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In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk Podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins react to the Cavaliers' third straight loss to a sub-.500 team — their latest being a dispiriting showing against the Chicago Bulls on Friday night. The conversation centers on a team that looks increasingly disconnected, with a defense that can't sustain effort, possessions that die on the vine and an identity that remains undefined months into the season. The guys examine why Cleveland continues to lose the plot against lesser opponents, including uneven play from key rotation pieces like De'Andre Hunter and a growing list of questions surrounding Kenny Atkinson's in-game decisions. They also dig into the larger implications: whether the belief that carried last season's group has cracked, how fragile the current culture feels, and why the margin for patience is shrinking. With the Cavaliers carrying one of the league's most expensive payrolls, Dan Gilbert's reported dissatisfaction looms in the background — even as the reality of the CBA makes meaningful roster fixes far more complicated than they sound 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 Cavs' latest disappointing loss falling 127-111 to the struggling Chicago Bulls. Cleveland has tried nearly everything to snap out of its funk — player-led meetings, lineup tweaks and messaging shifts — yet the same issues persist on both ends of the floor. The conversation centers on a hard question the Cavs can no longer avoid: what evidence actually supports the “defense-first” label they continue to lean on? Sands and Fedor push back on comparisons to teams that eventually played their way out of early-season struggles and into deep playoff runs, noting that this Cleveland roster has yet to show it can consistently defend, let alone impose itself as an elite team. Until that proof shows up, the Cavs aren't unlucky or unfinished — they're unresolved. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Chris Fedor joined Baskin and Phelps to break down the Cavaliers' struggles so far this season and why he thinks the team is off until a slow start. He talked about what it will take for the Cavaliers to get back on track and if the championship is still in their sights. He also previewed the NBA Cup Finals and explained why he thinks the in-season tournament actually does matter to the players.
Hour 4 of Baskin and Phelps
In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor break down the Cleveland Cavaliers' narrow 130-126 win over the Washington Wizards and why it felt like a continuation of their inconsistency. Coming off a five-day break designed to clean up defensive issues, the Cavs instead delivered one of their sloppiest performances of the season, leaning on yet another superhero effort from Donovan Mitchell just to escape with a win. The conversation also dives into coaching decisions that are becoming increasingly questionable — and what it all says about Cleveland's standards moving forward. 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 why the Cavs' final 10 games before the New Year represent Cleveland's first real adversity check. Coming off a five-day break filled with pointed film sessions, blunt messaging and a renewed emphasis on accountability, the Cavs now face a six-game run against sub-.500 opponents followed by four tougher matchups to close out December. The duo digs into what this stretch means for a group that has spent the season talking about mental toughness and maturity — and why those themes will finally be tested in real time. They discuss the latest on Darius Garland's toe, how Kenny Atkinson is challenging the roster, especially Evan Mobley, and what responding to early-season adversity would reveal about the team's mental growth. 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 performance and perception of the Cleveland Cavaliers' front office. They begin by analyzing the on-court impact of losing Ty Jerome's bench scoring and Isaac Okoro's point-of-attack defense, noting how the front office has found capable, low-cost replacements like Jaylon Tyson and Craig Porter Jr. The conversation then shifts to a survey by The Athletic that ranked all NBA front offices. Finally, they touch on the future of the team, questioning if younger stars like Evan Mobley and Darius Garland are on the same championship timeline as Donovan Mitchell, which could complicate future contract decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On The Kenny & JT Show we're joined by Chris Fedor, Cleveland Cavaliers beat writer at Cleveland.com. We discuss the layoff this week and what the Cavs are working on to get out of their slump, the players only meeting, and more...
Bloomdaddy talks to Senator Ted Cruz, Chris Fedor on the Cavs, Rob Walgate on politics, Jimmy Watkins and also celebrates the news of Paul Hoynes winning the 2026 BBWAA Career Excellence award.
