The Athletic NBA Daily

Kawhi Leonard and James Harden combined for 72 points as the Clippers defeated Steph Curry and the Warriors to clinch a playoff spot. Dave DuFour, Es Baraheni and Zena Keita discuss the Clippers big win, Jonathan Kuminga’s benching, and the Warriors issues. Then, the gang recaps the final day of the regular season, discusses Chris Paul’s future, and the big takeaways from the year.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita, Es Baraheni, Law Murray

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers discuss the week of NBA Basketball and bring back the Slammies, the made up NBA Awards we've done the last 4 seasons. Then they are joined by Mike Richman of Locked on Blazers to discuss the Portland Trailblazers and their fun unexpected season, Scoot Henderson's potential, the lottery and much more. Then the boys play a fun edition of Andrew vs. the Beat, a trivia game where Andrew is pitted against a beat writer.

Host: Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers

With: Mike Richman

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio/Video Editor: Jake Kleinberg

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Anthony Edwards scored 44 points to lead the Timberwolves to an important win over the Grizzlies. Dave DuFour and Zena Keita discuss the Wolves big win, the problem with the Grizzlies’ bigs, and who the Bucks should want to face in the playoffs. Then, the Athletic’s Fred Katz joins the show to discuss his perimeter defense teams, what makes a good defender, and the Thunder defense.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita & Fred Katz

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Luka Doncic scored 45 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a win in his first game back in Dallas. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni talk discuss Luka’s big game, Lakers small ball, the Warriors buzzer-beater loss to the Spurs, and the Nuggets first post-Malone game. Then, Christian Clark from the Athletic joins the show to discuss Luka’s return, the emotions in the building, and those “Fire Nico” chants.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Christian Clark

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 42 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a win over the Los Angeles Lakers. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni talk to Andrew Schlecht postgame to discuss the Thunder win, Shai’s big game, and Luka Doncic’s ejection. Then, Adam Mares from DNVR joins the show to discuss Michael Malone’s firing, Jamal Murray’s health, and what comes next for the post-Malone Denver Nuggets and Nikola Jokić.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni, Andrew Schlecht, & Adam Mares

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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With 6 days remaining the NBA regular season, the 2 through 8 seeds are all still up for grabs. Dave DuFour and RealGM’s Wes Goldberg breakdown the western conference playoff seeding race, discuss the field, and why the Clippers need to avoid the play-in. Then, Dave and Wes breakdown the defensive player of the year race, discuss Amen Thompson’s case, and why Tyler Herro should win most improved.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Wes Goldberg

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Luka Doncic scored 30 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 27-point blowout win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Dave DuFour and RealGM’s John Wilmes breakdown the Lakers win, discuss JJ Redick’s coaching, and the OKC’s nightmare scenario. Then, Dave and John discuss the MVP level performances from Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo and what it means if they fail in the playoffs.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: John Wilmes

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers discuss the week of NBA Basketball, the most improved player, and our players, stats and quotes of the week. Then they are joined by Mike Smeltz to discuss the Brooklyn Nets and what prospects are worth building with, coach Jordi Fernandez and his potential, which players they should target in the draft, and more. Then the boys play a fun edition of Andrew vs. the Beat, a trivia game where Andrew is pitted against a beat writer.

Host: Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers

With: Mike Smeltz

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio/Video Editor: Jake Kleinberg

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The athletic.com/athletic/survey25

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Stephen Curry scored 37 points to lead the Golden State Warriors to a 123-116 win over the Los Angeles Lakers. Dave DuFour and Jovan Buha breakdown the Warriors defense against the Lakers, Luka’s worst game in LA, and Austin Reaves’ playoff role. Then, the Athletic’s Marcus Thompson stops by to discuss his film breakdown with Draymond Green, Kevin Garnett, and the Defensive Player of the Year award.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Jovan Buha & Marcus Thompson

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Read Marcus Thompson on Draymond: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6248565/2025/04/03/draymond-green-golden-state-warriors-nba-defense/

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dropped 33 points on the Detroit Pistons as the OKC Thunder pick up their 11th straight win. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni discuss the Thunder’s chances at 70 wins, the bad loss for the Kings, and Anthony Davis’ game winner. Then, the Athletic’s James Edwards stops by to talk about the Knicks’ loss to Cleveland, OG Anunoby’s scoring surge, and Jalen Brunson’s return.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & James Edwards

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Read James Edwards on OG: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6248667/2025/04/02/knicks-og-anunoby-new-york/

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Nikola Jokić recorded the first ever 61 point triple double in a double overtime loss to Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Dave DuFour, Es Baraheni and Anthony Slater react to the Jokić’s night, Steph Curry’s 52 point night, and the playoff implications for the Timberwolves, Grizzlies, and Warriors. Then, the Athletic’s Sam Amick stops by to discuss the ongoing saga in Memphis, new Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo, and Ja Morant’s future.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Anthony Slater

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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The Oklahoma City Thunder move to a 28-1 record against the eastern conference with a 28-point win over the Chicago Bulls. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni react to the Lakers win over the Rockets, the Celtics’ dominant March, and the Pacers status as sneaky contenders. Then, the Athletic’s Anthony Slater stops by to discuss the historic season for the Thunder, Lu Dort vs. Draymond Green for DPOY, and the Warriors playoff chances.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Anthony Slater

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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The NBA season is winding down and the NBA Daily crew discusses which West playoff teams under the most pressure. Dave, Es and Zena discuss the weekend of basketball, a brawl between the Pistons and Wolves, and the games of the week.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni and Zena Keita

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers discuss the week of NBA Basketball Defensive Player of the year, and our players, stats and quotes of the week. Then they are joined by Keith Parish of the Athletic to discuss the Memphis Grizzlies and why they fired Taylor Jenkins, Ja Morant’s season, the value of Brandon Clarke, and more. Then the boys play a fun edition of Andrew vs. the Beat, a trivia game where Andrew is pitted against a beat writer.

Host: Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers

With: Keith Parish

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio/Video Editor: Jake Kleinberg

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh Giddey hits a prayer of a half court shot to send the Lakers packing. Zena Keita and Law Murray break down the night of basketball including the Bulls win against the Lakers, the Cavs squeaking by the Spurs, OKC’s avalanche on the Grizzlies and more. Then Zena is joined by Eric Koreen to discuss his article on the NBA in March and if there is anything the league can do to fix tanking.

Host: Zena Keita

With: Law Murray and Eric Koreen

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/nba/

FILL OUT OUR SURVEY PLEASE

The athletic.com/athletic/survey25

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LeBron James tips in a game winner to beat the Pacers in the game of the night. Es Baraheni and Alex Hoops discuss the night of NBA basketball including the Lakers beating the Pacers, Jokic’s return, and more. Then the guys discuss the rookie class including who has been the best rookie this season, who deserves more ROY buzz, and which player will be the best in 5 seasons?

Host: Es Baraheni

With: Alex Hoops

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/nba/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jimmy Butler returns to Miami in a game where the Warriors really struggle, is there worry in San Francisco? Es Baraheni and Andrew Schlecht discuss Damian Lillard being out with a blood clot, and how it could affect the Bucks. Then the guys do a “Moments Draft” from the night before including a fun airball, Thunder making history, Keegan Murray and much more. Then in Part 2, Anthony Slater of the Athletic joins to discuss the Warriors playing the Heat and the return of Jimmy Butler. Plus, how worried are the Warriors about the Playoff race down the stretch?

Host: Es Baraheni

With: Andrew Schlecht and Anthony Slater

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/nba/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Lakers continue to struggle after a loss in Orlando, how can they bounce back? Es Baraheni and Isaac Gutierrez of the Deep 3 Podcast discuss which trends are real, and which are just a product of March in the NBA. Then, the Athletic’s Hunter Patterson joins to discuss the Detroit Pistons and who they’d want to play in the first round + what has led to the turnaround for Detroit.

Host: Es Baraheni

With: Isaac Gutierrez and Hunter Patterson

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/nba/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Cavs stop their slide with a win against Utah, but what does it really mean for the Cavs? Es Baraheni and Zena Keita play Something, Nothing or Everything with the Cavs slide, Suns winning 3 in a row, Lakers returning to full strength, the fun Bulls and the Clippers surging. Then, the Athletic’s Kelly Iko joins to discuss the Houston Rockets and the expectations for them in the Playoffs + what could happen in the offseason with the roster.

Host: Es Baraheni

With: Zena Keita and Kelly Iko

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/nba/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers discuss the week of NBA Basketball NBA Title Odds , and our players, stats and quotes of the week. Then they are joined by Matthew Tynan to discuss the San Antonio Spurs and Wemby's future, Stephon Castles rookie seaosn, and what the expectations look like for the Spurs future. Then the boys play a fun edition of Andrew vs. the Beat, a trivia game where Andrew is pitted against a beat writer.

Host: Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers

With: Matthew Tynan

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio/Video Editor: Jake Kleinberg

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Stephen Curry scored 17 points before exiting the game with an injury as the Golden State Warriors defeated the Toronto Raptors. Dave DuFour and Marcus Thompson discuss Steph’s injury, the Warriors win, and the problem with the Lakers resting players. Then, the Athletic’s Jared Weiss joins Dave to discuss the sale of the Boston Celtics, how it will affect the team, and what it means for the NBA’s expansion plans.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Marcus Thompson & Jared Weiss

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/nba/

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DeMar DeRozan’s 27 points helped the Sacramento Kings defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers, sending them to their third straight loss. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni discuss the Cavs’ losing streak, debate game winners between Cade Cunningham and Andrew Nemhard, and catch up on the latest in the Western Conference playoff race. Then, the Athletic’s Jovan Buha joins the show with an update on LeBron James and Rui Hachimura’s respective returns from injury, insight on the relationship between Luka Doncic and JJ Redick , and to discuss the Lakers’ biggest weakness.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Jovan Buha

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/nba/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jimmy Butler connected on all 11 of his free throws to lead the Golden State Warriors to a win over the Milwaukee Bucks in spite Steph Curry’s absence. Dave DuFour and Zena Keita discuss the Warriors win, the Bucks issues scoring, and Kawhi Leonard’s performance in the Clippers win over the Cavaliers. Then, the Athletic’s Shakeia Taylor joins the show to go deep on NBA referees, the sports referee crisis, and how the league’s rules are interpreted.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita & Shakeia Taylor

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Read Shakeia Taylor on referees: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6197306/2025/03/17/nba-refs-referees-officials-officiating-basketball/

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Aaron Gordon had 38 points and Russell Westbrook had a triple double to lead the Denver Nuggets to an improbable, shorthanded win over the Golden State Warriors. Dave DuFour and Law Murray breakdown the overtime finish between the Pacers and Timberwolves, the Rockets scrappy win, and the Warriors loss to the Nuggets without Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray. Then, the Athletic’s Fred Katz and Dave discuss Fred’s latest article on the Knicks’ approach without Jalen Brunson, how it prepares them for the playoffs, and the disorganization of the Phoenix Suns.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Law Murray & Fred Katz

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Read Fred Katz on the Knicks: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6207882/2025/03/17/knicks-offense-jalen-brunson-injury-nba/

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder dominate the weekend with a pair of wins over the Milwaukee Bucks and Detroit Pistons. Dave DuFour, Zena Keita, and Es Baraheni breakdown the playoff race in the East. Can the Bucks maintain home court advantage? Are the Pistons a sleeper? Then, the gang looks at the playoffs in the West. Can the Los Angeles Lakers lock down the second seed? Do the Nuggets have enough juice?

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Zena Keita

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Subscribe to No Offseason: https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason

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Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers discuss the the upcoming NBA Draft with Sam Vecenie including, why Cooper Flagg is the undisputed number 1 pick, who Sam is looking forward to watching in the NCAA Tournament, who are the best shooters in the class, hand what players are expected to make in impact in year 1 of the NBA. Then the boys play a fun edition of Andrew vs. the Beat, a trivia game where Andrew is pitted against Sam Vecenie on NBA Draft history. 

Host: Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers

With: Sam Vecenie

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio/Video Editor: Jake Kleinberg

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Stephen Curry became the first player in NBA history to make 4,000 3-pointers in a career as the Golden State Warriors defeated the Sacramento Kings. Dave DuFour and Law Murray discuss the Milwaukee Bucks win over the Lakers, Law’s Power Rankings, and what separates the Cleveland Cavaliers and OKC Thunder from the pack. Then, the NBA Daily’s Zena Keita joins the show to react to Steph’s achievement, Jonathan Kuminga’s return, and to discuss the Warriors’ biggest weakness.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Law Murray & Zena Keita

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Law’s Power Rankings: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6193408/2025/03/11/nba-power-rankings-nuggets-knicks-warriors-cavaliers/

Subscribe to No Offseason: https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason

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Mikal Bridges hit the buzzer beating three-pointer to lift the New York Knicks to an overtime win over the Portland Trail Blazers. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni react to the Knicks win, Scoot Henderson’s recent play, and the Timberwolves smashing the Nuggets. Then, the Athletic’s Jay King joins the show to discuss the Oklahoma City Thunder’s win over the Boston Celtics, how to counter Chet Holmgren, and Jayson Tatum’s All-NBA season.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Jay King

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Subscribe to No Offseason: https://www.youtube.com/@No-Offseason

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Tyrese Haliburton hit the go-ahead free throw with 3.4 seconds remaining to complete an improbable four-point play and lift the Indiana Pacers over Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milawaukee Bucks. Dave DuFour and Zena Keita react to the Cleveland Cavaliers second 15 game winning streak of the season, Zion Williamson’s triple double trend, and the Clippers slip down the standings. Then, the Athletic’s Eric Nehm joins the show to talk about that game winning play from the Pacers, the Bucks offensive stagnation, and what needs to change before the playoffs.

Read Eric's article on the Bucks/Pacers: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6196567/2025/03/11/pacers-bucks-tyrese-haliburton-comeback/

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita & Eric Nehm

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Nikola Jokić scored 35 points to go along with 18 rebounds and 8 assists to lead the Denver Nuggets to a win over Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni react to the Nuggets big win, the Grizzlies holding off the Suns, and the Lakers losing without LeBron James in the lineup. Then, Matt George from “Locked On Kings” joins the show right to discuss Sacramento’s embarrassing loss to the Knicks, their up and down season, and potential organizational changes.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Matt George

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 40 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a win over the Denver Nuggets. Dave DuFour, Zena Keita, and Es Baraheni discuss the Boston Celtics big win over the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James’ injury, and the historic performance of Nikola Jokić. Then, Andrew Schlecht joins the show right after the OKC’s big win over Denver to discuss Shai’s 40, the Thunder depth, and to talk a little MVP.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni, Zena Keita, & Andrew Schlecht

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers discuss the week of NBA Basketball 6th man of the year , and our players, stats and quotes of the week. Then they are joined by Law Murray of the Athletic to discuss the LA Clippers and the defensive fall off, Kawhi’s health, and what the expectations look like for the Clippers in the post season. Then the boys play a fun edition of Andrew vs. the Beat, a trivia game where Andrew is pitted against a beat writer.

Host: Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers

With: Law Murray

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio/Video Editor: Jake Kleinberg

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Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers won their 8th straight by beating Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks in overtime. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni discuss the Luka and LeBron James’ power as a duo, Steph Curry’s connection with Jimmy Butler, and ponder whether Orlando has lost its magic. Then, Benjy Ritholtz from Knicks Film School stops by to breakdown the Knicks-Lakers thriller, Jalen Brunson’s importance, and how the Knicks fix their problems before the playoffs.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Benjy Ritholtz

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Donovan Mitchell scored 26 points to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to their 52nd win and a playoff berth. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni discuss the way the Cavs are maximizing De’Andre Hunter, Payton Pritchard’s 43 points off the bench for the Celtics, and Giannis joining the 20,000 point club. Then, the Athletic’s Fred Katz joins the show to discuss Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP ascension, the science behind his development, and OKC’s chances at a title.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Fred Katz

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Read Fred’s story on Shai here: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6174500/2025/03/05/shai-gilgeous-alexander-sga-thunder-mvp-nba/

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LeBron James became the first player in NBA history to score 50,000 points combined in the regular season and playoffs while scoring 34 to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a win over the Pelicans. Dave DuFour and Zena Keita discuss LeBron’s Western Conference Player of the Month award, his All-NBA team chances, and the Phoenix Suns crazy comeback over the Clippers. Then, the Athletic’s Christian Clark joins the show to discuss Kyrie Irving’s ACL tear, whether Anthony Davis will return, and where the Dallas Mavericks go from here.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita & Christian Clark

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Read Christian’s story here: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6174993/2025/03/04/mavericks-kyrie-irving-luka-doncic-anthony-davis-nico-harrison/

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 51 points to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to their 50th win of the season by beating a shorthanded Houston Rockets squad. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni discuss the Thunder’s place in NBA history, Kyrie Irving’s knee injury, and the Memphis Grizzlies losing their third straight game via game-winners. Then, Sean Highkin from the Rose Garden Report stops by to talk about the Portland Trailblazers’ surprising season, Scott Henderson’s growth, and Chauncey Billups’ future.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Sean Highkin

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Read Sean Highkin here: https://www.rosegardenreport.com

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Luka Doncic scored 29 points while LeBron James poured in 17 to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to their second win over the Clippers in three days. Dave DuFour, Zena Keita and Es Baraheni discuss the Lakers recent play, Jalen Brunson’s clutch credentials, and the Cleveland Cavaliers 50th win of the season. Then, the gang marks the three-quarter point of the season with NBA Awards.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Zena Keita

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers discuss the week of NBA Basketball, West Risers like the Lakers and Warriors, and our players, stats and quotes of the week. Then they are joined by Lauren Williams of the Atlanta Journal Constitution to discuss the Atlanta Hawks and the future of Trae Young, how Risacher has performed, and the emergence of Dyson Daniels. Then the boys play a fun edition of Andrew vs. the Beat, a trivia game where Andrew is pitted against a beat writer.

Host: Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers

With: Sam Cooper

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio/Video Editor: Jake Kleinberg

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Stephen Curry made 12 3-points en route to a season high 56 points to lead the Golden State Warriors to their 5th straight win. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni breakdown Steph’s big night, the emergence of Quenten Post, and LeBron James’ MVP level play. Then, the Athletic’s Law Murray joins the show to talk about Luka’s hate for the Clippers and NBA offensive identities.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Law Murray

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Read Law’s story on Offenses: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6064695/2025/02/20/nba-offensive-identity-cavaliers-thunder/

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Cade Cunningham scored 21 points and dished out 11 assists to lead the Detroit Pistons to their 8th straight win by beating the Celtics 117-97 . Dave DuFour and Zena Keita breakdown the Pistons big night, Jalen Brunson’s MVP case, and that Shaedon Sharpe dunk. Then, the director of the Netflix documentary “Court of Gold”, Jake Rogal, joins the show to discuss the unprecedented access and the behind the scenes drama involved in filming.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita & Jake Rogal

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Luka Doncic records his first triple-double as a Laker in his first game against the Dallas Mavericks to lead Los Angeles to a 107-99 win. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni discuss Luka’s game and LeBron’s continued excellence, the Orlando Magic’s big problem on offense, and the weird season for Ja Morant. Then, the Athletic’s Christian Clark joins the show to talk about the Mavs side of the loss, their title chances, and an update on the status of Anthony Davis.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Christian Clark

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

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Anthony Edwards makes the game sealing block on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to cap a 25 point comeback victory for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Dave DuFour and Zena Keita discuss the latest embarrassing loss for the 76ers and the Detroit Pistons 7-game winning streak. Then, the Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski joins the show to relive the Timberwolves epic comeback against the Thunder, discuss the performance of the young guys for Minnesota, and Anthony Edward’s block.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita & Jon Krawczynski

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/Ua2qrEe7

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Donovan Mitchell scored 33 points as the Cleveland Cavaliers won their league leading 47th game of the season. Dave DuFour, Es Baraheni, and Zena Keita discuss the importance the Cavs and Thunder regular season marks, Luka and the Lakers blowout win over Jokić and the Nuggets, whether the Knicks are contenders, and if Jimmy Butler is everything for the Warriors. Then, the gang debates who has it worse while comparing the cursed seasons of the Philadelphia 76ers and the Phoenix Suns.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita & Es Baraheni

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/we6bWXw2

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Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers discuss the week of NBA Basketball, all star weekend aftermath, Defensive Player of the Year Odds, and 6 players the guys think are poised to make a leap in the last part of the season. Then they are joined by Lauren Williams of the Atlanta Journal Constitution to discuss the Atlanta Hawks and the future of Trae Young, how Risacher has performed, and the emergence of Dyson Daniels. Then the boys play a fun edition of Andrew vs. the Beat, a trivia game where Andrew is pitted against a beat writer.

Host: Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers

With: Lauren Williams

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio/Video Editor: Jake Kleinberg

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama will miss the remainder of the season after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his shoulder. Dave DuFour and Zena react to the news about Wemby, the Knicks overtime win, and the Denver Nuggets rise up the west standings. Then, the Athletic’s Sam Amick joins the show to breakdown the timeline for Wembanyama’s diagnosis, the fallout, and whether the Spurs will be searching for a new coach.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita & Sam Amick

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/Ua2qrEe7

Read Sam’s story on Victor Wembanyama: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6149559/2025/02/20/victor-wembanyama-blood-clot-spurs/

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State of the League | LaMelo out-duels Luka; Lakers lose

Luka Doncic struggles as the Lakers lose their first game after the All Star to LaMelo Ball and the Charlotte Hornets. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni react to the the Lakers’ loss and breakdown the defensive issues that will limit Luka and LeBron. Then, the Athletic’s Sam Amick stops by to discuss the fallout from a poorly received All Star weekend, Draymond Green’s comments, and whether broadcast negativity creates more problems for the NBA.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Es Baraheni & Sam Amick

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/Ua2qrEe7

Read Sam’s story on Draymond’s prediction: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6141143/2025/02/16/draymond-green-jimmy-butler-warriors-nba-championship/

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The Warriors traded for Jimmy Butler at the deadline and Draymond Green declared the Warriors are going to win the title. Zena Keita and Marcus Thompson discuss what the ceiling of the Warriors is, and if they have enough to actually get through the West. They discuss the top end talent of Jimmy, Curry and Draymond and if the young players on the roster can help get them where they need to go.

Host: Zena Keita

With: Marcus Thompson

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/Ua2qrEe7

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The 2025 NBA Draft is just around the corner with the prize at the top being Cooper Flagg. Es Baraheni and guest from the Game Theory Podcast Bryce Simon break down Cooper's game and who he would fit best with. After a break they discuss the tank race, who could be selected in the top 5, and how good the 2025 class is.

Host: Es Baraheni

With: Bryce Simon

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/Ua2qrEe7

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Stephen Curry scored 12 points to lead Team Shaq to a win in the All Star Championship game and was named All Star MVP. Dave DuFour and Es Baraheni react to the new All Star format results, discuss whether we live in a post dunk era, and the Wemby skills challenge controversy. Then, Zena Keita catches up with Law Murray postgame from Chase to discuss the game, Curry’s MVP, and the weekend.

Host: Dave DuFour

With: Zena Keita, Es Baraheni, & Law Murray

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio Producer: Grayson Moody

Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/Ua2qrEe7

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers discuss the week of NBA Basketball, Who will win the MVP of the All Star Game, fun stats about Christian Braun and DeMar DeRozan, Nate Robinson's kidney transplant, trade deadline fallout and more. Then they are joined by Kelly Iko of the Athletic to discuss the Houston Rockets, their recent struggles, and how they will build their team in the near future. Then the boys play a fun edition of Andrew vs. the Beat, a trivia game where Andrew is pitted against a beat writer.

Host: Andrew Schlecht and Alex Speers

With: Kelly Iko

Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht

Audio/Video Editor: Jake Kleinberg

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.