NBA on ESPN

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to the Suns being swept out of the playoffs by Minnesota, what this first sweep means to the Timberwolves, a historic day for Jalen Brunson and the Knicks in Philadelphia, New York fans taking over the 76ers' arena, the Mavs falling short of a record comeback and the Pacers taking care of business with Giannis and Dame sidelined.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to a historic performance from Joel Embiid, the shocking news that he has been dealing with Bell’s Palsy, if his flagrant foul should have been upgraded, why the Nuggets domination is not surprising, where the Lakers go from here, the Magic bringing extra energy against the Cavs with new adjustments and what to expect for the rest of Mavs-Clippers.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Cassidy Hubbarth to talk Luka and the Mavs getting a big win with some clutch defense, why the Suns are in serious trouble with Minnesota, how the Pacers bounced back in a big way carried by an insane performance by Pascal Siakam, a chaotic night at MSG for the Knicks and the results of the following pool report.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to preview some of the most exciting matchups for Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs including how much parody there is in this round, if we will get to see another legendary battle between Kawhi & Luka, the impact of health on these series, if the 76ers can take down the Knicks, if the Bucks can stay afloat without Giannis and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to the Kings eliminating the Warriors, if this could be the end of a dynasty, if Klay will be back and where Golden State goes from here. Plus, the guys talk Zion’s unfortunate injury in the middle of a career game against the Lakers, if he will be ready to play against the Kings, if the Lakers can fair better against the Nuggets this year after getting swept last season, how much trouble the Bucks are in without Giannis for any amount of their series and preview the East Play-In games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Ohm Youngmisuk to break down the final day of the regular season in the NBA that set up some wild playoff matchups. The guys talk the Cavs’ upsetting decision, if the Bucks can make a run, can the Heat run it back again, who needs to win early in the play-in, who holds the upper hand in Mavs-Clippers, the surprising final standings in the top of the Western Conference and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps, Tim MacMahon and Kevin Pelton to discuss some of the league's most interesting statistical trends over the course of the season including the Magic building on a hot start, the Pacers record setting offense, historical context surrounding Boston’s greatness this season, the danger Luka’s Mavs can be in the playoffs, how to handle all-defensive team voting and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to the unique Giannis injury, a big Bucks win over Boston, the Suns' embarrassing 1st half dismantling at the hands of the Clippers, the Warriors stepping up against a shorthanded Lakers squad, Ant going for 50 to keep Minnesota’s bid for the 1 seed alive, a big win for the Heat, the Thunder getting healthy, another Kings collapse, extra crazy Wemby stats and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim MacMahon, Dave McMenamin and Kendra Andrews to break down the state of the Lakers & Warriors, including the best possible matchups for both teams to make playoff runs, what dangers they may face in the play-in and what important decisions loom this summer for both teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to the recent struggles of the Bucks, how concerning their losses are, how far the Knicks can go without Julius Randle and the how concerning Kawhi’s injury is for the Clippers. Plus, some interesting thoughts on the solar eclipse. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to Embiid’s return in Philly and what the 76ers are capable of in the playoffs before breaking down the final Bontemps MVP Straw Poll of the season including some surprising vote placement. Plus, the Cojones Factor Player of the Month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Kevin Pelton discuss what they've seen from every Game 1 of the first round and what to look for as each series progresses. Knicks-Sixers (2:11) Celtics-Heat (8:03) Cavs-Magic (12:06) Nuggets-Lakers (16:46) Timberwolves-Suns (27:10) Thunder-Pelicans (36:21) Clippers-Mavericks (50:23) Bucks-Pacers (1:02:57) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to all of the Game 1 action for Round 1 of the NBA Playoffs including the Thunder escaping a nervy finish in OKC, the Clippers’ complete dismantling of the Mavs, Dame Lillard’s 1st half masterclass, the Celtics dominating, the Nuggets shutting down the Lakers late, a coming out party for Ant Edwards and the Cavs looking good with Donovan Mitchell.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach asks injury expert Jeff Stotts about the extent of Giannis Antentokounmpo's injury and his potential recovery timetable. Then The Athletic's Mo Dakhil joins to discuss Knicks-Celtics, playoff seeding, and the MVP race. What will Giannis' recovery look like? (1:27) Dakhil (17:20) Does anything concern you about the Celtics? (21:03) Knicks are a joy to watch (24:26) Jrue Holiday extension (32:01) Bucks make a starting lineup change (36:34) Nuggets move into pole position in the West (45:12) MVP race is not over (51:45) West seeding possibilities (1:01:18) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Bobby Marks weigh in on the pivotal races in the Western Conference. Then ESPN's Tim Bontemps joins to discuss the logjam behind Boston in the East, what's gone wrong in Cleveland, and how their All-Defense and All-NBA ballots are shaping up. The race for 6th in the West (3:21) How the top spot will be determined in the West (20:05) The muddled East from 2 to 8 (33:42) Who's the biggest threat to Boston in the East? (39:55) What's gone wrong in Cleveland? (54:07) All-Defense Teams (1:14:37) All-NBA Teams (1:19:39) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Sacramento Kings' Domantas Sabonis joins The Woj Pod to discuss his emergence into an All-NBA big man, the aura of his legendary father Arvydas, the impact of Nikola Jokic on the league's centers, cleansing himself of social media, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Kevin Pelton discuss the Sixers' chances now that Joel Embiid is back in the fold, how seeds 3 through 5 might shake out in the East, the race for the top seed in the West, how dangerous the Lakers can be, and what to make of the Suns and Clippers. Sixers with Embiid (10:31) Are the Heat going to heat up or what? (24:01) Knicks without Randle (27:14) Cavs and Magic (35:26) Race for top seed in the West (44:35) How dangerous can the Lakers be? (49:56) Wolves without KAT (1:00:10) Suns coming together (1:03:09) Can the Clippers find the magic they had earlier in the year? (1:05:59) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Tim MacMahon discuss Joel Embiid's expected return to the Sixers, the charging Mavericks, and a trio of teams succeeding without an injured star. Plus, TrueHoop's David Thorpe joins to run through the top candidates for Most Improved Player. Impact of Embiid's return (1:04) Mavs currently in 5th in the West (9:42) Hawks without Trae, Wolves without KAT, and Rockets without Sengun (30:57) Thorpe (48:10) Most Improved Player candidates (49:55) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Jorge Sedano to talk health issues for the Knicks, Jalen Brunson’s impressive level of play, the Thunder’s surprising maturity considering the youth on the team, how quickly Victor Wembanyama is progressing, more key injuries to the Heat and Kings and the current playoff picture. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk the latest updates on the impending return of Joel Embiid including how quickly he can return to form, Paul George’s future with the Clippers, Dan Gilbert’s interesting comments on Donovan Mitchell’s future in Cleveland, the state of the Minnesota Timberwolves ownership and the Rockets stay hot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Doris Burke discuss Draymond Green's ejection and the Warriors' push for the play-in before revealing their preseason takes that have since fallen flat. Headlines around the league (15:04) Worst Preseason Takes (22:07) Under on the Thunder (22:27) Hawks to finish in the top 5 (30:56) Lukewarm on the Porzingis trade (33:19) A Mavs swoon that never happened (41:58) D'Angelo Russell's season with the Lakers (47:17) The Suns as a title contender (55:23) Clippers escaped Philly with a win (1:03:05) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk Dallas surging up the standings, how big a threat the Mavs could be in the playoffs, the Clippers’ struggles after an elite midseason stretch, the Suns suffering the worst loss of the NBA season, the Thunder passing a 'test game' but needing more help against teams with size and the Pelicans improvement with Zion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim MacMahon and 1st time guest Ryan Ruocco to talk Ryan’s experiences as a broadcaster, covering Caitlin Clark, a key upcoming series between the Kings & Mavs, Sabonis’ impressive double-double streak not getting enough love and how historically great the Celtics have been. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and The Dunker Spot's Steve Jones, Jr. discuss what's going on with the Warriors, the races for the 6th seed in the East and West, and the battle for positioning among the 3-4-5 spots in the East. Then ESPN Chalk's David Purdum joins for the latest on the NBA looking into betting irregularities involving Toronto's Jontay Porter. What's going on with the Warriors? (2:27) 6-7-8 spots in the West (9:44) 6-7-8 spots in the East (33:56) 3-4-5 in the East (53:05) Purdum (1:08:34) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk some injuries around the league including to stars like Brandon Ingram, Donovan Mitchell and OG. Plus, the impressive play of the Magic and the end of G League Ignite before a trip down St. Vincent-St. Mary memory lane. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk an interesting ending to Wolves-Nuggets, how Anthony Edwards is must watch, some updated draws for Team USA for the Olympics, the significance of the Bucks-Celtics matchup and what the Rockets’ surprising win streak means. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Tim MacMahon discuss how the Celtics and Bucks would match up in a playoff series, forecast the Thunder's chances in the West, and weigh in on Coach of the Year candidates. Then The Athletic's Jon Krawczynski joins to talk all things Anthony Edwards- the dunk and his elevation into superstardom- plus, what success looks like for the Timberwolves this season. Celtics-Bucks matchup (1:50) Forecasting the Thunder (21:20) No one has an answer for Jokic (40:13) Coach of the Year front runners (43:10) The red-hot Rockets (47:50) A basketball dilemma (53:02) Krawczynski (56:29) The Anthony Edwards dunk (58:54) Wolves have more of a backbone this season (1:07:25) Latest on KAT and Reid (1:11:13) Anthony Edwards has taken the leap (1:16:39) What is success for the Wolves this year? (1:33:23) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Andrew Lopez to talk the challenges building around Victor Wembanyama with how good he is so early on, how Zion & the Pelicans are flying under the radar playing very well, the Knicks' insane record with OG and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and The Athletic's Mo Dakhil discuss the latest Laker losses, the charging Mavericks, their concern for the Clippers and Suns, Victor Wembanyama making highlight plays look routine, and candidates for 6th Man of the Year. Lakers-Warriors reaction (4:03) The surging Mavs (15:08) Concerns about the Clippers (30:47) Officiating has been tweaked since the All-Star break (44:28) Suns (50:22) Wembanyama is here (1:02:44) Sixth Man of the Year contenders (1:10:44) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk some teams battling for seeding in the NBA Play-In Tournament in both the East and West including the Warriors, Lakers, 76ers and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk how the new minimum game rule & eliminating of positions for All-NBA will impact the league, a difficult stretch for the Rockets, who can hang on to the top of the Western Conference and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Bobby Marks run through their preliminary list of candidates for All-NBA. Then the NBA's Head of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars and the Senior VP of Referee Training and Development Monte McCutchen join to discuss why scoring has dipped since the All-Star Break, ideas to help defenders, and the unintended consequences of the 65-game rule for awards. Bucks still trying to figure it out (15:48) Brunson is going to make an All-NBA team and state of the Knicks (29:05) Rounding out All-NBA candidates (35:32) Sixers in disarray without Embiid (48:58) Dumars and McCutchen (1:01:27) On scoring being down since the All-Star break (1:04:23) Ideas to help defenders (1:14:45) On how the 65-game rule is working (1:29:43) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Andrew Lopez discuss the Pelicans' chances in a crowded West, Zion's improvement, and the unheralded Brandon Ingram. Then Zach and ESPN's Kevin Pelton review their All-Defense lists, why scoring is down, and why the time is now for the Suns. Pels are a mystery box and a sleeping giant (6:26) Zion's improved defense and rebounding (10:57) Herb Jones has a case for All-Defense and Most Improved (13:28) The Pelicans' shooting luck defensively (20:13) Not enough talk about Brandon Ingram (27:08) How the Pels match up against other Western Conference playoff teams (33:30) Pelton (40:15) Middle of the East (57:46) 2nd tier All-Defense guys (1:02:47) Thunder in line for the top seed in the West (1:09:14) Wembanyama's All-Defense case (1:15:27) Scoring is down since the All-Star break (1:30:20) Temperature check on the Suns (1:39:46) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oklahoma City Thunder star Chet Holmgren joins The Woj Pod to discuss his remarkable rookie season, the lonely road back from a season-ending injury, shaping an imagination for what he can be, the greatness of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, his history with Victor Wembanyama, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Kevin Pelton to talk the hottest team in the NBA, if Zion deserves more attention for his play, the impact injuries in Minnesota could have on the trajectory of the season, the likelihood the Warriors remain in the play-in territory and the mess developing in the Eastern Conference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Hoop Collective, Brian Windhorst, Tim Bontemps, and Tim MacMahon dive into key NBA highlights. They discuss the Nuggets' win over the Celtics, Jayson Tatum's impact on the Celtics' playoff chances, the team's defense strategy against Nikola Jokic, and how the Nuggets' bench outperformed the Celtics'. The episode also covers Anthony Edwards' critical block against the Pacers, Karl-Anthony Towns' meniscus surgery, the Bulls' surprising season turnaround, and Steph Curry's ankle injury against the Bulls.  0:00 Welcome to the Hoop Collective 01:22 The Nuggets beat the Celtics in a thrilling match 11:50 Celtics' Playoff Hopes: The Critical Role of Jayson Tatum 17:58 Breaking Down Celtics' Defense Against Nikola Jokic 27:13 How the Nuggets' Reserves Outshone the Celtics' 38:52 Anthony Edwards Game-Saving Block Against Pacers 46:08 Karl-Anthony Towns to Undergo Surgery for Torn Meniscus 53:06 The Bulls' Unexpected Turnaround 55:02 Steph Curry Suffers Right Ankle Injury Against Bulls Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk an upcoming stretch of challenging games for the top teams in the Eastern Conference including the Cavs, Celtics and Bucks. Plus, can Milwaukee beat Boston in a best of 7 series, should the Thunder be concerned about their lack of size against the Lakers and why the Kings have been a roller coaster at times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Bobby Marks discuss Denver's win over Boston in a potential Finals preview, whether Boston has crunch-time issues, the game's impact on the MVP race, and much more -- the impact of Karl-Anthony Towns injury on Minnesota's playoff chances and big-picture future, Dallas' win over Miami, ankle issues for Steph Curry, Victor Wembanyama, and LeBron James, Ben Simmons being out for the season, and what to make of Wembanyama wanting to win more soon. Then -- a special guest on all things Cavs and tax season.  