Hollinger & Duncan NBA Show - NBA Basketball Podcast

Wacky Start to Free Agency

7 snips

Jul 1, 2025

Nate and John dive deep into the chaos of NBA free agency! From Denver's significant roster changes to Houston's strategic moves and the Lakers' long-term plans, they cover it all. Hear about Milwaukee's bold bet on Myles Turner and the shifting dynamics in the Eastern Conference. They also spotlight overlooked restricted free agents who might surprise everyone. Plus, get insights on team strategies, roster management, and the complexities of contracts that influence the league's landscape. Buckle up for a rollercoaster of NBA action!

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INSIGHT

Denvers Financially Driven Trade

Denver traded Michael Porter Jr. for Cam Johnson largely for financial flexibility rather than on-court improvement.
They added shooting depth and backup centers but sacrificed future draft assets to manage looming salary caps.

INSIGHT

Houston Rockets' Loaded Roster

The Houston Rockets have assembled a deep and versatile roster despite roster crowding concerns.
They appear well positioned among Western contenders behind Denver and Oklahoma City Thunder.

INSIGHT

Lakers' LeBron-Luka Dilemma

Lakers' cap space and player control issues complicate their championship window with LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
LeBron's no-trade clause and salary present challenges for the Lakers' long-term roster flexibility.

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Nate and John dive into NBA free agency, headlined by Denver’s bold roster shake-up and what it means for their title aspirations. They unpack Houston’s flurry of moves and debate where the Rockets stand in the West. The duo also examines the Lakers’ long-term plan with LeBron and Luka, Milwaukee’s all-in bet on Myles Turner, and where teams stack up in the suddenly wide-open Eastern Conference. Plus, they break down the latest on key restricted free agents and highlight a few overlooked names who could become sneaky difference-makers.

Denver Nuggets: Trade of Michael Porter Jr., additions of Cam Johnson, Jonas Valančiūnas, Bruce Brown, and Tim Hardaway Jr. – 00:00:38

Houston Rockets: Clint Capela trade, Jabari Smith Jr. extension, roster balance concerns – 00:10:08

Minnesota Timberwolves: Outlook without Nickeil Alexander-Walker, dependence on rookies – 00:15:08

Los Angeles Lakers: Long-term strategy with LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and cap space planning – 00:15:49

Miami Heat & Detroit Pistons: Duncan Robinson and Simone Fontecchio sign-and-trade – 00:28:03

Indiana Pacers: Decision to let Myles Turner go, tax avoidance, and contract management – 00:31:26

Milwaukee Bucks: Big commitment to Turner, long-term direction with Giannis – 00:34:00

Atlanta Hawks: Additions of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Luke Kennard, and reshaping of depth – 00:41:26

Eastern Conference Hierarchy: Ranking Cleveland, New York, Orlando, Atlanta, and others – 00:42:49

Restricted Free Agents: Status of Quentin Grimes, Cam Thomas, Jonathan Kuminga, and Josh Giddey – 00:48:33

Jonathan Kuminga's Future with Golden State: Extension scenarios and fit if Al Horford signs – 00:52:01

Salary Cap Update: Impact of 7% cap growth and national TV deal structure – 00:54:57

Damian Lillard Hypothetical: Should a contender sign him to rehab? – 00:58:44

Underrated Free Agent Targets: A few overlooked names who could offer value – 01:03:03

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