The Mismatch

Verno and Jacoby go through last night’s games, especially looking at teams that are either resting or full-on tanking (1:06). The guys debate how long the league will allow this to continue and what needs to change to prevent teams from tanking and resting starters who are healthy. They also discuss Tony Allen's jersey retirement ceremony over the weekend, the nonexistent Heat Culture, and the standings in both conferences (25:45). Next, the guys debut a new segment on the show called How Does That Sound?, where they each fire off a take and debate it. They discuss the Rockets' chances of reaching the 2-seed and whether Cooper Flagg will stay in college, and Jacoby details his idea for a new way to present the Larry O'Brien Trophy (45:40).Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available.Hosts: Chris Vernon and David JacobyProducers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker TashjianSocial: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and Jacoby go through the Bucks' blowout win against the injury-riddled Lakers and talk about why size is still important when facing certain teams (0:53). They then discuss some of the positive takeaways from the Thunder’s win against the Celtics on Wednesday night before congratulating Steph Curry for hitting 4k 3-point shots(12:30). The guys debate whether anyone could catch up to Steph's 3-point record and how much the Warriors could climb in the West (16:52). As we inch closer to the playoffs, the guys take a closer look at the standings in both conferences (26:10). Next, they dive into their loves and loathes from the week that was (35:30).The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available.Hosts: Chris Vernon and David JacobyProducers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker TashjianSocial: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and Jacoby go through last night’s slate of NBA action starting off with Nikola Jokic’s otherworldly performance against the Thunder and the chances of Jokic surpassing SGA to win his fourth MVP (0:35). They then discuss Ja Morant's improved performance during the Grizzlies’ three-game win streak (16:25). After LeBron’s groin injury, the guys discuss the health of players on the teams in the West and how it could shape the playoff matchups (27:40). Next, the guys share three random NBA questions.The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming (42:20). Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available.Hosts: Chris Vernon and David JacobyProducers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker TashjianSocial: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and Jacoby discuss the Lakers' thrilling OT win over the Knicks and how their defense was the true highlight of the game, not Luka and LeBron's performance (00:31). They also discuss the importance of Jimmy Butler’s impact for the Warriors outside the stat sheet and why Steve Kerr’s comparison to Andre Iguodala is valid (16:25). Next, the guys dive into their loves and loathes from the week that was (27:13).The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available.Hosts: Chris Vernon and David JacobyProducers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker TashjianSocial: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Verno and Jacoby go through a string of bad luck for the Grizzlies, who’ve lost their past three games at home in the final seconds and are now without Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr (01:11). They then discuss Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who dropped 51 points against the Rockets; the reports coming out of Phoenix that the Suns could potentially move on from Kevin Durant in the summer; and the drama between Devin Booker and Mike Budenholzer (12:19). Next, they discuss the impact of Kyrie Irving' ACL tear and the Sixers' decision to finally shut down Joel Embiid (30:09). The guys then ask each other for some advice on some of the hottest topics around the league (40:15).The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available.Hosts: Chris Vernon and David JacobyProducers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker TashjianSocial: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The hosts dive into Steph Curry's astounding 56-point game and its implications for the Warriors' title hopes. They discuss the Lakers' resilience despite Luka Doncic's struggle, raising questions about both teams' championship potential. The episode also critiques Luka's lifestyle choices, revealing double standards in athlete scrutiny. A humorous take on outrageous player tattoos and candid anecdotes adds lightness to the chaos of the NBA. Expect insights into team dynamics, playoff positioning, and the funny side of basketball controversies.

Delve into the excitement of the Wolves' thrilling comeback against the Thunder, highlighting key performances and bench contributions. Discussion swirls around Cade Cunningham's rise to superstardom and Lu Dort's Defensive Player hopes. Get insights on playoff expectations, team dynamics, and potential coaching controversies, alongside predictions for both conferences. Plus, explore the buzz around innovative strategies and emerging talents that could reshape the NBA landscape this season!

The discussion kicks off with the Spurs facing challenges after Victor Wembanyama's injury. The Suns continue to struggle, while thoughts on hiding Luka Doncic's defensive shortcomings are explored. A nine-game winning streak by the Nuggets is highlighted alongside an intense MVP race between Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Reflections on the recent All-Star Weekend spark a mix of criticism and hope for future improvements. The Grizzlies' loss to the Pacers raises concerns, and individual performances, like Karl Anthony-Towns with the Knicks, are celebrated.

The hosts share their excitement for NBA All-Star Weekend and discuss innovative formats that could add competitiveness to the festivities. They express disappointment over Steph Curry's limited participation in his hometown event. Predictions for the second half of the season include assessments of playoff positions and rookie performances. There's lively debate about the Knicks', Celtics', and Grizzlies' playoff aspirations, alongside humorous commentary on player incidents and the dynamic nature of coaching changes in the league.

Luka Doncic impresses in his debut with the Lakers, prompting analysis on his synergy with LeBron James. The failed trade involving Mark Williams may actually benefit the Lakers. Meanwhile, Mavericks fans are lamenting their team's bad luck post-Luka's departure. The impacts of Jimmy Butler on the Warriors and the impressive performance of the Thunder are discussed. Lastly, the Orlando Magic's struggles raise questions about their need for a playmaker, while the hosts praise Hubie Brown's lasting legacy in the league.