

The Mismatch
The Ringer
Chris Vernon and David Jacoby discuss all the news, trends, and transactions happening in the NBA. They also offer their on-court analysis, and occasionally get into heated debates.
Episodes
Mentioned books

25 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 1h 32min
2025-26 NBA Season Preview: The Wide-Open East, Can KD make a Difference With Houston, and Are the Warriors Any Good?
The hosts dive into a comprehensive preview of the NBA season, analyzing the Eastern Conference's wide-open landscape. They debate the Knicks' potential over the Cavaliers and express concerns about Detroit's roster. In the West, they agree on the Nuggets and Thunder as frontrunners while questioning the Warriors' sustainability. Kevin Durant's impact on the Rockets stirs skepticism, and the LeBron-Luka dynamic promises to captivate fans this season. Award predictions highlight young talents like Edwards and Wembanyama, making for an exciting competitive landscape.

Oct 17, 2025 • 1h 26min
Final Preseason Takeaways, Most Likelies, Injury Updates, and Did the Nets Admit to Tanking?
In this discussion, the hosts dive into Russell Westbrook’s signing with the Kings and the implications of Keegan Murray’s hefty extension. They cover disappointing injury setbacks for Jaden Ivey and Paul George, alongside Malcolm Brogdon's shock retirement. A surprising analysis of the Nets hints at a rebuilding year. The duo highlights a promising rookie class and discusses which players might break out this season, along with predictions on entertaining non-playoff teams and coaches at risk. Preseason fatigue is real, but the excitement for teams like Charlotte keeps it lively!

4 snips
Oct 10, 2025 • 1h 19min
LeBron to Miss Season Opener, Preseason Standouts, and Is Giannis Juggling His Future?
LeBron James will miss several weeks due to sciatica, raising questions about his return timeline and load management strategies. Rumors swirl around Giannis Antetokounmpo's potential move to the Knicks, with debates on his comments about commitment. The hosts break down GM survey insights, revealing favorites for MVP and Rookie of the Year. Preseason standouts like Jaylen Brown and Ace Bailey shine, while discussions about injury concerns for the Grizzlies and predictions for the upcoming season add to the excitement.

Oct 3, 2025 • 1h 10min
The Warriors Are Finally Complete, the Sixers’ Only Hope, and the Cooper Flagg Hype Meter
The hosts dive into the Knicks-76ers preseason game and the buzz surrounding its crowd and celebs. There's concern over Giannis Antetokounmpo's absence and its implications for the Bucks. They tackle whether the 76ers’ championship window has closed and critique overhyped teams. Victor Wembanyama’s unique offseason training sparks curiosity, while predictions about the Warriors’ season aren't all doom and gloom. They also discuss rookie Cooper Flagg's must-watch potential and react to Zion Williamson’s recent shirtless reveal.

9 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 1h 16min
The Wemby Debate, Zion's Revival, Houston’s Hopes, and LeBron’s Leverage
The hosts dive into the riveting debate over Victor Wembanyama's ranking in the NBA. They unravel the implications of LeBron James potentially launching a rival league, weighing its significance. Skepticism swirls around Zion Williamson's return, sparking discussions about his health and talent. VanVleet's injury raises eyebrows regarding the Rockets' future. The nostalgia flows as they reflect on great teams that never made the Finals. They also explore intriguing unsigned free agents and share their latest TV and film recommendations.

13 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 1h 6min
Adam Silver’s Tough Week, Trae Young Claps Back, and What to Do With Jonathan Kuminga
Dive into the intriguing saga surrounding Kawhi Leonard and Steve Ballmer's ties to Aspiration, while Adam Silver faces criticism for his comments on the Clippers. The hosts debate Jonathan Kuminga’s uncertain future with the Warriors. In an entertaining exchange, Patrick Beverley and Trae Young engage in a verbal tussle, adding spice to the league's drama. The conversation wraps up with rapid-fire insights about Michael Malone’s new gig at ESPN, the Knicks’ Carmelo Anthony conundrum, and favorite films to binge-watch.

24 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 19min
Kawhi’s "Carbon Footprint," Hardest Players to Root For, Offseason Enjoyments, and NFL Takeaways
The hosts tackle Kawhi Leonard's intriguing controversies and the absurdity of his environmental role in the NBA. They share thoughts on Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard's legacies while debating which teams may disappoint this season. A lively discussion unfolds around the rise of a Nike high school team in Memphis and the impact of NIL policies. They also dive into their favorite shows, including Netflix's 'Wednesday,' and contemplate changes to the All-Star game format. The episode wraps up with excitement over thrilling NFL matchups and rookie performances.

23 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 1h 14min
The Most Exciting Players, All-Star Game Improvements, and the Summer of Strahinja Continues
The hosts dive into the most exciting players to watch in the upcoming NBA season. A fascinating discussion unfolds about how last year's poor All-Star Game might have actually benefited the event's future. They also ponder who the NBA's version of Tommy Fleetwood might be—a player everyone roots for. The conversation touches on the overabundance of 3-point shooting and the potential of certain teams to surprise this season. Plus, hilarious anecdotes about personal gaming experiences and Strahinja Jokic’s intense gym habits keep the energy high!

18 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 1h 9min
Which Superstar Has Played in Their Last Finals? Plus, MPJ’s Erraticness, Labubus, and a Joker Brother Sighting.
The hosts dive into the implications of superstars possibly playing their last finals, sparking debates about LeBron, Steph, and KD. They compare rising talents like Wemby and Jalen Brunson for MVP chances. Discussions on team success, player performances, and injury impacts bring excitement, while light-hearted anecdotes about collectibles and awkward encounters add humor. They even speculate on relationship engagements and parenting quirks, blending sports insights with everyday life in a fun and engaging way.

34 snips
Aug 15, 2025 • 1h 5min
10 Observations About the 2025-26 NBA Schedule
The hosts dive into the intriguing nuances of the 2025-26 NBA schedule, examining the impact of new broadcasting partnerships on fan experiences. They discuss Michael Jordan's comeback to NBC and how the league is navigating its promotional strategies and rivalries. Late-night games on the East Coast and homecomings for star players add drama to the mix. Plus, there's a humorous take on tech mishaps that bring levity to their discussions. The blend of insights and laughs makes for an entertaining exploration of the upcoming season.