The Lead

Last week, The Athletic's Tim Cato and Sam Amick published a report about tension and dysfunction within the Dallas Mavericks caused by research and analytics expert (and former professional gambler) Haralabos Voulgaris. The report claimed that Haralabos was acting as a 'shadow GM' for the team's owner, Mark Cuban, who responded by saying that claims of internal turmoil were "total bullshit." But just a few days later, long-time general manager Donnie Nelson and head coach Rick Carlisle parted ways with the team, and the Mavs are now in search of new leadership. Today, Tim Cato joins us to break down Cuban's rationale for hiring someone with Voulgaris's background in he first place, why he rubbed many staff members and players -- especially superstar Luka Doncic -- the wrong way, and what his ongoing influence could mean for the future of the team.Read Tim Cato and Sam Amick's story about Voulgaris and the Mavericks:https://theathletic.com/2649806/2021/06/14/inside-the-mavericks-front-office-mark-cubans-shadow-gm-is-causing-a-rift-with-luka-doncic/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The first week of Euro 2020 is in the books -- and what an opening week it has been. The Athletic's Adam Crawford joins us to break down some of the biggest and most fascinating storylines so far, including France's strong performance in their opening game against Germany, Cristiano Ronaldo's knack for making headlines both on and off the field, and his early picks for tournament champion and breakout star. Plus, we revisit the stunning moment where Danish star Christian Eriksen collapsed on the field, and learn the unlikely story of the two doctors who saved his life.Read Adam Crafton's story about Christian Eriksen here and follow more of his Euro 2020 coverage here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

NBA fans woke up to some stunning news on Wednesday, when it was announced that Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul, who has been absolutely electric during this year's NBA Playoffs, has been put on the league's Covid protocol and is out indefinitely. And from there, more and more big news stories just kept breaking. The Athletic's Sam Amick joins us to make sense of the day that the NBA was turned upside down, and offers his insights on Kawhi Leonard's knee problem, LeBron James's casting blame on the league for player injuries, two more head coaching positions opening up, if we'll see the first woman hired as a head coach, and more.More from Sam Amick: https://theathletic.com/author/sam-amick/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three years ago, the Montreal Canadiens were sitting at the bottom of the NHL standings and ripe for a rebuild. Instead of blowing up the team, GM Marc Bergevin looked West, to the expansion Vegas Golden Knights, for a different approach to constructing his roster. Now, as the Habs and Knights face off in the Stanley Cup Semifinals, the Athletic's Arpon Basu tells us how Bergevin managed to rebuild the Canadiens in the Knights’ image and why that just might have saved his job.You can read Arpon Basu's story about the Canadiens here: https://theathletic.com/2647540/2021/06/11/a-look-at-how-the-canadiens-were-built-reveals-road-map-drawn-by-the-golden-knights/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Recently across Major League Baseball, the issue of pitchers using sticky substances to generate more spin — and therefore gain an advantage — has exploded into a controversy, with Yankees ace Gerrit Cole among those under scrutiny. Today, The Athletic’s Britt Ghiroli on how big this problem has become, how MLB and commissioner Rob Manfred are trying to put a stop to it, and why the league ultimately needs to look itself in the mirror.UPDATE: A few hours after this episode published, MLB issued a statement explaining exactly how they intend to deal with the issue of sticky substances. Umpires have been instructed to perform checks of both teams throughout the game, and any pitcher caught using a foreign substance will be ejected and automatically suspended, with progressive discipline for repeat offenders. Other position players and club personnel may also be subject to league discipline. You can read the full statement here.Follow Britt Ghiroli’s coverage of Major League Baseball and the sticky substance controversy: https://theathletic.com/2641498/2021/06/09/ghiroli-blame-for-mlbs-sticky-substance-controversy-falls-first-on-the-league/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As NFL teams move closer to the start of the 2021 season, many have run into a challenging dilemma -- how to handle players who are hesitant or flat out unwilling to get a Covid vaccine. This has led to some frustration on the part of coaches, executives, agents, and others working behind the scenes, who are trying to find ways to persuade players to get their shots. The Athletic's Lindsay Jones recently spoke with people from around the league about the situation, and joins us today to discuss the growing push to get more NFL players vaccinated and how it is or isn't working.Read Lindsay Jones's recent story about the NFL and vaccination rates.