The JJ Redick Podcast

The Celtics stay alive, and Verno and KOC discuss how they blew out the Heat to remain in the Eastern Conference finals (01:05). No one believes LeBron James is going to retire, but the news of his injury will definitely affect how the Lakers will handle the upcoming offseason and will determine how they keep LeBron healthy deep into the playoffs (29:30). Next, the guys discuss the latest head-coaching rumors and debate what type of coach would best utilize Joel Embiid's talents (37:36). Also, the NBA is finally looking into penalizing flopping, and the guys discuss Ja Morant's cryptic Instagram post (56:35). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC congratulate Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets for sweeping the Lakers en route to their first-ever NBA Finals appearance (01:18). LeBron James had another amazing night in the loss, as the guys debate the Lakers' future after getting swept (21:27). Will Kyrie Irving be a Laker? Next, the guys discuss how the Heat are just one win away from another NBA Finals berth with Jimmy Butler, and how Tyler Herro's injury was actually beneficial to their remarkable run (37:52). Also, KOC shares why the Celtics need to let Joe Mazzulla go (53:07). Lastly, the guys discuss the latest head coaching rumors and Carmelo Anthony's retirement (01:12:36). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC are back after an exciting, if not floppy, Game 2 of the Western Conference finals, in which Jamal Murray's monster fourth quarter put the Nuggets up 2-0 on the Lakers (1:00). Then, they talk about the Cinderella Heat stealing Game 1 in Boston (37:40), and how they're feeling after the NBA draft lottery (58:39). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC are back on a rare day without basketball during these 2023 NBA playoffs. They start off with Jayson Tatum's incredible signature performance to take out the 76ers (0:56) and what the 76ers might do next after going out in such a sad way (10:00). Then, they move on to the matchup between the Celtics and the Heat in the Eastern Conference finals (25:10), the Lakers routing the Warriors in Game 6 (36:05), the future of the Phoenix Suns after firing Monty Williams (43:00), their Finals predictions (50:30), and the new video of Ja Morant that surfaced (52:48). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC are back talking about the Nuggets egregiously embarrassing the Suns in front of their own fans to win the series 4-2 (0:45) and the Celtics eking out a win on the road in Game 6 against the 76ers with a huge fourth quarter from Jayson Tatum (19:35). Then they preview Game 6 of the Warriors-Lakers series (42:48) and Game 6 of the Heat-Knicks series (1:05:55). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC react to a wild Game 4 that saw Lonnie Walker IV explode in the fourth quarter to help the Lakers take the victory and a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Warriors (01:05). The Heat also take a 3-1 series lead as they continue to beat up on the Knicks (26:13). Next, the guys dive into Sunday's slate of games, starting with the Nuggets and Suns (40:32). They gush over Devin Booker's ridiculous playoff run and debate whether Chris Paul should come off the bench when (or if) he returns. After discussing the Mat Ishbia-Nikola Jokic incident, the guys dive into the 76ers-Celtics series (01:02:10). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC come together after Tristan Thompson takes the court once again in the blowout Lakers-Warriors Game 2 to parse through the Warriors' stellar adjustments, Klay Thompson's unbelievable performance, and how the Lakers may be able to answer in Game 3 (1:00). Then they discuss the Bucks' firing of coach Mike Budenholzer and whether there can be truly great coaches with longevity in the NBA anymore (28:38), the Nuggets' thrashing of the Suns in Game 2 (42:30), Joel Embiid's return in a Game 2 loss against the Celtics (52:30), and a Jimmy Butler–less Game 2 of Heat-Knicks (1:00:48). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producers: Sasha Ashall and Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC recap the exciting Game 1 that saw the 76ers beat the Celtics and take a 1-0 series lead (00:59). The outlook of the series will completely change if James Harden continues to play this way, and that's with or without a fully healthy Joel Embiid. They next discuss the absolutely incredible performance by Steph Curry to help the Warriors eliminate the Kings and move on to face the Lakers (18:41). Verno opens up after his Grizzlies get embarrassingly eliminated from the playoffs, and he discusses their future (33:32). Also, they discuss how the Heat went from nearly missing the playoffs completely to being up 1-0 on the Knicks in the second round (48:28). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC begin the episode by recapping the Celtics' series win over the Hawks (01:57). Will this type of competitiveness remain for their series between the 76ers? The Bucks got eliminated by the Heat after a master-class offensive performance by Jimmy Butler and several head coaching blunders by Mike Budenholzer (14:50). The guys discuss Bud's future with the Bucks and debate whether Giannis should be held more accountable after his terrible fourth quarter. After an impressive first-round showing by the Knicks, the guys are excited to watch them take on the Heat in the second round (45:10). Can the Knicks make it to the East finals? They also preview the Game 6 matchups in Kings–Warriors and Lakers-Grizzlies as well as the second-round series between the Suns and Nuggets (51:41). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Lakers win game 4 and take a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Grizzlies as Verno and KOC recap the Lakers overtime win (01:06). The guys discuss t he unbelievable performance that Jimmy Butler had as the Heat took down the Bucks and a returning Giannis to also take a 3-1 series lead (23:44). Despite sweeping the Nets, the 76ers still don't look impressive when compared to their next potential playoff opponent, the Celtics (43:10). The Timberwolves avoided a sweep against the Nuggets thanks to the efforts of Anthony Brown as the guys rave about Ant's performance as well as the T-Wolves future with him as the focal point (53:39). Next, the guys discuss how the Knicks are exploiting the Cav's weakness en route to a 3-1 series lead (01:03:00). The Kings missed their opportunity to take a 3-1 series lead against the Warriors over the weekend and now have to deal with an injury to De'Aaron Fox (01:12:58). Also, the guys last congratulate Lauri Markkanen for winning this year's Most Improved Player award and discuss the Rockets hiring of Ime Udoka (01:23:59). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fresh off the Grizzlies' Game 2 victory over the Lakers, Verno and KOC discuss how the Grizz were able to tie up the series despite not having Ja Morant (01:19). They move on to the teams in the East, as they discuss the Bucks bouncing back against the Heat while still being without Giannis, Trae Young's playoff inefficiency, and why Caris LeVert is a luxury for the Cavs against the Knicks (20:03). After the Suns tied up their series against the Clippers, the guys agree that this matchup will be more fun than anyone could have expected (36:53). Also, the guys debate whether the NBA made the right decision in suspending Draymond Green and briefly touch upon the Nuggets taking a 2-0 series lead over the Timberwolves (45:26). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC recap a wild Game 2, which saw the Kings go up 2-0 on the Warriors (01:27). Regardless of where the Kings finish, their fans finally have a legit team they can root for. After career games from Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves, the Lakers took Game 1 over Verno's Grizzlies (24:33). The guys discuss the impressive performance by the Clippers, who took down the Suns in their series opener, and why the Timberwolves are just no match for the Nuggets (41:43). In looking at the East matchups, KOC explains why Derrick White is making the biggest difference for the Celtics, before moving on to the Heat, who beat the Bucks without Giannis, as well as why they're excited to see the rest of the series between the Knicks and Cavs (55:30). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC go through the slate of play-in games we've seen this week, starting with the travesty that was Timberwolves-Lakers and what it could mean for the Wolves to lose to the Thunder (2:20), then moving on to Zion Williamson's uncertain future with the Pelicans after he sat on the sideline for their disappointing loss to the Thunder (13:00). Then they discuss whether the Lakers are good enough to best the Grizzlies in what should be a sizzling first-round matchup (42:10), before previewing Warriors-Kings (1:07:30), and giving their Finals predictions (1:17:00). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producers: Sasha Ashall and Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC begin the episode by discussing Rudy Gobert's suspension after throwing a punch at teammate Kyle Anderson (04:19). Will the Lakers make quick work of the T-Wolves in the midst of all this drama? They then move on to the other West play-in game between the Thunder and Pelicans (27:53). After debating the Clippers' chances against the Suns and the Nets' chances against the 76ers, the guys dive into the Hawks' future (36:12). Will Trae Young remain a Hawk after this offseason? Also, KOC shares his NBA awards ballot as well as his picks for all three All-NBA teams (58:28). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC go through the East and West standings and discuss the playoff matches that are set before debating whether the Suns with Kevin Durant are a team to be afraid of going into the postseason (02:08). They also debate what seeding the Warriors should be targeting (15:15). The Mavericks continue to show their dysfunction as an organization after Mark Cuban calls out Jalen Brunson's father during an impromptu press conference (32:26). This offseason is pivotal for the Mavs as they try to rebuild the team into a championship contender around Luka Doncic. Next, KOC shares who he has listed in his awards ballot going into the final weekend of the regular season and talks about the debut of his new show on FanDuel TV, ‘Beyond the Arc' (54:24). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Entering the final week of the season, Verno and KOC go through the possible playoff scenarios and debate which first-round series would be the most entertaining (01:36). While discussing the teams jockeying for playoff seeding, KOC tries to convince Verno about a different incentive for the top seeds in each conference (12:27). Next, the guys completely gush over the latest Victor Wembanyama viral highlight of his putback dunk off his own missed step-back shot from the 3-point line (34:37). Also, they dive into the new CBA that was completed just before the deadline (45:13). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After being disappointed by last night's Bucks-Celtics game, Verno and KOC decide to play a round of everyone's favorite game: That's True, That Might Be True, or That's Ridiculous! They begin with the Celtics blowout win and debate if there's any significance to the loss for the Bucks (05:03). With the latest MVP straw poll released, the guys discuss if the MVP will be decided on the last week of the season, then debate if the league is showing disrespect to the Kings after clinching a playoff spot (22:02). As the Lakers continue to rise up the standings, are they more dangerous than the Warriors in the playoffs (33:54)? How about the Timberwolves? Also, they debate if Jaylin Williams can upset Paolo Banchero as Rookie of the Year, run through the latest inductees to the Basketball Hall of Fame, and so much more (45:26). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC share their complete displeasure with the decision to sit Joel Embiid against the Nuggets, robbing us of the chance to watch him play against fellow MVP candidate Nikola Jokic (01:18). Next, LeBron James made his return to the court Sunday afternoon, but it was Patrick Beverley who had the last laugh (11:31). The guys debate what the best moves are for the Mavs' future to ensure Luka Doncic has all the help he desperately needs as they continue to struggle since acquiring Kyrie Irving (21:59). The Timberwolves are on a three-game winning streak, and the guys discuss Mike Conley's influence as well as Karl-Anthony Towns's impact since returning from injury (38:03). Also, Kevin Durant's return for the Suns, the Blazers shutting down Damian Lillard, Brandon Miller versus Scoot Henderson, and a brief look at the Final Four (46:50). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

In front of a sold-out crowd, Verno and KOC headline the New Daisy Theatre located on the world-famous Beale Street in Memphis! However, the guys are not alone, as The Ringer's Joe House joins the show, as well as some surprise guests from the Grizzlies. The first surprise was David Roddy. The guys discuss his progress in his rookie season; playing for the Grizzlies G League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle; as well as the team identity that the Grizz seem to be building. The second surprise was Jaren Jackson Jr. They discuss his hot streak, playing with Dillon Brooks, his relationship with the referees, and the desire to win Defensive Player of the Year. Also, the guys debate which teams in each conference have a true chance at winning it all. Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Guests: Joe House, David Roddy, and Jaren Jackson Jr. Producers: Jessie Lopez, Elizabeth Fierman, and Ben Cruz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

Verno and KOC discuss last night's Grizzlies rout over the Warriors, whose season-long struggles on the road continue (04:35). If the Warriors don't fix their road woes, they are in danger of missing the playoffs altogether. The guys also debate how the Suns will fare after the Kevin Durant injury (15:44). Plus, the hope for a Zion Williamson return this season is in doubt once again as the Pelicans announced he will be out for at least another two weeks (33:13). Despite being without LeBron James, the Lakers are rising up the standings as Anthony Davis and the rest of the solid core continues to step up in their playoff push (39:10). Also, the guys discuss why this season is a "prove it" year for Nikola Jokic, Fred VanVleet calling out the refs, Dillon Brooks, and Lonzo Ball's latest setback with his knee (52:28). *The ‘Mismatch' is coming to Memphis for a live show at the New Daisy Theatre on March 21st! Get your tickets here!* Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC take over El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles for their first live show! And they're not alone, as The Ringer's own Sean Fennessey, Chris Ryan, and Tate Frasier join in on the fun. They discuss all the hottest topics in basketball, from Ja Morant to the surging Knicks and James Harden to the best college prospects to keep an eye out for during March Madness. Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Guests: Sean Fennessey, Chris Ryan, and Tate Frazier Producers: Jessie Lopez, Elizabeth Fierman, and Ben Cruz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ahead of Monday's live show in Los Angeles, Verno and KOC announce another live show! This time in Verno's town of Memphis, Tennessee, on March 21! After announcing the Memphis show, they move on to last night's Mavs win over the 76ers (07:56). The guys discuss Giannis's dominance during the Bucks' 16-game winning streak, which shows why they deserve to be the title favorites (21:20). Speaking of winning streaks, the guys discuss the Knicks' seven-game win streak and Jalen Brunson's insane run (27:17). Also, they discuss the Washington Post story around Ja Morant, Kevin Durant's debut with the Suns, as well as looking at the Clippers' and Warriors' schedules down the stretch (36:35).  *'The Mismatch' is coming to Los Angeles for a live show at the El Rey Theatre on March 6! Get your tickets here!* Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC discuss nine things that have happened since returning from the All-Star break, beginning with the breaking news of LeBron James's injury that will reportedly keep him out indefinitely (04:37). They then move on to discuss the 76ers-Heat game from last night before Verno shares why he's coming around to the Knicks (13:53). After looking at Damian Lillard's 71-point game, the guys discuss the record-breaking amount of offense this season and debate how long it will be before someone scores 100 again (25:02). Also, they discuss LaMelo Ball's injury, Quin Snyder, the progressing talks of a new CBA deal, and seeing Scoot Henderson in person (50:17). *'The Mismatch' is coming to Los Angeles for a live show at the El Rey Theatre on March 6! Get your tickets here!* Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC begin with the announcement of their first ever live show in Los Angeles (00:53)! They then discuss this weekend's All-Star festivities before diving into the low TV ratings (08:36). After the Hawks let go of Nate McMillan, the pressure is all on Trae Young to make it work or likely be the next one on his way out in Atlanta (27:46). Next, the guys discuss eight story lines to follow when the season resumes on Thursday. Some of the story lines include debating which teams in the crowded West will make it to the postseason (35:37), discussing the transactions made in the buy-out market (46:39), how will the final stretch of games impact the MVP voting (56:43), how important the top seed is to the Bucks (01:03:06), and so much more. *The MisMatch is coming to Los Angeles for their first ever live show! Get your tickets here!* Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ahead of this weekend's All-Star festivities, Verno and KOC play a round of everyone's favorite game: That's True, That Might be True, That's Ridiculous (10:46). They discuss Tim Bontemps's MVP straw poll, whether Kyrie Irving will be only a rental with the Mavs, which team is the best fit for Russell Westbrook, if Scoot Henderson locked in as the no. 2 pick for this year's draft, and so much more. Also, before ending the show, the guys look at the pool of All-Stars and draft their team (01:05:10). *‘The Ringer NBA' squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!* Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC discuss their first impressions on some of the traded players from last week's deadline, beginning in Dallas with Kyrie Irving and their loss to the Timberwolves (04:46). It's hard to believe the Mavs are true contenders with all the issues they have, including their lack of defense. In moving on to the Lakers, they discuss last night's blowout loss to the Blazers, talk about LeBron's strange injury, and debate what is really going on with Anthony Davis (15:29). They discuss the debut of Jalen McDaniels with the 76ers and Josh Hart with the Knicks before diving into Jalen Brunson's rising star power and Jacque Vaughn's comments about Ben Simmons (35:01). Also, the guys talk about the nearly nixed trade with the Warriors and Blazers centered on Gary Payton II's failed physical (48:45). *The Ringer NBA squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!* Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC react to all the trades made during what was a wild deadline, beginning with last night's blockbuster that sent Kevin Durant to the Suns (02:07). The Lakers finally traded away Russell Westbrook and are set to reunite with D'Angelo Russell; the guys discuss how the Lakers were able to land DLo as well as a handful of other young promising rotation players (23:36). Also, they talk about how the trade will affect the Timberwolves going forward (27:20). Finally they move on to the rest of the transactions made today, including Gary Payton back to the Warriors, Luke Kennard to the Grizzlies, Jae Crowder to the Bucks, and so much more (33:58). *The ‘Ringer NBA' squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!* Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC react to Kyrie Irving being dealt to the Mavs for Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, and a handful of picks (01:17). They debate Kyrie's fit with Luka Doncic and if defense will matter when playing them before focusing on Dorian Finney-Smith's and Spencer Dinwiddie's fits with the Nets. Also, why aren't the Nets done dealing, and what do the Mavs do with Christian Wood? The guys discuss the other reported Kyrie deals involving the Suns and Lakers (31:56). Lastly, they discuss why the buzz on Bojan Bogdanovic has died down before Verno addresses the incident involving a member of Ja Morant's crew, and they debate what Kevin Durant's next move could be (49:31). *The Ringer NBA squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!* Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Thursday's announcement of the NBA All-Star reserves, Verno and KOC discuss the players selected as well as all the snubs. They start in the East and debate whether Bam Adebayo's selection was the right choice, if Trae Young or James Harden should've been selected over DeMar DeRozan or Jrue Holiday, and talk about the joy for first-time All-Star Tyrese Haliburton (03:30). Over in the West, the guys discuss Damian Lillard's selection, question why Paul George was chosen over De'Aaron Fox or Ant Edwards, and more (21:18). With the NBA's trade deadline a week away, the guys debate whether this trade season will be an active one (47:06). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez *The Ringer NBA squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!*  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC begin the show discussing the fun game between the Kings and Timberwolves (01:15). They discuss how much fun a potential playoff match would be between the two teams and debate if the T-wolves' better play as of late will continue once Karl-Anthony Towns returns. The Magic are showing glimpses of becoming something special, and Bennedict Mathurin is making his case for Rookie of the Year as well as Sixth Man of the Year (11:40). Also, the guys look back at some of the story lines that happened over the weekend, including the missed foul call on LeBron James (27:35), Jaren Jackson Jr.'s Reddit controversy (41:55), Joel Embiid vs. Nikola Jokic (51:44), and Giannis Antetokounmpo scoring 50 points in 30 minutes (56:53). They wrap up the episode with the latest trade rumors (01:03:00). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez *The Ringer NBA squad is coming to Salt Lake City for NBA All-Star Weekend! Get your tickets here!* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

Verno and KOC open the show by discussing Thursday's NBA Finals rematch between the Warriors and Celtics (01:16), which they agree had a playoff-like atmosphere. While discussing the game in Paris between the Bulls and Pistons, the guys talk about how the NBA has been promoting top prospect Victor Wembanyama, and how the league can attract a younger audience (12:28). After seeing the Cavs in person, Verno shares why he is a believer (25:35). Also, the guys discuss the latest round of injuries with Mitchell Robinson and Christian Wood (44:12). They end the show by discussing the debut of KOC's NBA Draft Guide (59:41). Check out KOC's NBA Draft Guide for all the latest prospect rankings! Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KOC congratulates Verno for his Grizzlies completely dominating the Bucks, 142-101, and taking over the 1-seed in the West (00:59 ). One of the reasons for the Grizz's blowout victory was Steven Adams's excellent defense against Giannis. fter the Jazz defeated the Pelicans in overtime, the guys discuss the lack of 3-point shooting from the Pels, Walker Kessler's impact, and how Mike Conley's playmaking ability is keeping the Jazz competitive (14:29). The guys debate how the Warriors will handle being without Steph Curry for the next few weeks (25:14). Are the Warriors now a play-in team? The Ringer's NBA Rankings were released earlier this week and the guys debate some of the players ranked and the issues they have with Tyler Parker's League Pass rankings (35:50). Check out The Ringer's NBA Rankings, ranking everything that matters in the NBA! Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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

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

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

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

With Thanksgiving this week, Verno and KOC each give five things they are thankful for this NBA season (06:15). Some of the things the guys are thankful for is Russell Westbrook accepting his bench role, the Spurs' tasteful tanking, the 'NBA on TNT' crew, Kevin Durant, and more. Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and KOC discuss the good and bad from the NBA this week, beginning with the amazing run that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is on before discussing the Suns, the Kings' resurgence in Sacramento, and the Knicks, who are starting to look better (02:17). The bad takes a look at two teams who have a single player carrying them: the Warriors with Steph Curry and the Nets with Kevin Durant (38:14). Hosts: Chris Vernon and Kevin O'Connor Producer: Jessie Lopez Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices