The Bill Simmons Podcast

Kevin O’Connor, a sharp analyst from The Ringer, discusses the Lakers' quiet offseason and its impact on LeBron's future. Wosny Lambre shares insights into the Knicks' struggles with trades and player development. J Kyle Mann highlights the evolving NBA dynamics and the significance of player empowerment. They tackle the paradox of modern fan engagement and hope in a deeper league, questioning if the 'merry-go-round' era truly resonates with fans while exploring coaching challenges and team strategies.

Join Chris Ryan, a sports and pop culture writer, and Wosny Lambre, an NBA analyst, as they dive deep into the current NBA trade frenzy. They analyze the James Harden trade's impact on the Sixers and debate whether he can regain his top form. The surprising Porzingis deal to the Wizards stirs conversation about team dynamics with Luka Doncic. Tune in for hot takes on how roster changes, like the Celtics’ moves, influence team strategies and the broader implications for this season's playoff chase!

Chris Ryan, Kevin O’Connor, and Rob Mahoney from The Ringer dive deep into the seismic trade of James Harden to the Philadelphia 76ers. They dissect the impact on team dynamics, especially with Joel Embiid, and analyze how this reshapes the Eastern Conference landscape. The trio also reflects on Harden's previous stint with the Nets and the complications of creating a super team. Fans can expect insightful discussions on playoff predictions and how these trades influence NBA rivalries.

The Ringer’s Bill Simmons shares his thoughts on two significant NBA trades: the Kings trading Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson to the Pacers for Domantas Sabonis, Jeremy Lamb, Justin Holiday, and a 2027 second-round pick; and the Pelicans trading Josh Hart, Tomas Satoransky, Nickeil Walker-Alexander, Didi Louzada, and draft picks to the Trial Blazers for CJ McCollum, Larry Nance Jr., and Tony Snell (2:06). Then Bill is joined by Cousin Sal to discuss the Bengals' improbable postseason run before kicking around a TON of Super Bowl prop bets (15:54). Then Bill is joined by NFL Network's Peter Schrager to make the case for both the Bengals and Rams to win Super Bowl 56 and discuss likely narratives following a Super Bowl win for either team (58:44) before making the Million-Dollar Picks in a last-ditch effort to come away with a winning gambling season (1:37:42).Host: Bill SimmonsGuests: Cousin Sal and Peter SchragerProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jackie MacMullan, a veteran basketball writer, and Kevin O’Connor, a savvy NBA analyst, dive into the swirling trade rumors surrounding Ben Simmons and James Harden as the deadline approaches. They dissect the potential impacts of these trades on team dynamics, especially for the 76ers and Nets. The duo also discusses intriguing moves like Caris LeVert to the Cavaliers and the Pelicans eyeing CJ McCollum, while analyzing the rising Grizzlies and the ever-evolving landscape of player relationships in the league.

The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Rob Mahoney to discuss teams who may be "one trade away" from seriously improving their season, including the Grizzlies, Cavaliers, Celtics, Mavericks, 76ers, Hornets, and more (1:16). Then Bill talks with writer, producer, and loyal baseball fan Mike Schur about the Baseball Hall of Fame induction debates, the MLB lockout remaining unresolved as spring training approaches, Mike's pitch on how former players mired in PED controversy can still make the Hall of Fame, and more (56:01). Finally, Bill is joined by his dad to discuss Boston sports, including the Celtics, Tom Brady's retirement, the future of the Patriots, and more (1:26:54).Host: Bill SimmonsGuests: Rob Mahoney, Mike Schur, Bill's DadProducer: Kyle Crichton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this engaging discussion, author Chuck Klosterman shares his insights on Tom Brady's legendary career and the art of longevity in sports. They explore the evolution of instant replay and its implications for the game. Chuck dives into his new book about the ‘90s, reminiscing how the decade shaped culture and the internet's impact on social connectivity. With a mix of humor and nostalgia, Klosterman reflects on the complexities of athlete recognition across eras and the changing dynamics of friendship in today's digital age.

Cousin Sal, known for his sports betting expertise and humor, joins Kevin O’Connor, a keen NBA analyst, to dive into the latest NFL and NBA news. They dissect the Bengals' thrilling win over the Chiefs and the Rams' unexpected resurgence, sparking chatter about Super Bowl narratives. Sal shares betting insights, while Kevin breaks down crucial trade teams as the NBA deadline looms. They also touch on player performances, comparing underachieving franchises like the Wizards and Kings, with an eye on potential game-changing trades.

Brian Windhorst, an ESPN NBA expert, and Peter Schrager, an NFL analyst, dive deep into the NBA landscape, discussing the Cleveland Cavaliers' rise and the Brooklyn Nets' struggles. They delve into player development, trade complexities, and strategic shifts shaping team dynamics. The conversation then shifts gears to the NFL playoffs, highlighting key matchups like Rams-49ers and Chiefs-Bengals, while sharing insights on betting strategies and making million-dollar predictions for the championship weekend.

Wosny Lambre, an insightful contributor to The Ringer, dives into Joel Embiid's incredible yet challenging NBA journey, dissecting trade speculations around Ben Simmons and James Harden. Kevin Hench, a passionate Red Sox fan, reflects on David Ortiz's momentous Hall of Fame induction and its cultural significance. Former NBA tough guy Charles Oakley shares legendary stories from his career, touches on ‘The Last Dance,’ and discusses his upcoming book, offering a gritty look at the life of one of basketball's fiercest competitors.