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There's been a lot of talk in recent years about the 'psychedelic revolution' coming in mental health, thanks to studies that have shown that drugs like MDMA (ecstasy or molly) and psilocybin (magic mushrooms), together with therapy, can have positive effects for people suffering from PTSD, depression, and other mental illnesses. But what many people might not realize is that athletes -- who often suffer from these same conditions -- are helping lead the charge. The Athletic's Dan Robson recently wrote about this phenomenon, and he joins us to discuss why many former pro athletes are taking up the cause and how some of their lives have been transformed by their experiences with the drugs.Read Dan Robson's full story about athletes and psychedelics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hopes are high in Nashville after the trade that brought superstar wide receiver Julio Jones from the Atlanta Falcons to the Tennessee Titans this week. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Joe Rexrode to look at the gamble that the Titans (and their risk-taking GM, Jon Robinson) are taking by bringing in the 32-year-old, how his new teammates have responded, and why an offense featuring Jones, Derrick Henry and A.J. Brown has Tennessee dreaming of a Super Bowl. Read Joe Rexrode’s story about Julio Jones landing with Tennessee: https://theathletic.com/2635345/2021/06/06/titans-julio-jones-are-close-to-teaming-up-and-nashville-should-rejoice/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Soccer fans were treated to an unforgettable spectacle on Sunday night when the U.S. Men's National Team squared off against Mexico in the final of the CONCACAF Nation's League. It was the first big test for what many are calling the 'Golden Generation' of U.S. men's soccer -- a collection of young players who are playing for some of the very best clubs in the world. The Athletic's Paul Tenorio joins us to break down the absolutely unforgettable match, which included everything from controversial penalty kicks and pitch invaders to red cards and fan projectiles, and why the character and skill displayed by the U.S. team should give fans plenty of optimism.Read Paul Tenorio's story about the game:https://theathletic.com/2636376/2021/06/07/usmnt-mexico-nations-league-final/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Utah Jazz finished the regular season with the best record in the NBA, but it seems like many people still aren’t taking them seriously as bona fide title contenders. Today, The Athletic’s Tony Jones joins us to break down the challenges that the Jazz have faced this season — from an injury controversy with Donovan Mitchell to a terrifying incident on an airplane — and whether this team is still being overlooked as they get ready to take on the Clippers.Follow Tony Jones’s coverage of the Utah Jazz: https://theathletic.com/author/tony-jones/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three years ago, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was one of the most prized prospects in all of baseball. His plate discipline, raw power, and notable lineage led everyone to believe he was destined for stardom at the major league level. Now after facing some adversity during his first two seasons as a pro, Guerrero is living up to the billing. The 22-year-old first baseman is leading the American League is just about every offensive category and he's also become a surprisingly limber defensive player. The Athletic's Kaitlyn McGrath joins the show to talk about Guerrero's breakout campaign and whether he can sustain this level of play going forward.You can read Kaitlyn McGrath's story about Vladimir Guerrero Jr. here: https://theathletic.com/2527434/2021/04/19/vladimir-guerrero-jr-s-hot-start-has-him-looking-like-the-elite-hitter-the-blue-jays-knew-he-could-be/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re a few weeks into the WNBA’s 25th season, and already it’s been filled with signature moments from star players, including Sabrina Ionescu of the New York Liberty recording just the ninth triple-double in league history. Today, The Athletic’s Chantel Jennings on some of the most notable early-season story lines, including one contender (the Chicago Sky) that has struggled early with Candace Parker injured. Plus, a coaching shakeup for the defending champs, the Seattle Storm, and a fast start for the Atlanta Dream, a team powered by windmills (sort of).  Follow Chantel Jennings’s coverage of the WNBA: https://theathletic.com/author/chantel-jennings/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Wednesday, the college basketball world received some surprising news with reports that Mike Krzyzewski is planning to retire at the end of next season after four decades as the head coach of Duke men’s basketball. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Brendan Marks to look at the factors behind Coach K’s decision, and what to expect during the legendary coach's farewell season. Read Shams Charania, Seth Davis and Brendan Marks’s story about Mike Krzyzewski’s plans to retire: https://theathletic.com/2583383/2021/06/02/coach-k-plans-to-retire-after-season-inside-the-factors-for-the-decision-and-dukes-plans-for-their-next-head-coach/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Tuesday night, the Brooklyn Nets — led by Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and a huge game from James Harden — knocked out the Boston Celtics for the team’s first playoff series win in seven years. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Alex Schiffer to look at one key component of Brooklyn's success — the mind of Harden — and why that basketball brain could be the driving force for a Nets title run.Read Alex Schiffer’s story about James Harden’s basketball mind: https://theathletic.com/2597501/2021/05/20/inside-james-hardens-beautiful-mind-the-tool-that-could-lead-the-former-mvp-and-the-nets-to-an-nba-title/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

During this year's NHL playoffs, a lot of people had been rooting for veteran Toronto Maple Leafs forward (and noted nice guy) Joe Thornton. At age 41, the former #1 overall pick had been striving to win the first Stanley Cup of his long and storied career before the Leafs were eliminated by the Montreal Canadiens on Monday night. But what many people don’t know is that, for years, Thornton maintained a close relationship with a transcendent Canadian rock star: the late lead singer of The Tragically Hip, Gord Downie. Josh Kloke first broke the details of their unlikely friendship, and he joins us today to explain how the hockey superstar and the rock and roll icon saw similarities in their respective art forms and drew inspiration from one another right up until the end of Downie's life.Read Joshua Kloke's story about Joe Thornton and Gord Downie:https://theathletic.com/2542210/2021/04/28/joe-thornton-and-gord-downie-inside-a-friendship-that-changed-a-hockey-star-and-inspired-a-music-legend/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the most fascinating matchups in the first round of the NBA Playoffs has been the Dallas Mavericks against the Los Angeles Clippers -- a rematch of last year's battle in the NBA bubble. Today, we're rebroadcasting an episode that originally aired back in late March. The Athletic's Tim Cato joined us to talk about the Mavericks' roller coaster of a season, why they've experienced such highs and lows, and how dangerous this team could be come playoff time.More from Tim Cato: https://theathletic.com/author/tim-cato/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Manchester City will be the favorites when they take on Chelsea in the Champions League Final on Saturday in Portugal. And while City's march to the final now feels almost inevitable, especially on the heels of yet another Premier League title, it's easy forget that this team was floundering in the middle of the pack just six months ago. The Athletic's Sam Lee joins us today to explain how the team turned their season around, thanks in large part to three key players, and what another Champions League title would mean for manager Pep Guardiola's legacy.More from Sam Lee:https://theathletic.com/2555687/2021/05/11/slower-attacks-and-a-code-of-honour-inside-story-of-how-guardiolas-manchester-city-took-back-control-of-english-football/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are at the start of a brand new chapter, with a new head coach in Urban Meyer and a franchise quarterback in Trevor Lawrence. But right now, a lot of the talk in Jacksonville is centered around a former quarterback-turned-tight end: Tim Tebow. Today, The Athletic’s Lindsay Jones joins us to discuss why the Jags are trying to bring back Tebow now — at age 33 — and what this polarizing experiment might say about the Urban Meyer regime. Read Lindsay Jones’s story about Tim Tebow and Urban Meyer: https://theathletic.com/2603123/2021/05/20/jones-tim-tebows-and-urban-meyers-egos-collide-in-a-large-jaguars-misstep/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Vegas Golden Knights are one of the favorites to win the Stanley Cup this year, and that's thanks in part to their 36 year-old goaltender, Marc-Andre Fleury. The 3-time Stanley Cup Champion has been red-hot for the Knights so far this post-season after putting up the best numbers of his career during the regular season, despite questions about his age and longevity coming into the year. The Athletic's Jesse Granger joins us to break down what makes Fleury so special in goal and why some of the greatest goalies of all time believe Fleury is the most exciting netminder in the game today.Read Jesse Granger's recent story about Marc-Andre Fleury:https://theathletic.com/2559791/2021/05/13/vegas-marc-andre-fleury-better-than-ever-at-36-celebrates-joining-his-idols-in-nhl-record-books/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Phoenix Suns had the second best record in the NBA's Western Conference and a huge reason why was the play of their 36-year-old point guard, Chris Paul. The Suns acquired the surefire Hall of Famer this offseason and he has repaid them handsomely with MVP-caliber play this season. The Athletic's Sam Amick recently spoke with CP3 about why Phoenix was the perfect place for him to call home this season and whether the Suns have what it takes to make a run at a title and fill the only hole remaining on Paul's resume.Read Sam Amick's story about Chris Paul here: https://theathletic.com/2535983/2021/04/23/chris-paul-lets-us-in-on-how-hes-still-balling-for-the-suns-and-why-you-just-dont-know-him-if-you-are-surprised-by-it/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last week, when Yermin Mercedes of the White Sox homered on a 3-0 pitch in a blowout win over the Twins, it put the team — and manager Tony La Russa — at the center of the latest heated debate over baseball’s unwritten rules. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s James Fegan to look at all the fallout from last week’s incident, and whether it’s only a matter of time until there’s more conflict in the Chicago clubhouse. Read James Fegan’s story about the White Sox and baseball’s unwritten rules: https://theathletic.com/2597980/2021/05/18/tony-la-russas-enforcement-of-unwritten-rules-put-him-at-odds-with-his-own-yermin-mercedes/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over the second half of the NBA season, not many teams have been as hot as the Atlanta Hawks, who posted a 27-11 record under interim coach Nate McMillan after going 14-20 (with a ton of late-game collapses) under previous head coach Lloyd Pierce. Today, The Athletic’s Chris Kirschner on all the ups and downs of the Hawks season, and just how dangerous Trae Young, Bogdan Bogdanovic and John Collins could be as they take on the Knicks in the playoffs. Read Chris Kirschner’s story about the Hawks’ long road to the playoffs: https://theathletic.com/2584324/2021/05/13/the-long-winding-journey-of-rebuilding-hawks-to-playoff-berth-were-here-now/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When the San Francisco 49ers selected North Dakota State quarterback Trey Lance with the third overall pick at the 2021 NFL Draft, it made headlines across the country. But nowhere did it generate more excitement than in his hometown of Marshall, Minnesota. The Athletic’s Dan Hayes recently traveled from the Twin Cities to the rural town that gave birth to one of college football's biggest stars, and Dan joins us today to talk about the town, why Trey Lance was so overlooked there, and how folks in Marshall rang in draft night.Read Dan Hayes' full story about Trey Lance and 'Trey Day': https://theathletic.com/2579305/2021/05/14/buzzer-beaters-and-trey-day-how-49ers-qb-trey-lance-was-groomed-and-celebrated-by-his-minnesota-hometown/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Major League Baseball's current home run leader is also... one of its best starting pitchers? It might seem too strange to be believed, but Shohei Ohtani is changing everything we thought we knew about what's possible in professional baseball. Today, we're joined by The Athletic's Jayson Stark who tells us about some of the Angels superstar's most impressive achievements and whether or not he can sustain his two-way play for an entire 162 game season.Read all of Jayson Stark's Major League Baseball coverage here: https://theathletic.com/author/jayson-stark/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers got LeBron James back on the court over the weekend, but they’re in a position that very people would have expected heading into this season, having to scrap their way into the playoffs — and into a play-in tournament matchup against Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors. Today, The Athletic’s Bill Oram on all the adversity that LeBron James, Anthony Davis and the Lakers have faced this season, and why they’re still confident heading toward the playoffs.Follow Bill Oram’s coverage of the Lakers: https://theathletic.com/author/bill-oram/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The NHL Playoffs began this weekend, and the first few games have not disappointed. The Athletic's James Mirtle joins us today to break down the biggest and most fascinating storylines to follow in this year's playoffs. Can Connor McDavid's individual brilliance lift the Edmonton Oilers above mediocrity? Can the offensively talented Pittsburgh Penguins give "Sid the Kid" a fourth shot at the Cup? Will the Toronto Maple Leafs break their epic playoff drought at the expense of their oldest rival? And can anyone stop the Colorado Avalanche? Plus, we hear what NHL goalies say makes Leafs star Auston Matthews so difficult to stop.More from James Mirtle: https://theathletic.com/author/james-mirtle/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Early on this season, Anthony Edwards looked like a 19-year-old rookie trying to figure things out in the NBA. But lately, the number one pick in the 2020 NBA Draft has flipped the switch. Today, The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski on how Edwards managed to level up his game and make a run at Rookie of the Year, and what the team’s core of Edwards, D’Angelo Russell and Karl-Anthony Towns is trying to prove during the final days of the regular season. Read Jon Krawczynski’s story about Anthony Edwards’s run at Rookie of the Year: https://theathletic.com/2570240/2021/05/06/anthony-edwards-is-making-one-final-push-for-the-rookie-of-the-year-award/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

So far, 2021 has been the year of the pitcher -- and none have been better than Mets ace Jacob DeGrom. But what has made DeGrom's performance this year so remarkable is that, among other things, he’s throwing harder as he gets older. Tim Britton, who covers the Mets for The Athletic, recently spoke with people who know DeGrom and have worked with him over the years, to try and figure out how DeGrom is adding velocity as he moves into his mid-thirties, if it's an anomaly or part of a trend, and what all of this could mean for the future of baseball.More from Tim Britton:https://theathletic.com/author/tim-britton/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Will the Seattle Storm (and their big three of Breanna Stewart, Sue Bird, and Jewell Loyd) repeat their dominance from last season? What will young superstar Sabrina Ionescu look like this season after missing almost all of last year with an injury? And who will bring home MVP, Rookie of the Year, and Championship honors in 2021? The Athletic's Chantel Jennings joins us to answer all of these questions and more.More from Chantel Jennings:https://theathletic.com/author/chantel-jennings/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Carolina Panthers turned some heads in the 2021 NFL Draft by selecting cornerback Jaycee Horn eighth overall, when Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields was among the players still available. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Joe Person to look at why the Panthers made Horn their choice, and how he was groomed for success by his dad — former New Orleans Saints Pro Bowl wide receiver Joe Horn — through a combination of grit, competitiveness, Red Bull and an unconventional approach to youth sports.Read Joe Person’s full story about Jaycee and Joe Horn: https://theathletic.com/2569369/2021/05/06/red-bull-games-in-the-hood-and-a-fathers-touch-how-jaycee-horn-became-panthers-top-dog/?source=theleadpodcaastListen ad free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App. https://wondery.app.link/theleadSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Milwaukee Bucks have been one of the best regular season teams in the NBA over the past two seasons, but that success hasn't really translated to the playoffs. To try and improve their fortunes in the postseason the team acquired guard Jrue Holiday this offseason in a blockbuster trade. Today we're joined by The Athletic's Eric Nehm who fills us in on how the Holiday experiment has been working out and whether or not the move will help propel them past the likes of Brooklyn and Philadelphia and into the NBA Finals.You can read Eric Nehm's Milwaukee Bucks coverage here: https://theathletic.com/author/eric-nehm/Listen ad free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App. https://wondery.app.link/theleadSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tom Wilson is a feared man. The Washington Capitals winger has served multiple suspensions during his NHL career and is considered by many to be the most reckless and dangerous hockey player in the entire NHL (while also being a very good player). And all of that is why the hockey world was thrown into turmoil this week after Wilson made two very dangerous plays in a game against the New York Rangers, one of which could have ended in a severe -- perhaps even fatal -- injury to Rangers star Artemi Panarin. The Athletic's Sean Gentille, who has followed Wilson's career closely over the years, joins us to discuss why the incident created such an uproar, who within the NHL is now coming under fire, and why Wilson's behavior is unlikely to change any time soon.Read Sean Gentille's story about Tom Wilson:https://theathletic.com/2566394/2021/05/04/like-him-or-hate-him-tom-wilson-knows-what-the-nhl-wants-and-how-to-get-away-with-it/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over the last week, the focus of the football world was supposed to be on the NFL Draft. Instead, all eyes have been on the league’s reigning MVP, Aaron Rodgers. Today, The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman on how things have unfolded since Rodgers dropped the news that he no longer wants to be in Green Bay, the many things he’s been up to this offseason (including hosting Jeopardy!, and his engagement to Shailene Woodley), and what the superstar quarterback ultimately wants. Follow Matt Schneidman’s coverage of the Aaron Rodgers saga: https://theathletic.com/author/matt-schneidman/?source=theleadpodcast Listen ad free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App. https://wondery.app.link/theleadSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Washington Wizards have been one of the hottest teams in the NBA recently, and have been making a big push toward the playoffs. And while some long-suffering fans are thrilled about the prospect of playoff hoops returning to Washington D.C., others feel the team is shooting itself in the foot by eliminating their chances at a lottery pick in the NBA Draft. The Athletic's David Aldridge, who has covered the team for many seasons, joins us to break down both sides of the divide, and discusses what the best strategy is for the team moving forward.Read David Aldridge's recent story about the Wizards:https://theathletic.com/2527005/2021/04/19/aldridge-the-wizards-are-back-in-the-playoff-race-but-do-the-means-justify-the-ends/Listen ad free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App. https://wondery.app.link/theleadSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's Champion's League semifinal match between Paris St. Germain and Manchester City, one player in particular will be heavily scrutinized and critiqued -- PSG's Brazilian superstar, Neymar. For years, he has dazzled the soccer world with his incredible skills, and simultaneously enraged many fans and opponents with his over-the-top antics. The Athletic's Jack Lang, who has written extensively about Brazilian soccer, joins us today to talk about how Neymar became one of the most polarizing players in history, what's at stake for him in today's highly anticipated match, and why much of the hatred directed toward Neymar -- particularly from British soccer fans -- is misguided.Read Jack Lang's story about why you might want to rethink the way you feel about Neymar:https://theathletic.com/2518636/2021/04/14/seriously-what-is-it-that-makes-you-hate-neymar/Listen ad free with Wondery+. Join Wondery+ for exclusives, binges, early access, and ad free listening. Available in the Wondery App. https://wondery.app.link/theleadSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 2021 NFL Draft is officially behind us, and over the course of three days in Cleveland, we saw the expected (Trevor Lawrence to the Jags), the unexpected (the Bears trading up to get Justin Fields) and the confusing (the Raiders). Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Sheil Kapadia, who hands out his letter grades for some of the best, worst and strangest moves from the 2021 NFL Draft — and to offer his perspective on the ongoing Aaron Rodgers-Packers saga. Follow Sheil Kapadia’s coverage of the NFL: https://theathletic.com/author/sheil-kapadia/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The 2021 NFL Draft started out as everyone expected, with Trevor Lawrence and Zach Wilson going first and second overall to the Jaguars and Jets. From there, things got interesting. Today, The Athletic’s Jourdan Rodrigue joins us to break down the biggest and most surprising moments of the night, including the 49ers choosing Trey Lance, the Bears’ bold trade up for Justin Fields, the Bengals reuniting Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, and the Patriots landing Alabama QB Mac Jones.Follow Jourdan Rodrigue’s coverage of the Rams: https://theathletic.com/author/jourdan-rodrigue/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The NFL Draft always brings intense speculation, insight and analysis. But it also brings some of the most emotional moments in sports -- moments when players and their families realize a lifelong dream and see their futures