Celtics in crunch time (12:57) You can't double-team Jokic (17:01) The Porzingis matchup for Jokic (24:53) Ben Simmons out for the year (34:16) KAT's injury (38:33) Keeping an eye on the Mavs (51:08) Is there another level for the Kings? (55:02) The Magic are making a charge (1:01:55) The noise around Wembanyama is just that (1:06:03) Cavs forward Dean Wade (1:16:31) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Charlotte Hornets' new Executive VP of Basketball Operations Jeff Peterson joins The Woj Pod on the challenge of ending the longest playoff drought in the NBA, taking on the job at 35 years old, LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, his history with co-owner Rick Schnall, Kevin Durant, much more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and Brian Scalabrine break down the red-hot Boston Celtics and who might challenge them in the East. Then ESPN's Chris Herring joins to talk about the top-4 in the West, the Bucks finding their groove, injuries to Russell Westbrook, Donovan Mitchell, and Scottie Barnes, the Raptors deal for Kelly Olynyk, RJ Barrett's play, Anthony Davis, and much more around the league.  Derrick White has been amazing (12:36) The Warriors leaving Jaylen Brown open at the 3-point line (22:31) What are you looking for the rest of the way (28:03) Herring (39:04) What are you seeing with the Clippers? (41:57) OKC is for real (52:50) More surprising if Twolves win West or lose in 1st round? (1:11:52) Bucks charging (1:23:53) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim MacMahon and Ohm Youngmisuk to talk how the Nuggets & Celtics look to be the clear favorites for the NBA Finals, historic context for Boston’s blowout win, a big win for the Clippers, LeBron joining the 40,000 point club and what current players could reach 30,000. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to a wild installment in the growing Wemby vs. Chet rivalry, what that could mean for the Thunder/Spurs, the Warriors continuing to turn things around, the Knicks needing to get healthy, Embiid’s potential return this season and the Cojones Factor Player of the Month is awarded for February. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Chiney Ogwumike discuss the Lakers' big week, LeBron approaching 40,000 points and their favorite LeBron moments, the Bucks' surge on defense, Giannis' MVP case and the awards race overall, Wemby vs Chet, Rookie of the Year, San Antonio's path forward, whether it's time to worry about the Clippers, Houston's struggles, the Pelicans, much more.   Does it matter if the coach makes more than most players on the team? (14:10) LeBron's best moments (18:10) Concerned about the Clippers? (23:38) Trivia question (33:04) The Bucks under Doc Rivers (35:31) Why isn't Giannis talked about more as an MVP candidate? (49:57) ROY race (57:10) Rockets and Pelicans (1:06:58) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to a wild ending to the Mavs-Cavs game, a potentially difficult lineup decision in Cleveland, why Dallas continues to look more dangerous, some difficult rulings from officials of late and what the future of scoring looks like in the NBA including if the league may make some changes to help defenses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Georges Niang joins The Woj Pod to discuss the surging Cavs, re-uniting with Donovan Mitchell, strange Sixers days with Ben Simmons, his new podcast, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and Adam Mares of DNVR Sports check in on the Nuggets and break down all the key matchups at the top of the Western Conference. Then Nekias Duncan of the Dunker Spot joins to talk about playoff races in the middle of the East: Knicks, Sixers, red-hot Heat, Hawks without Trae Young, Magic's present and future, the frisky Raptors, the Pacers with Pascal Siakam, and much more.  Is this anything? (12:23) How the Nuggets match up with the Thunder, Timberwolves, and Clippers (23:35) Duncan (43:38) Heat (49:04) Pacers (1:02:27) Hawks (1:12:35) Raptors (1:20:07) Magic (1:27:54) Suns (1:35:41) Clippers (1:40:41) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by Andscape’s Marc J. Spears and ESPN's Tim MacMahon to talk the Nuggets locking in after the All-Star break, the log jam of teams in the Western Conference, the Suns’ difficult schedule down the stretch, KD’s interesting postgame interview, Wemby’s curious comments and Trae Young’s future in Atlanta. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk the Thunder’s huge win over the Clippers, a potentially big decision for OKC, the Mavericks’ continued impressive play since the trade deadline, Luka’s case for MVP, the Knicks getting back on track, New York’s injury timelines and how difficult playoff scenarios could be in both conferences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk how the NBA All-Star Game can be changed going forward, Brooklyn making a coaching change, the significance of Mike Conley signing an extension with the Timberwolves before breaking down the things to watch out for during the final stretch of the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and Mo Dakhil of The Athletic discuss the Warriors and Lakers, the surging Mavs, the Thunder going for the #1 seed, the state of the MVP race, and the three most important players for the rest of the season. Who has a better chance of making a run- Warriors or Lakers? (4:43) The surging Mavs (14:51) The state of the Suns (23:33) The Thunder are really going for it (31:01) Shai's MVP case (39:36) Tatum does not have a statistical case for MVP (47:34) The three most important players for the stretch run (53:14) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Tim Bontemps discuss the Brooklyn Nets soap opera of the last 10 years and where they go after firing Jacque Vaughn, and Tim picks his biggest East storyline of the rest of the season. Plus: Breaking down Mike Conley's extension. Then ESPN's Malika Andrews joins to fix All-Star, pick Most Confusing Teams in the West, and more. Plus: The Debut of Malika Andrews Worst Take of the Month.  The Nets firing of Jacque Vaughn (1:22) A turbulent decade plus for the Nets (16:55) Minnesota extends Mike Conley (38:15) Most intriguing Eastern Conference storyline the rest of the way (44:12) Andrews (52:15) Ideas to fix All-Star Weekend (53:40) Most confounding teams in the West (1:34:52) Malika's Worst Take of the Month (1:43:46) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Jorge Sedano to talk the highlights of All-Star weekend, if the Warriors can stay hot after the All-Star break, if the Heat can still pose a similar threat in the playoffs this year and if the Lakers’ success before the break is sustainable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Kevin Pelton to talk if the Nuggets' sluggish play of late is a concern, a wild game in Phoenix, if Tatum can elevate to MVP status, if Boston is prepared for a deep postseason run and how dangerous the Pelicans can be down the stretch of the season at full strength. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pacers All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton joins The Woj Pod live in Indianapolis and talks about the Pacers budding rivalry with the Bucks, doing the Dame Time celebration in the In-Season Tournament, the trade that brought him to Indy, as well as the responsibilities of being a franchise guy. Then Basketball Hall of Famer Grant Hill joins to discuss his role as the managing director of the USA Basketball Men's National Team, the differences in international basketball, his thoughts on the 65 game minimum for post-season awards, and his storied career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to the 2nd Bontemps MVP Straw Poll of the season including a newcomer to the top 2 and who the true contenders are. Plus, what to expect in the Rookie of the Year battle between Chet & Wemby, Minnesota and Milwaukee’s improved play and a fascinating story on a Kyle Kuzma trade that didn’t happen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and Steve Jones Jr. of The Dunker Spot pick their 5 Biggest Questions for the rest of the NBA season: Bucks, Suns, home-court in the West, Knicks, Sixers, Lakers and Warriors figuring things out, Trae Young's future, much more. Then Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com joins to discuss the red-hot Cleveland Cavaliers: Are they contenders? What are the Bucks? (1:29) Who wins the West? (11:10) How good are the Suns? (19:52) Are you starting to believe in the Lakers or Warriors? (25:24) Can the Knicks and Sixers hold on? (41:59) Can Boston avoid getting in its own way? (47:41) What's the plan with Trae Young? (51:01) Who wins coach of the year? (1:04:05) Fedor (1:07:28) How is the reintegration of Garland and Mobley going? (1:12:30) Cavs have the inside track at the #2 seed in the East (1:17:14) Is this team a legitimate championship contender? (1:21:48) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim MacMahon and Andscape’s Marc J. Spears to react to Steph Curry’s latest clutch shot this season, talk why the Warriors may have found a new winning lineup, the Cavs’ incredible stretch of games, what the future holds for different Cleveland lineups, what the ceiling is for the Cavs, what Patrick Beverley brings to the Bucks and if Dallas has found something following the trades at the deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to the 2024 NBA trade deadline including how much better the Knicks got, why the Mavs took a big risk, how the Hornets showed it is time to rebuild, why it was a huge mistake for Chicago to keep their stars, if it was smart for the Lakers to maintain the current roster and why some deals fell through today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adrian Wojnarowski, Cassidy Hubbarth, Bobby Marks and Tim Legler break down all of the major action from the NBA trade deadline including which team improved the most, why some stars did not get dealt, how much better the Knicks got, what moves may signify for teams like the Bucks & 76ers, the approach to the deadline in Dallas, how trades can impact a tight race in the West and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk Kyrie’s return to Brooklyn, what the Mavs need to improve the team, the Warriors going away from Klay in crunch time & what that means for Golden State's future, the battle for seeding at the top of the Western Conference and teams we are watching to be the players at the trade deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Ohm Youngmisuk to talk an interesting week of comments & subtle signs from LeBron James culminating in a huge game at MSG, if LeBron has a future outside of the Lakers, Zach LaVine’s injury & how that impacts the future planning for the Bulls, the impressive play of the Clippers who look like legitimate contenders and a lesson about shipping shoes in the NBA for vets like PJ Tucker. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk how Jalen Brunson continues to put forward great play for the Knicks even while the team is dealing with multiple injuries before talking all of the All-Star reserves across the league including a couple key snubs. Plus, could the Lakers make a big move at the deadline and the Cojones Factor Player of the Month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk New York winning despite injuries, put in context the success of Brunson & the team right now, break down potential trade options for the Knicks, talk Cleveland’s recent success, how the Cavs can add back some star power soon and the Timberwolves elite defensive play. Plus, SGA’s chances for MVP, the Lakers’ struggles and Embiid’s injury. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Tim MacMahon discuss Joel Embiid's upcoming surgery, ramifications for the Sixers going forward, all things trade deadline, All-Star snubs, MVP candidates, and much more.  Embiid to have surgery (1:02) Zach's tweak to the 65 game rule (9:22) How Sixers will approach trade deadline (15:20) Big picture on the trade deadline (21:28) Possible moves for the Mavs (28:59) Rockets, Cavs, and Nets (39:20) Jazz (49:56) Clippers (56:19) MVP candidates (59:25) Nuggets (1:05:34) All-Star injury replacements (1:10:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ESPN Front Office Insider Bobby Marks joins The Woj Pod for daily installment on trade deadline week that includes reaction to the Joel Embiid knee procedure (1:30), the Lakers limited trade options (6:42), Dejounte Murray (11:24), buyers and sellers (11:45), and much much more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach talks about Joel Embiid's injury and what comes next with injury expert Jeff Stotts. Then ESPN's Chris Herring joins to discuss the Lakers beating Boston without Anthony Davis and LeBron, LeBron's cryptic tweets, Lakers options at trade deadline, Knicks recent play and Jalen Brunson, Boston's up-and-down last two weeks, and their most interesting trade deadline teams: Chicago, Oklahoma City, Brooklyn, Sacramento, Atlanta, the Clippers, more -- plus whether the more asset-poor contenders in Phoenix, Milwaukee, Denver, and Phoenix can pull off any deals. That and much more! Possible explanations for Embiid's meniscus (2:36) Thoughts on 65 games played threshold for MVP and other awards (12:49) Herring (20:12) LeBron's cryptic tweets and Lakers' approach to trade deadline (20:46) What will and should the Bulls do? (38:45) Celtics have been a bit wobbly lately (45:56) Knicks offense with OG Anunoby (50:21) Brunson is a star (54:31) How will Knicks act at deadline? (58:48) Rapid fire on other teams ahead of the deadline (1:07:10) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Chiney Ogwumike discuss the offensive explosion around the league, the Jalen Green situation in Houston, the Lakers-Rockets fracas and the Lakers up and down play, Doc Rivers first game as Bucks coach, Wolves, Thunder, trade talk across the league, and more. Then ESPN's Kendrick Perkins joins to talk about the struggling Heat, pitch a wild trade idea, Zach LaVine, Pistons, much more.  Feels like it's not going to happen for the Lakers (4:42) Defense is not dead (15:15) Are there any rule changes that could slow the scoring? (19:43) Vanderbilt ejection- Brooks push (28:52) Should the Rockets trade Jalen Green?!? (30:45) Defensive 5 seconds (38:15) Wolves-OKC (41:42) Bucks with Doc (51:39) Pelicans (55:10) Perk (58:48) Time to trade Jimmy Butler? (59:29) LaVine to the Pistons?!? (1:09:01) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim MacMahon and Jorge Sedano to talk Luka’s insane scoring, a classic battle between Steph & LeBron, the significance of that rivalry and if the Warriors need to make a move now before reacting to Joel Embiid sitting out against Jokic & the Nuggets in Denver. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Tim Legler discuss the Doc Rivers fit in Milwaukee and how teams are looking after big trades: OG Anunoby in New York, the struggling Heat and Terry Rozier, the Pacers with Pascal Siakam, and more. Plus full All-Star roster picks, whether the Sixers have enough to win it all as is, and more. Then Eric Nehm of The Athletic digs deeper into the Bucks hiring and firing Adrian Griffin, and what comes next for Milwaukee.  Thoughts on Bucks making a coaching change (1:01) On Doc Rivers (3:44) State of the Sixers (8:39) Knicks with Anunoby (14:25) All-Star reserves in the East (21:20) Heat with Rozier (25:21) Pacers with Siakam (39:34) Reaction to huge scoring nights on Monday (46:12) All-Star reserves in the West (55:14) Nehm (1:04:29) Why did the Bucks make this change now? (1:06:15) The players have to own some of this (1:17:20) What Doc Rivers will bring (1:30:21) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk another heated installment of the Suns-Mavericks rivalry, Phoenix’s impressive play of late, the Bucks hiring Doc Rivers to replace Adrian Griffin, if Milwaukee’s defensive issues are solvable, an odd 62 point game from Karl-Anthony Towns for Minnesota and how the Wizards should handle the trade deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN’s Jamal Collier to break down Milwaukee firing Adrian Griffin including what led to this decision before talking the potential of Doc Rivers to fill the role. Then, ESPN’s Jeremy Woo joins to talk about what talent still exists even in a ‘down’ draft year, the potential of Bronny James and a very promising 2025 class headlined by Cooper Flagg. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breaking news Woj Pod with Malika Andrews on the Adrian Griffin firing in Milwaukee and Doc Rivers as a possibility to replace him. Plus, Woj digs into the Terry Rozier trade to the Heat and several other key players ahead of the NBA trade deadline.