Bucher and Friends

Ric discusses the events leading up to Game 7 of the NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers and what could determine who is the next champion. He also dives into the controversy surrounding Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and whether or not the WNBA needs to implement more protective measures to address how opponents play her.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the factors that led to the Oklahoma City Thunder tying their best-of-seven NBA Finals series with the Indiana Pacers at two wins apiece and what will decide who wins the supremely pivotal Game 5 in Oklahoma City.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the moves that Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle made to win Game 3 and shares how he came to know Carlisle both as a person (and pianist) and coach.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses why the NBA Finals could prove to be transformative for the league and the blueprint for building championship teams.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the shocking last-second win by the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals over the heavily favored Oklahoma City Thunder -- why it happened and whether or not the Pacers' chance of winning the series should be re-evaluated. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses why the Indiana Pacers could make the NBA Finals vs. the heavily favored Oklahoma City Thunder more competitive than expected, why Thunder point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander could be in the conversation for top 5 point guards of all-time if he wins this year's title and Finals MVP, and why rumors that the Lakers are hoping guard Bronny James -- son of LeBron -- can be in their playing rotation next season has to happen -- for Bronny's sake.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the danger of anointing young NBA stars as can't-miss future champions or league MVPs as illustrated by the current projections for, and analysis of, Anthony Edwards with the Minnesota Timberwolves.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses four topics: the differences between new and old media; what Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has that Anthony Edwards doesn't; Gilgeous-Alexander's label as a foul hunter; and former Nuggets head coach Mike Malone's prospects of landing another head-coaching job.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this four-topic episode, Ric discusses a manufactured story line for Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards, the unrealistic expectations Warriors fans had for Jimmy Butler, the misappropriation of the latest Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese conflict and the kibosh on small-market fans complaining the NBA favors big stars and big markets. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric dives into three current topics on the NBA landscape: remembrance of his personal experiences with Gregg Popovich, recently forced to step down after an extraordinary run as head coach of the San Antonio Spurs because of health issues; the debate over whether Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks would be best served continuing to join forces, and a disturbing secondary debate inspired by one of Ric's TV clips; and, finally, the question of why Luka Doncic's level of conditioning continues to be an issue. 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 involving the NBA playoffs: the many ways Jimmy Butler is indispensable for the Golden State Warriors, the overlooked excellence of the Orlando Magic's Paolo Banchero, the quizzically friendly banter between LeBron James and Anthony Edwards in the final minutes of a closely contested Game 3 and how a change in officiating has contributed to the most highly competitive and entertaining playoff series we've seen in years.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses recent comments by members of LeBron James' circle that devalue his supporting casts and examines Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison's responses in a recent no-camera, closed-door press conference to questions concerning the team's decision to deal franchise superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers at the February trade deadline. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the behind-the-scenes events that led to yet another NBA head coach, Mike Malone of the Denver Nuggets, unexpectedly being fired by a team on the cusp of going to the playoffs. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this latest edition of the Quad Shot, Ric presents why Denver Nuggets' center Nikola Jokic has less talent around him than LeBron James or Steph Curry; the astonishing lack of competitive fire being displayed by the Phoenix Suns; the process through which Golden State Warriors' coach Steve Kerr has built an undefeated starting lineup (and quieted his critics); and his request for help in reconciling recent head-scratching comments by LeBron James.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric interviews John Carter, CEO of Noah Basketball Technology, about the shooting technology used by 28 NBA teams and hundreds of college and university programs, including all four men's Final Four teams. The two discover that they have a host of similar connections in the basketball world and that Bucher -- and his collegiate basketball-playing daughter -- used prototype versions of Carter's technology without knowing it. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric digs into the reports detailing the Los Angeles Lakers' disenchantment with, and willingness to trade, Anthony Davis, as well as the arguments being made for and against the NBA's top two candidates for Most Valuable Player, Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic and Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the heated reaction to NBA teams resting their star players against certain opponents and whether there is merit to believing teams are intentionally trying to lose specific games against particular opponents. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the state of the defending champion Boston Celtics and the importance of Kristaps Porzingis, indications that Nikola Jokic's supporting cast with the Denver Nuggets has plateaued, new Los Angeles Laker Luka Doncic assuming the same form he had in Dallas and why the squabble between the Knicks swingman Mikal Bridges and coach Tom Thibodeau is not the mark of championship-caliber teams.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses what the recent battle between the Celtics and Lakers revealed about the two teams and weighs in on the soap opera involving ESPN host Stephen A. Smith, LeBron James and his son and teammate, Bronny James.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the multitude of disagreements over the NBA currently in vogue: who the greatest player is, the quality of the league and the way in which the league is covered.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric covers four of the NBA's hottest current storylines: why Jimmy Butler has had such a profound effect on the Warriors since being acquired from the Miami Heat; former NBA forward Channing Frye's assertion that nostalgia is why today's stars are viewed as inferior to their predecessors; how to view the Los Angeles Lakers' surprising, and dominating, win over the Denver Nuggets; and why the Knicks appear not to be living up to expectations this season. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses -- and challenges -- the criticism heaped upon last week's NBA All-Star Game and points to a much more glaring issue the league faces.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 about the focus and ambition of the NBA's newest media partners over All-Star Weekend and whether or not their actions reflect their proposed intentions.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric shares with his son, Mat, what league sources are saying about the Lakers rescinding their trade for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams after team doctors flagged his physical. Also discussed: the mindset of rookie Dalton Knecht returning to the Lakers after they were prepared to send him to Charlotte and how the winner of the Dallas Mavericks-Lakers trade involving Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis will be determined.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric examines trades made at the NBA deadline that involved the Cavs, Bucks, Lakers, Clippers and Warriors and breaks down the one that was second only to the Dallas Mavericks dealing Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers for shock value. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses why the Dallas Mavericks traded their 25-year-old Slovenian superstar, Luka Doncic, to the Los Angeles Lakers for All-Star center, Anthony Davis, without putting Doncic on the open market and the message that the Lakers sent their incumbent star, LeBron James, by making the deal. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the backlash from the media after rookie guard Bronny James, son of Lakers' star LeBron James, had a poor performance in his most extended playing time for the Lakers in a 118-104 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses the history of the NBA All-Star Game selection process, offers a way to ensure the most worthy players are chosen, gives the list of players he would invite to this year's All-Star Game and identifies the player he would be sorely disappointed if given All-Star recognition for a second time.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ric discusses Lakers coach JJ Redick's heartfelt account of his family's ordeal with the wildfire that turned their home and all of the Pacific Palisades to ashes and makes a compelling case as to why both the Philadelphia 76ers and their chronically injured center, Joel Embiid, would be best served by parting ways.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.