The Ringer NBA Show

The hosts dive into their preseason power rankings, starting with the NBA's bottom five teams. They analyze the challenges faced by the Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards, questioning their prospects. The Portland Trail Blazers' evolution and opportunities for emerging players are also discussed. The conversation shifts to the development of young talent like Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey with the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets. Insightful discussions about team dynamics and potential trades keep the energy high.

Joel Embiid, a dominant force in basketball, and Jamal Murray, a skilled scorer, join the conversation. They discuss the ramifications of their recent contract extensions and whether these moves are wise for their respective teams. The dialogue dives into the potential risks of championship windows closing quickly, especially for the Nuggets. They also ponder the implications of the Miami Heat possibly re-signing Jimmy Butler, exploring both strategic and emotional factors in a fast-evolving league.

The hosts dive into fascinating player developments for the upcoming NBA season. They highlight the impressive growth of Jalen Williams, drawing parallels to Paul George as he aims for stardom. The discussion shifts to the pressure on stars like Joel Embiid and Evan Mobley, exploring how legacies are shaped in the playoffs. Jaren Jackson Jr.'s evolving role amidst team dynamics gets spotlighted, while Jonathan Kuminga's need for improvement is carefully analyzed. Expect intriguing insights on player potential and the impact of team strategies.

James Boyd, a writer for The Athletic, delves into the Fever's recent surge and Caitlin Clark's game-changing role in the WNBA. Katie Heindl discusses the backlash from Cathy Engelbert’s recent comments, revealing the impact on league dynamics. Mark Schindler weighs in on the Minnesota Lynx's playoff potential and the MVP race, highlighting standout players and tactical shifts. Together, they explore pivotal moments shaping the current season while addressing pressing issues facing the league.

DeMar DeRozan, a professional basketball player and author, shares his journey with mental health, particularly highlighting the transformative moments when he and fellow player Kevin Love spoke out about their struggles. He discusses the evolving culture in the NBA, moving from stigmatization to understanding and support. DeRozan also elaborates on his recent signing with the Kings, adapting in the later stages of his career, and the significance of his new book, 'Above the Noise,' which emphasizes the importance of mental health resources for athletes.

Pat Boylan, an experienced play-by-play commentator for the Indiana Fever, discusses Caitlin Clark's rookie impact and the Fever's playoff aspirations. Annie Costabile, a sports journalist from the Chicago Sun-Times, explores the Chicago Sky's youth movement, highlighting challenges and player dynamics. Finally, sports analyst Nekias Duncan analyzes the Las Vegas Aces' quest for a three-peat, focusing on player performances and defensive strategies. The conversation offers deep insights into the current momentum and challenges within the WNBA.

Dive into the NBA offseason buzz as the hosts discuss teams to watch for the upcoming season. Excitement surrounds the San Antonio Spurs and their budding star, Victor Wembanyama, alongside the evolving Phoenix Suns' playoff chances. They analyze the Orlando Magic's growth with key player additions and their unique blend of offense and defense. With predictions for the Cavaliers and hype for the Pelicans and Rockets, the Memphis Grizzlies also emerge as a team to keep an eye on in the competitive Western Conference.

Steph Curry's recent contract extension takes center stage, sparking discussions on his legacy and the Warriors' win-now mindset. The hosts dive into listener questions about breakout candidates and ideal Starting 5 lineup choices. They also debate which current NBA stars would shine in a reality show, mixing personal anecdotes with basketball insights. Finally, lively comparisons of Nikola Jokic and Luka Doncic reveal excitement around emerging talents, adding to the anticipation of the upcoming NBA season.

In this engaging discussion, NBA stars Paul George and Jayson Tatum dive into the theme of disrespect within the league. George shares his thoughts on feeling undervalued in contract negotiations, while Tatum reflects on his playing time during the Olympics and the expectations of teamwork. They also touch on critical coaching styles in sports, highlighting the psychological impacts on players. Expect candid insights about navigating emotions in competitive environments and a look at the dynamics between individual success and team collaboration.

Dive into Team USA's thrilling Olympic journey as the hosts break down the nail-biting showdown against Serbia. Steph Curry's jaw-dropping threes steal the spotlight, while LeBron continues to cement his GOAT status. The fallout from Jayson Tatum's absence creates a buzz, sparking debates on player dynamics. The discussion takes a turn with a fun game comparing the career trajectories of Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard. Plus, they ponder the exciting possibilities for Team USA's 2028 roster!