The Bill Simmons Podcast Part 1: A Bombshell KD to Suns Trade With Ryen Russillo
Feb 9, 2023
Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst renowned for his insights on ESPN and The Ringer, joins to dissect the monumental trade sending Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns. They ponder if this move positions the Suns as title favorites and how it compares to other top trades of the past decade. The duo also explores the difficulties NBA franchises face with star acquisitions, highlighting lessons from the Nets’ recent challenges. Listeners can expect a mix of analysis and humor around the high-stakes world of NBA trades.
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Suns Ownership Rollercoaster
- The Suns' ownership situation went from a leaked report about Isaiah Thomas potentially running the organization to acquiring Kevin Durant.
- This showcases new owner Mat Ishbia's ambition and decisiveness.
Justifying Big Trades
- Trading significant assets is justifiable when it guarantees a potential finals appearance.
- Bill Simmons and Ryen Russillo agree that the Durant trade, while costly, fits this criteria for Phoenix.
Escalating Trade Costs
- Bill Simmons compares the rising cost of NBA trades to inflated gas prices, highlighting the escalating value placed on star players.
- He cites the example of Charles Barkley's trade, which involved no draft picks, compared to Durant's trade, requiring a decade's worth of assets.