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Bobby Marks discuss the Heat trading for Terry Rozier and how it impacts the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Then ESPN's Tim Bontemps joins to weigh in on Joel Embiid's historic scoring performance, ways for the Sixers to improve around him, the red hot Cavs, and the Bucks moving on from Adrian Griffin.  Heat trade for Rozier (1:40) What does this mean for Miami's ability to trade future picks? (5:28) Rozier's fit with Miami (10:44) A look at the top 7 in the East (14:50) Charlotte is starting to accumulate assets (17:39) Bontemps (24:08) Embiid scores 70 against the Spurs (25:58) Embiid is Durant plus one hundred pounds (36:50) Embiid has to do it in the playoffs (39:10) How can Philly upgrade roster before trade deadline? (42:49) Rookie of the Year race (51:24) Red hot Cavs (54:34) Bucks fire Adrian Griffin (1:06:06) Would you want a do over for the Dame trade? (1:28:50) All-Star starters (1:34:58) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to break down their selections for the 2024 NBA All-Star Game including who may be left out and some difficult decisions for potential starters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk Pascal Siakam’s trade to Indiana, what this means for the Eastern Conference, the Suns & Lakers turning things around of late and reaction to Embiid & Jokic’s big battle. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and The Ringer's Bill Simmons discuss the Pacers trading for Pascal Siakam, the Raptors' return on trading two stars, and then go back and forth naming players and teams under the most pressure to win the championship this season. Siakam traded to the Pacers (1:10) Bruce Brown has value on the trade market (8:48) Did Toronto get enough for Siakam? (14:59) Championship Pressure Index (26:40) Celtics (27:39) Dame and the Bucks (37:45) Clippers (43:50) Durant and the Suns (50:28) Embiid and the Sixers (1:00:16) Bam Adebayo and the Heat (1:09:49) Nuggets (1:16:14) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Bobby Marks to break down some of the most interesting trade scenarios around the league including some surprising buyers, teams looking to get under the tax and who we should be paying the most attention to. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk a trade in Detroit that may be a sign of things to come, a player who may finally have a path to a better role, a ceremony gone wrong in Chicago, who may be the major players at the trade deadline and what players may be targets including Dejounte Murray. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk Kawhi’s extension, how that will impact who else the Clippers can retain, the Heat giving Erik Spoelstra a contract extension, Utah’s impressive run and if it is time for major moves for the Warriors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ESPN NBA analyst Bob Myers joins The Woj Pod to discuss the Indiana Pacers landing Pascal Siakam to pair with Tyrese Haliburton, the NBA legislating in the spreading out of league stars to smaller markets, how a GM operates trade deadline and the one rival with the courage to call and ask for a Steph Curry trade.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk discuss Kawhi Leonard's extension, whether the Clippers are contenders, and trade possibilities for LA. Then ESPN's Chris Herring joins Zach to pick tentative All-Stars, talk trades leaguewide, and more. Clippers are real contenders (10:54) No one is talking about Clippers defense (25:24) Ty Lue is one of the best coaches in the league (34:32) Herring (40:55) Eastern All-Star starters (50:50) Eastern reserves (1:07:57) Western All-Star starters (1:25:05) Western reserves (1:30:14) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ESPN's Ramona Shelburne joins The Woj Pod on Kawhi Leonard agreeing to a Clipper extension, what it means for Paul George and James Harden, Mitchell Robinson's possible return for the Knicks (10:42), the Sixers, Erik Spoelstra's massive coaching deal (15:54) and much more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by Andscape’s Marc J. Spears and ESPN's Kevin Pelton to talk Draymond Green’s comments to the media on his return to the Warriors, what moves Golden State may need to make and the future of the team before breaking down the surprising play of the Cavs despite injuries and the impact of Ja Morant’s injury to the future in Memphis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk the successful post trade results from the Knicks & Raptors including what other moves may be on the horizon for both teams before talking the struggles of some veteran superstar teams in the Western Conference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach welcomes ESPN's Kendra Andrews to discuss the slumping Warriors, turmoil in Golden State, and the return of Draymond Green. Then ESPN's Dave McMenamin talks Darvin Ham, the Lakers bad offense, and LA's outlook at the deadline. ESPN's Bobby Marks rounds things out with rapid-fire trade thoughts on Sixers, Kings, Raptors, Pascal Siakam, Hornets, Heat, Wizards, Nets, and more.  Is this salvageable for Golden State (15:07) Possible trades for the Warriors (25:27) Draymond Green is a surefire Hall of Famer (31:50) McMenamin (37:40) Is Darvin Ham on the hotseat? (39:41) On why the Lakers' offense stinks (41:45) What moves are out there for the Lakers? (52:25) Marks (1:10:17) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk the struggles of the Lakers, what potential trade targets may be on the table for LA, the NBA’s reaction to the Nets resting players and talk the Thunder continuing to impress with the best young core in the league before dishing out Cojones Factor Player of the Month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to give out their Baller d'Or as the calendar year award for the best basketball player before talking what they are looking out for in the New Year for the NBA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk the Pistons’ difficult losing streak, how they tried to shift to win now mode, an embarrassing moment in Brooklyn for the Nets, the Thunders’ incredibly impressive season, if OKC should trade for another major piece this season and how the ownership situation in Minnesota could impact the team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk the state of each team playing on Christmas Day including some potential championship difference makers, some teams turning the corner and what team should be the most concerned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham joins The Woj Pod to discuss what losing has taught him, the price of leadership, the responsibility of a franchise player and why he wants to see this through in Detroit. Plus: Pistons GM Troy Weaver on the losing streak, Monty Williams/Cunningham and why he believes they'll see through to success.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Tim MacMahon discuss the Thunder's chances and possible moves they can make, the Lakers struggling offense, the surging Phoenix Suns, Kevin Durant's legacy, and more. Four stages of Thunder thoughts (3:49) Is Lauri Markkanen available? (14:40) Jordan Clarkson going for a triple-double (17:35) The Lakers offense is struggling and defense is slipping (20:05) Re-visiting the Westbrook trade and how well Minnesota did to get Conley (31:36) The surging Suns (37:15) Durant's interesting career and legacy (51:23) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk the results of the 1st Bontemps MVP Straw Poll of the season including the group that has separated themselves and some players who were surprisingly left off. Plus, the guys talk the Suns’ struggles and Memphis getting Ja back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Chris Herring and Ohm Youngmisuk to talk Bronny’s start to his college career, the Clippers starting to get rolling, the Bulls impressive play without Zach LaVine, Coby White’s development and the Knicks fighting through injuries for a few impressive road victories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk injuries impacting the Cavs, if Donovan Mitchell trade talks will heat up, Ja Morant’s press conference prior to his return, Joel Embiid’s insane month and who the real contenders are in the league. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk Draymond’s suspension, what the future holds for the Warriors & Green, Luka continuing to score at will, the Wolves staying hot, the strange interaction between Giannis & the Pacers and what to expect as Ja’s return gets closer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Tim Bontemps weigh in on the strengths and weaknesses of the Celtic, Sixers, and Bucks. Then ESPN's Michael Schwartz stops by for a look at the Suns. Zach laments his bet with Bontemps on the Hawks (1:10) This is the best Celtics team of the Tatum-Brown era (6:52) Sixers offense is humming and Embiid has a great MVP case (35:07) Bucks have been cast aside as the third wheel in the East a bit too aggressively (50:18) Schwartz on the Suns (1:09:19) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach and ESPN's Chiney Ogwumike discuss the Warriors first game since Draymond Green's suspension, what comes next as Golden State falls down the standings, the rising Clippers, Chiney's hometown Rockets, and the Mavericks season so far. Plus ESPN's Ramona Shelburne joins to talk about her conversation with Draymond in the aftermath of the Jusuf Nurkic incident, the ongoing impact of the Jordan Poole punch, and where the Warriors and Green go from here.  Warriors without Draymond (1:08) Clippers hot streak (11:10) Ramona Shelburne (22:45) Do Warriors now regret the way they handled Poole incident? (32:50) There is no justification for Draymond's swing at Nurkic (35:44) The Rockets taking off (42:06) Suns debut with KD, Booker, and Beal (49:43) Mavericks (50:43) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zach discusses the latest Draymond Green incident, what it means for Draymond's career, and whether the Warriors can salvage this season. Then ESPN's Kevin Pelton joins to talk Draymond/Warriors, the Nuggets bench and Nikola Jokic's ejection on Tuesday, and a special Say Something Nice About Bad Teams draft featuring the Hawks, Raptors, Wizards, Jazz, Pistons, Grizzlies, Spurs, Bulls, Hornets, and Blazers. Pelton (22:54) Warriors hopes at salvaging season (23:09) Jokic ejection (26:34) Bad Teams Draft (31:18) Blazers (32:53) Hawks (35:19) Spurs (38:55) Raptors (42:13) Lakers should hang IST banner (46:03) Grizzlies (48:37) Bulls (52:26) Hornets (57:38) Jazz (1:02:15) Pistons (1:07:29) Wizards (1:13:04) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to recap the Lakers winning the In-Season Tournament over the Pacers, LeBron’s defiance of age, the Pacers’ impressive run and their general thoughts on the tournament. Plus, the guys talk Jokic’s recent struggles, Kyrie’s injury and what shakeups we can expect in the Western Conference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices