Wine and Gold Talk Podcast

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor delve into whether the Cavaliers should recenter their rotations around Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley. This pairing served as last season's most reliable blueprint. The conversation explores why Mitchell–Mobley minutes continue to show the clearest path to stability, what went missing when their partnership drifted this season, and how recalibrating the rotation around their two-man actions could restore the offensive flow and defensive backbone the Cavs lack. They also examine Mobley's responsibility in this equation — his aggression, his tone-setting, and why Cleveland's ceiling rises and falls with his ability to assert himself for full games rather than brief bursts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins dig into the Cavs' 126–113 loss to the Raptors — a game that exposed more than just tired legs on a back-to-back. The guys explore the growing gap between who the Cavs say they want to be and the habits they keep falling back into. They break down the lack of competitive fire, concerning nights from Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, and the identity cracks that keep resurfacing for a team with championship expectations. Mindset. Accountability. Are the Cavs actually building toward a deep playoff run, or quietly drifting away from contender principles? Ethan and Jimmy debate it all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor dive into how the Cavaliers depleted roster pulled off an unlikely win in Miami. With five key players sidelined, Cleveland leaned on its depth as Jarrett Allen anchored the defense and Craig Porter Jr. delivered a historic night. The conversation explores how the bench's breakout performance could reshape Kenny Atkinson's rotation decisions, build long-term trust down the lineup, and reveal the team's evolving identity under adversity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this 'Hey, Chris!' rendition of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor answer questions from subtext subscribers and fans about Darius Garland's toe injury, defensive lapses and more. The bigger story? The Cavs are playing the long game, focusing on playoff readiness over November wins, a strategy that's already stirring debates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor break down the Cleveland Cavaliers' 140-138 overtime loss to the Miami Heat. The primary focus is the re-injury of Darius Garland's left big toe and the concern within the organization about his recovery. The discussion also covers questionable officiating that led to Kenny Atkinson's ejection, the team's offensive struggles to drive to the basket, and a critique of late-game coaching decisions, particularly the minimal fourth-quarter minutes for center Jarrett Allen and the inconsistent aggression of Evan Mobley. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands breaks down the Cavs' 128–122 comeback victory over the Chicago Bulls. Sands dives into how the Cavs kept their composure in a foul-heavy, physical game, what this performance says about their early-season growth, and provides key injury updates on Garland, Larry Nance Jr., and Max Strus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins answer questions from subtext subscribers, discussing the emergence of Jaylon Tyson and Sam Merrill and how their early-season impact has deepened Cleveland's rotation — and raised new questions about it. With contributors stepping into bigger roles, the crew debates whether anyone, including Max Strus or Dean Wade, could find themselves on the chopping block. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down why no defense is safe against the Cavaliers' recharged backcourt. They discuss Darius Garland's return, Donovan Mitchell's effortless 46-point performance, and how the team's returning offensive rhythm is revitalizing Cleveland's attack. The trio also spotlight Jarrett Allen's toughness, Sam Merrill's spark, and the nostalgic buzz from the Cavs' classic jerseys at Rocket Arena. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor break down the latest on Darius Garland's status as the Cavaliers' All-Star guard inches closer to returning from offseason toe surgery. The hosts dive into his recovery progress, the likelihood of a minutes restriction, and what it really means to be healthy versus game-ready. They also explore how Garland's pace, playmaking, and control could rejuvenate a Cleveland offense that's struggled to find rhythm without him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor break down the Cavaliers' 117-109 win over the Hawks. Another night Donovan Mitchell had to save them. His “superhero” return masked a team firing up 57 threes and still searching for an offensive rhythm without Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen. The guys question how long Cleveland can lean on Mitchell's heroics and chaos from deep because this version of Cavs basketball isn't built to last. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Wine and Gold Talk, Ethan Sands dives into De'Andre Hunter's growth as a creator, particularly with the backcourt shorthanded. The 112–101 loss to Toronto revealed both the team's resilience and its lingering issues but also offered valuable learning moments for players stepping into larger roles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the spirit of Halloween, the latest episode of the Wine and Gold Talk Podcast dives into whether the Cavs have enough edge or if they're still too friendly to strike fear in opponents. Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor break down the team's missing enforcer presence and the need for certain players to show a little more selfishness as they debate what it'll take to turn this talented roster into a tougher, more ruthless version of itself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor dive into the Cavaliers' 125-105 loss to Boston and what it revealed. From Cleveland's mounting rebounding crisis to Evan Mobley's uneven offensive evolution, the hosts break down the Cavs' early-season struggles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, host Ethan Sands is joined by Omari Sankofa II of the Detroit Free Press to discuss the Cavaliers' win over the Pistons. They dig into how Cleveland's defense while delving into the rise of full-court pressure defenses and whether the NBA should shorten its 82-game schedule. Sankofa also offers an insider's look at Detroit's rebuild and the Eastern Conference playoff landscape ahead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor break down the Cavaliers' 118-113 home-opening win against the Milwaukee Bucks. The central theme of their discussion is the team's increased focus on accountability, starting with Kenny Atkinson setting a tone in training camp. They also touch on the team's improved depth, versatility in lineups, and new offensive wrinkles that will allow them to counter opposing defenses' adjustments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, host Ethan Sands breaks down the Cavaliers' first win of the season over the Brooklyn Nets. Sands dives into Cleveland's recurring habit of building big leads, then letting teams back in. He highlights the positives — a free-flowing offense and Donovan Mitchell's poised efficiency — while calling out defensive lapses and rebounding concerns. The podcast evaluates individual performances while emphasizing the central theme that the Cavs must build championship habits and play with conviction for all 48 minutes to have success late into the postseason. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins break down why the Cavaliers' offense looked disjointed and overly isolation-heavy in their season-opening loss to New York — a far cry from the motion-based system they've been preaching. The crew also dives into Cleveland's defensive lapses on the perimeter and whether early-season workloads for the stars are cause for concern. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor break down the Cleveland Cavaliers' 119-111 season-opening loss to the New York Knicks. They discuss how the team's familiar struggles with physicality and rebounding resurfaced, particularly criticizing Jarrett Allen's performance. The conversation also focuses on the team's offensive "growing pains" due to injuries and the challenge of finding a balance between an Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell led offense. Despite the loss, they note it's only the first game and that facing adversity early could be beneficial for the team's development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins preview the Cavs' season opener against the New York Knicks, focusing on the significant injuries impacting both teams. They then offer their season predictions, differing on the Cavaliers' playoff fate and debating whether the team has overcome its past postseason struggles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins dive into the Cavs' injury concerns heading into their season opener at Madison Square Garden. With Darius Garland unlikely to suit up and De'Andre Hunter's status still in question, the crew breaks down what Cleveland's rotation could look like and who might seize the opportunity to start on opening night. They also share bold thoughts on what to expect from Donovan Mitchell and the rest of the Eastern Conference once the season tips off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins delve into the complexities of teaching and executing shooting in the NBA, using the Cleveland Cavaliers as a primary focus. They discuss how shooting is a highly individualized skill, influenced by mechanics, mentality, and confidence. They also explore the difference between raw repetition and situational practice, the teachability of touch, and ultimately conclude that confidence is the most crucial, and fragile, component of a successful shooter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins focus on the Cavs' bench depth and offensive strategy. The conversation also covers concerns about the team's 3-point shooting consistency, the potential for high turnovers in their fast-paced offense, and the uncertain contract situation of forward Dean Wade, who may be auditioning for other teams this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor break down their takeaways from the Cavaliers' preseason finale against the Detroit Pistons. They discuss the established starting lineup and rotation experiments, particularly the impact of new acquisition Lonzo Ball, whose high basketball IQ and passing ability are seen as crucial assets. The conversation also highlights the important role of Dean Wade, the team's efforts to boost his confidence, and the necessity for him to be an offensive contributor. Finally, they analyze the team's defensive identity and potential, noting that the absence of Darius Garland allows for larger, more versatile lineups that could elevate the Cavs into a top-tier defensive unit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins discuss the ongoing speculation surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo's future in Milwaukee and how it reflects a broader NBA trend of teams monitoring potentially disgruntled stars. This conversation transitions to the Cleveland Cavaliers' own roster management challenges, focusing on the possibility of trading center Jarrett Allen. The potential move is linked to the development of Evan Mobley, who is looking more prepared to play the center position, and the team's looming financial constraints under the new salary cap rules. The discussion also explores how frontcourt additions like Larry Nance Jr. and Thomas Bryant could provide the Cavs with flexibility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down the Cleveland Cavaliers' 118-117 preseason loss to the Chicago Bulls, and what it revealed about the team's backcourt opportunities. The trio dives into how Craig Porter Jr., Tyrese Proctor and Jaylon Tyson are each making their case for playing time, and why their early-season performances could shape Kenny Atkinson's trust — and the Cavs' rotations — as the year unfolds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins discuss the upcoming preseason game for the Cleveland Cavaliers against the Chicago Bulls. They explore tactical tweaks for the upcoming season, particularly focusing on Evan Mobley's evolving role and the impact of Lonzo Ball on the offense. The conversation also touches on LeBron James' recent cryptic announcement and its implications for his legacy and the Cavs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' training camp, delving into the value of preseason for observing coaching strategy rather than game outcomes, and the challenge of replacing Ty Jerome's bench production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins give their takeaways from the first day of the Cleveland Cavaliers' training camp. The session was light, but key themes emerged for the upcoming season. A major focus is the expanded role for De'Andre Hunter, the team emphasizing a faster offensive pace, implementing specific drills to improve transition play. They anticipate a more versatile and less predictable offense under coach Kenny Atkinson, who is reportedly excited to experiment with new lineups and player skill sets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins discuss what they learned from Cavs Media Day on Monday before heading to IMG Academy in Florida. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor discuss recent Cavs roster moves ahead of training camp, including the signing of Thomas Bryant and the Cleveland Charge's trade for Killian Hayes. The conversation also focuses on internal player development, highlighting how Cleveland will look to utilize Jaylon Tyson in the coming season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk Podcast, host Ethan Sands, along with Cleveland.com's Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins, discuss the latest updates on the Cleveland Cavaliers as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season. Key topics include Darius Garland's recovery from injury, the team's roster evaluation, the importance of defensive identity, and the impact of new acquisitions like Lonzo Ball and Thomas Bryant. The conversation also delves into the development of Evan Mobley and the crucial role of Jarrett Allen in the team's success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, hosts Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins take a nostalgic look at the "hoop mixtape" era of the 2000s and early 2010s. They discuss how the raw, unpolished highlight videos of high school basketball prospects have been replaced by more professional, highly-produced content, which they feel lacks authenticity. The hosts then each reveal and debate their personal top five lists of the greatest high school basketball mixtapes of all time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' offseason preparations and expectations for the upcoming season. They highlight the significance of two player-led minicamps most recently in New York. The conversation then shifts to the formula for success, debating the roles of Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley, and the potential for either Mitchell or Mobley to enter the MVP conversation. A central theme is the consensus that the regular season will mean little, as the team's ultimate success will be judged solely on their ability to make a deep playoff run, with a conference finals appearance seen as the bare minimum. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the mounting pressures on NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. They critique Silver's recent comments about the high cost of watching games and his suggestion that fans can consume the league through highlights, which they view as tone-deaf. They also compare Silver's leadership style to that of his predecessor, David Stern. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, hosts Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss listener questions regarding the Cleveland Cavaliers. The primary topics are the health of newcomer Lonzo Ball and the specific goals for head coach Kenny Atkinson's second season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins answer Subtext subscriber questions about the Cavs. The conversation delves into the team's defense, concluding that a return to a top-tier defensive identity relies on both player effort and, more importantly, a top-down organizational philosophy that prioritizes defensive-minded lineups and personnel, a shift they believe is reflected in recent offseason acquisitions. The hosts also debate whether mentorship from a quiet but dominant player like Tim Duncan or an intense competitor like Kevin Garnett would be more beneficial to helping Cleveland's soft-spoken front court develop a more aggressive playoff mentality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the career of Cavs star Donovan Mitchell as he turns 29. They analyze his impressive individual accolades against his lack of significant team playoff success, framing his career as being at a critical crossroads. The conversation delves into his upcoming contract extension, questioning whether he holds all the power and if the Cavaliers should risk a massive long-term deal. They debate whether Mitchell is a true number-one option on a championship team or an elite second option, comparing his career trajectory to that of Carmelo Anthony. Ultimately, they conclude that the next two seasons are pivotal for Mitchell's legacy and the future of the Cavaliers franchise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the importance of locker room leadership, particularly from players who aren't superstars. They debate a hypothetical future decision for the Cavaliers between keeping Max Strus for his cultural impact or De'Andre Hunter for his on-court talent. The conversation identifies Donovan Mitchell as the team's clear leader, while questioning the leadership roles of other players like Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley, suggesting there is an "open conversation" about who will step up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins delve into the impact of early season injuries on the Cavs. With key players out, the focus shifts to how head coach Kenny Atkinson might adjust the team's strategy, potentially leaning more on De'Andre Hunter and Evan Mobley. Discover how these changes could influence the Cavs' offensive dynamics and the early opportunities that could shape playoff decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins delve into the dynamics of the Cavs' frontcourt, focusing on the gentle giant personas of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley. Can the Cavs overcome the challenges posed by their big men's demeanor, or will Allen and Mobley break out of their shells to lead the team to victory? Tune in for an in-depth analysis of what it takes to transform potential into playoff triumph. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cavs' two-way players Nae'Qwan Tomlin and Luke Travers. They explore the importance of G League performance, the balance between NBA and G League opportunities, and the challenges of shooting confidence for young players. The conversation also highlights Jaylon Tyson's potential role in the upcoming season and the implications of the Cavs' draft strategy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' roster decisions, focusing on the implications of injuries and player development. They analyze the Cavs' choice not to sign Ty Jerome, the opportunities for Jaylon Tyson and Tyrese Proctor, and the importance of Craig Porter Jr.'s work ethic. The conversation highlights how injuries can create unexpected opportunities for players and the overall dynamics within the team as they prepare for the upcoming season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins discuss the impact of Max Strus's injury on the Cleveland Cavaliers' upcoming season. They explore the team's depth and resilience, potential lineup changes, and the roles of Dean Wade, Sam Merrill and De'Andre Hunter. The conversation also delves into the Cavs' focus on reclaiming their defensive identity and the strategic adjustments they may need to make without key players. Overall, the episode highlights the challenges and opportunities facing the Cavs as they prepare for the season ahead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins discuss the implications of Malik Beasley's free agency situation, his potential fit with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the dynamics of the NBA market. They explore the Cavs' interest in Beasley, the challenges he faces due to off-court issues, and how his addition could impact team culture and performance. The conversation also touches on the comparison between Beasley and Sam Merrill, the Cavs' current roster dynamics, and the potential implications for the Detroit Pistons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices