The best new daily sports podcast w/ inside information and perspective from Bleacher Report & FS1's Ric Bucher, NFL Network's Will Blackmon, and former NBA center Ryan Hollins, as well as featured guests. Mon & Tues: Bucher & Blackmon Weds: Bucher & special guests Thurs & Fri: Bucher & Hollins
Ric Bucher, NBA insider; Ryan Hollins, ESPN; Will Blackmon, NFL Network
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The Bucher and Friends podcast is a must-listen for any NBA fan. Ric Bucher, a seasoned NBA insider, provides insightful commentary and analysis on a variety of current topics. What sets this podcast apart is its ability to cover not only the NBA but also other sports like the NFL and Soccer, making it appealing to a wider audience. Bucher's engaging style and willingness to delve into controversial topics keeps listeners coming back for more.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is Bucher's willingness to engage with his audience. He takes the time to respond to listener reviews and feedback, showing that he values their opinions. Additionally, his extensive basketball knowledge shines through in every episode, as he offers unique perspectives that other analysts may overlook. The concise format of the podcast, typically around 20 minutes long, ensures that each topic is covered with thoughtfulness and depth.
However, one downside of the podcast is that it occasionally strays from its main focus on the NBA. Some listeners may prefer to solely hear about basketball-related topics and find themselves skipping episodes or portions that cover other sports. While Bucher's expertise extends beyond the NBA, it would be beneficial for those seeking strictly basketball content if there was a clearer separation between episodes focused on different sports.
In conclusion, The Bucher and Friends podcast is a standout choice for fans looking for in-depth analysis of current sports topics. Ric Bucher's expertise and engaging style make for an entertaining listen that covers a range of sports beyond just the NBA. Despite occasional deviations from its main focus on basketball, this podcast offers valuable insights that are hard to find elsewhere. Whether you agree or disagree with his takes, Bucher provides thought-provoking content that keeps listeners engaged throughout each episode.
Ric discusses the current state of the Golden State Warriors, his history with the franchise and the forces that have ended the Warriors', and their transcendent guard, Stephen Curry's, run as a perennial title contender.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses four hot NBA topics: LaMelo Ball's entertainment value vs. his effectiveness for an 8-28 Charlotte Hornets' team; what is behind the Sacramento Kings' 7-1 record since firing head coach Mike Brown; Cade Cunningham showing that he deserves to be in the conversation of top point guards in the league; and whether or not Victor Wembanyama is living up to being cast as a runaway favorite for Defensive Player of the Year since the start of the season.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses four topics: Paul George's unfathomable explanation for a recent fourth-quarter meltdown; JJ Redick taking a novel approach to being a first-time NBA head coach; the source of the Sacramento Kings' 5-1 record since replacing head coach Mike Brown with Doug Christie; and takeaways from the recent battle between the conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the circumstances that have driven a wedge between star forward Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat and why it signals NBA owners have achieved their goal of putting a crimp in, or even potential end to, the player empowerment era.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the Lakers' acquisition of Dorian Finney-Smith for D'Angelo Russell; the upcoming test the Orlando Magic are about to face; the Sacramento Kings' response to widespread criticism of how they handled the firing of head coach Mike Brown; and why he hopes the NBA does not feel threatened by the recent spate of physical altercations between players. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses comments made by Mike Brown 10 days before he was fired as head coach of the Sacramento Kings and the suggestion that the up-and-coming Houston Rockets should pursue Kings star guard De'Aaron Fox. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses solutions to the NBA three-point glut, why BYU is about to become a college basketball powerhouse and the state of the Portland Trail Blazers with a special guest on location in Turks & Caicos.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the ways in which the NBA can address the excessive launching of three-point shots and breaks down his favorite three rule changes that will be tested in the G League next season.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses what he learned from the NBA Cup about the Milwaukee Bucks' and Oklahoma City Thunder's playoff readiness; shares his exchange with Warriors coach Steve Kerr on the team's acquisition of Dennis Schröder and if the team is done making moves; and why Zion Williamson, despite his injury history, might have more trade value than Brandon Ingram, both of whom have been rumored to be on the trading block. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses four topics in this Quad Shot episode: why Caitlin Clark was Time's Athlete of the Year and what we learned from the subsequent interview; a sobering look at the kind of talent the Golden State Warriors need next to Steph Curry at this stage of his career; why this year's trade market may not be as robust as NBA fans have become accustomed to; and rwhy the NBA Cup Final between the Milwaukee Bucks and Oklahoma City Thunder is worth watching. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the decline in NBA viewership and why it isn't a reflection of the league's overall popularity or financial health but of its priorities.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses Atlanta Hawks' point guard Trae Young, whose pick-and-roll mastery and league-leading statistics has produced a meager win-loss record and does not appear to enthrall his teammates.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the hope given to him by an NBA GM about the direction of the league; the change Ja Morant has made to his game; the story created out of thin air and presented as news by a major outlet; and the new skill Nikola Jokic has added since last season, no doubt inspired by how last season ended for him and the Denver Nuggets.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the recent struggles of the Golden State Warriors after a 12-3 start and offers a reasonable goal for both their fan base and that of the Los Angeles Lakers to expect.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses why the 2024 NBA Draft Class was projected to be a disappointing one, which players have helped defy that prediction and why grading rookies by comparing their statistics can be both unfair and misleading. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses four hot topics: Anthony Edwards calling out his team after a home loss that dropped the Minnesota Timberwolves below .500; LeBron James and his battle with Father Time; the work by Clippers coach Tyronn Lue that has a team, left for dead after the loss of Paul George and the continued absence of Kawhi Leonard, holding a playoff spot; and a recent lackluster performance by the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns reminiscent of an All-Star Game for all the wrong reasons.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric proposes that the Philadelphia 76ers' issues, which have led to a 3-13 start and several incidents beyond the court, go beyond injuries that have limited the availability of its two biggest stars, Joel Embiid and Paul George.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric does his weekly four-topic episode, explaining the realization that has led to Jayson Tatum playing like an MVP; the challenge posed by Victor Wembanyama's unique versatility; Charlotte Hornets first-year coach Charles Lee appearing to change his approach with LaMelo Ball; and the wisdom of Caitlin Clark opting not to participate in the fledgling 3-on-3 league, Unrivaled.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the Cleveland Cavaliers' historic 15-0 start that ended with their narrow loss to the Boston Celtics, examining the ingredients that produced it and what it means as far as the Cavaliers' playoff potential.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses three Western Conference teams he has heard are interested in solidifying their playoff chances with roster upgrades -- the Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers -- and their respective chances of landing Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo should he become available. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric breaks down the surprisingly heated battle between former teammates Steph Curry and Klay Thompson; the mixed-bag of story lines currently driving the Memphis Grizzlies; the continued presentation of LeBron James as defying Father Time; and the player who is making the Detroit Pistons worth watching.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the 4-5 start by the New York Knicks, who were expected to be title contenders after making several high-profile offseason moves to upgrade a team that won 50 games last season and narrowly missed reaching the Eastern Conference finals.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the hot start by the Golden State Warriors, the likely blueprint for how coach Steve Kerr is utilizing his roster and what their prospects are for winning the franchise's sixth championship.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric introduces a new format, diving into four topics or events that caught his attention on a single night's slate of games. In this one: Nikola Jokic laying waste to suggestions Karl-Anthony Towns is more skilled in defeating the OKC Thunder; Lakers coach JJ Redick coming to grips with the challenges of his roster; Warriors' coach Steve Kerr showing his versatility in achieving a 7-1 record playing a 12-man rotation; and the questionable wisdom of not making Bronny James a fixture with the South Bay Lakers.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the early struggles of two teams projected as title contenders this season, the Denver Nuggets and Milwaukee Bucks. Also: a look at LeBron James' bucket list and what might be motivating him at this stage of his career.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the return of Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball thanks to the latest innovative surgery to replace damaged knee cartilage and what it would mean if the rumors that superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is on his way out of Milwaukee are true. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the emphasis by the New Orleans Pelicans and Los Angeles Lakers on increasing their volume of three-point shooting and the questionable wisdom of that strategy based on their personnel.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the impact first-year coach JJ Redick has had on the Los Angeles Lakers through the first four games of the season and if he has erased any doubts he's capable of coaching them to a championship.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the Los Angeles Lakers' latest comeback upset victory over the Phoenix Suns and sheds light on a few early conspiracy theories that have cropped the first week of the NBA season.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the Boston Celtics' dominant win over the New York Knicks, the Los Angeles Lakers' upset of the Minnesota Timberwolves and how we will look back at LeBron and Bronny James getting their historic moment as the first father-son duo in NBA history.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the New York Liberty's Game 5 victory over the Minnesota Lynx to clinch the 2024 WNBA title and the elements that reminded him of the NBA's more innocent, and authentic, times.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses what he has seen of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo this preseason and what it foreshadows for the Bucks' chance of competing for another NBA title.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses what he's heard about the recent fracas between former Knicks guard Donte DiVincenzo and assistant coach Rick Brunson, and examines what the possible return of Lonzo Ball after a two-year absence means for the Chicago Bulls.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the early showing of the most intriguing rookie in the NBA, Zach Edey, at 7-foot-4 and 300 pounds the biggest player in the NBA, taken ninth in the 2024 Draft by the Memphis GrizzliesSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the first glimpse of veteran point guard Chris Paul and sensational second-year center Victor Wembanyama playing together for the San Antonio Spurs and whether or not he feels a need to revise his earlier prediction on how the team will fare this season.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the Golden State Warriors' performance through two preseason games, the answers given and questions raised, and what realistic expectations for the season should be.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses LeBron James and his son, Bronny James, becoming the first father-son duo to play in an NBA game together this past weekend, how it compares to father-son duos in other sports and Los Angeles Lakers' head coach JJ Redick's comments about how he approached the moment.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric shares what he has learned about the recent conflict between USA Today columnist Christine Brennan and WNBA players union executive director Terri Jackson and discusses how the league must evolve to make the most of its skyrocketing popularity.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses an exchange between San Francisco Chronicle columnist Scott Ostler and Warriors forward Draymond Green concerning Green's expected availability this season after missing 21 games last season due to suspension.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the WNBPA's social-media attack of journalist Christine Brennan and explains why the New York Knicks and Minnesota Timberwolves will benefit equally from the trade expected to send All-Star big man Karl-Anthony Towns to New York in exchange for Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo and a future first-round pick.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric completes his review of the oddsmakers' win-total lines for all 30 NBA teams, sharing whether each team will go over or under their lines, and why.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses WNBA Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark's first playoff performance, the source of her popularity and why she has emerged as a polarizing figure in women's basketball.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric examines the oddsmakers' win totals for all 30 NBA teams for the 2024-25 season. Teams covered in this episode: Rockets, Pacers, Clippers, Lakers, Grizzlies, Heat, Bucks, Timberwolves, Pelicans, Knicks and Thunder.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses whether to go over or under the win-total lines set by oddsmakers for all 30 NBA teams.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric offers a new way to compare all-time great NBA players from different eras and discovers a player rarely mentioned as an all-time great who deserves to be.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the recent and unprecedented surge of NBA players talking negatively about each other, particularly players discussing their counterparts from other generations.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the U.S. national men's basketball team's gold medal-winning performance in the 2024 Paris Olympics.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the varied starting lineups and playing rotations Team USA coach Steve Kerr has implemented, and the criticism they have elicited.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses the events that led to Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum not playing in Team USA's opening win over Serbia in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses Team USA's hopes of winning a gold medal in men's basketball at the 2024 Paris Olympics.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ric discusses NBA Finals' MVP Jaylen Brown being passed over for Boston Celtic teammate Derrick White as a Team USA replacement and how the Los Angeles Lakers are utilizing their offseason with new coach JJ Redick and draft picks Dalton Knecht and Bronny James.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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