Bucher and Friends

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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


    • Jun 2, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 30m AVG DURATION
    • 548 EPISODES

    4.4 from 316 ratings Listeners of Bucher and Friends that love the show mention: ryan hollins, bazemore, knows how to get, credibility, nba, wade, lebron, always been a fan, bay area, rick, headlines, basketball, definitely one, player, regarding, great insights, sports, keep up the amazing, big fan, detail.


    Ivy Insights

    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.



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    Latest episodes from Bucher and Friends

    Ant Edwards is Being Robbed of What He Needs Most

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2025 22:21


    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.

    Quad Shot: New vs. Old Media, The Real Overrated Player, The Real Foul Merchant & Malone on the Mike

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 30:09


    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.

    Quad Shot: The False Ant Narrative, Unfounded Jimmy Criticism, Caitlin-Angel Misappropriation, Crushed Conspiracy Theory

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 29:03


    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.

    Triple Shot: Pop's Farewell, Giannis' Identity, Luka's Motivation

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 31:27


    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.

    Quad Shot: Why Jimmy is Indispensable, Paolo is Unappreciated, LeBron-Ant Laugh-fest was Confusing, Adam Silver Deserves Thanks

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2025 36:09


    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.

    The Latest Klutch Campaign and Assessing Nico's Press Conference

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2025 29:59


    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.

    The Mike Malone Firing: Why and Why Now

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 28:16


    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.

    Quad Shot: Jokic Deserves Better, Suns At Their Worst, Kerr The Maestro, Request for LeBron Fans

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2025 39:06


    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.

    The Man Behind The Shooting Prowess of Every Final Four Team

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 42:37


    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.

    Digging Deeper into the AD-Doncic Trade and the SGA-Joker MVP Debate

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 29:34


    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.

    Resting Stars to Lose: Legit Concern or Crazed Conspiracy Talk?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 27:03


    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.

    Quad Shot: Wobbly Celtics, Flat-lining Nuggets, Same Ol' Luka, Stubborn Thibs

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2025 27:29


    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.

    Takeaways from Lakers-Celtics Tilt and SAS-LeBron Squabble

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 23:05


    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.

    Why The NBA Inspires So Many Debates

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 25:40


    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.

    Quad Shot: Why Jimmy Buckets is a Great Fit, Nostalgia Catches a Stray, Lakers-Nuggets Takeaway, Knicks' Fatal Flaw

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 33:47


    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.

    A Much Bigger Concern than the NBA All-Star Game

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2025 35:35


    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.

    What the NBA and its Partners Say They Want (But Do They Really?)

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2025 33:28


    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.

    Theories On Why The Mark Williams Trade Failed

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 42:40


    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.

    The Second-Most Shocking Trade at the NBA Deadline

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2025 32:39


    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.

    The Luka-AD Trade: Why It Happened, What It Means

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 33:39


    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.

    Word to My Media Brethren: You Missed the Boat on Bronny

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 31, 2025 16:20


    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.

    The Biggest Fix Left for the NBA All-Star Game

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 28:58


    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.

    Time for the 76ers to Find an Embiid Exit Strategy

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 27:41


    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.

    Why Steph and the Warriors Are Where They Are

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2025 30:39


    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.

    Quad Shot: Melo's Value, Kings' Surge, Wemby's Defense, Cade's Ascension

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 33:22


    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.

    Quad Shot: PG Exorcising, JJ-Barkley Beefing, Kings Surging, Cavs-Thunder Entertaining

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 10, 2025 32:24


    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.

    Jimmy Butler and the Heat: Why We're Here, What It Means

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2025 31:24


    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.

    Quad Shot: What Finney-Smith Brings, Must-See Magic Stretch, Spinning In Sac, Liking The Dust-ups

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2025 27:50


    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.

    Mike Brown Pulled the Pin, Should the Rockets for De'Aaron Fox?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2024 29:48


    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.

    Holiday Episode with a Special Guest

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2024 38:56


    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.

    Solving The NBA Three-Point Shot Obsession

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2024 30:20


    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.

    Why Zion May Be A Better Bargain Than BI

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2024 26:05


    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.

    Quad Shot: Caitlin Clark Dances, Steph Struggles, NBA Inertia, NBA Cup Value

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2024 33:57


    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.

    The Biggest Reason NBA Ratings Are Down

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2024 29:05


    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.

    The Conundrum That Is Trae Young

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2024 22:13


    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.

    Quad Shot: Hope for an NBA Reversion, Ja Pivots, Four-Letter Fabrication, Jokic's New Weapon

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 40:57


    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.

    What Warriors' and Lakers' Fans Should Be Rooting For

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 8, 2024 30:39


    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.

    What We've Learned (So Far) About The 2024 NBA Draft Class

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2024 26:59


    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.

    Quad Shot: Ant's Rant, LeBron Breaking Even, Lue's Mastery, All-Star Game Preview

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 32:42


    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.

    The 76ers' Problems Go Well Beyond Injuries

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 24:56


    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.

    Quad Shot: Tatum's Realization, Wemby Timeline, Lee-LaMelo, Latest Caitlin Controversy

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2024 30:36


    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.

    What to Make of the Cavs' Historic Start

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2024 23:37


    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.

    Sizing Up A Potential Battle For Giannis

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2024 30:08


    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.

    Quad Shot: Splash Brothers Collide, Grizzly Feel-Goods, LeBron Hype, Motor City Secret

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2024 27:58


    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.

    The Knicks: What is Wrong and Is It Fixable

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 37:41


    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.

    Are the Warriors Title Contenders Once More?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2024 23:40


    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.

    Quad Shot: Jokic-Towns, JJ's Reality, Kerr's Magic, Bronny Plan

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2024 33:07


    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.

    Who is in Bigger Trouble, Bucks or Nuggets?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 37:38


    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.

    Lonzo and Giannis, Both Breaking New Ground

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2024 20:34


    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.

    The Danger of Playing by Numbers

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2024 24:24


    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.

    The Early Returns on JJ Redick

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 28:22


    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.

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