The Zach Lowe Show

As the shocking NBA playoffs continue, Zach is joined by Fred Katz to discuss what went down in Boston last night (1:07), as well as the Warriors' game plan without Steph Curry tonight (30:00) and more surprises in the Pacers-Cavs series (41:04).  Then, an NBA draft lottery interlude with J. Kyle Mann (53:36): They touch on everything from the 76ers' nerves to under-the-radar draft prospects. Finally, Adam Mares joins Zach to discuss the 1-1 series tie between the Nuggets and Thunder and what to expect going forward (1:24:27). Host: Zach Lowe Guests: Fred Katz, J. Kyle Mann, Adam Mares Producers: Jesse Aron, Chris Wohlers, Oscar De La Luz, Bobby Wagner The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Get started today at HubSpot.com/AI Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Howard Beck, a seasoned NBA analyst, joins forces with Zach Cherry, an actor from 'Severance', to dive deep into the thrilling aftermath of Game 7s and analyze offseason strategies for teams like the Rockets and Clippers. They offer insights on the key playoff matchups ahead and reflect on the vital roles of aging stars like Steph Curry. With Cherry's NBA fandom shining through, they blend sports with pop culture, sharing anecdotes about basketball experiences and the magnetic atmosphere of NBA games.

Michael Pina, an NBA writer renowned for his insights, joins the conversation to dissect the dramatic playoff landscape. They kick off with the Lakers' surprising exit, showcasing Rudy Gobert's game-changing impact. The duo dives into Game 6 previews for the Warriors and Rockets, analyzing playoff strategies and key matchups. They also evaluate the intense rivalry between the Cavaliers and Pacers, discussing player performances and the crucial adjustments needed. Insights into offseason strategies for teams like the Heat add a layer of intrigue to the discussion.

Rob Mahoney, an NBA analyst known for his keen insights into basketball strategy, joins the discussion on playoff action. They kick things off with the impact of Damian Lillard's injury and its implications for the playoffs. The duo dives deep into the thrilling Wolves vs. Lakers series, spotlighting Anthony Edwards' emergence. They also dissect the Clippers-Nuggets matchup and the playoff tensions between the Pistons and Knicks, examining pivotal plays and controversies, alongside thoughts on the critical Game 4 between the Rockets and Warriors.

Zach is joined by Kirk Goldsberry for some reactions to what they’ve seen so far and to talk about what to look for tonight (1:04). They then look at the physicality of Warriors-Rockets (39:05), and discuss how the Bucks can turn things around (56:23). Later, Jon Krawczynski joins to break down everything happening in the puzzling Timberwolves-Lakers series as we head into Game 3 (1:09:43).The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Howard Beck, a Senior writer at The Ringer, and Steve Jones Jr., an NBA analyst and host of The Dunker Spot podcast, join in for an engaging playoff discussion. They dissect standout performances from stars like Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler while breaking down crucial matchups, including Timberwolves vs. Lakers and Warriors vs. Rockets. Insights on tactical strategies, team dynamics, and player impact underscore the unpredictability of playoff basketball. Predictions heat up as they explore the paths ahead for teams like the Bucks and Timberwolves.

Zach and Pina begin by reacting to the latest play-in games and looking at the future of the Kings and Bulls (1:01). Then, they preview the much-anticipated Warriors-Rockets series (37:19). Along the way, Zach hands out some final awards (54:27), including this year’s much-debated MVP (59:18), then closes out with a look at Magic-Celtics and some final playoff predictions ahead of the weekend (1:10:57).The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Simmons, the founder of The Ringer and a renowned sports media personality, joins the discussion alongside Mo Dakhil, a former video coordinator for the Clippers and Spurs. They dive into breaking news from New Orleans and Phoenix, dissect the upcoming Western play-in games, and break down pivotal matchups like Clippers vs. Nuggets and Wolves vs. Lakers. Mo then shifts the focus to the Eastern play-in games, offering insights on the Pistons vs. Knicks and the impending showdown between the Bucks and Pacers.

Marc Stein gives Zach the inside story on Luka Doncic’s highly anticipated return to Dallas (0:48). He and Kirk Goldsberry then run down a slew of NBA awards (45:55), including Rookie of the Year (1:08:22), Coach of the Year (1:27:16), and Defensive Player of the Year (1:36:52). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matt Moore, a senior NBA writer and podcast host, dives into the surprising firings of Denver Nuggets' head coach Michael Malone and GM Calvin Booth. He discusses the rising tensions within the organization and the implications of recent management changes. Injuries, especially to Jamal Murray, are highlighted as significant hurdles for the team's playoff hopes. Moore also examines the critical nature of defensive strategies and the importance of veteran players in fostering team chemistry amid these challenges.