transformed in a single moment. Today, The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner brings us the story of Western Michigan wide receiver D'Wayne Eskridge, a converted track star who has followed an unlikely path from a small town in Mississippi to the NFL Draft, and the remarkable sacrifices and support his family found along the way.Read Nick Baumgardner's story:https://theathletic.com/2529614/2021/04/23/dwayne-eskridges-nfl-draft-dream-became-reality-thanks-to-his-village-i-dont-do-anything-alone/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Just three years ago, the Carolina Hurricanes were in the midst of a decade-long NHL playoff drought. Today, they have the best record in the league and have already clinched a playoff berth. Along the way, the team captured the hearts and minds (and in some cases, the ire) of the hockey world with their elaborate 'Storm Surge' celebrations. Sara Civian, who covers the 'Canes for The Athletic, joins us today to explain how those celebrations, along with new leadership and a whole lot of resilience, have transformed the Hurricanes into a true Stanley Cup contender.More from Sara Civian: https://theathletic.com/author/sara-civian/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stephen Curry put up historic numbers in April and almost single-handedly dragged this Warriors team into playoff contention. The two-time MVP has made a strong case for a third trophy, and silenced many of his critics in the process. Today, The Athletic's Zach Harper joins us to talk about Curry's incredible performances over the past few weeks and to break down the rest of the NBA's Western Conference playoff picture.Read all of Zach Harper's NBA coverage here: https://theathletic.com/author/zach-harper/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Much of the debate around this year’s NFL draft, which kicks off on Thursday, has been about the talented group of quarterbacks at the top of the class. From Clemson's Trevor Lawrence to BYU's Zach Wilson, and Ohio State's Justin Fields to North Dakota State's Trey Lance, many NFL teams will be betting big on a potential franchise QB -- and hoping their pick pays off. The Athletic's Andy Staples joins us to break down what makes each of these quarterbacks special, where they're likely to end up, and what surprises we could see on draft day.More from Andy Staples: https://theathletic.com/author/andy-staples/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Just three seasons ago, the Colorado Rockies won 91 games and reached the postseason. Now, in 2021, they are considered by many to be the worst team in baseball. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Nick Groke to look at the series of missteps that took the Rockies from contender to punchline, and how they went from one of the proudest days in their history — the signing of Nolan Arenado to a massive contract extension in 2019 — to a dramatic falling out between Arenado and the front office less than a year later. Read Nick Groke and Ken Rosenthal’s story about the Rockies-Nolan Arenado saga: https://theathletic.com/2467223/2021/03/22/communication-failures-poor-decisions-and-messy-breakups-how-it-all-went-wrong-for-the-colorado-rockies/?source=theleadpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It has been one of the most spectacular collapses in sports history. On Sunday, many of the world's largest soccer clubs announced that they were forming a new 'Super League' -- by invitation only, and accessible only to the wealthiest and most historic teams in the land. But then came the backlash. Fans, players, managers, sponsors, pundits, and non-participating teams cried foul and created such an uproar that, within just two days, the league had all but fallen apart. The Athletic's Adam Crafton has been covering the fast-moving story up close, and he joins us today to discuss the remarkable rise and fall of Europe's most ambitious -- and most short-lived -- soccer league.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Mike Trout signed his record breaking contract with the Los Angeles Angels two years ago, some people were surprised that the best player in baseball was choosing to stay with a team that had only made the playoffs once in a decade, and didn’t look like it would be a World Series contender any time soon. Since then, things have arguably gotten even worse, with the Angels finishing below .500 for the past two seasons. The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya recently did a long interview with Trout, and he joins us today to talk about the superstar's commitment to the Angelss, the questions around his will to win the World Series, and whether the Angels are finally building a contending team around him.Read Fabian Arday's story about Mike Trout's loyalty:https://theathletic.com/2487459/2021/04/01/mike-trouts-baseball-genius-has-a-gaping-void-october-he-knows-you-know-what-its-time/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Brooklyn Nets have gone all-in on winning the NBA title this year, but for much of the season, their Big Three of Kevin Durant, James Harden and Kyrie Irving has had a hard time just staying on the floor. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Alex Schiffer to look at how Steve Nash and the Nets have tried to weather a storm of injuries and absences, and whether time is running out on their quest to build chemistry between their superstars. Read Alex Schiffer’s story about the Nets and chemistry: https://theathletic.com/2508915/2021/04/09/the-nets-are-running-out-of-time-to-develop-chemistry-history-isnt-exactly-on-brooklyns-side/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The NFL Draft is fast approaching and LSU's Ja'Marr Chase is widely expected to be the first receiver to come off the board. Chase burst onto the national scene during the Tigers undefeated championship run in 2019, but he raised some eyebrows by choosing to opt out of the 2020 season over COVID-19 concerns. Today, we're joined by The Athletic's Larry Holder to talk about how Ja'Marr and his family decided to forgo his junior season of college football and whether this might be a model for prospects in the future.Read Larry Holder's story about Ja'Marr Chase here: https://theathletic.com/2504321/2021/04/13/lsu-jamarr-chase-is-so-good-that-defenders-and-his-dad-agree-the-nfl-draft-has-a-clear-wr1-but-chase-wont-hear-it/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last weekend, there was a fresh new voice calling out the starting lineups inside Chase Center, and getting Golden State Warriors fans hyped in the process. It belonged to Aaron 'Showtime' Taylor, a man who cut his teeth as a basketball announcer inside San Quentin State Prison -- and who spent more than 25 years behind bars. The Athletic's Marcus Thompson II has been following Taylor's incredible journey for years, and he joins us today to explain how Taylor went from nerdy kid to armed robber, to prison play-by-play guy, to NBA announcer -- and how he believes his fate was sealed by a botched robbery that nearly cost him his life.Read Marcus Thompson II's full story about Aaron Taylor: https://theathletic.com/2506509/2021/04/09/from-san-quentin-to-chase-center-the-voice-of-aaron-showtime-taylor-is-just-getting-warm/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Major League Soccer is still not making money, and only about a quarter of the league’s teams turn a profit, according to Forbes. And yet the cost of buying an MLS team, or buying into the league, is skyrocketing -- and growing at a much faster rate than the NFL, NBA, or MLB. We've also seen celebrities like Will Ferrell, Matthew McConaughey, Magic Johnson, James Harden and others become partial owners of MLS teams. The Athletic’s Sam Stejskal joins us to explain why, and to break down some of the biggest storylines to follow during the 2021 MLS season, which kicks off on Friday.More from Sam Stejskal: https://theathletic.com/author/sam-stejskal/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

While the defending champion L.A. Lakers are trying to stay afloat until they get LeBron James and Anthony Davis back, the team that shares an arena with them has been taking things to another level. Today, we’re joined by The Athletic’s Law Murray to look at why things have really started to click for Paul George, Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers. Plus, the challenges that this pandemic — and empty seats — have presented to the team’s famous super fan, Clipper Darrell.Read Law Murray’s story about Clipper Darrell: https://theathletic.com/2467946/2021/04/02/clipper-darrell-and-a-superfans-separation-anxiety/?source=theleadpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the best teams in the NHL this year and goalie Jack Campbell has been a major factor in their success. As a teenager, Campbell was touted as the next great phenom in American hockey, but his time with the Dallas Stars was derailed by injury and a loss of confidence. After getting traded to Los Angeles, Campbell met Dusty Imoo, a coach who is described as a sort-of "hockey shaman," and who helped steer Campbell away from potentially ending his professional career. Today, The Athletic's James Mirtle joins us to talk about the special relationship Imoo forged with Campbell and how it helped put the goalie back on the path to greatness.Read James Mirtle's story about Jack Campbell here: https://theathletic.com/2494891/2021/04/05/im-not-gonna-lie-about-my-life-how-jack-campbell-was-saved-on-his-way-to-the-maple-leafs/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.