The Cavs' 99-94 loss to an injury-ravaged Warriors team on Saturday sparked one of the sharpest debates between host Ethan Sands and Cavs beat reporter Chris Fedor on the Wine and Gold Talk podcast. To Sands, the night felt more like cold shooting than collapse. But when Chris Fedor weighed in, the tone shifted, and the conversation spiraled into a deeper examination of Cleveland's 11 losses and which one has truly defined their season so far. Was this just a blip on a back-to-back or the biggest warning sign yet? The answers aren't simple, but the debate might reveal more about where the Cavs are headed than the box score ever could. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ken Carman and Anthony Lima react to Chris Fedor's comments on Evan Mobley and the Cleveland Cavaliers' sluggish start to the season.
Chris Fedor joined Nick and Jonathan on Afternoon Drive to break down why the Cavaliers have been struggling so much despite how well Donovan Mitchell has been playing, and what he thinks the team needs to do in order to become legitimate championship contenders.
Nick and Jonathan share their takeaways from their conversation with Chris Fedor and talk about why they think the Cavaliers look to be so out of sync.
Nick and Jonathan react to their conversation with Chris Fedor by talking about Evan Mobley's offensive development. Then, they're joined by Pete Fiutak of College Football News, and they revisit Wyat Teller's odd situation with the Browns.
Nick and Jonathan are joined by Joshua Perry, NBC Sports analyst and former Buckeye. Also, they react to Jeremy Fowler's notes about Kevin Stefanski's future in Cleveland, and they're joined by Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com.
In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor react to the Cavs' 10th loss of the season, digging into the latest setback and examining the patterns that keep resurfacing — from the team's lack of a consistent identity to the lapses in transition defense and physicality. They discuss the Cavs' overwhelming dependence on Donovan Mitchell, the uneven play from the supporting cast, and how rotation choices are impacting rhythm and competitiveness. 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' 135-119 win in Indiana. They dig into the team's response after Jaylon Tyson publicly challenged the group's hunger, why Donovan Mitchell's 40-point night mattered beyond the box score and how Tyson backed up his words with one of his most complete games. The discussion also turns to the bigger-picture questions about how emerging young pieces might reshape the rotation as the season wears on. Monday was the kind of win the Cavs needed. But it wasn't the kind of win that fixes everything — and the guys explain why. 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 answer questions from Subtext subscribers, focusing on Kenny Atkinson's start to the season. They dig into his rotations, his experimental decisions, and how the Cavs' avalanche of injuries has shaped everything around him. They also dive into a long-term debate at the heart of Cleveland's future: whether Darius Garland or Evan Mobley carries more weight in the team's championship path. The guys then look at the Cavs' depth, examining which bench players have played their way into firmer rotation roles once everyone is healthy. To wrap up, Ethan and Chris lighten the mood with a holiday twist — ranking their favorite and least favorite cities to cover a Christmas game. 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 dig into the Cavs' 110–99 loss in Toronto — a night defined by a gutted rotation, mounting fatigue and another standout showing from Nae'Qwan Tomlin. With seven players out, the two-way forward delivered again, pushing the conversation toward a bigger decision: should the Cavs ink Tomlin before the trade deadline or keep that roster spot open for a potential buyout addition, as they've done in recent years? 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' 120-109 win over an injury-depleted Pacers squad — a familiar postseason foe, even if this rematch lacked its usual punch. The hosts explain why the victory, while necessary, didn't reveal much about where the Cavs truly stand and instead underscored how central Darius Garland remains to everything they do. They dive into Jaylon Tyson's jolt of energy, De'Andre Hunter's steady two-way value, and Evan Mobley's assertive night, while emphasizing the need for Mobley to bring that same force against top-tier competition. The episode also explores the intriguing early chemistry between Lonzo Ball and Garland and the complications surrounding both of their injury histories. 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' puzzling run of slow starts and what might fix them — from possible rotation tweaks to the looming boost of Darius Garland's return. They break down the offense's stagnation and why Evan Mobley's stalled growth remains the biggest obstacle between Cleveland and real championship credibility. The guys also explore the noticeably more serious tone around the locker room this season, pointing to injuries, heightened expectations, and the missing spark of Garland's infectious joy. 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 Cavs' 114-104 loss to the Rockets and tackle a growing concern about how opponents view them before stepping foot in the building. They also dig into Cleveland's wavering identity, Kenny Atkinson's increasingly pointed critiques, and why the team's lack of toughness is becoming a defining storyline. They also examine Evan Mobley's developmental stall — his free-throw struggles, shaken confidence, and the pressure on him to grow into the star this roster needs. A blunt conversation about where the Cavs stand, how they're viewed around the league and what has to change before things slip further. 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 Cavs' 114-104 loss to the Rockets and tackle a growing concern about how opponents view them before stepping foot in the building. They also dig into Cleveland's wavering identity, Kenny Atkinson's increasingly pointed critiques, and why the team's lack of toughness is becoming a defining storyline. They also examine Evan Mobley's developmental stall — his free-throw struggles, shaken confidence, and the pressure on him to grow into the star this roster needs. A blunt conversation about where the Cavs stand, how they're viewed around the league and what has to change before things slip further. 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 NBA's $100,000 fine against the Cavaliers for resting Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley — and they don't hold back. They then break down why Houston's physical, slow-paced, smashmouth style is a true challenge for a Cleveland team still searching for consistency, struggling on the glass, and hearing its head coach repeatedly call the offense “clunky.” It's a fiery episode packed with honesty, frustration, and a hard look at whether the Cavs are ready for a “come to Jesus” moment against one of the league's toughest teams. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com and the Plain Dealer joins Andy Baskin and Jeff Phelps to talk about the Cavs new uniforms and the overall feel of the team in the early part of the season
In the forth hour of the show, Chris Fedor talks with the guys about Darius Garland's toe, Jarrett Allen's future and why this team is starting the season a little sluggish. Then, Andy, Jeff and Dan talk about the new Cavs city edition uniforms and their thoughts on the color orange
In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins break down why Cleveland's offense still feels clunky, why Evan Mobley's uneven growth remains the swing factor in their championship hopes, and what to make of Jarrett Allen's shrinking role in fourth quarters — including whether it signals a bigger shift in the organization's plans. They also dig into whether this team has truly earned the right to coast through the regular 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 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 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, 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
Nick and JP dive into Chris Fedor's thoughts on the Cavs and Evan Mobley
Chris Fedor from Cleveland.com joined Afternoon Drive to talk about the Cleveland Cavaliers at this point in the young season. What are the concerns for Evan Mobley? Will we see Donovan Mitchell take a more stern role as a teammate this season?
Nick and Jonathan debate what's best for Kevin Stefanski this year. Then, they're joined by Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com, and they talk about Evan Mobley's role on the Cavs offense.
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, 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
92.3 The Fan presents a selection of interviews and guest appearances on The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima, Baskin & Phelps, and The Afternoon Drive during the past week. Featuring Brian Geltzeiler, Mary Kay Cabot, Chris Fedor, Daryl Ruiter, Danny Kanell and Ashley Bastock.
92.3 The Fan presents a selection of interviews and guest appearances on The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima, Baskin & Phelps, and The Afternoon Drive during the past week. Featuring Brian Geltzeiler, Mary Kay Cabot, Chris Fedor, Daryl Ruiter, Danny Kanell and Ashley Bastock.
92.3 The Fan presents a selection of interviews and guest appearances on The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima, Baskin & Phelps, and The Afternoon Drive during the past week. Featuring Brian Geltzeiler, Mary Kay Cabot, Chris Fedor, Daryl Ruiter, Danny Kanell and Ashley Bastock.
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
Chris Fedor joined Baskin and Phelps to preview the Cavaliers' upcoming season, what the roster will look like with the early injuries, and whether or not he thinks this team has a shot at a title this year. He discussed Donovan Mitchell's goals with the team, what Lonzo Ball's role will be, as well as what he thinks Kenny Atkinson can do to get the team to a championship.
Hour 4 of Baskin and Phelps
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, 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