Joined by Will Guillory, a beat writer for The Athletic, the conversation dives into the challenges facing the New Orleans Pelicans. They discuss Zion Williamson’s impact on the team's chances this season and contemplate what type of player they should target in the draft. The host also highlights Cade Cunningham’s impressive performance as a top contender for Most Improved Player. With playful banter, they analyze other NBA matchups and the Pelicans' future amidst their current struggles.

Kelly Iko, a reporter for The Athletic covering the Houston Rockets and Memphis Grizzlies, brings his expertise as he discusses key NBA trade candidates, Bradley Beal and Zach LaVine. The conversation dives into Beal's resurgence after recent struggles and what each player could bring to potential trade partners. Iko also analyzes the Rockets' recent victory over the Grizzlies, exploring critical matchups and the playoff dynamics in the West, particularly how teams might stack up against the formidable Thunder.

The showdown between the Cavaliers and Thunder was a nail-biter, breaking OKC's 15-game winning streak. The hosts dive into the strategies that led to the Cavaliers' victory and the hurdles faced by the Thunder. They also dissect the explosive match-up between Giannis and Wembanyama, highlighting how the Bucks adjusted to incorporate Middleton's bench role. Plus, there’s buzz about Paolo Banchero's return as the Magic grapple with injuries, showcasing emerging stars and team dynamics in the league.

The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the New Orleans Pelicans thanks to Anthony Edwards’s 32 point performance. Dave DuFour and Zena Keita discuss the Edwards’ game, Zion’s return from injury, and the Suns’ terrible loss to Charlotte. Then, the Athletic’s Joe Vardon joins the show to discuss the huge showdown between the Cavaliers and Thunder, Cleveland’s path to success, and why this is the last regular season test for the Cavs.Host: Dave DuFourWith: Zena Keita & Joe VardonExecutive Producer: Andrew SchlechtAudio Producer: Grayson MoodySubmit your questions to The Athletic NBA Daily mailbag: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5939460/2024/11/25/nba-podcast-mailbag-athletic-daily/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam Cooper, host of the Timeline Podcast, dives into the dynamics of the Phoenix Suns after their win over the 76ers. He discusses Bradley Beal coming off the bench and its implications for team chemistry. Cooper also tackles the urgent need for trade considerations to salvage the Suns' season. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves' thrilling comeback, led by Anthony Edwards' explosive performance, steals the spotlight. The conversation wraps up with exciting insights into the Pistons' surprising success and Cade Cunningham's impressive growth.

The Oklahoma City Thunder are riding high with a 15-game winning streak, showcasing their fierce defense against the Celtics. Kawhi Leonard’s return is reshaping the Clippers, adding excitement to the league. The rivalry between Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokić is heating up, sparking debates on future stars. Meanwhile, the Bucks are struggling, raising questions about their strategy. The chatter also includes potential new teams for Jimmy Butler, emphasizing the importance of player fit and happiness.

Brian Geisinger, host of the Buzzbeat podcast, dives deep into the Charlotte Hornets' struggles this season, highlighting the impact of injuries and the frustration of fans. He discusses LaMelo Ball's rising status in All-Star voting and the team's need for a balanced offense. The conversation shifts to Jimmy Butler's trade rumors and the impressive dominance of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder, particularly Shea Gildas Alexander's MVP candidacy. They also engage in a fun trivia showdown about the Hornets' history.

Marcus Thompson, a seasoned NBA reporter for The Athletic, joins to dissect the Warriors' dominating performance against the Sixers. He praises Stephen Curry's perfect three-point shooting and delves into Jonathan Kuminga's emergence as a key player. The conversation also touches on Jimmy Butler's struggles and the evolving dynamics in Philadelphia. They explore recent fan voting trends, highlighting the discrepancies between player success and public support. A lively discussion that captures the essence of this thrilling NBA season!

Sam Amick, an NBA reporter for The Athletic, shares juicy behind-the-scenes details on the firing of Mike Brown in Sacramento. He discusses potential trade scenarios for De’Aaron Fox and reveals the latest on star Jimmy Butler. The conversation also touches on the Cleveland Cavaliers' impressive start, their playoff potential, and the challenges faced by teams like the Warriors. Amick's insights shed light on the complexities of player-coach dynamics, making it a must-listen for basketball fans.

The Los Angeles Lakers land Dorian Finney-Smith in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets. Dave DuFour, Zena Keita, and Es Baraheni breakdown the move for the Lakers, react to Mike Brown’s firing in Sacramento, and Pat Riley’s stance on trading Jimmy Butler. Then, the gang go through some “NBA New Year’s Resolutions” and reveal the new leader in the MVP award race.Host: Dave DuFourWith: Zena Keita & Es BaraheniExecutive Producer: Andrew SchlechtAudio Producer: Grayson MoodySubmit your questions to The Athletic NBA Daily mailbag: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5939460/2024/11/25/nba-podcast-mailbag-athletic-daily/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices