
The Ringer NBA Show
1,827 episodes — Page 3 of 37

Panic! at the Deadline: A Knicks Collapse, the Adrift Warriors, and More.
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann discuss three teams that could be under some stress heading into the deadline. (00:00) Intro (6:46) Knicks (31:50) FanDuel ad break (32:41) Warriors (50:04) Cavaliers Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Victoria Valencia and Isaiah Blakely Production Supervision: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Additional Production Support: John Richter and Chris Wohlers Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto 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

Jimmy Butler Suffers a Torn ACL. Plus, Real Ones All-Star Reserves | Real Ones
Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Beck are back with another edition of Real Ones, and open with Warriors forward Jimmy Butler suffering a torn ACL Monday night against the Miami Heat. What’s the fallout for a Warriors team that was starting to mesh? Also, will this lead to Steph Curry searching for greener pastures outside of Golden State? Plus, the All-Star starters have been announced, which means Logan, Howard, and Raja have to pick the reserves. Who got snubbed from their lists? (0:00:00) Intro (1:05) Jimmy Butler out for season (40:42) Picking All-Star reserves Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Beck Producers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford Augustin Production Supervision: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Additional Production Support: John Richter and Chris Wohlers The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Biggest All-Star Selection Debates | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann reveal their All-Star ballot picks and break down the toughest decisions behind the process, from positional battles and league stipulations to international player considerations. They debate Jalen Brunson vs. Donovan Mitchell, spotlight rising and overlooked candidates like Jalen Johnson and Michael Porter Jr., and weigh Devin Booker’s case before ending with the big question: Will LeBron James make a late push into the All-Star race? (0:00:00) Intro (8:19) Eastern Conference picks (40:43) Western Conference picks (59:41) Devin Booker (1:12:53) Kawhi Leonard (1:19:32) LeBron James Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Victoria Valencia and Devon Renaldo Production Supervision: Ben Cruz Social: Devon Renaldo and Keith Fujimoto 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

Memphis Blues for Ja and the Grizzlies. Plus, Kuminga Demands Trade. | Real Ones
Logan Murdock and Raja Bell are back with another Friday edition of Real Ones, starting off by discussing Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga demanding a trade. How does Steph Curry feel about the Warriors being in such disarray in the latter portion of his career? Then, Ja Morant was seen arguing with teammate Vince Williams Jr. at a shootaround prior to their game in Berlin, Germany. How quickly do the Grizzlies have to move on from Morant so this issue no longer will fester in the franchise? Plus, Real One of the Week! (0:00:00) Intro (1:30) Kuminga trade request (16:56) Ja Morant issues (33:20) Players being celebrated by franchises (45:39) Real One of the Week! Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Raja Bell and Logan MurdockProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford Augustin The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Champs Get Tough in Spurs-Thunder IV. Plus, Tiering the West. | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann check in on the West after the fourth installment of Spurs-Thunder and rank all of the teams in the Western Conference into tiers. (00:00) Intro (3:50) Spurs-Thunder (24:53:) Tier 1 (26:52) FanDuel ad break (34:46) Tiers 2 and 3(1:01:21) Bottom tiers Check out Rob's piece about the Spurs-Thunder rivalry here! Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Audio Producer: Isaiah Blakely Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Production Supervision: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Additional Production Support: John Richter and Chris Wohlers Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto| The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. theringer.com Wemby vs. the Machine The Spurs and Thunder have all the ingredients to become the next great NBA rivalry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NBA Midseason Awards! | Real Ones
Logan, Howard, and Raja pick their midseason award winners as we approach the midway point of the NBA season. Find out who the guys picked for MVP and Crashout of the Year so far. Plus, Anthony Davis will undergo hand surgery and is expected to miss several months. Will the Mavericks still be able to split from Davis before the deadline? (0:00:00) Intro (3:35) Midseason MVP(13:49) League Pass Player of the Year(24:52) Rookie of the Year(32:50) Crashout of the Year(42:09) Coach of the Year (48:38) Breaking news: Anthony Davis to undergo surgery Check out Logan Murdock’s new feature on Chet Holmgren:https://www.theringer.com/2026/01/13/nba/chet-holmgren-profile-oklahoma-city-thunder Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Logan Murdock, Howard Beck, and Raja BellProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz, Conor Nevins, John Richter and Chris Wohlers The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trade Deadline Love It or List It | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are inspired by the Trae Young trade as they take a look at a few stars who could be on the move before the deadline and decide whether they’re going to love the player and keep him, or list him on the trade block. (00:00) Intro (6:22) Ja Morant (22:22) Anthony Davis (35:56) LaMelo Ball (50:08) Zion Williamson (1:04:07) Domantas Sabonis Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Audio Producer: Isaiah Blakely Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Production Supervision: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Additional Production Support: John Richter and Chris Wohlers Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto 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

