the rest of the Celtics role players stepped up, but can they continue this hot shooting? Or will the rest of the Warriors step up to match their play? Speaking of Tatum, despite his bad shooting night, he found other ways to affect the game, and KOC fully believes we are witnessing his ascension into superstardom (39:35). They last discuss the time when Verno interviewed NBA superfan Jimmy Goldstein and Adam Sandler’s new basketball movie, 'Hustle' (58:52).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

Link to Verno’s podcast with Jimmy Goldstein

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The Thunder Forecast With Tyler Parker and Andrew Schlecht | The Void Jun 01, 2022

Hey it’s Kevin, on today’s podcast I spoke with The Ringer’s Tyler Parker—an OKC mega-fan—and Andrew Schlect, who covers the Thunder for The Athletic. We’re diving deep into OKC’s upcoming offseason because of the stockpile of draft picks they have. The Thunder have four top-34 picks (2, 12, 30, 34). We get into that and much more on today’s episode. Here are the show notes:

(02:53) - On Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

(09:55) - Disappointment that SGA and Josh Giddey didn’t play many minutes together

(16:54) - If you had your choice of Chet Holmgren, Jabari Smith Jr., or Paolo Banchero, who would you choose for the Thunder?

(30:53) - On the possibility of trading down

(41:07) - Which other prospects could they be targeting?

(46:42) - Future outlook for the franchise

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guests: Tyler Parker and Andrew Schlecht

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Previewing the Warriors-Celtics Finals, Tatum’s Maturity, and Pop Culture Reviews May 31, 2022

The Finals are set as Steph Curry and the Warriors will face Jayson Tatum and the Celtics. Verno and KOC discuss the Warriors' return to the big stage and how the Celtics battled all season long to get there (01:03). Rest will be key in the Finals as the Celtics are still trying to get healthy while the Warriors will have a full week’s rest once the Finals begin (17:38). Outside of Steph and Tatum, which players on both teams are most important to winning it all (31:18)? The guys agree that the Finals will be competitive because of the styles the two teams play. Next, the guys discuss Tatum’s maturity and how he plays older than his 24 years (36:27). Despite the Warriors having home-court advantage, the guys discuss why the Celtics ultimately have the upper hand when it comes to their home court (44:26). Lastly, KOC reviews 'Top Gun: Maverick' and Verno shares his experience watching Hugh Jackman on Broadway (53:47).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Admitting Celtics Are Finals Contenders, Mavs Need Super Luka, and Drama in Brooklyn May 25, 2022

After the Celtics beat the Heat to take a 3-2 series lead, Verno finally admits to KOC that the Celtics are Finals contenders (00:45). With the Celtics playing defense at an elite level and their role players stepping up, the guys doubt the Heat have enough to turn the series around. As long as the Mavs have Luka Doncic, they have a chance to extend their series against the Warriors, but the rest of the Mavs will need to play like they did in Game 4 (28:13). The guys give their thoughts on this year's All-NBA teams before discussing the latest drama in Brooklyn with the Nets (41:51).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Blowout Playoff Games, Rethinking Mavs-Warriors, and Tim Connelly Leaving May 24, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing the abnormal number of blowout playoff games this season (01:00). After the Heat were physical in their Game 3 win, they got blown out in Game 4 as the Celtics tied the series at 2-2 (17:20). KOC explains why having Robert Williams on the floor is more important than having Marcus Smart. After pushing the Suns to seven games, the Mavs are now down 0-3 to the Warriors and the guys are starting to reconsider choosing the Mavs in this series (24:12). One thing is certain when it comes to the Mavs: They need help. Lastly, they discuss Tim Connelly leaving the Nuggets to join the Timberwolves and some of the notable performances from the NBA combine (47:54).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Bonus Pod! 2022 NBA Mock Draft With Kevin O'Connor | The Void May 23, 2022

Hey, it's Kevin with a surprise podcast! I'll be discussing the NBA conference finals on Tuesday’s episode of The MisMatch, but today I’ll be going through the entire first round of the 2022 NBA draft with my latest mock. This was originally posted as a video on our YouTube channel, but we decided to publish the whole thing here as a podcast.

(02:35) - Pick 1

(05:11) - Pick 2

(08:38) - Pick 3

(11:30) - Picks 4-9

(27:46) - Picks 10-14

(35:07) - Picks 15-19

(42:05) - Picks 20-24

(47:07) - Picks 25-30

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Producers: Jessie Lopez, Dylan Berkey, and Ronak Nair

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Mavs Meltdown with Kirk Henderson and Sam Esfandiari, Plus: Mirin Fader on Keegan Murray and Jabari Smith Jr. | The Void May 22, 2022

Hey, it’s Kevin, thank you for listening to 'The Void'. In this episode I briefly go over Game 3 between the Heat and Celtics before being joined by editor-in-chief of Mavs Moneyball, Kirk Henderson, and co-host of the 'Light Years' podcast, Sam Esfandiari, to recap Game 3 between the Mavs and Warriors. The Ringer’s Mirin Fader also joins the show to discuss her recent profile on prospect Keegan Murray. Here are today's timestamps:

Kirk Henderson and Sam Esfandiari

(04:25) - Kevon Looney’s impact

(06:15) - What happened to the Mavs?

(14:07) - On Jason Kidd not calling a timeout in the third quarter

(19:31) - Warriors seem like a different team against the Mavs

(25:32) - Warriors' depth outmatches the Mavs' depth

Mirin Fader

(36:51) - On Keegan Murray

(48:59) - Murray will be ready compete in the NBA

(01:03:35) - On Jabari Smith Jr. and what he learned from being a part of an NBA family

(01:13:26) - Smith’s projection as an NBA player

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Kirk Henderson, Sam Esfandiari, and Mirin Fader

Producers: Jessie Lopez and Benjamin Cruz

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Warriors Roll as Wiggins Finds His Role, Looney on the Boards, and Landing in the Perfect Spot May 19, 2022

Verno and KOC recap last night’s Game 1 victory for the Warriors and focus their attention on Andrew Wiggins (00:45). Luka and the Mavs are going to have a hard time if the Warriors are playing this well on defense. They also give high praise to Kevon Looney for his massive rebounding game (20:53). The guys turn their focus on the Kings franchise: If they want to change their culture, it begins with Mike Brown (31:11). Next, why the Thunder are the most likely team to trade down in the draft and Chet Holmgren’s NBA potential (36:19). KOC highlights some of his favorite prospects in the draft (48:36) before the guys dive into the Heat-Celtics series (58:20).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Previewing the Conference Finals, Bleak Future Suns, and Tonight’s NBA Draft Lottery May 17, 2022

Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals between the Heat and Celtics is tonight as KOC and Verno preview the series between the top two teams in the East (02:15). The guys debate who will step up alongside Jimmy Butler for the Heat. Next, they discuss their disbelief about the Suns getting blown out in a Game 7 at home to the Mavs (28:03). What's next for Phoenix? The guys are in agreement that Luka Doncic will continue to go off in his series against the Warriors (37:39). Lastly, they briefly go through tonight’s NBA draft lottery (57:50).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Tatum Explodes, Warriors Advance, and Game 7 Previews With Bill Simmons and Mo Dakhil | The Void May 14, 2022

Hey, it’s Kevin. What a night of basketball with the Celtics beating the Bucks to force a Game 7 and the Warriors finishing the Grizzlies with a huge run to close the game. Bill Simmons joins to talk Celtics-Bucks, and then The Athletic's Mo Dakhil joins to break down every series. Here are today's timestamps:

Bill Simmons

(01:41) - Thoughts after Game 6

(08:47) - The East runs through Giannis

(15:29) - Bucks fans back to blaming Mike Budenholzer

Mo Dakhil

(29:07) - Turning point for Warriors in Game 6

(39:29) - Klay Thompson's play and Andrew Wiggins's improvement

(46:42) - Why the Warriors should root for the Suns

(01:02:56) - What's next for the Grizzlies?

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Bill Simmons and Mo Dakhil

Producers: Jessie Lopez & Ben Cruz

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Epic Comeback or Total Collapse? Plus: Griz Make a Statement and Jimmy’s That Guy in the Postseason. May 12, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing Game 5 between the Bucks and Celtics (01:59). They debate if the Bucks win was a comeback or a collapse by the Celtics before discussing what happened in the fourth quarter. The Warriors missed their chance to close out their series against the Grizzlies after getting blown out by nearly 40 points, as the guys discuss what went wrong for Steph and crew (25:01). Also, they go through tonight’s Game 6 action between the Heat-76ers and Mavs-Suns (56:43).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Al Horford Balling Out, Stop With the Whining, and Embiid Makes All the Difference May 10, 2022

Verno and KOC recap Monday night’s slate of playoff action, beginning with the Celtics' resilient win to tie their series against the Bucks (01:56). They also break down the Bucks' struggles and what Giannis needs to do differently. The Grizzlies drop Game 4 and are in a 3-1 hole in the series against the Warriors, and the guys break down what happened with the Griz (21:53). They last go though Tuesday night’s games between the Heat-76ers and Mavs-Suns. With Joel Embiid back, the Heat will have a tough battle to win the series (44:27). The Mavs won two in a row and tied up their series with the Suns, and the guys give major credit to Jason Kidd for the adjustments he's made since dropping the first two games (58:08).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Embiid Returns, Brunson Shines, And Celtics-Bucks Deep Dive | The Void May 07, 2022

Hey it’s Kevin, thank you for listening to The Void. The Ringer’s Rob Mahoney joined first to recap Friday night’s games and previewed Game 3 of Grizzlies-Warriors. Then I brought on two friends from my days covering the Celtics to go deep on Boston-Milwaukee ahead of Game 3: Jay King and Jared Weiss from The Athletic. Here are today’s timestamps:

Rob Mahoney

(01:51) - Joel Embiid’s impact

(07:42) - Should the Heat be worried?

(13:03) - On Mavs-Suns

(22:05) - Grizzlies-Warriors preview

Jay King & Jared Weiss

(31:37) - Differences for Celtics in Game 1 and 2

(35:33) - Grant Williams and his defense

(50:41) - Can Giannis do anything differently?

(01:02:38) - Predictions for rest of series

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Rob Mahoney, Jay King, and Jared Weiss

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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76ers Falling Fast, Building Around Luka, and What Are You Watching Tonight? May 05, 2022

James Harden has yet to show up and even if Joel Embiid returns, there’s little chance the 76ers can turn it around as Verno and KOC recap Game 2 between the Sixers and the Heat (01:42). The Suns go up 2-0 and the guys discuss how amazing it is that Chris Paul is still performing at the highest level and continues to bring out the best in his teammates (17:13). After dropping Game 1, the Celtics bounced back in Game 2 to tie their series with the Bucks (32:53). The Grizzlies also tied their series and the guys discuss the Warriors strategy when it comes to guarding Ja Morant (41:15). With no games on tonight, the guys discuss what they'll be watching (01:04:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Entering the Conference Semifinals, Hellacious Heat, and the Celtics' Cause for Pause May 03, 2022

Verno and KOC recap the beginning of the conference semifinals, beginning with Heat-76ers (01:51). They question whether James Harden will ever return to peak form before giving the Heat credit for the defensive effort they've shown all postseason. They next recap the Suns' dominant Game 1 win over the Mavs and discuss Deandre Ayton’s performance (20:34). After sweeping the Nets, the Celtics drop Game 1 against the Bucks (33:32). The guys discuss what the Celtics need to do differently in Game 2 to win. They lastly go through the Warriors-Grizzlies series and discuss Jordan Poole's and Gary Payton II’s big performances in Game 1 (51:11).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Moving Into the Second Round, Zion and LaVine's Future, and Music Talk with Logan Murdock | The Void Apr 30, 2022

Hey it’s Kevin, thanks for listening to The Void. Today’s guest is Ringer Staff writer and Real Ones co-host, Logan Murdock. He joins the show following the Grizzlies Game 6 win over the Timberwolves. You can hear Logan with Raja Bell Monday nights during the NBA playoffs on the NBA Ringer Show feed. Here are today’s timestamps:

(06:10) - Anthony Edwards needs to become the number one option with the T-Wolves

(12:13) - Grizzlies-Warriors preview

(18:52) - Zion Williamson and Zach LaVine’s comments

(29:43) - Joel Embiid’s injury and the 76ers-Heat preview

(36:18) - Music talk

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Logan Murdock

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Bucks and Warriors Moving On, Doc Close to Blowing It Again, and Which Teams Left Will Advance Apr 28, 2022

With the Bucks and Warriors moving on to the second round, Verno and KOC recap the first-round series for both teams. They preview the Bucks' matchup with the Celtics (02:00) before taking a look back at the Bulls' season and debating what their next moves are (14:13). Are we overrating the Warriors' new Death Lineup (22:10)? With the Raptors winning two straight, is Doc Rivers on the verge of blowing another playoff series (32:35)? Nate McMillan is on the hot seat in Atlanta after the Hawks' disappointing season (42:54). They next debate which of the teams left in the West will advance and which series will go to a full seven games (52:50).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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So Much for Those Nets, Raptors Not Done Yet, and the Real Mavs Are Starting to Show Up Apr 26, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss the Celtics' surprising first-round sweep of the Nets and explain why Boston winning is ultimately good for the league (01:30). They debate whether Kyrie Irving is the right fit for Kevin Durant to win a title (09:44). The Raptors have clawed themselves back into their series against the 76ers, and the guys debate whether they can turn it all around and beat the Sixers (29:34). KOC was at the Jazz-Mavs game and shares his experience being inside American Airlines Center (40:50). Is it time for the Suns to focus all their defense on stopping Brandon Ingram (50:09)? They last go through the night’s slate of playoff action (54:08).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Recapping a Wildly Entertaining Night of Playoff Basketball Apr 21, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show by recapping the Celtics-Nets game as they talk about the C’s defense against Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, and Ben Simmons’s impact if he does indeed return for this series (02:52). They next go through the Raptors-76ers game and discuss Joel Embiid’s game-winner, Doc Rivers's effect on the team, and Fred VanVleet’s inconsistent play (29:32). With Khris Middleton out, the Bulls took Game 2 against Milwaukee and now have a chance to turn the momentum with the series going back to Chicago (43:48). They also debate what the Suns can do now that Devin Booker is out with an injury before previewing tonight's playoff action (53:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Pelicans Upset, the Grizzlies Bounce Back, and Butler Dominates With Rohan Nadkarni | The Void Apr 20, 2022

Hey, it’s Kevin, thanks for listening to 'The Void.' Today’s guest is Rohan Nadkarni, an NBA writer for Sports Illustrated. He joins the show to recap Tuesday’s slate of playoff games and discuss his latest article, which details Deandre Ayton’s growth since last season’s Finals loss. Here are today’s time stamps:

(02:03) - The Pelicans' chances vs. the Suns without Devin Booker

(09:31) - Deandre Ayton’s role if Booker is out

(17:39) - On Grizzlies-Timberwolves

(24:20) - Do the Mavs have enough to keep up with the Warriors' three-guard lineup?

(29:43) - On Heat-Hawks

(34:29) - Any concerns with the Heat’s offense?

(42:51) - What do the Hawks need moving forward?

