The Ringer NBA Show Preseason Power Rankings, Part 6 | Group Chat
30 snips
Oct 16, 2025 The hosts dive into the finale of their preseason power rankings, revealing their top five NBA teams. They analyze the Cleveland Cavaliers' injury concerns and whether their core can evolve. Discussions on the New York Knicks explore Jalen Brunson's potential under Mike Brown and roster adjustments for success. The Houston Rockets' playmaking challenges following VanVleet's injury are tackled, alongside defense strategies. Lastly, they debate between the Nuggets and Thunder for the top two spots, praising OKC's depth and Chet Holmgren's potential breakout.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Cleveland's Talent vs. Playoff Fragility
- The Cleveland Cavaliers remain elite but injuries and dependency on system play expose playoff fragility.
- Donovan Mitchell can bail them out, but Evan Mobley and Darius Garland must grow into reliable second and third options.
Let Atkinson Build And Use January As A Checkpoint
- Give Kenny Atkinson time to reapply his system and communication to restore Cleveland's growth trajectory.
- Expect Jan/Feb as a practical cutoff for Garland to reintegrate and for the team to cohere.
Knicks' Coaching Shift Unlocks Offensive Flexibility
- The New York Knicks upgraded flexibility by hiring Mike Brown and improving the bench to increase offensive dynamism.
- Brunson is coachable and will run a smarter, faster offense if given space and structure.