The Bill Simmons Podcast

Bill Simmons welcomes Ryen Russillo, a sports analyst known for his work at ESPN and The Ringer. They dive into the 76ers' draft pick dilemma and discuss the new-look Lakers' potential. The duo critiques the harsh scrutiny faced by NBA players today, exploring what it means to be the 'face of the league.' They also analyze the Celtics' matchup against the Cavaliers, weigh in on title contenders' red flags, and reflect on the evolving media narratives reshaping players' legacies. Buckle up for a lively basketball conversation!

J. Kyle Mann, a basketball writer for The Ringer, dives into the future of the NBA, highlighting promising prospect Cooper Flagg and the top title contenders. He explores the league's fun dynamics post-trade deadline. Susan Morrison, author of 'Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live,' shares intriguing stories from her week shadowing Lorne Michaels, discussing his iconic quotes and his journey with SNL. Their conversation blends the worlds of basketball and comedy in a compelling way.

Sheil Kapadia, an insightful writer for The Ringer, analyzes the NFL landscape, discussing Super Bowl contenders, quarterback dynamics, and trade speculations. Meanwhile, Dave Bernad, executive producer of the critically acclaimed 'White Lotus', shares behind-the-scenes stories and the creative journey of the show, including its unlikely origins and pandemic challenges. The conversation intertwines the excitement of the NFL with the complexities of television production, leaving listeners with a deeper appreciation for both worlds.

Ryen Russillo, a savvy sports analyst and commentator, joins to dissect the Celtics' solid win over the Knicks and dive into the NBA’s hottest storylines. They explore the mysterious struggles of the Suns, the chaotic 76ers, and the late-blooming Lakers who are turning heads. Listen in as they judge NBA player performances, chat about playoff hopes, and engage in rapid-fire discussions on rising teams like the wild-card Pistons. With sharp insights and banter, this conversation is a slam dunk for basketball fans!

Shea Serrano, a witty sports commentator at The Ringer, joins fellow writers Chris Ryan and Sean Fennessey for a fun-filled discussion. They toss around wild ideas for reimagining All-Star Weekend, including an obstacle course competition. The trio dives into quirky movie concepts for Luka Doncic, critiques the evolving landscape of player podcasts, and even drafts a dream team of fictional basketball characters. With their clever banter and nostalgia, they create a lively mix of sports and cinema that keeps you entertained.

Van Lathan, a sharp commentator on culture, and James Andrew Miller, an accomplished journalist, delve into the dreary state of the NBA All-Star Weekend, proposing bold fixes and exciting new formats, including features for non-NBA participants in the dunk contest. They also dissect the heated Kendrick Lamar and Drake rap rivalry, examining its cultural ramifications. Later, Miller reflects on 'SNL's' iconic 50th anniversary, celebrating its rich legacy while noting absences that sparked nostalgic debates, highlighting the evolution of comedy and star power.

Rob Mahoney, a seasoned NBA analyst from The Ringer, joins to dissect the latest dynamics in the league. They delve into the underperformance of the 76ers and the struggles of the Bulls, while analyzing the revival strategies of the Warriors. Health issues among key players are discussed, alongside potential trade developments for teams like the Suns. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as Bill shares his love for Saturday Night Live, highlighting its iconic sketches and memorable hosts that shaped comedy.

Bryan Curtis, Editor-at-large of The Ringer, dives into the emotional landscape of Dallas Mavericks fans and their frustrations with team management. He examines player loyalty amidst potential trades like Luka Dončić. Matt Belloni, a writer for Puck News, shares insights on the upcoming ‘SNL 50’ celebration and its cultural significance. They also explore Oscars predictions, Hollywood’s feuds, and shifting dynamics in the entertainment industry, including how celebrity culture shapes public perception and media influence.

Cousin Sal, a seasoned sports commentator and gambling expert, joins to dissect the Eagles' impressive 40-22 victory over the Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX. They delve into Patrick Mahomes' surprising performance and the subsequent fan reactions. The discussion covers gambling insights, personal anecdotes from the Super Bowl, and the complexities of betting outcomes. Sal also shares light-hearted reflections on quarterback rivalries and amusing casino stories, blending humor and sports analysis throughout.

Rob Mahoney, a writer for The Ringer known for his sharp NBA analysis, and Wosny Lambre, a contributor with keen insights on trades, dive into the chaotic aftermath of the NBA trade deadline. They dissect the impact of Luka Doncic's potential movement, evaluate team strategies, and grade various trades, revealing which teams are poised for playoff contention. The conversation also shifts to the strategies behind Super Bowl LIX betting, offering tips on player performances and emotional versus logical betting choices.