Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective

Brian Windhorst is joined by Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk about if the Cleveland Cavaliers are real contenders and they preview their match up against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Plus they break down the New York Knicks Hot streak in the last 10 games. They discuss the results of the first round NBA All Star voting. Sacramento Kings fall out. And TIm MacMahon gives out the cojones award for clutch player of the month of December. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to break down the best basketball players at each age level.From 17 years old to, the only 40-year old player in the NBA LeBron James.2:12 Cameron Boozer (17)5:52 Cooper Flag (18)8:32 V. J. Edgecombe (19)10:33 Victor Wembanyama (20)12:00 Dyson Daniels (21)18:30 Paolo Banchero (22)19:36 Anthony Edwards (23)25:39 Tyrese Haliburton (24)28:51 Luka Dončić (25)29:39 Shai Alexander (26)32:35 Bam Adebayo (27)34:53 Jalen Brunson (28)38:20 Nikola Jokic (29)39:25 Giannis Antetokounmpo (30)41:05 Anthony Davis (31)42:00 Kyrie Irving (32)43:05 Khris Middleton (33)44:45 Damian Lillard (34)46:40 Jimmy Butler (35)47:12 Kevin Durant or Steph Curry (36)51:15 Mike Conley Jr. (37), Al Horford (38), Chris Paul (39), Lebron James (40) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today's episode Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to break down the Christmas day games. MacMahon gives us some insider information on Luka Doncic’s status and how long he could be out. Should the Celtics be worried ? Are the Lakers building momentum and the latest on Jimmy Butler and De’Aaron Fox trades Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to give out their Baller d'Or nominations for the calendar year, the award for the best basketball player, before voting on who earned the title this year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to react to Bontemps’ 1st MVP Straw Poll of the season including if Jokic can win again, who has the best case as the season progresses, if the NBA Cup Final swayed voters at the last minute and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon along with special guest writer & host for such shows as ‘SIX TROPHIES’ Jason Concepcion to talk the Bucks dominating the Thunder to win the NBA Cup, if Milwaukee is back as a threat in the East and how concerning the Thunder’s offensive struggles can be. Then, the crew dives into potential improvements for the NBA Cup, the All-Star game and more after NBA commissioner Adam Silver’s latest comments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk the finals matchup for the NBA Cup between Milwaukee and Oklahoma City including how the Thunder are putting the league on notice before talking about potential trades for the Warriors after the Dennis Schröder deal and if there are any moves to be made involving Jimmy Butler. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Norman Powell, shooting guard for the LA Clippers, shares insights on Kobe Bryant’s immense influence on the league and his rigorous offseason training. His passion for improvement and the drive to seize opportunities are palpable. Veteran referee James Capers and rising star Tyler Ford reveal the realities of officiating in the NBA, discussing the unique challenges they face and the camaraderie amongst refs. A surprise guest brings humor and curiosity as they quiz the officiating duo, adding a light-hearted twist to the conversation.

The podcast dives into the thrilling NBA Cup quarterfinals, showcasing the Thunder's impressive statement against the Mavericks and the Bucks' solid victory over the Magic despite defensive concerns. Discussions include the emerging chemistry within the Bucks, particularly with Giannis and Middleton's return. Excitement builds for the Hawks vs. Knicks and the Warriors vs. Rockets matchups, with a focus on rising talents and the shifting dynamics of the league as young teams gain confidence.

Joel Embiid's return sparks concerns over his knee health while the 76ers aim for success. The Bucks find a winning rhythm, and the Grizzlies demonstrate impressive depth. Ja Morant's thoughts on dunking add some flair to the discussion. Challenges surrounding mid-season trades and the impact of a hard cap create friction in team dynamics. Meanwhile, Luka is back to MVP form, and player injuries complicate playoff strategies, especially for the Grizzlies and Mavericks.