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Rohan Nadkarni

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Emergence of Jordan Poole, Same Old Tune for the Jazz, and Previewing Tonight’s Matchups Apr 19, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show recapping the Warriors-Nuggets game from last night, and one thing is certain: The Warriors are back (01:55). They discuss Jordan Poole's growth and development (11:00). With Luka Doncic still out, the guys debate whether the Mavs can win the series against the Jazz without him (21:58) before talking about Rudy Gobert’s overall value. Also, they briefly recap the 76ers' dominant win over the Raptors (39:51). Plus, they preview tonight’s slate of playoff action before looking ahead to the rest of the week's schedule (47:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Trae Loves to Put on a Show, and NBA Playoff Weekend Preview. Plus: What Is Zion Doing? Apr 15, 2022

In looking at the Cavs-Nets game, Verno and KOC both agree that, besides the first quarter, the Cavs looked good (02:15). They also blast the Hornets' efforts on defense against the Hawks (12:20) before exploring the Hawks' matchup against the Cavs (18:21). If apex Brandon Ingram shows up, the Clippers don’t stand any chance against the Pelicans (26:54). If Zion Williamson is good enough to do 360 dunks, then why isn't he playing (36:12)? They last go through the weekend slate of playoff basketball, (42:16) and KOC breaks the news about Paul George (01:04:26).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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State of the Knicks With CP "The Fanchise" | The Void Apr 13, 2022

Hey it’s Kevin, thanks for listening to 'The Void.' Today’s guest is Casey Powell, or as he is better known: CP "The Fanchise." CP is die-hard Knicks fan and creator of the Knicks Fan TV, which covers the team with live shows streaming online. Here are today's time stamps:

(04:43) - RJ Barrett’s progress

(10:54) - What happened with Julius Randle?

(14:10) - Getting called out by Randle’s wife

(20:26) - Any optimism that a star could join the Knicks soon?

(22:59) - On the Knicks young core

(35:01) - On Leon Rose getting more aggressive

(39:43) - Is James Dolan as bad as people make him out to be?

(42:43) - On the Knicks future

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Casey Powell, a.k.a. CP "The Fanchise"

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Regular Season Wrapped, Play-In Preview, and Who’s Your MVP? Apr 11, 2022

Verno and KOC go over the final NBA regular-season standings and gear up for the play-in tournament. The Celtics finished the year as the 2-seed, but now face the toughest possible route to the Finals (08:47). The Clippers have remained competitive all season despite being without their best players and now are in position to make some noise (16:32). The guys also discuss the timing of Woj’s tweet, in which he reported Frank Vogel’s firing just minutes after the Lakers' last game (36:09). Lastly, KOC shares his ballots and Verno gives his predictions for MVP, Rookie of the Year, Most Improved Player, and the rest of the regular-season awards (44:52).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Heat Clinch, Bottom of the Bracket Teams, and Key Players Returning for the Playoff Run Apr 08, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss the latest news going into the last weekend of the NBA season beginning with the Heat, who clinched the top overall seed in the East (01:49). As the seeding becomes finalized, the guys take a look at the teams at the bottom of the bracket (13:57). The Lakers were officially eliminated from playoff contention, so Verno and KOC discuss their dreadful season (21:22). After weeks of speculation, there are signs that point to Kawhi Leonard’s potential return for the Clippers' playoff run (32:37). The Nuggets are also gearing up for the possible returns of Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. (39:04).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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NBA Playoffs Update, State of the Jazz, and Bye Bye Lakers With Nate Jones | The Void Apr 06, 2022

Hey it's Kevin, thanks for listening to The Void. Today’s guest is Nate Jones, who is a marketer and agent for Goodwin Sports, a sports agency that represents NBA players like Damian Lillard and Matisse Thybulle. Nate is never afraid to go against the grain or ask tough questions on social media, so he’s long been one of my favorite NBA personalities. But this is actually the first conversation we’ve ever had and I thought it went great. I hope you enjoy it just as much as I did. Here are today's timestamps:

(05:40) - Reality hit hard for the Cavs

(13:47) - Would you be worried about James Harden as a Sixers fan?

(25:56) - On Rudy Gobert and Utah Jazz

(32:53) - Imagining Rudy Gobert on the Celtics

(41:26) - The rise of the 2 bigs lineup

(50:33) - On Jabari Smith Jr

(59:20) - Is this years draft class worth tanking for?

(01:09:20) - On Lakers missing playoffs / LeBron's legacy

(01:17:20) - Who's the better rapper, Damian Lillard or Miles Bridges?

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Nate Jones

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Congrats to Kansas, Playoff Standings, and Gearing Up for a Wild Finish in the NBA Apr 05, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show congratulating Kansas for beating North Carolina in the NCAA men's national championship before discussing whether any players elevated their draft stock in the game (02:02). Going into the last week of the season, the guys take a look at the current playoff bracket. They dive into the wild stat about Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert (19:35). Is there any hope for the Lakers as they fight for the final playoff spot in the West (27:17). They next go through the standings in the Eastern Conference. Who is the easier first-round matchup, Bulls or Raptors (36:50)? What are the chances that the Nets will lose in the play-in (48:28)? And can Joel Embiid sway KOC’s vote for MVP (53:57)?

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Is Giannis the Real MVP? Plus, Cade Turning the Corner and the 50-Point March Blowout. Apr 01, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show by discussing Thursday night’s win for the Bucks and debating whether Giannis just stole the MVP with his performance (01:21). KOC believes Giannis has been paying attention to the MVP race and wanted to insert himself into the conversation again (10:37). They next go through Logan Murdock’s profile on Kevin Durant (15:24) before discussing the 76ers' three-game skid (21:58). Don’t look now, but Cade Cunningham is starting to turn the corner as his rookie season comes to an end (29:57). DeMar DeRozan dropped the 14th different 50-plus-point game this season in the Bulls' OT win over the Clippers, and the guys discuss March’s abundance of 50-point games (44:25). With the Final Four this weekend, the guys briefly go through some of the top prospects (50:10).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Going In-Depth on the Raptors, Scottie Barnes, and the Future of the NBA With Samson Folk | The Void Mar 30, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. KOC goes up north and brings on Samson Folk, a freelance reporter who covers the Raptors for Raptors Republic.

(00:56) - KOC’s thoughts on Paul George’s return and the Bucks-76ers game

(06:18) - The Raptors' unique offensive strategy

(08:16) - Pascal Siakam’s improvement and what more to expect from OG Anunoby

(14:49) - Describing Scottie Barnes

(19:31) - How the Raptors used Barnes against Nikola Jokic

(26:51) - Can Barnes grow into the primary facilitator?

(28:47) - Rookie rankings and the case for each top candidate to win ROTY

(37:09) - Samson’s favorite players not on the Raptors

(41:18) - The NBA is as deep as ever and continuing to evolve

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Samson Folk

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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With No Time Lord There’s No Chance, the Suns' Immunity, and ROTY Misinterpretations Mar 29, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show by discussing the injury to Robert Williams and what it means to the Celtics (02:33). The Warriors have lost nearly every game since Steph Curry’s injury, and the guys discuss their bad stretch of games (18:16). The Suns have been by far the best team in the NBA, and the guys believe the only way they'll go down is with a major injury (23:31). After weeks of speculation, it was announced that Paul George will be making his return to the Clippers (41:48). Also, they discuss the race for MVP (49:20) and Rookie of the Year (56:33).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Rethinking Prospect Rankings, Understanding the Disrespect for the Suns, and You Wanna Fight Me? Mar 25, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing their latest NBA prospect rankings (01:09). Has Chet Holmgren fallen from the top spot after Gonzaga’s loss? Can Jaden Ivey raise his draft stock? The guys debate whether the Suns are really getting disrespected after Chris Paul’s return and clinching the top seed in the West (16:26). In a wide-open NBA, can the Grizzlies make a true run at the title (29:40)? The guys debate whether there is more behind the video of Zion Williamson dunking (38:38). They also dive into the altercation that happened on the Heat sideline between Jimmy Butler and Udonis Haslem (46:32) before Verno shares why the Nets don’t scare him, especially without Ben Simmons (53:02).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Analyzing the NBA Draft and March Madness With Titus and Tate | The Void Mar 23, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside basketball with the people who know it best. With March Madness in full swing, KOC brings on Mark Titus and Tate Frazier from the ‘Titus and Tate’ podcast on Fox Sports. They go full swing on all the NCAA tournament action as well as the top NBA prospects.

(06:42) - Why Jabari Smith Jr. struggled

(13:22) - On Malaki Branham and E.J. Liddell

(19:40) - Benefits of being able to test the draft process for college players

(27:25) - On Christian Koloko and Arizona

(34:09) - On Paolo Banchero, A.J. Griffin, and Duke

(44:32) - Chet Holmgren’s NBA potential

(51:09) - NBA prospects no one is talking about

(58:29) - How high will Hunter Dickinson go?

(01:01:07) - What makes UCLA so tough?

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Mark Titus and Tate Frazier

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Coming Around on the Celtics, Whether Something Is Wrong with Harden, and the Clippers Hoping for a Run Mar 22, 2022

With the Celtics riding a four-game win streak, has Verno come around to see them as a Finals sleeper (02:11)? KOC gives us reasons the Celtics are serious contenders for the title. The guys talk about how Patrick Beverley has completely changed the culture for the Timberwolves (12:54). The 76ers beat the Heat last night, despite being without James Harden and Joel Embiid, but KOC has noticed Harden playing different lately (22:25). With Ben Simmons out and Kyrie Irving still playing part time, the guys debate the Nets' title chances (27:33). They also take a look at some of the teams on the rise in the East (38:47) before discussing the possibility of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard returning (43:03). Finally, they give the latest updates on the biggest injuries in the NBA (50:20).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Chet Holmgren Show, What Will Happen With the Warriors, and the Raptors' Chances Mar 18, 2022

Verno and KOC go through the first day of the NCAA tournament and how the top prospects performed (01:40). One of the top prospects, Chet Holmgren, blew the guys away (09:12). Another day and another 50-point performance in the NBA, this time from the Pistons’ Saddiq Bey (19:24). Just when the Warriors were getting healthy, Steph Curry gets injured and the guys discuss the effects his injury will have across the West (31:36). The Raptors are on a five-game winning streak, and the guys debate whether they are a team who could make some noise in the playoffs (41:54). Does Skip Bayless know something about Kawhi Leonard that we don't (50:34)? Also, they discuss the Donnie Nelson lawsuit against Mark Cuban and the Mavs (55:05).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Mavs Going Full Luka, Watching the Suns Without CP3, and Rookie Growth With Dan Devine Mar 17, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. Today’s guest is The Ringer’s own Dan Devine. Dan joins the show to discuss his latest article about the Dallas Mavericks before diving into the hottest topics in the NBA.

(02:25)—Why the Mavericks are dominating

(10:17)—Can the Mavs make it to the Finals?

(18:13)—Steph Curry's Injury

(23:56)—Nets' title chances without Kyrie Irving and what the Ben Simmons news means

(29:14)—What we’ve learned about the Suns without CP3

(42:22)—Why Scottie Barnes won’t win Rookie of the Year

(46:34)—Jalen Green’s development

(53:24)—Laker woes with Russell Westbrook

(01:03:41)—On RJ Barrett

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Dan Devine

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Scouting Prospects and the NBA Landscape With "the Machine," John Hollinger Mar 15, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show by discussing KAT’s 60-point performance, Draymond Green’s return, and Kevin Garnett’s jersey retirement (01:15). They next bring on former VP of basketball operations for the Memphis Grizzlies and current NBA writer for The Athletic, John Hollinger. They discuss the top prospects in the ACC, how he views prospects differently, and why the conference games are more important when it comes to scouting (27:28). John was at the Nets-Knicks game over the weekend and shares his experience watching Kevin Durant drop 53 (55:08) before discussing the top teams in each conference (01:01:10).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guest: John Hollinger

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Boo Fest in Philly With Small-Game James, Adding More Incentives, and Witnessing the Birth of an All-Star Mar 11, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show by discussing the Nets' blowout win against the 76ers (01:30) before discussing Seth Curry’s influence and why he’s becoming such an important player in Brooklyn (17:42). After a five-game losing streak, the Warriors have won two in a row, but without Draymond Green, the guys are unsure whether they can make a run (28:50). As the regular season winds down, KOC mentions an idea he’s been hearing that adds incentives to the top seeds in each conference (35:12). Rookies Cade Cunningham and Jalen Green are starting to find their groove (51:19). They last give some college names to keep an eye on as March Madness looms closer (58:45).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Kyrie Show, Clippers Conspiracy, and Jokic’s Influence With Adam Mares | The Void Mar 10, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. Today’s guest is Adam Mares. He is the VP of creative production at DNVR Sports and hosts two Nuggets podcasts, 'DNVR Nuggets' and 'Locked on Nuggets'.

(02:04) - Kyrie Irving drops 50, a preview of a role for Ben Simmons

(07:04) - Will Kawhi Leonard and Paul George return?

(11:04) - What to expect from Golden State’s young players and Jackie Moon’s impact on Klay Thompson

(15:22) - Darius Garland’s style of play and Evan Mobley coming up big

(20:30) - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had a weird night, but the Bucks destroyed OKC

(24:55) - Is Nikola Jokic the MVP, or the best player in the game?

(33:08) - How is Jokic influencing the game?

(51:29) - Are the Nuggets Finals sleepers?

(56:08) - Russell Wilson traded to the Broncos

(01:02:38) - Draft talk about Colorado State’s David Roddy

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Adam Mares

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Jokic Case for MVP, Finals Pretenders or Contenders, and the Russ Drama in La La Land Mar 08, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing the level playing field in the East and West (01:40). Both are excited to watch the race to the postseason, with several teams chasing a playoff spot. KOC shares why he believes the 3-seed is the real 1-seed in the East (07:43). Verno simply can’t believe what Nikola Jokic is doing with the Nuggets as the guys discuss his case for back-to-back MVPs (09:08). After the Bulls dropped their fifth straight last night, they are starting to look like pretenders more than contenders (27:10). KOC continues to nag Verno about the Celtics and their Finals chances (32:30). They discuss last night’s Mavs-Jazz game, specifically the interaction between Rudy Gobert and Luka Doncic (37:00), before diving into what is going on with the Warriors (43:45). One thing is certain for the Warriors: They need Draymond Green back. Also, they go into the last night's drama around Russell Westbrook (51:22).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Lakers Continuing to Fall, How Dinwiddie Got His Groove Back, and Whether the Celtics Should Be Considered Finals Sleepers Mar 04, 2022

Verno and KOC open up the show by discussing yet another Lakers blowout loss, this time to the Clippers (01:54). KOC believes the loss was symbolic, while Verno can’t believe that the Clippers have been competitive without Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. Can the Clippers make some noise even if just PG returns (08:51)? While everyone is paying attention to James Harden in Philly, KOC points out that Spencer Dinwiddie has found his groove again since being traded to the Mavs (19:33). With the way the Mavs have been playing since the trade deadline, the guys believe that they have a chance to make a run (23:07). While the Warriors remain second in the West, they are 3-7 in their past 10 games and riding a three-game losing streak. The guys discuss Draymond Green’s importance to the Warriors and why James Wiseman will need to immediately contribute (31:10). Also, Verno gets real about the Celtics after watching them beat his Grizzlies on Thursday night (40:35). As the Celtics continue to play better, KOC asks Verno if they are finally Finals sleepers (47:05). Trae Young has been on a tear as of late, and the guys debate how far he can carry the Hawks this season (55:17).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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LeBron’s Loser Lakers, Zion News, and the Play-in Race With Jason Maples | The Void Mar 03, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. Today’s guest is Jason Maples. He is a cohost of the ‘Temple of Hoop’ podcast with Big Kings and an assistant coach for the Contra Costa College men's basketball team.