Trae Young Traded to the Washington Wizards! Reactions, Grades and More. | Real Ones
Logan Murdock and Howard Beck fire up the mics for an "Urgency Podcast" minutes after the Atlanta Hawks trade Trae Young to the Washington Wizards for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert. The guys give their immediate thoughts on the deal including their skepticism that Trae actually wanted to be traded to the Wizards, why the Hawks somehow got no draft picks in the deal and whether this move is the first of many for Atlanta. Hosts: Logan Murdock and Howard Beck Producer: Ben Cruz The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The NBA’s Late Leapers. Plus, Trae Young’s Exit Plan and the Big Three Hornets. | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann start by talking about the latest news on where Trae Young might be headed. Then they discuss the surging Hornets and their potential new Big Three. Finally, they chat about three players who have recently taken a leap. (00:00) Intro (3:07) Trae Young (14:57) Charlotte Hornets (29:28) Fan Duel ad break (30:56) Anthony Black (42:45) Keyonte George (50:31) Donovan Clingan Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Audio Producer: Isaiah Blakely Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Production Supervision: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Additional Production Support: John Richter and Chris Wohlers Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto 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

Trae Trading Places. Plus, What’s Going On With the Thunder? | Real Ones
Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Beck are back with another edition of Real Ones, and they dive right into the latest NBA drama between Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young and the franchise. It’s been reported that both sides have agreed to look for a trade partner. Where will Trae end up, and what will the cost be? The Thunder have been going through a little rough patch the past couple of weeks. Is there a problem in OKC, or will the team bounce back to championship form? Plus, Raja revisits AIlen Iverson’s famous step over Tyronn Lue. Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Raja Bell, Logan Murdock, and Howard Beck Producers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford Augustin Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz, Conor Nevins, and John Richter The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Six Big Questions as the NBA Season Enters 2026 | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are here after the holidays to answer six of the biggest questions to start 2026. (00:00) Intro (5:45) OKC title challenger rankings (22:23) Trae Young (37:23) Giannis Antetokounmpo (42:53) Clippers (53:47) Lakers (1:04:34) Rookie of the Year race (1:15:23) League Pass re-rankings Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Audio Producer: Isaiah Blakely Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Production Supervision: Ben Cruz Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto 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

Resetting the Eastern Conference and Rethinking the 65-Game Award Rule | Real Ones
Howard Beck and Raja Bell are back with another edition of Real Ones to examine whether the league should do away with the 65-game minimum rule. But first: Anthony Edwards left the Minnesota bench, then the court, during a timeout late in the Timberwolves' 126-102 loss at the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday. Is there trouble brewing in Minnesota? Howard and Raja also discuss the hierarchy in the Eastern Conference and which teams haven’t lived up to their preseason hype. (0:00:00) Intro (2:56) Anthony Edwards leaves the bench (12:01) Examining 65-game rule (21:43) Resetting the eastern conference (27:14) Are the Celtics being slept on? (39:40) Cavaliers disappointment (44:56) Philly’s chances in the East (51:15) Knicks and Pistons headed for the conference finals? (59:44) Real One of the Week Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Raja Bell and Howard BeckProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NBA New Year’s Resolutions. Plus: Nikola Jokic Injury Update. | Real Ones
Logan Murdock and Howard Beck are back on another edition of Real Ones with some NBA resolutions as we head into the new year. But first, Nikola Jokic went down on Monday night with what is believed to be a hyperextension to the knee. He will be reevaluated in four weeks. How will this affect the MVP race and the Nuggets’ standings if he misses the 65-game requirement? (0:00:00) Intro (4:47) FanDuel ad break (0:21) Jokic’s injury (14:53) FanDuel ad break (16:14) Resolutions (59:31) Mailbag Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Logan Murdock and Howard BeckProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mailbag: Old Cores, Harden vs. Wade, Basketball Books, and More | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are here to wrap up 2025 with an end-of-year mailbag. They answer your listener questions about how to change late-game fouling, old cores in the NBA, James Harden vs. Dwyane Wade, and much more! (00:00) Intro (2:30) FanDuel ad break (3:16) Figuring out a listener’s favorite player (9:55) Spurs playoff outlook (18:16) Fouling late in games (24:18) Old cores (29:43) Player development (42:55) Houston Rockets (54:47) Difficult players/teams to talk about (1:02:18) Hugo González (1:09:21) Harden vs. Wade (1:19:48) Favorite announcers (1:27:26) Roster-building exercise (1:35:22) Favorite basketball books Send your questions to [email protected]! Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Isaiah Blakely and Victoria Valencia Production Supervision: Ben Cruz Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto 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

Are the Thunder the Biggest Threat to the Spurs in the West? Plus, a Lackluster Lakers Christmas. | Real Ones
Howard Beck and Raja Bell are back with another edition of Real Ones to review all the action from the Christmas Day games. The Lakers were blown out by the Rockets at home on Christmas Day 119-96. Is there a LeBron problem that might come to a breaking point before the season ends? The Thunder have lost four of their last six games with three of them being at the hand of the Spurs. Have the Spurs surpassed the Thunder in the West's hierarchy? Howard and Raja then discuss the rest of the action from Christmas Day, including Nikola Jokic’s 56-point outburst and Cooper Flagg’s development. (0:00:00) Intro (2:40) Raja’s playing days on Christmas (7:28) FanDuel ad break (8:43) Lakers’ disappointing Christmas game (28:34) Amazon Prime ad break (29:08) Thunder-Spurs rivalry (43:35) Mavs-Warriors (55:16) Cavs-Knicks (58:07) Wolves-Nuggets (1:00:26) Real One of the Week Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Howard Beck and Raja BellProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NBA Festivus: Airing Grievances on Adam Silver, Draymond Green, and More | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are here celebrating their yearly holiday tradition of NBA festivus! The guys are here to first air out some NBA grievances and then they talk about some of their holiday related and otherwise grievances. (00:00) Intro (3:01) FanDuel Ad break (3:53) Draymond Green (9:50) NBA Grievances (20:41) FanDuel ad break (58:18) Holiday Grievances Send your questions to [email protected]! The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Audio Producer: Isaiah Blakely Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Production Supervision: Ben Cruz Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Draymond’s Early Exit. Plus, Real Ones Christmas Day Preview. | Real Ones
Logan Murdock and Howard Beck are back with the holiday edition of Real Ones to preview the Christmas slate. But first: Draymond Green and Steve Kerr had a flare-up in the Warriors’ victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday, during which Green left the bench and did not play the rest of the game. Where are things headed with the Warriors, Kerr, and Green? Logan and Howard preview the Christmas slate and give each team a stocking stuffer. Plus, the mailbag! Draymond and Kerr dispute (2:03) Mavs @ Warriors (23:14) Amazon Prime ad Break (30:34) Houston @ Lakers (31:09) Spurs @ Thunder (39:10) Wolves @ Nuggets (44:12) Cavs @ Knicks (51:14) Mailbag (59:20) Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Logan Murdock and Howard Beck Producers: Clifford Augustin and Victoria Valencia Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz , Conor Nevins, Belle Roman, and Mike Wargon The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How Mike Brown Changed the Knicks | Real Ones
Logan Murdock and Raja Bell are back with another edition of Real Ones, and they discuss the orange and blue skies everywhere following the Knicks' victory in the NBA cup. Can the Knicks make a run at the Eastern Conference title and possibly a championship? How did new coach Mike Brown change this team's playing style after how Tom Thibodeau ran things? Dillon Brooks had another controversial moment on Thursday night when he committed a flagrant foul against Steph Curry. But was it as bad as people made it seem? Should the NBA change the location of the NBA Cup final? Plus, Real One of the Week! (0:00:00) I ntro (0:20) Knicks Discussion (2:46) FanDuel ad break (20:55) FanDuel ad break (21:42) Amazon Prime ad break (22:16) Dillon Brooks's flagrant foul against Steph Curry (33:55) Should the NBA Cup move to Cameron Indoor Stadium? (44:38) Real One of the Week Hosts: Logan Murdock and Raja BellProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Hit the mailbag! [email protected] The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Young Core Rankings, Part 2. Plus, the NBA’s Best Blue-Chip Prospects. | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are back for Part 2, where they rank the best young cores in the NBA 15-1. And then at the end, they pick out the 15 best blue-chip prospects in the league going forward. (00:00) Intro (4:06) Pelicans(13:08) Jazz(18:34) Sixers(24:36) Cavs(29:51) Wizards (40:13) Raptors(45:47) Hornets(54:24) Timberwolves(57:46) Mavs(1:03:14) Hawks(1:07:57) Magic(1:17:02) Rockets(1:22:49) Pistons(1:29:52) Thunder(1:35:58) Spurs Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle MannAudio Producer: Isaiah Blakely Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Additional Production Support: John Richter Production Supervision: Ben Cruz Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Young Core Rankings, Part 1. Plus, the Knicks are Cup Champs. | Group Chat
Justin, Rob and J. Kyle Mann give their instant reactions to the Knicks winning the NBA Cup. Then over two parts, the guys are ranking the young cores of the NBA 30-1. In Part 1, they’re ranking and discussing teams ranked 30-16. (00:00) Intro (1:28) NBA Cup (22:39) Clippers(27:09) Knicks(30:32) Lakers(41:45) Kings(47:15) Celtics(51:11) Bucks(55:14) Pacers (1:10:17) Warriors(1:15:44) Heat(1:22:45) Blazers(1:32:28) Suns(1:39:06) Nets(1:48:50) Grizzlies(1:54:17) Bulls Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Audio Producer: Isaiah Blakely Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Additional Production Support: John Richter Production Supervision: Ben Cruz Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are the Spurs Legit Title Contenders? | Real Ones
Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Beck are back with another edition of Real Ones, and they examine how the Spurs snapped the Oklahoma City Thunder's 16-game win streak in the NBA Cup semifinals. Victor Wembanyama returned with a vengeance, netting 22 points and nine rebounds in just 21 minutes of action. The guys ask whether the young and up-and-coming Spurs are actually ready to win now. Should the Spurs make a run at Giannis Antetokounmpo if the Bucks are open to trading him? Plus, the mailbag! (0:00) Intro (1:43) FanDuel ad break (2:33) Are the Spurs going to the NBA Finals? (20:28) Amazon Prime ad break (21:01) How the current Spurs compare with teams of the past (44:30) Mailbag https://www.theringer.com/2021/02/17/nba/jeremy-lin-g-league-santa-cruz-warriors-linsanity Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Logan Murdock, Howard Beck, and Raja BellProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to Trade Season: Six Big Questions as the Rumor Mill Heats Up. Plus, Wemby Snuffs Out the Thunder. | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are together in L.A. to welcome everyone to trade season. The guys run through six big trade questions now that recently signed free agents are allowed to be traded. Before they get to that, the guys give their thoughts on the Spurs' upset win over the Thunder, and briefly preview the NBA Cup final matchup between San Antonio and the Knicks. (00:00) Intro (3:19) FanDuel ad break (4:13) Spurs-Thunder (19:36) Spurs-Knicks (25:11) FanDuel ad break (26:32) Amazon Prime ad break (29:22) Chasing stars? (37:42) Giannis trades (48:34) Intriguing non-Giannis trades (1:00:59) Teams that should unload a star (1:06:32) Which team needs to make a trade? (1:16:35) Buy-low players Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Audio Producer: Isaiah Blakely Additional Production Supervision: Ben Cruz Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Thunder Keep On Surging. Plus, We Relive a Raja Moment. | Real Ones
Logan Murdock and Raja Bell are back with a Friday edition of Real Ones. The Oklahoma City Thunder, the reigning champions, are off to a historic 24-1 start and don't seem to be letting up. Logan and Raja take a deep dive into the Thunder, how they’re smashing opponents, and whether they’re poised to possibly be the greatest team ever assembled. The Knicks have been hot lately and are on the heels of the Pistons for the lead in the East. Now that they’re healthy and at full strength, how scary are they? Raja then relives a story that Steve Nash told on NBA on Prime about how Raja was suspended for Game 6 of a Suns-Lakers playoff series and watched in a bar full of Lakers fans. Plus, Real One of the Week. (0:00:00) Intro (1:40) FanDuel ad break (2:40) Oklahoma’s historic start (26:49) FanDuel ad break (27:43) Amazon Prime ad break (32:11) NBA travel (38:13) Knicks and Spurs (41:46) Raja relives being suspended for Game 6 against the Lakers (51:52)Real One of the Week Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Raja Bell and Logan Murdock Producers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford Augustin Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz, Conor Nevins, and John Richter The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Knicks and Magic Are Going to Vegas. Plus, Do the Pelicans Hold All the Cards for the Trade Deadline? | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are here to provide their instant reactions to the Knicks and Magic moving on to the semifinals of the NBA Cup. Then the guys talk about Derik Queen’s historic triple-double and how the Pelicans should build for the future around Queen. (00:00) Intro (4:32) NYK-TOR(21:52) ORL-MIA (39:34) Derik Queen(55:39) Pelicans trade ideas Check out The Ringer's League Pass Awards here! Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, J. Kyle MannProducers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, and Victoria Valencia The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Ewing Theory, Featuring Ja, Trae, and Paolo | Real Ones
Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Mf’n Beck are back with another edition of Real Ones, this time examining the Ewing theory as it applies to three of the league's favorites. Ja Morant, Trae Young, and Paolo Banchero are all highly touted stars in the league and the cornerstones of their respective franchises, but with their teams performing better without them, are there destinations that could better fit their skill sets where they could contribute to team success? Orlando Magic guard Desmond Bane had another crash out against the Knicks when he unnecessarily threw the ball at Knicks forward OG Anunoby. The guys try to figure out the reasoning behind some of his outbursts. Plus, the return of the mailbag! (0:00:00) Intro (1:00) FanDuel ad break (2:44) Ja Morant Ewing theory (22:12) Amazon Prime ad break (22:46) Trae Young Ewing theory (38:11) Paolo Banchero Ewing theory (44:40) What’s going on with Desmond Bane? (54:40) Mailbag! Check out Howard Beck’s latest piece on Giannis: https://www.theringer.com/2025/12/09/nba/giannis-antetokounmpo-nba-trade-rumors-all-in-history Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Logan Murdock, Howard Beck, and Raja Bell Producers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford Augustin Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz, Conor Nevins, and John Richter The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While You Were Making Fake Giannis Trades: The Feisty Mavs, Deni’s Double Leap, and More. Plus, Who’s Cup Tough? | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are back and here to talk about some players and teams that may have flown under the radar while the frenzy of Giannis Antetokounmpo trade news was going around. Then, they wrap up by previewing the quarterfinals of the NBA Cup. (00:00) Intro (5:43) Ryan Nembhard(18:10) Deni Avdija(33:33) Nickeil Alexander-Walker (44:18) Pat Spencer(56:23) Spurs(1:03:46) Noah Clowney(1:17:20) NBA Cup Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Audio Producer: Isaiah Blakely Additional Production Supervision: Ben Cruz Social: Isaiah Blakely and Keith Fujimoto The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

LeBron’s Streak Ends. Plus, CP3’s Turbulent Ending With the Clippers. | Real Ones
LeBron James’s 1,297-game streak of scoring in double digits has come to an end, but the Lakers came out on top with a victory over the Raptors thanks to a LeBron assist to Rui Hachimura. Raja Bell and Logan Murdock discuss whether this is the version of LeBron the Lakers need to be successful. After he was sent home by the Clippers, more has been revealed about why Chris Paul is no longer with the team. Were the Clippers out of line for the manner in which they released arguably the best player in their franchise's history? Plus, there's been an uptick in injuries to stars and games being missed by important players; does basketball have a problem with the way it's developing players? Plus, a pack watch for the ages! (0:00) Welcome (1:46) FanDuel ad break (2:29) What does the end of LeBron’s streak say about him? (18:42) Pop quiz: The last time LeBron scored under double digits (20:26) Amazon Prime ad break (20:59) Pack Watch with Jomi Adeniran (24:38) Chris Paul sent home: Fair or foul? (45:42) Is the NBA workload becoming too much? (1:07:37) Real One of the Week Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Logan Murdock and Raja BellProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz, Conor Nevins, and John Richter The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Celtics’ Spoiler Potential, CP3’s L.A. Exit, Giannis Suitors, and More, With Chris Ryan | Group Chat
No J. Kyle Mann today, but Justin and Rob are joined by Chris Ryan for another edition of Name That Take! First, however, the guys discuss the news that recently broke about Chris Paul being sent home by the Clippers. They share their thoughts about the decision and what’s next for Paul in his final season. Then they play Name that Take!, where Rob and Chris are tasked with guessing Justin’s take about a certain team or player in as few hints as possible. (00:00) Intro(01:54) Chris Paul news(14:13) Boston Celtics(29:28) Giannis Antetokounmpo(47:56) Oklahoma City Thunder(58:31) Chicago Bulls Hosts: Justin Verrier and Rob MahoneyGuest: Chris RyanProducers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, Victoria Valencia, and Jon JonesThe Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available.Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Quarter Season Review: Revisiting Preseason Takes | Real Ones
We're about a quarter of the way through the NBA season, so now is a great time to revisit some of our predictions from the preseason. Howard Beck and Michael Pina assess what has happened so far this season, and if their predictions have been accurate. Plus, who’s the Most Valuable Player and Coach of the Year so far? Revisiting hottest preseason takes (10:05) Stubborn take (21:55) Bold take (35:41) Coach of the First Quarter of the Season (57:37) MVP of the first quarter of the season (01:55:00) Mailbag (01:49:07) Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Check out Michael Pina’s latest piece: https://www.theringer.com/2025/12/01/nba/nba-awards-2025-26-nikola-jokic-luka-doncic-shai-gilgeous-alexander-mvp Hit the mailbag! [email protected] The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Howard Beck and Michael Pina Producers: Liz Jerry and Clifford Augustin Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Title Pie at the Quarter Mark | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are here to break down which teams are NBA title contenders and what percentage chance they have to win the title. Then, they put their lists together to create a consensus title pie. (00:00) Intro (6:30) FanDuel ad break (7:07) Title pie intro (10:42) Title favorites (24:41) FanDuel ad break (25:34) Amazon Prime ad break (33:36) Title contenders (50:09) Dark horse contenders Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, and Victoria Valencia Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. 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

NBA Potluck, With Zach Lowe | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are joined by Zach Lowe to bring in Thanksgiving with their annual NBA potluck. Each person brings a player or team and one take to the table to share with everyone. (00:00) Intro (1:31) FanDuel ad break (2:45) Jaden Ivey (16:19) Miami Heat (33:54) Amazon Prime ad break (34:27) Jalen Suggs and the Orlando Magic (48:47) Chet Holmgren (57:31) Justin’s take (1:01:20) Rob’s take (1:04:26) Zach’s take (1:08:00) Kyle’s take Check out The Ringer’s updated Top 100 Players in the NBA list here! Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Guest: Zach Lowe Producers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, and Victoria Valencia The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Paul Officially Calls It a Career. Plus, the Beef Between Ja and Klay.
One of the greatest point guards in NBA history has officially decided to call it a career. Chris Paul will retire at the end of the season after playing for 20 years and seven different franchises. Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Beck discuss CP3’s legacy and what he brought to the NBA and the franchises he’s played for. Plus, Klay Thompson exchanged words with Ja Morant when the Grizzlies faced the Mavericks on Saturday and had some stark comments for Morant after the game. Was he correct in his assessment of Ja? (0:00:00) Intro (1:03) FanDuel ad break (1:57) Chris Paul to officially retire (2:11) CP3’s career timeline (9:54) Chris Paul’s perception across the league (31:55) What will be said about his career when it’s all said and done? (38:42) FanDuel ad break (39:48) Amazon Prime ad break (40:35) Klay Thompson’s comments about Ja Morant (55:06) Did Derik Queen mess with the basketball gods? Hit the mailbag! [email protected] The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Beck Producers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford Augustin Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One-Month Awards: Best Player, Biggest Disappointment, and More | Group Chat| Ringer NBA
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are handing out some hardware with their one-month awards. (00:00) Intro (3:31) FanDuel ad break (4:26) Best Player (18:49) Best Team (27:17) FanDuel ad break (29:04) Amazon Prime ad break (29:41) Biggest Surprise/Biggest Leap (52:40) Biggest Disappointment (1:01:28) Big Boy Award (1:06:11) Preseason mulligan (1:10:45) Buy-low stock The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Isaiah Blakely and Victoria Valencia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Drama in Laker Land. Plus, Could Lamelo Be on the Move out of Charlotte? | Real Ones | Ringer NBA
Logan Murdock and Raja Bell discuss the latest drama in Laker land, as the team fired part owners Joey and Jesse Buss from their roles in the basketball operations department on Thursday morning. What does this mean with the new ownership group now in place, and what role might Jeanie Buss have played in this move? LeBron James also returned to the lineup on Tuesday. How did he look playing alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves? Plus, is LaMelo Ball’s time ticking in Charlotte? And how realistic would it be for Tyrese Maxey to win a championship? (0:00) Intro (1:27) FanDuel ad break (2:53) The Lakers fire Joey and Jesse Buss from front office positions (16:07) LeBron’s return to the Lakers lineup (28:17) FanDuel ad break (29:10) Amazon Prime ad break (29:50) LaMelo Ball clowns on reports that he’s seeking a trade (45:32) Tyrese Maxey for MVP? (53:59) Real One of the Week Hit the mailbag! [email protected] https://www.theringer.com/2025/11/21/nba/lebron-james-kareem-abdul-jabbar-los-angeles-lakers-career The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Logan Murdock and Raja Bell Producers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford Augustin Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Shopping. Streaming. Celebrating. It’s on Prime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Pistons Are Badass, LeBron Returns, and Early Eye-Opening Teams | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are back together, and they’re here to take a look at some of the most surprising teams from around the league. (00:00) Intro (3:23) FanDuel ad break (4:18) Lakers (20:52) Pistons (34:05) Hawks (46:54) Raptors (1:01:03) Suns https://www.theringer.com/2025/11/19/nba/lebron-james-return-injury-los-angeles-lakers-luka-doncic The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, and Victoria Valencia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wemby's Injury Woes. Plus, the Pistons Are Beasts of the East.
Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has been sidelined indefinitely due to a calf strain and will be reevaluated in two to three weeks. What does this mean for Victor, the Spurs, and injury concerns across the league? Deeeeetroit Basketballlll is back! The Pistons have won 10 straight, and that’s been with many key players sidelined. Have they cemented themselves as top dogs in the Eastern Conference? Should the NBA step in to protect players from fan interactions similar to the one Draymond Green had with a fan in New Orleans over the weekend? Plus, the mailbag! (0:00:00) Intro (2:15) FanDuel ad break (2:53) Victor Wembanyama’s calf strain (21:49) The Pistons' 10-game win streak (41:48) Draymond Green’s fan interaction (58:44) Mailbag! Hit the mailbag! [email protected] The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Beck Producers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford Augustin Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Warriors’ Old-Man Strength, With Nick Friedell. Plus, the Rolling Rockets, and a 2026 Draft Crash Course. | Group Chat
Justin starts today's show by talking to Nick Friedell from The Athletic. They talk about the up-and-down start to the season for the Warriors. They run through all of the major players and storylines that have made this such an interesting start for Golden State. Then, J. Kyle Mann joins Justin to talk about how the Rockets continue to roll after they defeated the Magic in overtime. Lastly, they wrap up with some NBA draft talk. The guys talk through some of their early thoughts on the top prospects in the draft. (00:00) Intro (1:14) FanDuel ad break (3:08) Warriors with Nick Friedell (45:58) FanDuel ad break (46:59) Rockets (1:06:40) Draft crash course (1:09:04) Darryn Peterson (1:15:27) AJ Dybansta (1:23:07) Cam Boozer (1:30:42) Mikel Brown Jr. (1:34:47) Caleb Wilson (1:38:39) Sleepers The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Justin Verrier and J. Kyle Mann Guest: Nick Friedell Producers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, and Victoria Valencia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who Really Runs the West? Plus, Steph and Under Armour Part Ways.
Logan Murdock and Raja Bell are back with another edition of Real Ones, taking a deep dive into the Western Conference hierarchy. Is it possible that the reigning champions, Oklahoma City Thunder, are even better than they were last season? Should they try to break the regular season win record? Are Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets on their heels? Plus, Steph Curry and Under Armour have decided to end their partnership. What does this mean for Steph’s brand moving forward? (0:00:00) Intro (1:08) FanDuel ad break (3:38) Are the Thunder primed to repeat as champions? (16:33) FanDuel ad break (19:30) Have the Nuggets closed the gap on the Thunder? (28:26) Can the Spurs grab the Western Conference crown this season? (36:59) What are the Rockets’ chances of winning the conference without a true point guard? (46:41) Will the Lakers be a realistic threat in the West once LeBron returns? (52:04) Brad Beal out for the season and the Clippers are free-falling. (55:37) Steph and Under Armour have split. (1:04:06) Real One of the Week! Hit the mailbag! [email protected] The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Logan Murdock and Raja BellProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Blueprints for the Mavs’ Post-Nico Era. Plus, Should the Kings, Clippers, and Others Rebuild or Stay the Course? | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann react to Nico Harrison getting fired and discuss where the Mavs should go from here. Then they look at some other franchises and discuss whether they should blow up the roster and rebuild or stay the course they’re on. (00:00) Intro(2:45) FanDuel ad break(3:22) Mavs fire Nico Harrison(22:42) What’s Next for A.D.?(43:45) Kings(59:50) Clippers(1:08:56) Celtics The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, Victoria Valencia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No More Nico in Dallas. Plus, Biggest Surprises So Far This Season. | Real Ones
Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Beck discuss the Dallas Mavericks relieving GM Nico Harrison of his duties on Tuesday. The Mavs went from contending for a title in 2024 to trading their franchise player just months later, and they currently find themselves at the bottom of the Western Conference. How will the Mavericks clean up the mess that Harrison left behind? Plus, every team has now played at least 10 games this season. What have been the biggest surprises and disappointments, and who would you least like to be? 0:00:00 Intro 1:01 FanDuel ad break 2:00 Initial reaction to Nico’s firing 34:37 Biggest surprises 41:41 Biggest disappointment 48:06 Who Would You Least Like to Be Also, check out The Ringer's Michael Pina on Nico Harrison’s tenure as the Mavericks GM:https://www.theringer.com/2025/11/11/nba/nico-harrison-fired-dallas-mavericks. Hit the mailbag! [email protected] The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard BeckProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rookie Review: Are the Mavs Already Wasting Flagg? Plus, the Young Pels Show Spunk, Konnnnn!, and More. | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are here to check in on some of the top rookies across the league. They start with the top pick, Cooper Flagg, and how he’s been doing in a dysfunctional Mavs offense. Then they talk about the exciting flashes from Pelicans rookies Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen. Next, they talk about the three Hornets rookies, V.J. Edgecombe, and Ace Bailey’s slow start. They wrap up with their thoughts on a handful of other rookies who have stuck out to them. Intro (0:00:00) FanDuel ad break (3:21) Cooper Flagg (6:55) FanDuel ad break (23:59) Pels rookies (25:29) Hornets rookies (44:12) V.J. Edgecombe (59:22) Ace Bailey (1:03:12) The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, and Victoria Valencia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Luka and the LeBron-less Lakers Keep Rolling. Plus, Difficulties in Dallas. | Real Ones
Luka Dončić has found himself in the history books yet again to start the season. The Lakers have looked good thus far, holding second place in the West without LeBron James logging a single minute on the court. Logan Murdock and Raja Bell discuss the Lakers and how they should operate when LeBron returns. Luka’s former team, the Dallas Mavericks, find themselves in the bottom of the West following a loss to the Pelicans. Are they mismanaging Cooper Flagg’s development? (0:00:00) Intro (1:05) FanDuel ad break (2:30) Luka’s historic start to the season (5:12) What will the Lakers look like when LeBron returns? (23:04) FanDuel ad break (24:14) Cooper Flagg’s development (41:11) Raja’s thoughts on tension between Ja Morant and the Grizzlies (51:57) Real One of the Week Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Logan Murdock and Raja BellProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is It Time to Worry About the Magic? Plus, an Eastern Conference Gut Check and OKC’s Chance at 70-Plus Wins. | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann discuss the Thunder’s unbeaten franchise-record start of 8-0. Then they move to the East, starting with the sputtering Orlando Magic. They also talk about other struggling contenders and surprise teams like the Bulls and Sixers. Intro (0:00:00) Fan Duel ad break (3:40) Thunder (4:28) Magic (19:05) Hawks (41:04) Sixers-Bulls (52:53) Pistons (1:00:24) Top of the East predictions (1:07:37) Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle MannProducers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, and Victoria Valencia 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

Does Ja Still Rule in Memphis? Plus, the NBA’s Most Underwhelming Teams So Far. | Real Ones
The Memphis Grizzlies and Ja Morant seem to be at a crossroads. The disgruntled star was suspended for a game recently following comments he made about the coaching staff and hasn't quite looked like the All-Star he’s been in the past. Logan Murdock and Howard Beck discuss the ongoing clash between Morant and the Grizzlies and what this might lead to. Plus, they touch on other teams who have been disappointing to start the season.Morant's recent comments about not enjoying basketball. Intro (0:00:00) Fan Duel ad break (1:14) Ja Morant's Future in Memphis. (2:16) The disastrous start to the New Orleans Pelicans' season (39:22) The up and down start to the Knicks’ season (40:15) Are the Hawks in trouble without Trae? (43:31) Were the expectations for the Mavericks set too high? (48:09) Mailbag (54:18) Hit the mailbag! [email protected] The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Logan Murdock and Howard BeckProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How Far Can the Spurs Go This Season? Plus, the Mighty Trail Blazers, Ja Morant’s Future, and More | Group Chat
Justin and Rob are here to give their thoughts on the San Antonio Spurs' encouraging start to the season. Then, on the opposite end of the spectrum, they discuss the Pelicans' abysmal start to the season. Then J. Kyle Mann joins the show, and they talk about Ja Morant's on-court and postgame behavior that led to his one-game suspension. They talk about what his future and the Grizzlies' future look like. Then they wrap up with Justin’s favorite topic, the Portland Trail Blazers! Intro (0:00:00) FanDuel ad break (1:13) Spurs (2:44) Pelicans (18:57) FanDuel ad break (28:09) Ja Morant (29:44) Trail Blazers (1:05:12) Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Ben Cruz, Isaiah Blakely, and Victoria Valencia 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

Way-Too-Early MVP Race. Plus, Reaves Island in Full Effect. | Real Ones
Logan Murdock and Howard Beck are back with another edition of Real Ones and jump right into the way-too-early MVP race for this season so far. Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs are off to a 5-0 start for the first time ever in franchise history. If the Spurs end the season atop of the West, is Wemby a lock for MVP? Who are the other candidates Logan and Howard are keeping an eye on this season? With Austin Reaves playing at an extreme, dark-horse MVP level, what does the future hold for him in a contract season? Plus, the GOAT has spoken in an exclusive interview with Mike Tirico on NBC about load management, but is he correct in his assessment with today’s players utilizing load management more? (0:00:00) Intro (1:42) Wemby and the Spurs contending in the West (14:14) Are Giannis and the Bucks threats in the East? (24:38) FanDuel ad break (26:22) Can Tyrese Maxey keep up his MVP pace when Joel Embiid is fully healthy and Paul George returns? (34:44) Is Nikola Jokic still the best player in the NBA? (40:08) Will Austin Reaves be a Laker next season? (57:10) Michael Jordan’s comments on load management (1:16:55) Real One of the Week Hit the mailbag! [email protected] The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Logan Murdock and Howard BeckProducers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford AugustinAdditional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is This Anything? Philly’s Edgelords, the Unstoppa-Bulls, and More Early Trends. | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are back to take a look at some early-season trends and decide whether they are something or nothing. Intro (0:00:00) Sixers (2:40) Scoring boom (15:01) Jamal Murray (22:26) Bulls (31:51) Knicks (48:46) Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Isaiah Blakely, Victoria Valencia and Ben Cruz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Real or Not! Week 1 Overreactions. Plus, NBA Rookie Roll Call. | Real Ones
Week 1 of the NBA season is officially in the books, and Victor Wembanyama continues to wow with his MVP-like play so far this season. Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard mf’in Beck discuss whether it’s possible that we’re seeing the first player since Giannis who can win MVP and DPOY. The rookie class has shown up and shown out in their first week as professionals. Who’s in the very, very early lead for Rookie of the Year? The Sixers are 3-0 even though Joel Embiid's seen limited action. Is it time for the Sixers to keep their focus on Tyrese Maxey and rookie sensation V.J. Edgecombe? Plus, the mailbag returns! (0:00:00) Intro (2:15) Real or Not: Is Victor Wembanyama a lock for MVP, as Logan has predicted? (16:10) How realistic is it for San Antonio to seek to trade De’Aaron Fox? (21:22) Who’s been the best rookie so far this season? (30:06) Are the Sixers better off not relying on Joel Embiid? (43:12) Will LaMelo Ball keep up the efficiency this season? (49:58) Mailbag: We talk about the Warriors and Jonathan Kuminga and why Mike Brown is playing everyone on the Knicks. Hit the mailbag! [email protected] The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please check out rg-help.com to find out more, or listen to the end of the episode for additional details. Hosts: Logan Murdock, Howard Beck, and Raja Bell Video Producer: Victoria Valencia Audio ProducerClifford Augustin Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz and Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Most Intriguing First Impressions From the First Week-ish of the 2025-26 NBA Season | Group Chat
Justin, Rob, and J. Kyle Mann are here to each give three first impressions from the first week of the NBA season. Intro (0:00:00) Austin Reaves (2:17) Milwaukee Bucks (13:11) Miami Heat (20:08) FanDuel ad break (28:59) LaMelo Ball (30:06) Jonathan Kuminga (37:42) Kyshawn George (47:11) Toronto Raptors (55:37) Ajay Mitchell (1:00:00) Cedric Coward (1:09:56) Also, be sure to check out Michael Pina's newest Ringer.com piece, 13 Overreactions to the First Week of the NBA Season. Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann Producers: Isaiah Blakely, Victoria Valencia and Ben Cruz 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

Texas Three-Step Ready to Takeover? Plus, Latest on NBA Gambling Probe. | Real Ones
Logan Murdock, Raja Bell and Howard MF’in Beck are back with another edition and dive right into the latest on the NBA probe. How will this define commissioner Adam Silver’s legacy? Logan’s MVP pick Victor Wembanyama had a stellar opening night. Just how terrified should the league be of his rapid development? (0:00:00) Intro (0:57) Welcome (0:3:22) Latest on the NBA Gambling probe. (22:00) How long until Victor Wembanyama is the best player in the NBA? (39:51)Did the Rockets put too much on Amen Thompson’s plate? Hit the mailbag! [email protected] Hosts: Logan Murdock, Howard Beck, and Raja Bell Producers: Victoria Valencia and Clifford Augustin Additional Production Support: Ben Cruz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices