Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective

Kevin Pelton, ESPN's NBA analyst and stats guru, joins Chris Herring, author and Knicks expert, for a deep dive into the current NBA landscape. They discuss the surge in three-point attempts and its strategic impact on games. The contrasting performances of the struggling Lakers and offensively potent Knicks are analyzed. The Wizards' historically poor start is compared to notable past struggles, while insights on the Eastern-Western Conference imbalance and the Bucks' resurgence enrich the conversation. Tune in for a lively take on the season's dynamics!

The discussion kicks off with the intriguing ‘Top 25 Players Under 25’ list, shedding light on standout talents like Jalen Green and Paolo Banchero. The hosts dive into the rising Houston Rockets, applauding their youth and defensive prowess. Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic's winning streak is spotlighted, with key players driving their success. However, it’s not all positive; the struggling Lakers' offensive woes and LeBron's decline provoke concern as they wrestle with team dynamics and roster challenges.

The discussion heats up around the NBA Cup standings and what teams, like the Knicks and Magic, must do to advance. Giannis is stealing the spotlight with his amazing play, while the Magic impress despite missing a key player. Luka's return for the Mavs adds excitement to the mix. The challenges of specific Knicks players are analyzed, emphasizing the urgency for improvement. Plus, there’s an entertaining guessing game about a legendary 76-point performance, sparking nostalgia and fun debates.

In a festive gathering, guests include Andrew Lopez, a New Orleans Pelicans sideline reporter and Disney fan, Noah Eagle, an NBC Sports broadcaster with a Syracuse connection, Michael C. Wright, an ESPN NBA analyst known for his culinary skills, and Bobby Marks, an ESPN front office expert. They dive into the Pelicans' current state, humorous Thanksgiving preparations, and the dynamics of rival teams like the Nets and 76ers, all while sharing light-hearted stories from sports broadcasting and personal memories. Their banter creates a lively Thanksgiving atmosphere.

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to talk the struggles for Minnesota to start the season on defense, if the latest end of game scenarios have been telling about the team, the Spurs showing they may have multiple building blocks for Wemby including Stephon Castle, how Isaiah Hartenstein’s return hugely helps an issue for the Thunder, the future for the Pelicans after a difficult start including if they should part ways with Zion and more. 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’ article ranking each NBA team based on the strength of their core big 3 going forward. The crew debates who could move up, why teams like the Bucks & 76ers were difficult to rank, which teams are in the best position going forward and more. 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 continued drama with the struggling 76ers including Embiid & Maxey, if the Bucks & Knicks are starting to turn the corner, the Rockets’ ability to stay competitive, if Houston could be the next destination for a superstar, the Magic stacking wins despite Paolo’s injury and some dramatic 2K games. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by several guests including current author and member of the Nuggets’ front office Mike Singer, Warriors' guard Brandin Podziemski and L'Equipe reporter Yann Ohnona from France. First, Brian & Mike talk Jokic’s rise and some shocking trades that almost happened in Denver. Then, Brian talks Golden State's strong start and adjusting to a new role with Brandin Podziemski. Finally, Brian & Yann discuss Victor Wembanyama’s youth development and some stories to highlight his personality that the greater public is yet to hear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to measure where the Wolves-Knicks offseason trade involving Julius Randle, Karl-Anthony Town & Donte DiVincenzo stands at this point in the season including how both teams should feel about the state of their rosters. Plus, should there be concern about Joel Embiid & the 76ers after his return, if Luka Doncic & the Mavs clutch time numbers are an issue, the significance of Klay’s return game and some major NBA Cup takeaways. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Dave McMenamin and Kevin Pelton to break down the Lakers’ start to the season after a challenging road trip, an interesting decision made about Bronny James and an early checkup on NBA rookies. Plus, we talk some teams who could make a move at the deadline this season including the Pelicans, 76ers and Heat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices