The Bill Simmons Podcast

Zion’s Murky NOLA Future With Justin Verrier. Plus, Kenny Smith on Giannis vs. Hakeem.

Jul 28, 2021

Justin Verrier, a writer for The Ringer and former Pelicans beat reporter, shares insights on Zion Williamson's rocky relationship with the New Orleans Pelicans and the team's recent trades. He draws parallels to the Anthony Davis era, painting a picture of the franchise's uncertain future. Joining him, Kenny Smith, former NBA player, dives into the NBA draft, the prospects of Giannis vs. Hakeem, and the evolving trade rumors surrounding Ben Simmons—exploring how strategic decisions shape team dynamics in the league.

01:37:30

Episode guests

Kenny Smith

Justin Verrier

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

6min

Struggles of the Pelicans

13min

Navigating Player Contracts and Team Dynamics

7min

Navigating the Pelicans' Future

18min

Strategic Draft Decisions

5min

Trade Talks and NBA Dynamics

9min

NBA Draft Insights and Player Legacies

9min

Basketball Dynamics and Performance Insights

6min

Navigating NBA Trade Dynamics

22min

The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Justin Verrier to discuss the New Orleans Pelicans, including recent acquisitions Steven Adams and Eric Bledsoe heading to the Grizzlies for Jonas Valanciunas, rumors of Zion Williamson being unhappy with the team (and parallels to the early signs of Anthony Davis's departure), fake Pelicans trades, and more (2:35). Then Bill is joined by Kenny "The Jet" Smith to discuss the upcoming NBA draft, parallels between Giannis Antetokounmpo's title win with the Bucks and Hakeem Olajuwon's mid-'90s Rockets, the slew of Ben Simmons trade rumors, how the Warriors might use their draft capital, and more (49:25).

Host: Bill Simmons

Guests: Kenny Smith and Justin Verrier

Producer: Kyle Crichton

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