The Bill Simmons Podcast A Crazy Good NBA Rookie Class With J. Kyle Mann, Plus Tua’s Cleveland Adventure, and NFL Week 7 Picks With Joe House
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Oct 17, 2025 
J. Kyle Mann, a sports writer and rookie class expert at The Ringer, dives deep into the 2025 NBA draft class. He highlights Dylan Harper's strong preseason presence, Wembanyama's transformative impact on the Spurs, and Cooper Flagg’s versatility. The discussion shifts to sleeper rookies and unsung heroes like Gonzalez and Clifford. Later, Joe House joins to analyze NFL Week 7 matchups, highlighting avoidable bets, including Lions vs. Buccaneers and Broncos vs. Giants, while offering insights on promising picks.
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Harper’s Immediate NBA Readiness
- Dylan Harper shows NBA-ready poise and physicality that translate off-ball and in the paint immediately.
- His craftiness and lack of hurry suggest he can provide high-value minutes next to Victor Wembanyama.
Wembanyama Multiplies Surrounding Talent
- San Antonio's surrounding athletic wings make Wembanyama even more disruptive by stretching defenses.
- The roster's athleticism and rim protection create multiple defensive and offensive advantages.
Flagg’s Rookie Contract Value
- Cooper Flagg is a Swiss-army rookie who can guard, handle, and play multiple positions immediately.
- His versatility on a rookie contract approximates near-max value for a franchise.