(06:11) - Lakers losses are all the same

(11:04) - True issues with the Lakers

(21:55) - Warriors not making a move will come back to haunt them

(27:51) - Clippers are title favorites if Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are healthy

(33:01) - Luka’s eerily similarities

(36:08) - Cade Cunningham’s upside

(40:07) - Predicting where the Nets will finish

(45:21) - Brandon Ingram’s improvement

(51:29) - How bout dem Cowboys?

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Jason Maples

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Recapping Ja’s Epic Night and How Good Are the T-Wolves? Plus, the Lakers Still Have a Chance. Mar 01, 2022

Verno is still buzzing from last night’s Grizzlies game after watching Ja Mortant drop 52 points (01:10). KOC points out how Morant has fully embraced the city of Memphis and how he’s revitalized a franchise (05:40). The guys debate just how good the Timberwolves are before discussing their chances to catch the Mavs and Nuggets (14:15). Scottie Barnes continues to shine as a rookie as the guys discuss his potential and take a deeper look at the Raptors roster (19:57). The guys discuss what the Hornets can do now that Gordon Hayward is out with an ankle sprain (29:50). Despite the absolutely terrible play from the Lakers lately, the guys are in agreement that with a healthy LeBron James and Anthony Davis, they still have a chance to make some noise (37:54). Lastly, they give their thoughts on the new-look 76ers with James Harden (53:26).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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DeMar the Cheat Code, Embiid Wanted Someone Else, and the Growing Questions in Portland Feb 25, 2022

The All-Star break is over as the second half of the NBA season is underway! The Bulls beat the Hawks on Thursday night, with DeMar DeRozan continuing his historic shooting streak (02:05). The guys gush about DeMar's midrange game and how he's elevated himself while also carrying the Bulls. James Harden is scheduled to make his debut as a Sixer on Friday night, but before Harden made his way to Philly, Joel Embiid actually wanted someone else as a teammate (17:06). Don’t look now, but the Celtics are on a roll, losing only twice in the past month. KOC gives big credit to Robert Williams for their turnaround (30:27). However, Verno still doesn't believe the Celtics have enough to make any noise for a deep playoff run (38:58). The guys get into a heated debate about the Blazers' future after it was announced that center Jusuf Nurkic is out with a left foot injury (49:31). Lastly, they discuss the Nuggets' chances in the playoffs once Jamal Murray returns, and KOC’s favorite, Point Booker (01:02:15).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Zion Ripple Effects, Knicks Outlook, and the State of the NBA With Jason Concepcion | The Void Feb 24, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. KOC brings on Crooked Media’s Jason Concepcion, host of Crooked’s 'Takeline,' 'ALL CAPS NBA,' and 'X-Ray Vision.' They discuss all the latest noise surrounding Zion Williamson’s future with the Pelicans (03:44). What is the better path for the Pelicans: compete for a playoff spot or tank for draft position (14:29)? Jason also talks about his dream scenario of Zion joining the Knicks (16:44). Despite the Knicks' disappointing campaign, Jason is intrigued enough by the team's young core to consider tanking the rest of the season (20:01). Jason also shares his emotions about former Knick Kristaps Porzingis (27:48). Then they go in-depth on the state of the NBA, specifically on how audiences are connecting with teams and players and how media outlets are covering the league (34:27). Lastly, they debate whether LeBron James will eventually leave the Lakers to play with his son Bronny (47:14).

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Jason Concepcion

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Recapping All-Star Festivities and Predicting Second-Half Story Lines Feb 22, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show detailing their All-Star Weekend. This weekend’s dunk contest was a complete dud, and the guys debate what the NBA can do to bring excitement back to the contest (00:48). Should the league explore using the Elam Ending in more games (12:54)? After wrapping up the All-Star festivities, the guys play everyone’s favorite game: That’s True, That Might Be True, That’s Ridiculous (19:35). Some of the topics they go through include whether the MVP is Joel Embiid’s to lose (19:55), the Suns' chances without Chris Paul (29:53), LeBron James getting sour with the Lakers (43:37), and whether Jabari Smith Jr. has become the top prospect in college basketball (57:31).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Two Sides of New York Basketball, Whether Simons Gives the Blazers a Chance, and the Mavs' Future With Rob Mahoney | The Void Feb 17, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. Today, KOC is joined by The Ringer's own Rob Mahoney. They begin by discussing the Knicks blowing a 28-point lead to the Nets (01:07). Both agree that the Nets are a more complete team after trading away James Harden (06:59). Anfernee Simons has the Blazers rolling, but just how valuable are these wins for a franchise that was looking to tank (12:37)? Next, they discuss how the Clippers have been able to remain competitive without Kawhi Leonard and Paul George (23:11). Rob expands on his latest article, in which he detailed the direction the Mavs are moving toward without Kristaps Porzingis (26:48). Also, Nikola Jokic’s quiet leadership with the Nuggets (32:25) and DeMar DeRozan’s stellar season with the Bulls (39:35). Lastly, they talk about Anthony Davis’s latest injury and whether Russell Westbrook is finally starting to understand his role with the Lakers (47:16).

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Rob Mahoney

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The James Harden Drama Continues, Getting Giddy About Giddey, and All-Star Game Predictions Feb 15, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing Jake Fischer’s latest article, which details Kevin Durant’s role in the James Harden trade (03:59). Will drama ever stop following Harden? Josh Giddey’s rookie stock continues to rise after his 28-point triple-double performance helped the Thunder defeat the Knicks at Madison Square Garden (16:39). The guys debate how good Giddey can be. DeMar DeRozan is on a historic streak as he continues to carry the Bulls amid all their injuries (25:32). The Celtics are on a quiet run and playing excellent defense, and KOC fully believes this team has turned it around (31:10). With no show this Friday, the guys give their All-Star Game predictions (40:50).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Finding the Right Roles in Philly and Brooklyn, and Recapping the Trade Deadline Feb 11, 2022

Verno and KOC recap the slew of NBA trades made yesterday, beginning with the one trade everyone was waiting for: James Harden for Ben Simmons (02:00). KOC still believes the Bucks are the safe pick to win it all, but the 76ers' potential with Harden can definitely carry them (10:00). Verno believes there is more pressure facing Harden in Philadelphia than Simmons in Brooklyn (20:00). They next look at the Celtics and debate their trade for Derrick White (32:33) before questioning the move the Mavs made in trading Kristaps Porzingis for Spencer Dinwiddie and Davis Bertans (38:48). Lastly, they give their thoughts on the rest of the trades made yesterday (49:02).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Securing Trade Intel With Jake Fischer | The Void Feb 09, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer joins KOC to go over all the latest information with the trade deadline just hours away. They discuss the likelihood of the James Harden–for–Ben Simmons blockbuster (02:10). Jerami Grant is still a Piston, as no team is matching the asking price, so Jake tells us what kind of role Grant wants and why remaining in Detroit isn’t so bad (15:43). The Rockets might also have to reconsider the current asking price for Eric Gordon (22:03). After the blowout loss to the Bucks, is it time for the Lakers to move on from Russell Westbrook (24:56)? Lastly, they discuss the potential players who could be acquired in the buyout market (35:44).

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Jake Fischer

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Instant Reaction to the Kings-Pacers Trade Feb 08, 2022

Kevin O’Connor, Seerat Sohi, and Logan Murdock got together on Greenroom to discuss today’s trade between the Sacramento Kings and Indiana Pacers, which sent Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson to Indiana in exchange for Domantas Sabonis, Jeremy Lamb, Justin Holiday, and a 2027 second-round pick.

Host: Kevin O’Connor

Guests: Seerat Sohi and Logan Murdock

Associate Producers: Jessie Lopez and Sasha Ashall

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Reacting to the CJ McCollum Trade, Wondering Whether James Harden Will Be Dealt, and Watching Myles Turner Shoot His Shot Feb 08, 2022

Trade week is here for the NBA, and Verno and KOC discuss the most recent transaction between the Blazers and Pelicans (02:01). CJ McCollum, Larry Nance, and Tony Snell are off to New Orleans, while Josh Hart, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, two other players, and draft picks are heading to Portland. The guys take a look at the trade from both sides and debate the type of move this was for each franchise (15:25). They next debate whether James Harden will get traded from the Nets (27:56). KOC believes that Julius Randle is trying to do too much for the Knicks and suggests a minor move that could possibly help (43:09). The Raptors are winners of six straight, and the guys discuss how their depth has led to a successful season (56:48). Lastly, KOC reviews the latest viral video involving Myles Turner on TikTok (57:55).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Questioning Middleton’s All-Star Selection, Congrats to Fred VanVleet, and Reggie's "Skip-to-my-Lou" Game-Winner Feb 04, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing the selection of the All-Star reserves (04:08). They discuss the surprising selection of Khris Middleton over players like Jarrett Allen and Jrue Holiday. Outside of the Middleton selection, the guys are in agreement that there were no real snubs this year (18:40). Trae Young went off last night against the Suns and has the Hawks rolling, winning eight of their past nine games. They debate whether Trae can be the best player in a playoff series before getting into potential deals with John Collins (22:46). Both give high praise to Fred VanVleet for making his first All-Star appearance before diving into the Raptors as a team and how they’ve been playing at a high level all season (32:20). Should the Nets chase a lower seed with Kyrie Irving playing only road games (44:46)? Despite the Lakers losing last night, Anthony Davis has looked dominant since returning from injury (39:06). They also discuss last night's Warriors win, as Klay Thompson had one of his better games since returning (49:48). Lastly, they briefly touch on the Shaq–Ben Simmons feud (56:10).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Beautiful Suns, Deadline Deals, and All-Star Reserves With Wosny Lambre | The Void Feb 03, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. With his birthday on Sunday, it’s Wos Week! KOC brings on The Ringer's Wosny Lambre to discuss the Suns' elite play this entire season and how Chris Paul’s mentality has influenced the team (03:22). Plus, Eric Gordon has been linked to the Suns, but is he a better fit somewhere else (13:10)? Wos breaks down Jerami Grant’s game before telling us why Kevin Huerter is a five-tool player (18:10). Grant’s name has also been linked to the Jazz, so the guys discuss his potential fit and Rudy Gobert’s impact (24:40). Despite reports saying Bradley Beal is not asking for a trade, KOC and Wos believe it’s time for Beal to move on (30:33). When it comes to the Lakers, there just isn’t anything good outside of LeBron James and Anthony Davis (34:54).

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Wosny Lambre

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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NBA CrunchTime Debut, Predicting the Remaining All-Stars, and Looking Across the League With Ryen Russilo Feb 01, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss the debut of the NBA’s version of NFL RedZone, NBA CrunchTime (02:00). Both share ideas for how to improve the show. As the Ben Simmons saga continues in Philadelphia, Verno points out that Tyrese Maxey is only making Simmons more expandable (08:43). They also discuss Steph Curry’s unbelievable fourth-quarter performance before predicting who will be the remaining players to get All-Star nods (16:47). Next, Ryen Russillo joins the show. They discuss whether the Hawks can turn it around and make some noise in the playoffs (30:44), the issues with the Lakers (36:12), Ryen’s growing love for Anthony Edwards (49:00), and why he’s reconsidering the Jason Tatum–Jaylen Brown duo in Boston (57:01).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guest: Ryen Russillo

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Surprise All-Star, Embiid's MVP Case, Pelicans Have a Chance, and the G League Initiative Jan 28, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing the 2022 NBA All-Star starters and Andrew Wiggins's surprise nod (01:40). Did Wiggins get some help from an unexpected fan base (09:16)? Trae Young was also announced as an All-Star starter and celebrated by calling out Chuck in a tweet (13:36). Joel Embiid has been dominant all season long, and the guys debate whether he can continue to stay healthy to make a run at MVP (21:40). Zion Williamson posted a cryptic picture on his Instagram: Is he close to making a return? The guys debate the Pelicans' playoff chances if Zion returns soon (31:06). Also, they give their thoughts on the new Rising Stars format for All-Star Weekend, specifically the addition of the G League players (41:12). Last, they gush over Auburn prospect Jabari Smith Jr. (55:45).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Spo Keeping the Heat Hot, Bucks Defensive Evolution, and the Flawed All-Star Process With Nekias Duncan | The Void Jan 27, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. Basketaballnews.com writer and podcaster ('The Dunker Spot') Nekias Duncan is today’s guest. In discussing the Miami Heat, Nekias believes this is Erik Spoelstra's best run as a coach (02:34). Also: Have we all forgotten about Victor Oladipo (21:00)? Nekias points out how the Bucks have evolved defensively and why he has them repeating as champions (23:20). The guys then go into why the NBA All-Star voting process is flawed (36:28). To much of everyone’s surprise, the Mavs have been playing elite defense all season, and Nekias tells us how they’ve achieved this without a defensive anchor (41:41). Lastly, Anfernee Simons and Nassir Little are having breakout seasons and bringing some fun to the Blazers while Dame is out (51:28).

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Nekias Duncan

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Don’t Count Out Hawks Just Yet, the Lakers' Brodie Trade Decision, and a Surprise Guest Jan 25, 2022

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing the up-and-down season from Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks (02:31). They also discuss the importance of De'Andre Hunter. The Bulls' injury woes continue, as Alex Caruso is out again after a hard foul from Grayson Allen. The guys discuss Allen’s hard foul before going into Ayo Dosunmu’s surprise rookie season (10:27). All signs point to Frank Vogel staying, but the guys are more interested in discussing the rumor of a John Wall–for–Russell Westbrook swap (15:13). The guys debate what moves the Celtics can make that don’t include Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown (30:45). They are last joined by 'NBA on TNT' host Adam Lefkoe (36:12). They discuss working on set with Shaq, the situation with Ben Simmons, thoughts on James Harden if he gets traded to the 76ers, and Adam's football knowledge.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guest: Adam Lefkoe

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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How the Suns are Maintaining Success, Laker Woes, and the Continuing Uncertainty With Ben Simmons Jan 21, 2022

We’re just past the halfway point of the NBA season and the Suns have yet to hit double-digit losses, so Verno and KOC detail how Phoenix has been able to maintain its success this season (01:47). After the Warriors lost to a banged-up Pacers squad, the guys discuss the recent issues facing Steph and the rest of the team (14:03). The Lakers have had several struggles this season, but the latest controversy revolves around head coach Frank Vogel (24:09). Will he remain the Lakers head coach? They also debate whether Russell Westbrook can adjust his game to fit with LeBron (32:39). Lastly, they discuss whether Ben Simmons could get traded to the Kings before debating whether Simmons should return at all to the 76ers if he remains with the team (48:36).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Finding Hope in Detroit and Looking Back at the 2021 NBA Draft Class With Nick Henkel | The Void Jan 20, 2022

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. In today’s episode, KOC welcomes Nicolas Henkel, who covers the NBA and the Pistons for Piston Powered and Wave.TV. They discuss Cade Cunningham’s improvement before debating whether anyone else can win Rookie of the Year besides Evan Mobley (09:03). Looking back at the draft, the guys are in agreement that the Bulls got the best steal with Ayo Dosunmu (20:24). They next debate whether Killian Hayes and Cade can coexist (29:45) before discussing the best fit for Jerami Grant (43:24). They last look at the NBA landscape and debate who’s going to the Finals this season (50:39).

Host: Kevin O’Connor

Guest: Nicolas Henkel

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Heating Up in Miami, Whether Harden Can Lead the Nets, and Mavs Are Turning the Corner Jan 18, 2022

With the Bulls and Nets dealing with key injuries, Verno and KOC debate whether the Heat can take advantage and become the 1-seed in the East (03:45). They explain how "Heat Culture" keeps the team competitive. They also take a look at the resurgence of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and discuss whether the Cavs can maintain this success and end the season as a top-six team in the East (14:27). With KD out and Kyrie playing only in road games, the guys debate whether James Harden can lead the way for the Nets (26:34). After the Mavs beat the Grizzlies over the weekend, they discuss how Luka and the rest of the team are starting to click (39:27). The Lakers got a good win over the Jazz last night, but KOC points out that the Jazz need to make a move to truly compete for a title (52:17).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Hawks and Knicks Swap Players, Dray’s Importance to the Dubs, and the Two Sides of All the Ben Simmons Talk Jan 14, 2022

Verno and KOC react to the Knicks-Hawks trade involving Cam Reddish and Kevin Knox. They debate the low-risk move and discuss how Reddish can succeed in New York (05:49) before asking whether there is any hope left for Knox (11:58). The Grizzlies continue their tear across the league, beating the Timberwolves to extend their win streak to 11, and the guys take a closer look at the Wolves' roster (25:38). They also highlight Draymond Green’s importance to the Warriors after their blowout loss to the Bucks (30:05). Should the Warriors trade some of their young players and find impact players to extend their championship window? With Dame now out indefinitely, the guys discuss the next potential moves for the Blazers (46:28). Lastly, they debate whether all the Ben Simmons talk is tiring or fascinating (58:19).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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In the Heart of Mavs Country With Jonathan Tjarks | The Void Jan 13, 2022

Welcome to 'The Void' as Kevin O'Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. KOC goes deep into the state of Texas for today’s guest as he is joined by The Ringer's Jonathan Tjarks, host of 'Upside High.' They go into the Mavericks' improvement on defense under Jason Kidd and compare his coaching style to Rick Carlisle (05:19). Tjarks also points out how Kidd uses Luka Doncic differently on offense before answering if Luka needs to fail in order to achieve in the NBA (13:14). They speak the truth when it comes to Kristaps Porzingis (19:21). With the trade deadline looming, they debate which teams (if any) are a perfect fit for Domantas Sabonis and Myles Turner (23:44). Lastly they discuss Draymond Green’s low-key resurgence and why he’s key for the Warriors to win it all (37:02).

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: Jonathan Tjarks

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Welcome Back Klay, Real Ones in the West, and the Ben Simmons Trade Machine Jan 11, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss Klay Thompson's exciting return to the hardwood over the weekend (00:56). With Klay back, the guys debate which teams in the West are for real (11:27). The Raptors are riding a six-game win streak entering Tuesday night’s game versus the Suns, so the guys discuss the Raptors' turnaround and Fred VanVleet’s All-Star season (21:42). The Joel Embiid superstar experience is here, as he’s helped the 76ers win eight of their past nine games (27:46). The Hawks are the latest team to be linked to Ben Simmons, so the guys debate what would be the right trade to benefit both franchises (34:06). With the trade deadline a few weeks away, they take a look at where Myles Turner could go and debate whether the Kings are going to have a fire sale or make a push for a playoff spot (47:02).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Who’s the Leader in Boston? Plus, Playing in Today’s NBA and Kawhi’s Possible Return. Jan 07, 2022

Verno and KOC discuss last night’s wild Knicks victory over the Celtics. They go over the lack of leadership on the Celtics and debate whether Jayson Tatum or Jaylen Brown can become that true leader the franchise needs (03:16). With the trade deadline approaching, what moves can Brad Stevens make to improve the roster (18:09)? While discussing Julius Randle’s thumbs-down gesture in last night's game, KOC asks Verno how he would react if he were playing in today’s NBA (26:55). Help is on the way for the Clippers, as it has been reported that Kawhi Leonard could return this season from a torn ACL (35:23). Verno finally got a chance to see last year’s top draft choice, Cade Cunningham, and he was not impressed (44:17). Lastly, they go through some of the top stories in the NBA, including Kyrie Irving’s return and Hawks trade rumors (51:50).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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LeBron The Center, Weirdo Thunder, and NBA Rookie Talk With J. Kyle Mann | The Void Jan 06, 2022

Welcome to 'The Void' as Kevin O'Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. KOC goes internal for today’s guest as he brings on The Ringer's J. Kyle Mann, host of 'Upside High'. They start with a rapid-fire discussion of some of the teams that played last night before looking at the Thunder's roster (01:21). Among the young and promising players on the Thunder is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but can he ever become THE guy (21:09)? Nicolas Claxton is one of the few big men on the Nets roster, but the guys debate if he is their most important big man (35:30). Kyle discusses what he sees in Rockets rookie Jalen Green before looking at the Bucks depth around Giannis (39:15). They next look at the Magic roster, specifically at rookie Franz Wagner (51:50). Lastly, they look at Auburn's Jabari Smith Jr. and discuss his NBA potential (59:50).

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guest: J. Kyle Mann

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Grizz Are for Real, DeMar and the Bulls Continue to Prove People Wrong, and High Praise for Becky Hammon Jan 04, 2022

Verno and KOC jump right into last night’s Grizzlies win over the Nets (00:50). KOC is all in on the Grizz and believes they are only getting better. In looking at the Nets, the guys debate what the root issues are for the team (10:51). The guys keep getting surprised by how good DeMar DeRozan has been and how much he’s elevated the Bulls this season (19:39). Luka Doncic returned to the court over the weekend, and the guys discuss how he can continue to grow as a player (29:51). They also discuss Anfernee Simons’s career night vs. the Hawks, whether Jerami Grant can go back to being a role player if traded away, the excitement for Klay Thompson’s return, and the mess going in Houston (39:37). Finally, they discuss Becky Hammon's departure from the Spurs to coach in the WNBA (55:43).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Which Franchise Will Finally Get Over the Hump? | The Void Dec 29, 2021

Welcome to ‘The Void,’ where Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. KOC brings on Gibson Pyper, basketball coach and owner/creator of The Basketball Playbook and YouTube channel Half Court Hoops. Gibson joins KOC to take a look at four NBA franchises that can’t get over the hump to reach a championship. The first team they look at is the Boston Celtics; they discuss the team’s lost identity (04:02) and debate whether Jaylen Brown should be the one taking that last shot instead of Jayson Tatum (08:00). They next look over the Utah Jazz and discuss the franchise’s inability to get creative with Rudy Gobert (14:05). Then they take a long look at the Portland Trail Blazers and debate what moves, if any, they can make (24:26). They last discuss the fading Los Angeles Clippers (38:21), before Gibson shares why he loves to coach (44:58).

Host: Kevin O’Connor

Guests: Gibson Pyper

Producers: Jessie Lopez

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Grizzlies Impressing, What to Do With the Lakers, and What an In-Season Tournament Could Mean Dec 28, 2021

In the final episode of 2021, Verno and KOC discuss Monday night’s Grizzlies win over the Suns, as Ja Morant hit the game-winning floater in the final seconds. The guys debate whether the Grizz can finish with a top-four record and discuss the team’s ceiling going forward (05:47). With the Western Conference being weaker overall, KOC believes that LeBron and the Lakers will eventually turn it on, but Verno has lost all confidence with the team and doesn't believe it can make any kind of noise (15:19). They also revisit the idea of a Russell Westbrook–for–John Wall swap (20:33). The Bulls are currently sitting at no. 2 in the East, and the guys discuss why they are so good this season and what pieces they need to truly compete for a championship (26:51). The discussion of an in-season NBA tournament returned over the weekend and the guys are both in agreement that this could be an exciting move for the NBA (39:53).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Evaluating DeMar From Afar, Love Affair With Scottie Barnes, and Stuck Teams in the NBA Dec 23, 2021

Welcome to ‘The Void’ as Kevin O’Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. KOC brings on Sportsnet 950 The FAN hosts and Toronto Raptors reporters Blake Murphy and William Lou. They discuss DeMar DeRozan’s improvement as a player since leaving the Raptors (02:10) before looking at his performance this season with the Bulls (07:20). KOC confesses his love for Raptors rookie wingman Scottie Barnes, and they discuss why his playing style is so exciting (17:01). KOC points out the Raptors’ odd roster construction and they debate whether the franchise should make a move for a big man (28:50). Then they go around the league including a convention about a league X-factor, Warriors rookie Jonathan Kuminga (43:02). Lastly, a bonus conversion taken from Kevin’s interview on Spotify Greenroom with Magic rookie point guard Jalen Suggs about life in the NBA, dealing with losing, and one of the elite 2022 draft prospects (49:07).

Host: Kevin O’Connor

Guests: Blake Murphy, William Lou and Jalen Suggs

Producers: Jessie Lopez and Dylan Berkey

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'The Mismatch' Christmas List and Wishes for Next Year Dec 21, 2021

With Christmas around the corner, Verno and KOC get into their Christmas lists for teams in the NBA (02:19), including getting the Nets healthy, Joel Embiid continuing to play at an MVP level, and ideal playoff scenarios. They next discuss their trade wish list (20:45). Should the Knicks make a move for De'Aaron Fox? Will the Pacers trade Domantas Sabonis AND Myles Turner? KOC has a special Christmas wish for Pistons rookie Cade Cunningham (34:03) while Verno gets giddy about Thunder rookie Josh Giddey (45:56). Last but not least, they go through which NBA records they hope to see broken next (56:08).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Perfect Fits for KD, Patience with Ben Simmons, and No More Magic for the Wiz Dec 17, 2021

Kevin Durant is on a tear and has the Nets on his back, but it’s the surrounding role players who are impressing Verno and KOC the most. KOC gives props to the Nets front office for finding the pieces that fit next to KD (03:23). They get into how defending the 3-point shot is key in this era of the NBA (08:45). KOC is adamant that the 76ers should be patient with Ben Simmons and doesn’t believe that he will sit out the entire year if he’s not traded (18:41). They next discuss the issues going on in Portland and debate the best route for the franchise to turn it around (22:43). The guys were excited to see the Wizards' hot start to the season, but the magic seemed to run out as they dropped from first place in the East to seventh (31:37). They debate whether the Wiz’s issues are completely tied to Bradley Beal. In looking around the association, the guys discuss Klay Thompson’s return, the Grizzlies' success without Ja, and Zion Williamson’s injury woes (47:10).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Steph Curry’s Greatness, Rise of the Zone, and a Look Around the Association | The Void Dec 15, 2021

Welcome to 'The Void,' as Kevin O'Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. In today’s episode, KOC sits down with ‘Thinking Basketball’ author and YouTuber Ben Taylor. They break down Steph Curry’s greatness fresh off him breaking the 3-point record (02:46). Steph has been the early favorite for MVP this season and they dive into his career legacy. While the spotlight is on Steph Curry, Ben points out that Nikola Jokic is quietly having a Steph Curry–like season (13:42). They then discuss the rise of zone defenses in the NBA (21:09). Julius Randle has struggled this season after having a career year last season, and the guys debate whether he will ever get back his previous level of success (30:20). Ben agrees with KOC that the Celtics tandem of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown can still be the guys, but the team needs to put better pieces around them (38:43). In previewing tonight’s matchup between the Clippers and Jazz, Ben goes off because no one is realizing how good the Jazz’s offense has been this season (46:33).

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guests: Ben Taylor

Producers: Jessie Lopez and Dylan Berkey

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The Return of Kyrie? Plus Cleveland Rising, King Down in Sac Town, and the Nearing Trade Season. Dec 14, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss the potential return of Kyrie Irving (01:01). Despite the Nets being on top in the East, KOC argues that the Nets still need him. While discussing the surprising Cavs team, the guys cheer for Kevin Love, who has played a lot better as of late (06:22). They discuss more reasons why the Cavs are succeeding and what the future holds for the franchise. Verno was excited to watch the 76ers last night until they announced that Joel Embiid wasn’t going to play. They both agree that without Embiid, the 76ers aren’t very good and debate different moves the franchise can make (19:57). They also look at the sad state of the Kings franchise (25:54). KOC is adamant that the Celtics will find a way to win with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown (31:54). With the trade deadline inching closer the guys debate whether any big moves will be made before the year ends (36:44). Finally, they get excited at the potential return of Isaiah Thomas, as he signed with the Nuggets G-League affiliate (46:16).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Will the Real Anthony Davis Please Stand Up, Imagining Ben Simmons With the Spurs, and the Mess in Indiana Dec 10, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss the Grizzlies-Lakers game from Thursday night. Verno was there and he details his experience watching the purple and gold up close for the first time this season (01:26). Anthony Davis hasn’t been the same kind of player and it was evident vs. the Grizz, so the guys debate what his issue is (05:21). They also take a deeper look at the Lakers' roster and coaching staff and identify all the issues they’ve had this season (12:53). They next look at the 76ers and debate whether Ben Simmons will get moved before the deadline (25:34). They have some fun and imagine Simmons getting traded to the Spurs and how his personality would fit in San Antonio (31:56). They next discuss what the heck is going on with the Pacers (41:08). Verno discovers that the Pacers haven’t had many bad seasons while KOC believes that now is the perfect time for them to start a rebuild.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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How the Suns Got Better and Four Young NBA Teams Close to Finals Contention Dec 08, 2021

Welcome to The Void! Kevin O'Connor brings you deep inside the NBA with the people who know it best. In this episode, KOC is joined by Mike Vigil and Sam Cooper from 'The Timeline: A Phoenix Suns Podcast' to discuss the rise of the Suns franchise. They discuss how Chris Paul completely changed his style of play (03:06) and the improvement of Deandre Ayton (09:17). KOC is all aboard the Payne train, as they discuss the perfect bench pairing of Cameron Payne and JaVale McGee (13:46) before diving into Mikal Bridges‘s route to DPOY (15:35). They point to Devin Booker’s efficiency as a reason for his overall improvement (24:16). The guys look around the association to see which teams are a few moves away from contending. KOC makes a bold statement about Cavs rookie Evan Mobley, but Sam believes he could be on to something (32:25). Also, they discuss how James Harden could benefit from taking more midrange jumpers (45:40). Lastly, they debate what, if any, moves the Suns can make down the stretch (52:32).

Host: Kevin O'Connor

Guests: Mike Vigil and Sam Cooper

Producers: Jessie Lopez and Dylan Berkey

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Dealing With COVID, the Lakers Are "Two" Top-Heavy, the Issues in Portland, and GOATs Don’t Dance Dec 07, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss Joel Embiid’s return to the court after COVID-19 (02:59) and discuss how the virus could potentially derail a team if it's not safe (06:05). The Grizzlies are undefeated since Ja Morant went down with injury, and Verno points out a very interesting stat during their current five-game win streak (08:10). The guys just cannot believe how good Giannis Antetokounmpo is and both believe that the Bucks are the best team in the league right now (27:44). Verno fully believes that the tandem of LeBron James and Anthony Davis are the best in the league, but the Lakers' issues are more deeply rooted (32:52). The guys debate whether Ben Simmons is the answer for the Blazers (40:28) and wonder whether the 76ers would take a trade package centered on CJ McCollum. And as Klay Thompson nears his return, the guys joke that Steph Curry is out to break Klay’s record for most 3-pointers made in a game (55:03).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Describing the Grizzlies' Record-Setting Night, What to Do in Portland, and Changing the Thought Process for DPOY Dec 03, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss the Grizzlies' record-setting night as they beat the Thunder by 73 points! Verno was there, and he describes the scene inside FedEx Forum throughout the game (01:58). After joking at the Thunder’s expense, they take a hard look at the franchise and debate whether stockpiling draft picks is the right way to go (07:22). After losing by 31 points to the Spurs and dropping below .500, there is a definite need for a change in Portland as KOC explores the real issues and speaks the truth on what the franchise and Dame Lillard need to do (13:31). The Suns are riding an 18-game winning streak going into tonight’s game against the Warriors, and the guys describe the defensive prowess of Suns wingman Mikal Bridges (30:12). Despite DPOY being known as a "big-man" award, the guys believe that Bridges should be strongly considered. They also take a break from hardwood talk to discuss whether they could live in a world without the internet (41:47). They lastly go around the Association and discuss the hottest stories going into the weekend (46:43).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Running With T-Wolves, "Dirk" Valanciunas, and the Warriors Are Standing Their Ground Nov 30, 2021

KOC tried to recap his Thanksgiving holiday, but Verno wasn’t having it and the two get right down to the NBA action. Despite the league being more balanced than in years past, last night’s slate of games didn’t reflect that (01:48). Out of the nine games played yesterday, only one was competitive. Verno and KOC discuss the underappreciated play of Rockets big man Christian Wood before debating what the team should do with John Wall (08:40). Don’t look now, but the Timberwolves are rolling, having won seven of their past eight games, and the guys talk about the great play of Anthony Edwards and other T-Wolves during their hot stretch (15:26). Jonas Valanciunas did his best Dirk impression as he helped the Pelicans take down the Clippers with seven 3s and a career-high 39 points (23:00). The guys also discus how the Warriors are simply “murdering” teams in the third quarter before getting into tonight’s matchup versus the Suns (29:04). Kemba Walker has been officially benched by Thibs, and they consider what the future holds for Kemba before going into the other issues with the Knicks (38:36). Lastly, they discuss the Bucks' signing of Boogie Cousins (55:34).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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The Kings' Woes, Fox vs. Morant, and the Hot Suns Nov 23, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss the Kings' disgusting loss to the 76ers last night. After Luke Walton’s firing, the guys thought the Kings would show more passion and fight. One thing is for sure: It all starts at the top for the Kings. (07:03) They debate whether De’Aaron Fox is the most overrated point guard in the league and compare his career to Ja Morant's. (17:23) Then they go over the near–'Fight Club' scene between Isaiah Stewart and LeBron James. (29:07) They also discuss Cade Cunningham’s successful start to his rookie campaign. (38:42) Lastly, they discuss last night's epic game between the Grizzles and Jazz (45:56) before discussing the run made by the Suns, who have won 13 straight (57:06).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Jessie Lopez

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Steph As MVP?, Impact Player Tyrese Maxey, and Final Contenders Nov 19, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss Steph’s performance this season as he’s averaging 42 percent from the 3-point line and has gained support for MVP (1:09). Then, they touch on the 76ers, from the up-and-coming Tyrese Maxey to another advancement in the Ben Simmons saga as Daryl Morey states there are 30 players he would trade Simmons for (11:16). Then they talk about league executives potentially forming an association (27:12), and weigh in on potential Finals contenders (39:56). Then they wrap things up with Zion Williamson and Klay Thompson updates, and Crypto.com Arena thoughts.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Associate Producer: Erika Cervantes

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Three Big Surprises, Lonzo’s Resurgence, and an Epic Rant From Verno Nov 16, 2021

As the Eastern Conference continues to surprise us, Verno and KOC break down three teams that are exceeding expectations. Then the guys discuss abysmal starts for the Pelicans and Rockets (which gets Verno very fired up), struggles for the LeBron-less Lakers, and many other story lines.

Hosts: Chris Vernon, Kevin O’Connor

Producers: Jessie Lopez, Troy Farkas

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Ben Simmons Saga, Tom Thibodeau Benching His Starters, and the Evolution of Physicality Nov 12, 2021

Verno and KOC touch on the Pacers-Jazz game resulting in four ejections and discuss the side effect of a higher level of physicality in the game (0:58). Then they discuss Toronto’s win at Philly and the new advancement in the Ben Simmons saga, with reports about his mental health (27:27). Lastly, they weigh in on Tom Thibodeau benching his starters and discuss how the Knicks rank among the rest (58:08).

Hosts: Chris Vernon, Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Erika Cervantes

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Unstoppable Steph, Harden’s Scoring Slump, Chicago’s Hot Start, and Jokic’s Cheap Shot Nov 09, 2021

Verno and KOC begin by discussing the Bulls’ 7-3 start and how uncommon it is for new rosters to come roaring out of the gates like this. Then, the guys talk about another huge performance from Stephen Curry and why it feels like Golden State could recapture its former glory this season (20:43). Plus, the guys react to rule changes affecting James Harden and Trae Young, trade rumors around Ben Simmons and Jaylen Brown (50:53), Carmelo Anthony’s resurgence as a role player, and much more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon, Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Troy Farkas

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The Celtics Blow Out the Heat, OKC Upsets the Lakers Again, and a Busy NBA News Week Nov 05, 2021

Verno and KOC start by talking about upset wins on Thursday night by the Celtics and Thunder (1:03). Then they discuss all the major news items that have been reported this week, including Damian Lillard’s meeting with LeBron James and Anthony Davis in the summer (28:09), the racism and misogyny within the Phoenix Suns organization (41:36), and Ben Simmons not seeing team physicians (55:03).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Production Assistant: Isaiah Blakely

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Bulls Back, Fractured Celtics, Scorching Heat, and More! Nov 02, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss the Chicago Bulls' tremendous early returns, the Boston Celtics’ need for leadership, and the Miami Heat’s blistering start to the season, as well as some other impressive (and not-so-impressive) runs.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Producer: Isaac Lee

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An NBA Game of “That’s True, That Might Be True, or That’s Ridiculous” Oct 29, 2021

Manic and excitable after a very late night of Grizzlies-Warriors basketball (0:30), Verno and KOC play a game called “That’s True, That Might Be True, That’s Ridiculous,” in which Chris states an overreaction from this NBA season so far and Kevin deems it either true, possibly true, or ridiculous (10:45). They start with the future of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown’s relationship (14:45), and discuss other topics like James Harden’s issues (22:40), the Wizards’ newfound success (50:15), and much more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Ja Morant Is the Most Fun Player to Watch in the NBA. Plus, Rule Changes and the Bulls’ Possibly Unsustainable Success. Oct 26, 2021

Verno and KOC are back talking about the best games from this past week of basketball, starting with Bulls-Raptors and the question of whether the Bulls can sustain their current success (0:45) and Celtics-Hornets and how fantastic Ish Smith has been for Charlotte (7:45). Then they discuss the rule changes that have resulted in far less free throws for one James Harden (14:15), the incredible dunks from Jaylen Brown, Lauri Markkanen, and more (24:51), and Danny Ainge’s comments to Kendrick Perkins solidifying his commitment to Jaylen Brown (32:30). Finally, they take a look at some of the young guys who are popping off the screen early, including Jalen Green (35:24), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (39:15), and Ja Morant (44:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Ten First Impressions From the Opening Games. Plus, Issues With the NBA 75 List. Oct 22, 2021

Verno and KOC first discuss all the issues with the NBA 75 rollout over the past week, including the most glaring omissions and the fact that it ended up actually being the NBA 76 (0:30). Then they give 10 first impressions from the first three days of NBA games this season, starting with Jason Kidd’s poor showing against the Hawks (12:24) and Tyler Herro’s fantastic performance against the Bucks (17:51), and moving on to the Nets’ rotation issues (22:15), Evan Mobley’s great game against the Grizzlies (32:12), Russell Westbrook’s tough season opener with the Lakers (40:22), and more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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2021-22 NBA Season Preview and Predictions Oct 19, 2021

Opening day is here! Verno and KOC first react to all the contract extensions that occurred (or didn't) before the deadline (0:40). Then they get into all their predictions for the 2021-22 NBA season, including playoff seeding in the East and West (18:17) and their awards forecasts (40:40).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Ten Questions About the Upcoming Season, Plus Zion Williamson’s Health and Kyrie Irving’s Instagram Live Oct 15, 2021

Verno and KOC first touch on the recent developments in Zion Williamson’s health (0:35) and Kyrie Irving’s Instagram Live explaining why he won’t get vaccinated (10:50). Then they ask each other 10 questions about the upcoming season, including which new coach will have the greatest impact on their team, which top 10 pick from last year’s draft will take a leap this season, and more (22:40).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Kyrie Irving, Ben Simmons, and Zion Williamson Developments, Plus Eight People to Keep an Eye on for the Upcoming Season Oct 12, 2021

Verno and KOC delve into the developments of Kyrie Irving’s situation in Brooklyn, with the Nets releasing a statement saying he will not be practicing or playing games until he can be a full-time member of the team (0:52). They also discuss Ben Simmons’s return to the city of Philadelphia (11:30) and the news that Zion Williamson has yet to begin running again after getting foot surgery (28:33). Then they talk about eight people to keep an eye on this season, including Klay Thompson, Deandre Ayton, Jason Kidd, Russell Westbrook, and more (35:31).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Eight Intriguing Observations From Preseason and What Kevin Learned About the Brooklyn Nets Oct 08, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss what KOC learned after spending some time with the Brooklyn Nets, including Harden’s newfound leadership and the love players have for head coach Steve Nash (0:35). Then they get into their eight intriguing observations from preseason, such as Jordan Poole’s leap, Anthony Edwards’s maturity, and many more (28:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Evaluating the GM Survey and Preseason Overreactions Oct 05, 2021

Verno and KOC first go over the surprises and revelations from NBA.com’s recently released 2021-22 GM Survey (0:50). Then Chris asks Kevin to assess his preseason overreactions on the Nets, Kings, Nuggets, Clippers, and many more after the first big set of preseason games (27:00). Finally, they discuss breaking news from Adrian Wojnarowski that the Suns are balking on giving Deandre Ayton the maximum rookie contract extension (57:40).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Unpacking Joel Embiid’s Recent Comments on Ben Simmons, Plus Evaluating NBA Player Rankings and Six Teams to Watch This Preseason Oct 01, 2021

Happy Friday! Joel Embiid unloaded the clip in response to rumors that Ben Simmons is done playing with him, so Verno and KOC dissect the most interesting parts of Embiid’s statement (0:45). Then they talk about the ESPN and Sports Illustrated NBA player rankings for the 2020-21 season (26:35) and the three teams they’re looking forward to watching in preseason (36:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Media Day Revelations, From Zion Williamson to Ben Simmons and Beyond Sep 28, 2021

Media day is upon us! Verno and KOC discuss the vaccine hype at the various media days across the NBA (1:10), before getting into some of the other revelations from Monday. First up, they talk about Zion Williamson’s secret foot surgery (15:10) and the recent reporting in The Athletic with some extra sauce from KOC that Ben Simmons is truly done playing with Embiid in Philadelphia (22:15). Then they talk about Michael Porter Jr.’s max extension with the Nuggets (38:15), what could happen with John Wall in Houston (45:45), Klay Thompson's comeback from injury (50:30), and The Athletic’s report about the Lakers’ offseason recruiting strategies (55:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Listener Mailbag Part 4! Plus: the Gersson Rosas Debacle in Minnesota Sep 24, 2021

Verno and KOC first dig into the reporting on the sudden dismissal of Timberwolves general manager Gersson Rosas (0:45) and discuss a few of the particulars of the Ben Simmons situation in Philly (15:00). Then we answer listener questions about the Raptors, potential Most Improved Players, and much more in our final mailbag of the offseason (23:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Picking New NBA Player Islands to Inhabit and Evaluating Old Choices Sep 21, 2021

Verno and KOC take a look back to 2019 to evaluate their previous picks for which NBA player islands to inhabit, most of which are pretty unfortunate and some of which have come off well (0:45). Then they choose some new islands from the pool of lottery picks currently in the NBA (23:40).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Listener Mailbag Part 3! Plus: a Bit of Football and a Bit of Ben Simmons. Sep 10, 2021

After a bit of banter about Thursday night’s Cowboys-Buccaneers game (0:30), Verno and KOC talk about some of the developments in the Ben Simmons saga (5:30). Then they dig into the mailbag to answer listener questions about basketball and life (14:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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What Are the Washington Wizards Capable of This Season? Plus More Ben Simmons Rumors. Sep 07, 2021

Free agency may be winding down, but you can’t stop NBA players from opening their mouths. Verno and KOC discuss Kyle Kuzma’s comments on ‘The No Chill Podcast’ that the Buddy Hield trade was basically in the books before the Lakers pivoted to the Russell Westbrook trade (0:30), Jonathan Isaac’s comments that he and the Magic are being very cautious with his return from injury (14:40), and Michael Porter Jr.’s comments to the Denver Post that his contract extension negotiations with the Nuggets are going well (28:30). Then they dive into more Ben Simmons rumors from Sam Amick of The Athletic, who reported that the Kings were not willing to give up De’Aaron Fox or Tyrese Haliburton in a trade for Simmons (46:40).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Listener Mailbag Part 2! Plus: Will Ben Simmons Be Playing in a 76ers Uniform in October? Sep 03, 2021

Before opening up the mailbag, Verno and KOC talk about the recent reports that Ben Simmons has informed the 76ers that he will not show up to training camp in September (0:30), as well as the news that LaMarcus Aldridge has been cleared to play in the NBA again and that Paul Millsap has signed with the Nets (17:12). Then they get into some listener questions, such as what the Kings should do with Buddy Hield (21:20), what the Rockets should do with John Wall (29:25), whether the Cavaliers’ small backcourt can work (39:45), and much more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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An NBA Offseason Game of "Do You Believe…?" Aug 31, 2021

It’s a tradition like no other. Verno and KOC play an NBA offseason edition of "Do You Believe…?" They definitely believe in life after love, but do they believe that there is a trade out there for Kevin Love (0:30)? They hit on that and the likelihood of Ben Simmons wearing a 76ers uniform on opening night (15:30), whether ‘Donda’ is any good (21:00), and whether the Heat are a top-four team in the East now (29:05). Then they talk about whether the Clippers are going to be good without Kawhi Leonard (31:35), Kevin’s level of excitement about Patriots rookie Mac Jones (41:00), Luka’s chances at winning MVP this season (51:00), and more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Mismatch Mailbag! Plus: Lauri Markkanen Is Headed to the Cavaliers and Emoni Bates Commits to Memphis Aug 27, 2021

Up top, Verno and KOC chat about the stacked team the University of Memphis has put together for this upcoming season with Emoni Bates (0:30) and then react to the breaking news that Lauri Markkanen has finally been dealt in a three-team trade to the Cavaliers, sending Larry Nance Jr. to the Blazers and Derrick Jones Jr. plus draft assets to the Bulls (9:10). Then we get into listener questions, starting with a couple on the Hornets and LaMelo Ball’s ascension (13:50), the Mavericks and Kristaps Porzingis’s decline (22:05), and quite a lot more!

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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The Celtics Extend Josh Richardson and the Timberwolves Continue to Explore a Ben Simmons Trade. Plus: The Overtime Elite League Signals New Opportunities for High School Prospects. Aug 24, 2021

Verno and KOC first talk about some of the particulars of the NBA schedule that was released on Friday, including how the national games are spread around (0:30). Then they talk about the Josh Richardson extension in Boston and how the Celtics are collecting strong assets for a potential trade for Bradley Beal (10:55). After that they discuss the new Overtime Elite league, which is backed by the likes of Drake, Kevin Durant, and Jeff Bezos, and how targeting high school prospects with big-money contracts threatens college basketball (19:12). Finally, they get into reporting from Jon Krawczynski that the Timberwolves are still pursuing a trade for Ben Simmons that could include a third team (40:18), the Celtics retiring Kevin Garnett’s number (46:40), and Klay Thompson’s potential return to the court around Christmas (56:05).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Davion Mitchell Cements His Defensive Reputation in the Summer League Championship Game. Plus: How Can Patrick Beverley Help the Timberwolves? Aug 20, 2021

Verno and KOC start off the show by wrapping up their thoughts from summer league after Davion Mitchell shut the Celtics down with his lockdown defense and cemented his reputation as a fierce defender (0:45). Then they get into some of the news from around the league like Terry Rozier’s extension with the Hornets (23:00), Patrick Beverley’s potential impact on the heretofore struggling Timberwolves team (25:35), and what they expect to see from the NBA 2021-2022 schedule that’s dropping later today (41:35).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Davion Mitchell, Payton Pritchard, and the Knicks Picks Shine at Summer League. Plus: Joel Embiid and Marcus Smart Sign Extensions and Memphis Sends Patrick Beverley to Minnesota. Aug 17, 2021

Verno and KOC start with all the news and movement around the league. First they dig into Joel Embiid’s supermax extension with the Philadelphia 76ers (0:30) and Marcus Smart’s four-year extension with the Celtics (11:30). Then they get into the Grizzlies-Timberwolves trade, which sent Patrick Beverley to Minnesota and Jarrett Culver and Juancho Hernangomez to Memphis (21:23). Finally, Summer League is coming to a close, so Verno and KOC touch on the upcoming championship game between the Celtics and Kings (34:25), discuss the team they think should be the happiest coming out of Vegas, the Knicks (38:54), and examine Luka Garza’s two-way deal with the Pistons (47:18).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Cam Thomas Looks Like an NBA Scoring Threat and More Summer League Observations. Plus: Mirin Fader on Her New Giannis Antetokounmpo Biography. Aug 13, 2021

Kevin O’Connor has landed in Las Vegas for summer league, so he and Chris dive into all of their observations, starting with how last year’s rookie class is faring and whether we underrated them because of the challenges created by COVID-19 (1:00). Then they talk about Cam Thomas’s incredible scoring bonanza and his fit on the Nets (13:20), the contributions of a few undrafted players, like Isaiah Miller and Omer Yurtseven (21:18), Kevin finally seeing Alperen Sengun play in person (28:45), and which players people in Las Vegas are buzzing about (33:00). Finally, The Ringer’s Mirin Fader joins to talk about her new book, 'Giannis: The Improbable Rise of an NBA MVP' (37:05).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guest: Mirin Fader

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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First Impressions of This Year’s Rookie Class in Summer League Aug 10, 2021

Verno and KOC do a big summer league catchup after the first few days of play, starting with this year’s rookie class and why rookies are more able than ever to contribute to a winning team in the NBA (1:00). They take a closer look at standout Kings rookie Davion Mitchell (34:00), Cade Cunningham’s leadership (43:00), and Alperen Sengun’s play for the Rockets (0:00). Then they talk about the sophomore players in summer league, including Desmond Bane, Obi Toppin, and Tyrese Maxey, as well as the veteran players who have popped up (44:40). Finally, a drop of news about where Dennis Schröder may end up has broken: the Celtics have offered a one-year, $5.6 million deal (1:00:45).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Andre Iguodala Returns to the Warriors and More Transactions Around the League Aug 06, 2021

Verno and KOC are back and full of anticipation for the Olympic gold-medal game between France and Team USA Friday night (0:30). They are also full of joy at Andre Iguodala’s return to the Warriors for what he says could be his final years in the NBA, but they’re concerned that the Warriors haven’t done enough to maximize the end of Steph Curry’s prime (7:50). Then they are full of tidbits as they move through several of the other rumors and transactions from around the league (24:57), including where Lauri Markkanen could end up (27:40), Kemba Walker to the Knicks (28:36), the Wizards’ new and improved roster (34:12), Mike D’Antoni becoming a consultant in New Orleans (38:40), and much more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Free Agency Shuffles, Surprise Contracts, and NBA Draft Reactions Aug 03, 2021

KOC and Verno rejoin after the draft and the first night of free agency to discuss the big trades and deals that went down. They start in Miami, where Jimmy Butler and Kyle Lowry got excellent deals (01:19), then move on to Chicago, which L.A. favorite Alex Caruso and Lonzo Ball will now call home (06:29). They also talk about their favorite surprise contracts out of the first night (19:50) as well as their reactions to the NBA draft (31:18).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Steve Ahlman

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Memphis Trades Up to the Top 10, and Top Prospect Info Jul 28, 2021

As the NBA draft nears, Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor talk about all of the big moves the top teams are looking to make, including Memphis making a big trade to move to the top 10 in picks (01:46). Also Chris talks about some inside info he's gathered on some of the top players to watch for and what some teams and execs think about them (30:58).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Steve Ahlman

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Draft-Night Trade Conversations Reach a Crescendo and the Restricted Free Agency Market Is Hot Jul 23, 2021

First, Verno and KOC dive into all the action surrounding the upcoming draft, with Cleveland fielding trade offers for their pick and Collin Sexton, the Raptors trying to move up from the fourth pick, and so much more (0:30). Then they talk about whether we could see an undue amount of action on the restricted free agent market this offseason (42:35) and the precarious situation in New Orleans with their new head coach Willie Green (50:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Giannis Drops 50 Points and the Bucks are NBA Champions Jul 21, 2021

Verno and KOC start by breaking down Giannis' historic Game 6 (0:51) and everything else that helped push the Bucks past the Suns in the Finals (9:40). They also discuss what went wrong for the Suns (40:00) and which teams are built to slow down Giannis (46:30). Finally, they prepare for the offseason by talking a little bit of Damian Lillard (57:30), Ben Simmons (1:01:50), and the NBA Draft (1:07:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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The Bucks' Adjustments, Kawhi Leonard Speculation, and Late First-Round Sleepers Jul 16, 2021

KOC and Verno start by discussing the adjustments the Bucks have made to tie the series (1:25). Then they discuss why they think Giannis doesn't appear to get the same hype from his peers that other players get (23:30). Then they talk about Kawhi Leonard's future with Clippers after his knee injury and rumored unhappy experience with the Clippers medical staff (42:18). They wrap up by talking about a couple of potential late first-round prospects in Ayo Dosunmu and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl (49:10).

Check out The Ringer's NBA Draft Guide.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Production Assistant: Isaiah Blakely

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The Clippers’ Future Is Uncertain After Kawhi Leonard Undergoes Surgery to Repair a Partial ACL Tear. Plus: Team USA Struggles and the 76ers Make Ben Simmons Available. Jul 14, 2021

Chris and Kevin kick off the episode talking about Kawhi Leonard’s recently reported ACL repair surgery and what that means for him and for the Clippers’ next season (0:40). They talk a little bit about what they’ve taken away from the first three games of the NBA Finals and what they expect from Game 4 (20:28). Then they hit on Team USA’s losses in the exhibition games prior to the Olympics (37:23), the 76ers opening up trade talks for Ben Simmons (49:02), and some of Kevin’s draft thoughts from the past couple of weeks (55:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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The Suns Take Game 2 of the NBA Finals Jul 09, 2021

Chris and Kevin get together right after Game 2 of the NBA Finals to talk about the Suns going up 2-0 over the Bucks (0:40). Then they talk about Adam Silver saying that the play-in tournament will stick around next year (40:58), his comments on player injuries this season (45:20), the front-runner for the Orlando Magic head coaching job, Jamahl Mosley (51:54), and Chris’s new favorite player in the draft, Moses Moody (55:22).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Giannis Plays but the Suns Take Game 1 of the Finals. Plus: Looking Forward to the Rest of the Series Jul 07, 2021

Immediately following Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Verno and KOC discuss Chris Paul taking over and pushing the Suns to a Game 1 win over the Bucks (2:18), how well Giannis played despite his injury (14:10), and how will the Bucks adjust for the rest of the series (24:15)?

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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The Bucks Win Game 5 Without Giannis. Plus: Chris Paul and the Suns are Headed to the Finals Jul 02, 2021

Late Thursday night, Verno and KOC talk about the Bucks winning Game 5 without Giannis (1:30), the Suns making it to the NBA Finals and what it means for Chris Paul (19:56), and the state of the Clippers (49:30). Plus, what's next for Kawhi Leonard and Paul George (54:42)?

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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Hawks Take Game 4 and Giannis Gets Hurt. Plus: Chauncey Billups Controversy and Combine Talk Jun 30, 2021

Verno and KOC react to the Hawks' Game 4 win and Giannis' injury (0:43), the Clippers impressive Game 5 win over the Suns (13:45), and the controversy surrounding Portland's hiring of Chauncey Billups (40:30). Then they discuss some of the standouts from the NBA Draft Combine (1:00:35).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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Clippers Cut the Series Deficit in Half with Game 3 Win. Plus: Trae Young Scores 48 in Game 1 and New NBA Coaching Hires. Jun 25, 2021

Late Thursday night, Verno and KOC get into the Clippers Game 3 win over the Suns and how big of a role injuries played (1:04), then give Trae Young the credit he deserves for his Game 1 performance (25:53), and finally they discuss the new coaching hires in the NBA (51:59).

Hosts Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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The Suns Win a Crazy Game 2 Over the Clippers. Plus: Eastern Conference Finals Preview and Draft Lottery Recap Jun 23, 2021

Immediately following the Suns Game 2 win over the Clippers, Verno and KOC discuss the crazy final 2 minutes, plus Deandre Ayton and Cam Payne's big night (1:10). Then they talk about what's next for Ben Simmons and the Sixers (23:06) before previewing the Eastern Conference Finals (37:55). Finally, they recap the results of the Draft Lottery and discuss possible draft scenarios (48:13).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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The Bucks Force a Game 7. Plus: The Sixers Blow a 26-Point Lead and Major Coaching Changes Jun 18, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss Game 6 of the Bucks and Nets series and look forward to Game 7 (1:07), the Sixers blowing a 26 point lead to the Hawks (11:12) and Paul George stepping up for the Clippers (37:32). Then they get into the latest NBA news with Chris Paul potentially missing games (53:07), Rick Carlisle’s resignation (54:57), the Pelicans firing Stan Van Gundy (1:07:27) and the Wizards parting ways with Scott Brooks (1:16:47).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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Kevin Durant's Dominant 49-Point Game Gives the Nets a 3-2 Series Lead. Plus: Chris Paul's Playoff Run with the Suns and Young Players Adjusting in the Playoffs Jun 16, 2021

Verno and KOC get together late Tuesday night to discuss the Nets win over the Bucks in which Kevin Durant played all 48 minutes and scored 49 points (1:08). Then they get into the adjustments Trae Young needs to make moving forward in the Hawks and Sixers series (26:35), the success of Chris Paul and the Suns (39:40), and the Jazz and Clippers' tied series (56:45).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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The Clippers Fall to 0-2 Against the Jazz and the Bucks Beat the Nets. Plus: How Many Games can the Nuggets Win Against the Suns? Jun 11, 2021

Late Thursday night, Verno & KOC talk about the Jazz taking care of business at home to go up 2-0 against the Clippers (0:42) and the Bucks winning a strange game against the Nets (21:27) Also, can the Hawks figure out a way to stop Joel Embiid (32:58) and how many games can the Nuggets take off of the Suns (49:45)?

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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Donovan Mitchell Balls Out and 76ers Even Series. Plus, Notes on Nets, Suns, and Award Winners. Jun 09, 2021

Immediately following the Jazz’s Game 1 victory over the Clippers, Verno and KOC discuss Donovan Mitchell’s 45-point performance and whether the Jazz can win the series without Mike Conley (1:49). The guys then recap Joel Embiid and the Sixers' bounce-back win vs. the Hawks (20:07) before discussing how the Bucks can put up a better fight vs. KD and the Nets (37:35). Plus, are the Suns simply too deep for the Nuggets (1:00:59) and did the voters get the MVP and COTY awards right (1:11:53)?

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Associate Producer: Carlos Chiriboga

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The Suns and Nuggets Take Care of Business in Round 1 of the Playoffs. Plus: Looking Forward to Round 2 Matchups. Jun 04, 2021

Late Thursday night, Verno and KOC talk about the Suns beating the hobbled Lakers in the first round of the playoffs (0:30) and the Nuggets powering through Damian Lillard’s incredible performances to win their first-round series (22:47). Then they look forward to the second-round matchups of Nuggets-Suns (34:45), Jazz versus either the Mavericks or Clippers (41:25), Hawks-76ers (49:17), and Bucks-Nets (57:14).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Damian Lillard Puts Up Historic 55-Point Performance in Game 5 Loss to the Nuggets. Plus: The Lakers' Collapse and Looking Forward to Nets-Bucks. Jun 02, 2021

Verno and KOC first get into Damian Lillard’s unbelievable 55-point, 10-assist performance in a double-overtime loss to the Nuggets in a thrilling Game 5 (0:30). Then they talk about every Laker who isn’t LeBron’s utter collapse against the Suns to drop Game 5 of their series (19:32), and the very intriguing upcoming Nets-Bucks second-round series now that the Nets have ousted the Celtics (40:29). Finally, they look forward to Wednesday night’s games in light of Embiid’s injury, Trae Young’s dominance, Ja Morant’s incredible performances against the Jazz, and the Clippers’ comeback (52:26).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Bucks Beat Down the Heat in Third Straight Win. Plus: Lakers and Nuggets Win Their Game 3s, and the Clippers Are Wretched May 28, 2021

Verno and KOC get together after Thursday night’s slate of playoff games to discuss the Bucks’ beatdown of the Heat to go up 3-0 (0:30), the Lakers’ defeat of the overheated Suns to go up 2-1 (19:15), and the Nuggets’ victory over the Trail Blazers to go up 2-1 (37:36). Then they get into the Clippers’ wretched performance this postseason (45:30), Ja Morant's incredible 47-point game Wednesday night (1:03:35), and the Knicks-Hawks series (1:16:05).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Trae Young Is Becoming the NBA’s Next Great Villain. Plus: The Bucks Destroy the Heat in Game 2 and the Clippers and Lakers Disappoint. May 25, 2021

First things first, Chris shares a couple of voicemails he received from some very special people before he and KOC get into all the matchups in Round 1 of the NBA playoffs (0:24). They start out with the Grizzlies’ unexpected win over the Jazz in Utah and the subsequent public rift between Donovan Mitchell and the Jazz (5:42). Then they move on to Monday night’s matchups, with the Bucks picking apart the Heat in Game 2 to go up 2-0 (14:36) and the Nuggets blowing out the Blazers to tie up the series (21:20). And finally, they talk about the Lakers losing their first game on the road to the Suns (35:34), the Clippers dropping their first game at home to the Mavericks (47:20), the Wizards putting up at least one decent half of basketball against the 76ers (57:51), and the pure fun of Trae Young’s newfound villainy in the Knicks-Hawks series (59:34).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Previewing the First-Round NBA Playoff Matchups. Plus: Do the Grizzlies Have a Chance at Beating the Warriors? May 21, 2021

Verno and KOC are back this Friday to talk about the Pacers' embarrassing loss to the Wizards in the second round of the Eastern Conference play-in (0:24) and the matchup between the Wizards and 76ers in the first round of the playoffs (10:30). After that, they preview the very last play-in game, Grizzlies-Warriors, and discuss which team could challenge the Utah Jazz the most (16:34). Finally, they take a look at all the determined first-round matchups, starting with Celtics-Nets (28:57), Heat-Bucks (33:15), Hawks-Knicks (42:30), Utah Jazz versus the Grizzlies or Warriors (48:52), Lakers-Suns (1:02:15), Blazers-Nuggets (1:10:25), and Mavericks-Clippers (1:15:50).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Previewing the First Round of the Play-in Tournament, Plus KOC's All-NBA Picks May 18, 2021

Verno and KOC are back this Tuesday morning previewing all the play-in matchups coming at you over the next couple of days (0:30). First up, in the first round of the Eastern Conference play-in, they talk about the Hornets-Pacers game (3:39), which will decide who plays the loser of the Wizards-Celtics game (10:00). Then they get into the first round of the Western Conference play-in with the ultimate experience-versus-inexperience matchup, Spurs-Grizzlies (24:45), which will decide who plays the loser of the most anticipated game in a long time, Warriors-Lakers (32:13). And, of course, they give their thoughts on LeBron and Steph’s legacies (47:20), and KOC shares his All-NBA rosters (1:03:08).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Playoff Seeding Remains Uncertain With Three Days Left in the Regular Season. Plus: Udonis Haslem Plays Basketball, and Looking Forward to the Hall of Fame Ceremony. May 14, 2021

Verno and KOC are back talking about all the crazy matchups and movements in playoff seeding and the uncertainty going into the last three days of regular-season basketball, including the implications on the Western Conference play-in of the Suns' win over the Trail Blazers on Thursday night (0:31), and the tough first-round matchups that could cause upsets in the Western Conference, with the Warriors, Lakers, and Trail Blazers at the bottom of playoff contention (18:45). Then they get into the Eastern side of things with Boston clinching the seventh seed for a home game in the play-in tournament (26:56), and how Miami could upset the balance in the East as it peaks at just the right moment (33:29). Finally, they talk about Steve Kerr voicing support for the play-in tournament (44:25), the mess that is the Sacramento Kings (48:18), Matisse Thybulle playing himself into being the third-most-important player on the 76ers (56:48), and their memories of those who will be inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame this weekend (1:01:42).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Intriguing Lower Seeds, Jaylen Brown’s Injury, Russ Breaks the Record, and Discussing KOC’s NBA Awards Ballot May 11, 2021

KOC and Verno start by discussing which lower-seeded teams from each conference could pull an upset in the playoffs (2:35). Then they talk about Jaylen Brown’s season-ending wrist injury and recap the issues the Celtics have had all season (19:38). After that, they discuss Russell Westbrook breaking Oscar Robertson’s record for most triple-doubles in a career (28:11). Later on, they also discuss KOC’s NBA awards ballot (45:42). Lastly, they talk about whether the G League helped or hurt NBA lottery prospect Jalen Green’s draft stock (1:12:14).

Check out KOC's full NBA awards ballot.

Hosts: Kevin O’Connor and Chris Vernon

Production Assistant: Isaiah Blakely

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Play-in Matchups, Plus the Impact of the Mavericks Missing Porzingis, Nets Missing Harden, and Lakers Missing Davis May 07, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss the teams that are missing a vital player— the Mavericks and Kristaps Porzingis, the Nets and James Harden, and the Lakers and Anthony Davis (2:52)—then touch on their potential strategies heading into the playoffs. Later, they preview the play-in standings and discuss the East's top competitors, the 76ers and Bucks (16:45), before weighing in on the teams that are up for a challenging schedule during the tournament (27:07). Plus, updates on coaches in the hot seat and the argument for Nikola Jokic as MVP (49:05).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

Associate Producer: Erika Cervantes

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The Play-in Tournament Is Increasing Competition Down the Stretch. Plus: Redemption for Marc Gasol, Russell Westbrook, and Carmelo Anthony. May 04, 2021

This Tuesday, Verno and KOC discuss how, whatever players in danger of falling into it may say, the looming threat of the play-in tournament has indeed worked to increase competition between cusp teams and top teams for seeding down the stretch (0:32). Then they get into everyone’s favorite feel-good story of the season, the New York Knicks, who beat down the Grizzlies on Monday with monster performances from who else but recently dubbed top 25 player in the NBA Julius Randle, plus Derrick Rose (7:48). The stories of this week are truly those of redemption as Marc Gasol proves his worth for the Lakers against the Nuggets (19:22), Russell Westbrook secures a triple-double average on the season (38:03), and Carmelo Anthony breaks into the list of top 10 scorers of all time (48:27).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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The Ascent of Kevin Porter Jr. and Michael Porter Jr. Plus: The Phoenix Suns End Their Playoff Drought and the Trail Blazers Have a Heart-to-Heart. Apr 30, 2021

Verno and KOC are back this Friday covering the ascent of Kevin Porter Jr., who became the fourth youngest in history to score 50 points in an NBA game on Thursday night (6:51), and Michael Porter Jr., who has proved himself in the absence of Jamal Murray (16:27). Then they touch briefly on Giannis exiting the Bucks-Rockets game after rolling his ankle (27:20) and the Warriors' baffling loss to the Timberwolves (30:04), before getting into the incredible success of the Phoenix Suns clinching a playoff spot after an 11-year drought and how the first round of the playoffs could shake out in the West (35:50). Finally, they touch on the Trail Blazers’ supposed heart-to-heart that was meant to propel them into the postseason (45:55) and the relationship between Jimmy Butler and Erik Spoelstra (50:07).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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The Suns Could Nab the 1-seed in the West From the Jazz. Plus: The Timberwolves’ Future Remains Murky and the Trail Blazers’ Defense Is Historically Bad. Apr 27, 2021

Verno and KOC get into the odd phenomenon of the Minnesota Timberwolves sweeping the Utah Jazz this season and where the Timberwolves can go with their roster (0:30). Then they talk about Kevin Love phoning it in for $31 million (15:27), the Phoenix Suns snapping the Knicks’ winning streak (23:13), and Western Conference playoff seeding (29:33). Finally, they talk about the Trail Blazers’ disappointing season, historically bad defense, and what, if anything, the team can do in the future to remake its roster (36:10).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Are the 76ers a Genuine Finals Threat? Plus: The Celtics, Knicks, and Wizards Surge and Anthony Davis Returns. Apr 23, 2021

Verno and KOC are back this Friday, talking about Anthony Davis returning to the basketball court against the Dallas Mavericks (0:25) and what the most important factors are to the Mavericks’ success in this final stretch of the season (2:30). Then they get into the 76ers losing to the Bucks Thursday night after a relatively quiet game from Joel Embiid with Ben Simmons out and how important getting that no. 1 seed in the East will be for postseason success with three juggernaut teams at the top (13:48). Finally, they talk about the three unexpected teams in the Eastern Conference that are currently surging: the Celtics (26:06), the Knicks (29:54), and the Wizards (43:10).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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We Are Standing Witness to Steph Curry’s Historic Greatness. Plus: The Clippers Are a Major Threat in the West and Stan Van Gundy Has Lost His Pelicans Team. Apr 20, 2021

Verno and KOC first get into the Steph Curry run that just keeps going (0:27) and Nikola Jokic doing things that no center has done before (19:47). Then they talk about whether the Suns are a major threat to be in the NBA Finals (27:00), who could beat the Clippers and their newfound chemistry in the West (36:35), and whether the Pelicans made a mistake in hiring head coach Stan Van Gundy (46:11). Finally, some good news: LaMelo Ball is set to return to the Hornets lineup this season after what looked like a season-ending wrist injury (59:05). Reminder: Don’t ever mention Campazzo’s name to Chris!

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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The Bulls’ and Kings’ Win-Now Moves Ultimately Amount to Losses. Plus: Jrue Holiday Is the Bucks’ Defensive Key, the Celtics Are Back on Form, and LaMarcus Aldridge Retires. Apr 16, 2021

Verno and KOC start off this Friday talking about the Bucks continuing their run in the second half of the season and how Jrue Holiday could be the piece that allows them to compete with the two other top teams in the East (0:30). Then they discuss a league report that says the injury rate is actually down 6 percent this season, contrary to popular belief, but doesn’t address how who is getting injured has affected the quality of the product (8:17). After that they get into news from around league over the past couple of days, including Steph Curry going on an unbelievable eight-game tear (19:34), the Celtics continuing their hot streak by whooping the Lakers (22:30), and Deandre Ayton’s big game against the Kings (31:15). Then they lament the failed win-now moves made by the Chicago Bulls and Sacramento Kings that have ultimately amounted to a bunch of losses and, potentially, uncertainty in their star players' minds that those organizations will ever be stable enough to win (37:33). Finally, they touch on Luka Doncic’s magical game-winning shot against the Grizzlies (53:00) and LaMarcus Aldridge’s retirement (58:20).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Jamal Murray Tears His ACL. Plus: The Bulls Aren’t Fitting Together, the Knicks Are at a Crossroads, and the Celtics Might Be Able to Make a Run. Apr 13, 2021

This Tuesday it’s KOC’s flu pod as he and Verno get into the sad news that Jamal Murray tore his ACL on Monday night during a game against the Warriors (3:10), in which Steph Curry racked up an astounding 53 points (9:38). And they talk about what James Wiseman’s injury means for the Warriors’ season and why young big men can’t stay on the floor (13:53). Then they talk about Mark Cuban’s complaints about the play-in tournament after the Mavericks lost to the 76ers and how the Western Conference seeding could shake out with the Nuggets depleted (23:07). Finally they touch on what pieces the Bulls need to succeed (36:29), whether it’d be better for the Knicks to go as far as they possibly can this season or tank for a draft pick (42:54), and whether the Celtics can make a run down the stretch (52:34).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Nikola Jokic Should Be the MVP. Plus: Wacky Western Conference Seeding and the Buyout Period Ends. Apr 09, 2021

Verno and KOC start this Friday off talking about who’s left in the MVP pool and why Jokic’s case is the strongest (0:30). Then they get into Thursday’s contentious Clippers-Suns game and the swirling uncertainty over how seeding could shake out in the Western Conference (10:32), Victor Oladipo’s knee injury (24:39), and the impending overhaul of the Kings (27:17). Finally, as the buyout period ends, they mention any names that could still get bought out, look back at the transactions that were made (35:34), and examine the current Eastern Conference standings (44:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Which Teams Are Surging and Which Are Faltering Heading Into the NBA Season’s Final Stretch? Apr 06, 2021

As the stretch run approaches, Verno and KOC talk about the teams that are surging toward the postseason and those that are falling behind. The Utah Jazz haven’t let up with their 3-heavy playing style (0:24) and the Brooklyn Nets have plenty of options for different matchups in the postseason (17:32). Then they talk about how Aaron Gordon looks like the glue between Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic (28:00), Ben Simmons falling short in recent weeks (39:27), this year’s Warriors hurtling toward basketball hell (51:21), and more!

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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Who’s to Blame for the Celtics’ Underwhelming Season? Plus: LaMarcus Aldridge Starts for the Nets and the Clippers Overhaul Their Culture Apr 02, 2021

Verno and KOC get into all the league business this Friday, starting with LaMarcus Aldridge heading straight to the starting five for the Brooklyn Nets (0:30) and Miami’s continued high level of play (11:28). Then they get into Aaron Gordon’s fantastic debut games for the Nuggets (33:35) and their win over a full-strength Clippers team that has made some serious culture changes over the past year (38:26). Finally, they talk about what has gone so desperately wrong with the Boston Celtics (49:08), what Patrick Williams could do for the Bulls’ future (1:06:03), and the NCAA Final Four (1:12:20).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall

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The Nets and Lakers Fortify Their Rosters on the Buyout Market. Plus: Zion Williamson's Monster Performance Against the Mavericks. Mar 30, 2021

Verno and KOC start off by talking about the biggest signings from the buyout market, with LaMarcus Aldridge going to the Nets and Andre Drummond going to the Lakers (0:30). Then they get into Zion Williamson’s monster game against the Mavericks (26:52), Tyrese Haliburton making a run at Rookie of the Year with LaMelo hurt (38:57), the top three contenders in the East (46:23), and the latest on the men’s NCAA tournament (58:26).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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The Mismatch’s Trade Deadline Postmortem Mar 26, 2021

This Friday, Verno and KOC get into the most active trade deadline in NBA history, starting with the unexpected trade of Nikola Vucevic from the Magic to the Bulls (3:00). Then they get into the addition of Aaron Gordon to the Nuggets (18:00), the Lakers, Heat, and 76ers passing on Kyle Lowry (27:55), Miami’s strategically significant trade for Victor Oladipo (35:25), Portland’s sneaky addition of Norman Powell (46:45), the somewhat baffling Rajon Rondo for Lou Williams trade (57:50), and more!

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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The Mismatch's Trade Deadline Preview. Plus: The Bucks Are Back and Steve Kerr’s Comments on 'Real Ones.' Mar 23, 2021

Verno and KOC are back with all the potential trades you need to know about before the trade deadline this Thursday. First up: The Lakers have made Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Montrezl Harrell available in trade conversations and are still interested in Andre Drummond (4:00). The Bucks look like they’re back to their elite level after their invigorating trade for PJ Tucker (9:24). Next, they talk about where Aaron Gordon could end up at the deadline (14:07) and whether Kyle Lowry will get traded to the 76ers, the Heat, or at all (31:10). Then they talk about whether the Pelicans should trade Lonzo Ball when he’s the only player trying on the defensive end of the floor (42:00). Finally, they talk about the controversy and drama surrounding Steve Kerr’s recent comments on 'Real Ones' on 'The Ringer NBA Show' with Logan Murdock and Raja Bell (50:14).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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The Hawks’ and Timberwolves’ Midseason Coaching Changes Have Paid Off. Plus: The Trade Deadline Approaches and KOC’s 2021 Draft Guide Drops. Mar 19, 2021

Verno and KOC dive into the recent success of the Hawks and Timberwolves, who both replaced their head coaches midseason, and how a coach can unlock players’ talents and effort (6:52). Then they wonder whether the Pelicans will ever figure it out with Steven Adams and Eric Bledsoe, who simply aren’t setting the example needed from veterans (24:23), and whether Sacramento will let go of any of its players at the trade deadline (45:56). And at last they take a look at the first iteration of KOC’s 2021 NBA Draft Guide as the first round of March Madness commences (51:54).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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The Charlotte Hornets Are Taking the League by Swarm. Plus: Chris Paul’s Gas Tank Is Still Full and the Hawks Look Rejuvenated. Mar 16, 2021

Verno and KOC go all the way around the league this Tuesday starting in sunny Miami where Jimmy Butler could be playing himself into the MVP conversation (0:30), and moving on to the team that’s taking the league by swarm, the Charlotte Hornets (6:00), and Atlanta’s comeback in the thus-far-successful Nate McMillan era (10:50). Then they quick-hit the Knicks (19:34), Lakers (32:00), and Blazers (39:42) before diving deep into the success of the Chris Paul–led Phoenix Suns (43:37).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Would You Rather Have LaMelo Ball or Ja Morant? Plus: Full Slate of NBA Games and LaMarcus Aldridge and PJ Tucker Are on the Market. Mar 12, 2021

Verno and KOC first get into a little beef this Friday because Kevin said he would take LaMelo Ball over Ja Morant on 'Ringer NBA University' (0:45). Then they get into all the games that have happened since the second half of the season commenced, including the 76ers’ bench win over the Bulls (21:07), the Pelicans' icky loss to the Timberwolves (24:06), Aleksej Pokusevski’s first NBA start for the Thunder against the Mavericks (36:05), Tony Snell’s death knell to beat the Raptors (47:34), Kyrie’s incredible game against the Celtics (49:32), and the Bucks looking better than ever against the Knicks (54:05). Finally, they discuss whether they’d rather have newly available LaMarcus Aldridge or PJ Tucker on a winning team (57:05) and Caris LeVert’s return to the court after a surgery to remove a mass on his kidney (67:10).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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What Can Blake Griffin Add to the Brooklyn Nets? Plus: KOC’s Midseason Power Rankings Mar 09, 2021

Verno and KOC discuss their reactions to the All-Star Game (0:25) and what, if anything, Blake Griffin has left in the tank to pursue a championship with the Brooklyn Nets (9:20). Then they dive deep into several aspects of KOC’s NBA midseason power rankings (20:20), including whether Jamal Murray is on a hot streak or making the leap (22:35), Bam Adebayo having the best season of his career (26:45), Kyle Lowry’s future with the Raptors (30:25), what team Victor Oladipo could end up on (35:00), interest from multiple teams in the G League’s Alize Johnson (45:05), and much more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Can Jrue Holiday Help the Bucks Break Their Postseason Slump? Plus: Surprises and Disappointments at the Halfway Mark, and Mailbag! Mar 05, 2021

Verno and KOC start off the podcast with the shady-as-all-hell All-Star draft in which the two Jazz stars were chosen last (0:30) before getting into what Jrue Holiday adds to the Bucks' postseason potential (10:00) and wondering what's up with all these young players getting ejected for complaining about the refereeing (23:30). Then they talk about the best surprises and worst disappointments of the first half of the season (28:50) and where Blake Griffin might be headed after getting bought out by the Pistons (46:25). Finally, they open up the mailbag and answer some listener questions (48:40).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

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Hawks Fire Lloyd Pierce, Zion Williamson Is a Force of Nature, and the Nets Still Have Higher Levels to Reach Mar 02, 2021

Verno and KOC get into all the factors that led to the Atlanta Hawks firing head coach Lloyd Pierce midseason and what this Hawks team’s ceiling can be moving forward (0:30). After the Pelicans' exhilarating win over the Jazz, they look into the roster and leadership decisions that still need to be made in order to maximize the Pelicans’ potential (14:00). Then they discuss Brooklyn slicing and dicing its way through the league over the past couple of weeks and the even higher levels of play the Nets can reach once Kevin Durant returns (28:30), what Julius Randle and RJ Barrett are doing for the Knicks (39:00), Malik Monk and LaMelo Ball’s production on the Hornets (51:00), and the steep decline of the Sacramento Kings (58:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Ben Simmons Devastates Luka Doncic and the Pelicans Are Confusing As Ever. Plus: Coach Malone Put His Foot in His Mouth, and Mailbag! Feb 26, 2021

Verno and KOC are back this Friday covering the Bucks' win over the Pelicans and what makes the Pelicans the most confusing team in the NBA (4:30), Michael Malone’s ill-advised comments after the Nuggets lost a tough one to the Wizards (18:00), Ben Simmons's devastating defense stifling Luka Doncic (27:00), and G League player Jonathan Kuminga making a name for himself on the Ignite team (34:40). Then they delve into the mailbag to answer questions about basketball, life, video games, and more (40:45).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Do the Wizards Have a Chance at the Playoffs? Plus: the Timberwolves’ Future, All-Star Reserves, and More Feb 23, 2021

Verno and KOC are back this Tuesday getting into the Wizards’ overtime win over the Lakers and five-game winning streak that raises the question of whether the team’s newfound success will last (0:30). Then they talk about what the Timberwolves can do to salvage this season and their future (17:00), whether Houston should rebuild or try for the playoffs (25:30), their picks for All-Star reserves (37:00), and more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

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Luka Doncic Snags an All-Star Starter Position Over Damian Lillard. Plus: Blazers, Celtics, Jazz, Nets, and Mailbag! Feb 19, 2021

Verno and KOC take a look at the All-Star starters and talk about the inclusion of Luka Doncic over Damian Lillard (1:00), then get into the injury-riddled Blazers and Lillard’s incredible effort (13:00). After that they jump around the league and hit the Celtics and what pieces they might still need (32:00), Utah’s continued dominance through a tough section of its schedule (36:00), and the Nets' win over the Lakers (38:30) before answering a few listener questions (48:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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The Dominant Jazz, the Faltering Hawks, and the Rising Suns Feb 16, 2021

Verno and KOC have so much to talk about this week. They get into the Utah Jazz just dominating the league (1:00), Julius Randle’s 44-point game (16:30), and the Hawks taking a nosedive in recent weeks with De'Andre Hunter out (26:30). Then they talk about the Suns’ success with Devin Booker and Chris Paul (45:00), AD’s injury (50:30), and Draymond Green’s comments about Andre Drummond and Blake Griffin being benched after their teams made them available for trades (56:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Zach Lowe on the Teams He’s Most Surprised by This Season, All-Star Voting, Joel Embiid, and More Feb 12, 2021

ESPN’s Zach Lowe stops by to talk with Verno and KOC about how he got into sports journalism (0:45), the teams he’s most surprised by this season (20:00), the state of his All-Star ballot (31:45), Joel Embiid’s monster season (51:00), and quite a lot more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guest: Zach Lowe

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LaMelo Ball and the Instant Impact of NBA Rookies. Plus: Appreciating Dejounte Murray, Steph Curry, and De’Aaron Fox. Feb 09, 2021

Verno and KOC take a tour around the league, starting with LaMelo Ball's success in Charlotte (3:00) and what factors play into the increasingly early success of young players over the past decade (11:00). Then they jet over to San Antonio, where Dejounte Murray led the Spurs to victory over the Warriors (28:36) and Steph Curry continued to make a fringe case for MVP (31:30). Finally, they hit Utah to discuss an underappreciated Jazz team (34:40), Boston to parse through trade whispers (37:45), and Sacramento to acknowledge De’Aaron Fox’s bona fide star power (51:15).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Six Players Who Deserve More Recognition This Season. Plus: LeBron James's Comments on NBA All-Star Plans. Feb 05, 2021

Verno and KOC are back this Friday talking about Adam Silver’s LeBron James–induced headache over the NBA’s All-Star plans in Atlanta (0:30) and James's MVP-level performance against the Nuggets on Thursday night (18:05). Then KOC officially hits the panic button on the struggling Dallas Mavericks, as Kristaps Porzingis continues to play below expectations (28:16). And finally, KOC and Verno give some love to six players who deserve more shine for their achievements this season (41:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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What’s Holding the Dallas Mavericks Back From Reaching Their Full Potential? Feb 02, 2021

Verno and KOC get into LaMelo Ball’s first start and Malik Monk’s fantastic play in the Hornets’ win over the Heat, as well as how the Heat haven’t been putting the pedal to the metal this season after their Finals run (7:23). Then they talk about what is causing the Mavericks to perform below expectations, including worse shooting than last season and Kristaps Porzingis’s inability to stay on the court and play at a high level (16:26). They take a look at this hungry Rockets team (32:36), the Grizzlies’ winning streak (38:30), the Pelicans’ issues (47:45), and why Bradley Beal likely won’t be traded this season (1:03:37).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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How Christian Wood, Jerami Grant, and Mikal Bridges Are Lifting Up Their Teams Jan 29, 2021

On this Friday, Chris and Kevin get into the new-look, defensively minded Rockets after the James Harden trade brought them Victor Oladipo (8:00), how good Jerami Grant looks on the "giant killer" Pistons (15:25), and what Mikal Bridges brings to the bright-now Suns (21:35). Then Chris shows us his diamond hands in a game of Do Not Sell, where he invites KOC to buy low on some of the players whose stock is going straight to the moon (30:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor

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Jaylen Brown Is Making The Leap Towards Greatness Before Our Eyes Jan 26, 2021

Chris and Kevin start off by reflecting on the legacy of the late great Kobe Bryant a year after his death (3:00). Then they get into the pure fun of the Lakers-Cavaliers game Monday night where LeBron James went for 46 points in a dominant performance (12:15). And in an episode all about the surprises of the season, a not-so-surprising surprise is that LeBron James has not been coasting early, and the Lakers look like the clear favorites (14:30), but the Clippers are not too far behind with Kawhi and Paul George playing out of their minds after faltering in the bubble (18:45). Other surprises of the season include the little amount of separation between teams and how many teams are trying to make a playoff run this season (22:45), Tom Thibodeau’s defensive impact on the Knicks (29:30), Jaylen Brown’s explosion towards greatness (37:00), and the NBA’s plans for a potential All-Star Weekend in Atlanta in February (46:00). And finally, Chris and Kevin give their awards predictions a quarter of the way into the season (51:45).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Why Are the Pelicans Playing So Far Below Their Potential This Season? Jan 22, 2021

Chris and Kevin get into the most interesting games of the week, starting with the Lakers’ lackadaisical win over the not-quite-complete Bucks (0:45). Then they get into Tom Thibodeau’s continually surprising positive effect on the Knicks after a win over the Warriors (18:35), the difference in development between RJ Barrett and Zion Williamson, and the Pelicans’ struggles this season (30:00). Finally, they get into the generally unremarked-upon success of the Utah Jazz and Shaq’s bizarre interaction with Donovan Mitchell after their win over the Pelicans (44:00), and the late-night trade of Kevin Porter Jr. from the Cavaliers to the Rockets for a protected second-round pick (54:00).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Are the Suns Getting the Most Out of Devin Booker? Jan 19, 2021

Chris and Kevin dive into the emerging story lines in the league, starting with how James Harden and KD played together against the Bucks on Monday (1:00), how CJ McCollum’s injury, in conjunction with Nurkic’s injury, will affect Portland’s playoff aspirations (12:15), and Jamal Murray’s disconcerting step down from his bubble play in contrast to Paul George’s step up (16:45). Then they talk about whether the Suns are getting the most out of Devin Booker (29:00), how the Grizzlies are playing with Ja Morant back in the fold (37:00), and the Warriors’ win over the Lakers on Monday (50:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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What Does the James Harden Trade Say About How the NBA Has Changed? Jan 15, 2021

Chris and Kevin discuss the details of the intricate and wide-reaching James Harden trade on Wednesday (0:40). Then they get into a conversation about what the nature of Harden’s trade request says about the changes that have occurred across the NBA and NBA coverage, including player empowerment, the media boom, and shifts in fandom (12:30). They cap it all off with a conversation about the specific on-court and off-court chemistry concerns for the Nets with their new star-studded roster (40:30).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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An NBA Game of "Do You Believe…?" Jan 12, 2021

Since it’s still early in the season, Chris and Kevin play a game of “Do You Believe..?” to discuss emerging trends across the NBA.

Do you believe that the season will go on without having to take a long stoppage or delay for a period of time? (3:10)

Do you believe that the Nets are not going to be able to reach their best? (8:20)

Do you believe that the Raptors can get it together? (17:59)

Do you believe LaMelo Ball will run away with Rookie of the Year? (20:46)

Do you believe Jerami Grant is proving he’s more than a role player? (26:56)

Do you believe that Zion Williamson will ascend to superstardom like we thought? (32:21)

Do you believe that Bradley Beal could be moved? (40:48)

Do you believe that Cade Cunningham from Oklahoma State is the guy and there will be no argument about who will go no. 1 in the draft? (46:08)

Do you believe that 1 percent of NBA fans could name the Oklahoma City Thunder coach? (51:02)

Do you believe that Jimmy Page, Eddie Van Halen, and Jimi Hendrix are the three best guitarists ever? (54:21)

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Biggest Surprises From the NBA Season So Far Jan 08, 2021

Chris and Kevin take a look at how the COVID-19 protocols are working after Seth Curry’s positive test (5:07) and at the massive leak from the Hawks’ locker room reported by The Athletic (13:14). Then they get into the biggest surprises of the NBA season so far, including the Brogdon-and-Sabonis-led Pacers glow-up (31:43), Lou Dort’s stellar 3-point shooting (37:43), Julius Randle’s Knicks (47:14), and more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Can Steph Curry and the Warriors Reach the Postseason? Jan 05, 2021

Chris and Kevin go through all the big games and story lines in the NBA, kicking it off with a discussion about Tom Thibodeau’s 4-3 Knicks and their win over the Hawks on Monday (0:39). Then they get into Steph Curry’s incredible performance over the past couple of games and what the Warriors need to do to reach the postseason (15:30), the Kings’ abysmal start to the season (27:31), and Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum’s tag-team takedown of the Raptors (36:16).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Ten Early Season Observations Dec 29, 2020

Verno and KOC talk about 10 observations they've made in the early part of the season, including impressive showings from rookies Precious Achiuwa (18:18) and Tyrese Haliburton (34:45), hot starts by the Cavs (50:30) and Hawks (7:55), and much more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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The Mismatch’s 2020-21 NBA Season Preview Dec 22, 2020

Verno and KOC go through the slew of extensions and deals that have and haven’t closed over the past week (0:36). Then they get into the 10 teams in each conference they think will make the playoffs and play-in (29:25) as well as their awards predictions (1:04:46).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Nick Wright on James Harden, the Clippers, MVP Picks, and More Dec 18, 2020

After Verno attends his first live basketball game in person since March, the boys get into the Grizzlies-Hawks game (0:47) and the Twitter kerfuffle last night about Ben Simmons potentially being available in a trade for James Harden (6:50). Then Nick Wright of ‘First Things First’ joins Verno and KOC to talk about how he got into the industry (20:19), the Harden situation (42:22), the Clippers' demise (50:43), the best teams in the Western Conference (57:46), and the bets he’s put down for the 2020-21 season (1:22:58).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guest: Nick Wright

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Giannis Contract Reaction and Five NBA Preseason Takeaways Dec 15, 2020

Before the show, KOC gives his instant reactions to Giannis' brand new shiny contract with the Bucks (0:01). Then Verno and KOC get into the new Pelicans offense under Stan Van Gundy (5:52), Talen Horton-Tucker’s breakout preseason with the Lakers (13:32), the challenging conditions for rookies this season (25:34), the fun and fancy-free LaMelo Ball (32:27), the Bucks’ new roster (44:47), and much more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Where in the League is James Harden Headed? Dec 11, 2020

Verno and KOC start with Paul George’s shiny new contract with the Clippers (0:41), what in the world the Rockets can do with Harden (8:33), and Kyrie’s $25,000 fine levied by the NBA (18:40), before they get into the teams playing on the first day of preseason games (41:27).

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Bill Simmons on the Harden Fiasco, Teams He’s High and Low on, Rookie of the Year Picks, and More Dec 08, 2020

Bill Simmons joins Verno and KOC on the brand-new feed to talk about James Harden skipping training camp in favor of the strip club (0:45), the Brooklyn Nets (23:24), teams Bill is higher on and lower on than everyone else (29:18), KOC’s Rookie of the Year pick (40:22), and more.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

Guest: Bill Simmons

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Will Westbrook Help the Wizards? Plus: Lakers Loom Large and PG-13 Talks Trash Dec 04, 2020

Verno and KOC get into the nitty gritty of the Westbrook-Wall trade (3:00), then talk over the latest news around the league, including the LeBron and AD signings (42:30), Paul George’s recent comments about his role on the Clippers, and the NBA season schedule.

Thank you for listening to 'The Mismatch'! If you haven't already, please subscribe to this new feed and we'll have episodes for you every Tuesday and Friday.

Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O’Connor

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Welcome to 'The Mismatch'! Dec 01, 2020

That's right, NBA fans! 'The Mismatch' now has its very own feed, where you can find Verno and KOC getting in fights and making up, as they always do. Welcome to 'The Mismatch.' Follow on Spotify or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

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