Exploring Key NBA Trades: The Journey of Joe Smith

The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Ryen Russillo to discuss the noticeable shift in NBA officiating since the All-Star break, and which teams could benefit or suffer from increased physicality on the floor (2:30), Nuggets vs. Celtics, and some potential fatal flaws in the title contenders, including the Cavaliers, Suns, Thunder, Bucks, and more (19:34). Then, they compare the talent in the NBA from 2004 to 2024, and check in with some of the bottom-tier NBA teams (44:58). Finally, they discuss LeBron's next deal before touching on some NFL news, including the end of the Mac Jones era in New England, and the buzz about Russell Wilson going to the Steelers (1:23:04).

Host: Bill Simmons

Guest: Ryen Russillo

Producer: Kyle Crichton

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