Podcasts by Open Floor: SIs NBA Show

MVP Race Tightens&MJ'S Hornet's Legacy from 2023-03-22T08:00

REMINDER: Open Floor will be moving to the Crossover feed starting next week so please subscribe and join us there!

Mannix is joined again by Rohan Nadkarni and Chris Herring to break dow...

How The West Could Be Won from 2023-03-16T08:00

Rohan and Chris and joined by Chris Mannix again on this week's Open Floor where we break down a wide open western conference and why the Kyrie Trade hasn't worked out so far in Dallas, how a on...

Ja Morant's Consequences&The Surging Knicks from 2023-03-08T09:00

Chris Mannix joins Rohan & Herring to get into both the real life and basketball consequences that Ja Morant could face after his gun related IG live controversy. We also discuss the red hot...

Are the Lakers’ Playoffs Hopes Done? from 2023-03-01T09:00

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris react to the news of LeBron’s ankle injury and if the Lakers can still make the playoffs. Then they discuss a fun weekend of hoops, including Nikola Jokic’s 40-p...

Previewing the Final Stretch of the Season from 2023-02-23T20:46:02

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris preview the final quarter of the NBA season. They run through their thoughts on the Warriors and Stephen Curry, the Clippers deciding to sign Russell Westbrook, ...

Trade Deadline Megapod Pt 2: Why Didn't They Make a Deal? from 2023-02-10T00:37

Rohan Nadkarni and Chris Herring are joined by the Crossover podcasts Chris Mannix and Howard Beck for part 2 of our trade deadline megapod to break down some of the biggest storylines from the ...

The Aftermath of the Kyrie Trade from 2023-02-07T20:44:22

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris react to the Kyrie Irving trade. They discuss their skepticism about the trade on and off the court, whether it was worth the risk for the Mavericks, and if Dall...

Where Should OG Anunoby Go? from 2023-01-31T20:27:28

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris start by discussing the OG Anunoby-mania surrounding the trade deadline. They break down whether he will be worth the seemingly high trade price, and which teams...

A NBA Rivalry Week Recap from 2023-01-27T09:00

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by Sports Illustrated senior writer Chris Mannix. They begin by discussing some of the week’s rivalry games, including Nets-Sixers and Warriors-Grizzlies. Topics...

What's Causing The Scoring Boom? from 2023-01-17T20:17:28

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris start by discussing some notable performances from MLK Day, including Walker Kessler’s big night against the Wolves. Then they ruminate on the league’s scoring b...

NBA Season Halfway Point Surprises from 2023-01-13T19:03:22

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris begin by discussing their observations from Thursday night’s games, including Luka’s minutes and the third-quarter Thunder. Then they break down some surprising ...

Trae Young for Karl-Anthony Towns? from 2023-01-06T18:15:31

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris begin by discussing the Nuggets’ blowout win over the Clippers, if it holds any significance, and the experience of watching Kawhi Leonard. Then they break down ...

New Contenders in the New Year from 2023-01-03T18:36:53

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris run over Rohan’s list of contenders headed into 2023. Which of the Grizzlies, Clippers, Warriors and Nuggets is the best team in the West? Are the Cavaliers and ...

Christmas Day NBA Preview from 2022-12-23T18:23:36

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris look ahead to a few of the Christmas Day games, starting with the heavyweight tilt between Boston and Milwaukee. Is the Celtics’ recent slump any cause for conce...

What Happened to Kevin Arnovitz? featuring Kevin Arnovitz from 2022-12-16T18:47:13

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by former ESPN NBA writer Kevin Arnovitz. They discuss Kevin’s experience of watching the NBA as a casual fan and the frustrating nature of the NBA regular seaso...

A Tribute to Grant Wahl from 2022-12-13T19:06:45

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by Sports Illustrated senior writer Jon Wertheim to celebrate the life of their friend, Grant Wahl.

See omnystudi...

Revisiting the Biggest Offseason Trades from 2022-12-09T18:04:06

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris begin by discussing the early returns of Rudy Gobert, Donovan Mitchell, and Dejounte Murray trades from the summer. Which team is best positioned to go further i...

The Anthony Davis Revival from 2022-12-06T22:01:20

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris hop around the league to discuss several teams. They start with Anthony Davis’s recent hot stretch and what it means for the Lakers. Then they wonder what’s goin...

Checking In On The Heat&Nuggets from 2022-12-02T09:00

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris dive deep on a team they’ve both written about recently: the Miami Heat. They break down the team’s overwhelming use of zone, the breakout of Bam Adebayo, and wh...

Our Quarter Season Awards from 2022-11-28T19:22:59

On today’s show, Rohan and John revisit Lakers trade rumors and a potential Kemba Walker signing before handing out their Quarter Season Awards. They debate whether there is an obvious MVP favor...

Injuries Ravage the League Already from 2022-11-21T19:03:44

On today’s show, Rohan and John begin by discussing the returns of Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving and what they mean for their respective teams. They also touch on Kyrie’s apology, and if the re...

Light the Sacramento Beam! from 2022-11-18T20:33:19

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris start with a spirited discussion about one of the most fun teams in the league, the Sacramento Kings, and what makes them so exciting. They also wonder whether o...

The Anthony Davis Fake Trade Machine from 2022-11-14T19:37:54

On today’s show, Rohan and John start by running through some Anthony Davis fake trades the Lakers may need to consider. They also briefly discuss the Nets’ recent success before wondering when ...

What’s Wrong with the Wolves? from 2022-11-11T20:20:29

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris start by discussing the continued success of the Utah Jazz. Should the front office keep the team together? And is Lauri Markkanen now definitively a part of the...

Can Anyone Stop the Bucks (or Jazz)? from 2022-11-07T19:48:48

On today’s show, Rohan and John start by discussing the remedial measures the Nets have laid out for Kyrie Irving while he’s suspended from basketball. They also wonder whether it’s already time...

A Rough But Also Great Start To The Season from 2022-11-04T18:34:19

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris start by discussing the latest news regarding Kyrie Irving and Josh Primo. Then they open up the mailbag to get into some basketball talk, including their favori...

Warriors Temperature Check w/ Dan Devine from 2022-10-31T20:35:21

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by Yahoo Sports’s Dan Devine. They begin by discussing the mess with the Brooklyn Nets and Kyrie Irving, both on and off the court. Then they dive into the Warri...

Let's Give Ben Simmons Some Time from 2022-10-28T18:05:24

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris start by discussing the slight improvements they’ve seen from Ben Simmons, and whether or not he can ultimately make a difference for the Nets. Then they open up...

Adam Silver Hates Tanking&Teams To Worry About from 2022-10-24T19:28:01

Rohan & John discuss Adam Silver's comments about relegating bad teams to discourage tanking, the early struggles of the Sixers and Heat, and how the title contending Nuggets looked against ...

First Week Breakdown&League Pass Draft w/ Ian Karmel from 2022-10-21T17:16:31

John & Rohan break down the struggles of the Lakers and Sixers in their first two games before 'The Late Late Show' and 'All Fantasy Everything's' Ian Karmel joins the show to do a fantasy d...

NBA Preview Roundtable: Eastern Conference from 2022-10-18T08:00

Rohan Nadkarni & Chris Herring are joined again by the Crossover podcast's Chris Mannix and Howard Beck as they switch sides and break down the major contenders and storylines in the eastern...

NBA Preview Roundtable: Western Conference from 2022-10-17T08:00

Rohan Nadkarni & Chris Herring are joined by the Crossover podcast's Chris Mannix and Howard Beck to break down the major contenders and storylines in the western conference as the season ge...

Five Big Questions with Ben Golliver from 2022-10-14T08:00

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by former Open Floor host and Washington Post writer Ben Golliver. Rohan presents Ben with five big questions before the NBA season, touching on topics such as L...

Top Ten Duos with Andrew Sharp from 2022-10-12T08:00

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by GOAT podcast host Andrew Sharp for the annual ranking of top ten duos. First they start by discussing who didn’t make the list, including some surprising pick...

The Top 100 Ranking: Part 2 from 2022-10-07T08:00

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by Chris Herring. After a brief detour into their billion-dollar reality TV idea, they discuss the news of the Draymond Green-Jordan Poole fight, and what they e...

The Top 100 Ranking: Part 1 from 2022-10-04T21:12:15

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by Jeremy Woo. The two dive deep into SI’s Top 100 list, revealing some of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into the project. They discuss how they came up w...

Our Big Training Camp Takeaways (So Far) from 2022-09-30T17:06:24

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by Chris, and after a brief detour into “Don’t Worry Darling” drama, they react to some early training camp storylines. Topics include Anthony Davis’s wrist and ...

Messy Media Day Roundup from 2022-09-27T18:22:50

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by John Gonzalez and the two react to various NBA Media Day happenings. They start in Boston, where the Celtics continue to offer few details regarding the suspe...

Ime Udoka Is Suspended&Anthony Edwards Apologizes from 2022-09-23T20:00:52

On today’s show, SI senior writer John Gonzalez is joined by Chris Herring. They react to the Boston Celtics suspending head coach Ime Udoka for the season, Phoenix Suns and Mercury owner Robert...

Free Agent Matchmaker from 2022-09-19T18:03:16

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by SI senior writer John Gonzalez. The two first discuss the news regarding the NBA’s CBA, including the mental health injury designation, and why Rohan is conce...

An Unfortunate Week for the NBA from 2022-09-16T18:25:25

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by SI Weekly host John Gonzalez. The two react to the NBA’s decision to only suspend Robert Sarver for one year, and discuss why his punishment wasn’t more sever...

Behind the LeBron Scenes w/ Chris Ballard from 2022-09-12T19:43:40

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by Sports Illustrated contributor Chris Ballard. The pair dive deep into Chris’s latest cover story on LeBron James, and Rohan asks Chris why LeBron may have par...

Ranking the Top Five Contenders in the West from 2022-09-09T18:47:30

On today’s show, Chris Herring makes his long awaited return. He and Rohan start by opening up the mailbag, discussing if the Donovan Mitchell trade put the Cavs in the title discussion and then...

Ranking the Top Five Contenders in the East from 2022-09-06T19:01:32

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by SI Weekly host John Gonzalez. The duo first react to the Donovan Mitchell trade, discussing the fit between Mitchell and Darius Garland, if it was the right m...

Are We Headed for an Historic Tank Season? w/ Rob Mahoney from 2022-08-26T17:50:31

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by The Ringer’s (and former colleague) Rob Mahoney. The two start the show by discussing the fallout of Chet Holmgren’s season-ending injury, including if the Th...

Durant to the Grizzlies&NBA Christmas Showdown from 2022-08-22T22:15:34

On today’s show, Rohan is reunited with SI Weekly host John Gonzalez. They open by discussing the report the Grizzlies may be interested in Kevin Durant. They weigh whether Memphis should make t...

Opening the Mailbag w/ Jeremy Woo from 2022-08-19T18:45:34

On today’s show, Rohan returns and is joined by Jeremy Woo to open open the mailbag to discuss NBA bromances, team theme songs, and how Shaq would be evaluated as a modern-day draft prospect. Ro...

The Over/Under of Wins For All 30 NBA Teams from 2022-08-15T08:00

SI Weekly's John Gonzalez is joined again by The Ringer's Dan Devine to look at the Vegas odds for every team's win total. Hear why we're surprised by some, not surprised by others, and why we'r...

The Aftermath of More Durant Demands from 2022-08-12T19:43:07

SI Weekly's John Gonzalez fills in for Rohan on this week's Friday edition of Open Floor as he welcomes The Ringers Dan Devine to look at Kevin Durant's meeting in London with Nets owner Joe Tsa...

A New Round of Nets Drama from 2022-08-08T22:17:24

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by SI Weekly host John Gonzalez for an all-mailbag special. They start by discussing the merits of a fake Anthony Davis-for-Draymond Green trade before guessing ...

Dunks Are Properly Rated w/ Josh Gondelman from 2022-08-05T17:54:48

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by comedian and writer Josh Gondelman. First, the two reveal which team they are most confident could win the Finals if the playoffs started today. Then they ope...

Honoring Bill Russell w/ John Gonzalez from 2022-08-01T18:08:02

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by SI Weekly host John Gonzalez. The pair first pay tribute Bill Russell and his incredible legacy beyond basketball, particularly his civil rights activism. Lat...

Andrew Sharp Returns&The Most Disappointing Offseasons from 2022-07-29T08:00

On today’s show, Rohan is joined by former Open Floor host Andrew Sharp. The two reveal the teams they believe had the most disappointing offseasons, including a surprising answer from Sharp. Th...

Kevin Durant for Jaylen Brown&Bad Shot Selection Legends from 2022-07-25T18:56:17

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris somehow discuss baseball before diving into the latest Kevin Durant news. The duo react to the report of a KD-for-Jaylen Brown trade and wonder whether it makes ...

James Harden: Disappointing or Disappointment? from 2022-07-22T08:00

On today’s show, Chris and Rohan address the Miles Bridges situation before diving into basketball. The duo then discuss James Harden’s new contract with the Sixers and their expectations for Ph...

Is LeBron James on the Right Team? from 2022-07-18T18:35:15

On today’s show, Rohan and Chris acknowledge the Keldon Johnson extension before diving into a bevy of Lakers topics. They review LeBron’s Drew League performance before discussing the scattersh...

Who's The Worst Player on a Championship Team? from 2022-07-15T17:39:11

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan kick things off with a special announcement before they dive into a whole bunch of fantastic mailbag questions. They talk about Deandre Ayton's restricted f...

Way-Too-Early Awards Predictions from 2022-07-11T18:37:18

On today's episode, Michael and Chris open up the mailbag and take a look ahead at the 2022-23 season by submitting ballots for every major award. They reveal who they think will win MVP, Defens...

Summer League Reactions&The Brandon Ingram Question from 2022-07-08T18:12:55

On today's episode, Michael and Chris offer some first reactions to Summer League and some standout names (Chet Holmgren, Paolo Banchero, Jabari Smith Jr., etc.) from the 2022 draft class. They ...

Minnesota is All In + Free Agency Reactions from 2022-07-05T18:54:30

On today’s episode, Michael and Rohan discuss the ongoing saga with Kevin Durant’s trade request, including which teams they would like to see him play for most. Then they dive into the Rudy Gob...

Free Agency Winners&Losers (So Far) from 2022-07-01T18:12:29

On today's episode, Michael and Chris discuss Kevin Durant's trade request, whether the Nets should honor his list of desired destinations and where the Nets go from here. Then they get into the...

Previewing Free Agency + KD Trades from 2022-06-27T19:40:39

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan preview free agency by taking a look at several teams and players they have their eye on heading into July 1. What will the Suns and Jazz do? Will the Hawks...

NBA Draft Winners&Losers from 2022-06-24T17:10:23

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan give their winners and losers from the 2022 NBA draft. What were the Knicks thinking? Will they regret not using the 11th pick and instead opting to improve...

Kyrie Rumors + Previewing the NBA Draft from 2022-06-21T18:05:38

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan discussed Kyrie Irving's looming player option and wondered which team he'll end up on next season. They also went over Bradley Beal's free agency and Charl...

Stephen Curry’s Top Ten Ascent from 2022-06-17T20:13:02

On today’s special episode, Michael, Chris, and Rohan give their thoughts on Game 6 of the NBA Finals and what the Warriors win means for Stephen Curry’s legacy. Then they briefly pr...

Steph’s Domination + Previewing Game 5 from 2022-06-13T17:25:15

On today's episode, Michael and Chris break down the NBA Finals with a look back at Game 4 and a look ahead to Game 5. They get into Steph Curry's dominance (where does he rank on the list of pl...

The Good, The Bad,&The Ugly of the Finals So Far from 2022-06-10T19:18:59

On today's episode, Michael and Chris break down Game 3 of the NBA Finals and zoom out to answer a few questions about the series. What is each team's best five-man unit? Which players have been...

Boston Meets Golden State's Buzzsaw from 2022-06-06T18:10:27

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan break down and react to Game 2 of the NBA Finals, where the Warriors bounced back with a commanding win over the Celtics. What adjustments did Steve Kerr ma...

Boston Blitzes The Warriors from 2022-06-03T17:11:29

On today's episode, Michael and Chris took a deep dive into Game 1 of the NBA Finals. How did the Celtics blow the game wide open like they did, particularly after Steph Curry's volcanic first q...

The Mega Finals Preview Pod from 2022-05-31T18:13:28

On today's show, Michael and Rohan give the people what they want, breaking down Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the Heat and Celtics. Was Jimmy's shot the right decision? What s...

Can Anyone Stop Another Warriors Title Run? from 2022-05-27T17:38:40

On today's episode, Michael and Chris discuss a Warriors team that's headed to their sixth NBA Finals in eight seasons. Both picked Mavs in 6 before the series started, so how were they so wrong...

The Warriors Are That Good from 2022-05-23T19:41:56

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan break down the Western Conference Finals, Andrew Wiggins, Steph Curry and a miraculous Warriors team that's one win away from another championship series. T...

Getting Heated Over Miami/Boston&Our Lottery Reactions from 2022-05-19T20:20:05

In today's show, Michael and Rohan break down the Eastern Conference Finals with a long discussion about Jimmy Butler's fantastic Game 1, what adjustments (if any) the Celtics should make if the...

The Sun Has Set on the Phoenix Suns from 2022-05-16T21:21:30

On today's episode, Michael and Chris recap Sunday's Game 7 action and wonder what's next for the Suns and Bucks after both teams were blown off the floor. Is the championship window shut for Ph...

Harden's Demise&Luka's Ascension from 2022-05-13T18:40:42

On today's episode, Michael and Chris wonder what's next for James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers. Where do they go from here, after Harden's scoreless second half in Game 6? Were Joel E...

8 Questions About the NBA Playoffs from 2022-05-10T21:38:43

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan ask one big question about all four second-round playoff series. Can the Celtics sustain their small-ball success? What impact, if any, will Duncan Robinson...

Milwaukee Has A Giannis Problem from 2022-05-06T19:38:56

On today's episode, Michael and Chris preview Saturday's Game 3's between the Grizzlies/Warriors and Celtics/Bucks. What adjustments can Steve Kerr make to slow down Ja Morant? What adjustments ...

Breaking Down the Game 1 Action from 2022-05-02T21:27:40

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan quickly address the impact Joel Embiid's orbital fracture/concussion will have on Philadelphia's second-round matchup against the Miami Heat. Then they brea...

Previewing An Even Better Second Round&Utah's Big Questions from 2022-04-29T20:37:37

On today's episode, Michael and Chris discuss Thursday night's slate of games before previewing and making series predictions about Heat-Sixers and Mavericks-Suns. They then wonder where th...

Kevin Durant's Legacy + A Classic First-Round Matchup from 2022-04-25T18:42:28

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan open up the mailbag to discuss Wolves/Grizzlies, Ja Morant's struggles, Karl-Anthony Towns' up-and-down postseason, how a potential first-round loss will im...

The Warriors New Death Lineup&KAT's Night To Forget from 2022-04-22T18:34:10

On today’s Open Floor, Rohan fills in for Michael and is joined by Chris to discuss the fall of the house of Jazz and Karl-Anthony Towns’s unethical four-shot game against ...

Jayson Tatum Is A Hero from 2022-04-18T22:18:34

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan react to every award finalist who was revealed by the NBA over the weekend. Who else besides Bam Adebayo was snubbed? They then recap the playoff's opening ...

A Mega Playoff Preview from 2022-04-15T20:04:38

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan react to Paul George being placed into Health and Safety Protocols and having to miss Friday night's Play-In game before they predict winners for Clippers/P...

The All Star Filled Play In Preview from 2022-04-11T20:23:04

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan preview all four play-in games with a deep dive into some individual matchups, strategic advantages, and key x-factors. Should Brooklyn worry about its poro...

The Raptors Are Actual Contenders&Our All NBA Ballots from 2022-04-08T16:45:24

On today's episode, Michael and Chris break down a Raptors team that might be a pseudo title contender? Then they go over their official MVP ballots and have a long debate about Nikola...

Lakers Failure + Favorite First-Round Matchups from 2022-04-04T21:40:06

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss the disastrous Lakers and likelihood that they won't even make the play-in tournament before answering a few mailbag questions and breaking down the...

Giannis Takeover + Our MIP, DPOY, 6MOY Ballots from 2022-04-01T20:39:41

On today's episode, Michael and Chris wonder if Giannis Antetokounmpo's recent nationally televised performances can push him to a third MVP award before they open the mailbag to discuss Joel Em...

Trouble in Boston and Miami + Coach of the Year from 2022-03-29T07:00

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan react to Rob Williams's torn meniscus and the Miami Heat's troubling losing streak before they open up the mail bag to discuss Quin Snyder's future in Utah ...

Jimmy Butler's Two-Front War&Harden's Extracurricular's w/ Stavros Halkias from 2022-03-25T08:00

SI's own John Gonzalez and comedian Stavros Halkias take over this Friday's Open Floor to break down the minutiae of the Miami Heat's near dust up between Jimmy Butler, Erik Spoelstra, and Udoni...

Are the Nets finished? + Best Individual Seasons from 2022-03-21T19:45:32

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss Ben Simmons' back injury and its effect on Brooklyn's title odds, and a recent report from Sports Illustrated Senior Writer Howard Beck about Suns/M...

Steph Curry's Injury&NBA Tank Teams from 2022-03-18T19:09:26

On today's episode, Michael and Chris talk about Steph Curry's foot injury. Was it a dirty play by Marcus Smart? Can Golden State actually slide from the No. 3 seed to No. 4 or even No. 5? Are t...

Popovich is the GOAT + All-NBA teams from 2022-03-14T20:28:12

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan open up with a discussion about how incredible NBA Sundays have been over the past few weeks. They then celebrate Gregg Popovich's record-setting win by ran...

A Sixers Meltdown&A Rookie of the Year Check in from 2022-03-11T20:57:03

On today's episode, Michael and Chris offer their reaction to Thursday night's highly anticipated game between the Sixers and Nets. After Brooklyn's lopsided win, what did we learn about both te...

Examining Ja Morant's Historic Season from 2022-03-07T20:37:11

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan open up with a quick look at Sunday's incredible NBA action before they open up the mail bag to discuss Golden State's worrisome recent stretch (and whether...

Watch Out For the Pelicans&The Foreign MVP Explosion from 2022-03-04T18:39:28

On today's episode, Michael and Chris talk about the surprising New Orleans Pelicans, a team that's quietly been very good over the past month despite not having Zion Williamson. Can they actual...

Harden&Joel Embiid Look Invincible from 2022-02-28T22:21:04

On today's show, Michael and Rohan discuss James Harden's extremely good first two games with the Philadelphia 76ers. What worked? What didn't? How can any team stop the Sixers if Harden is for ...

Whose Legacy Needs The 2022 Championship? from 2022-02-25T18:44:11

On today's episode, Michael and Chris open up the mailbag and debate which star could have his legacy most impacted by winning this year's championship? Is it Steph? Embiid? Giannis? Chris Paul?...

Chris Paul's Injury, All-Star Reactions,&Power Ranking the East from 2022-02-22T22:22:59

On today's show, Michael and Rohan discuss how serious Chris Paul's broken thumb really is. Can the Suns still win it all? How much will it impact Deandre Ayton's push for a max contract? Then t...

Anthony Davis Injury Reaction + NBA All-Star Predictions from 2022-02-18T20:20:49

On today's episode, Michael and Chris wonder how concerned the Lakers should be about Anthony Davis's sprained foot. Can they make the playoffs or is their season done? What about long-term? Are...

The Open Floor 2022 All-Star Draft from 2022-02-14T21:37:36

On today's show, Michael and Rohan open things up with some snap reactions to players who changed teams at the trade deadline. How does Derrick White look in Boston? Is Tyrese Haliburton even be...

Trade Deadline MegaPod Part 1: The Winners from 2022-02-11T00:51:20

In today's very special trade deadline megapodcast, Michael and Rohan are joined by their SI colleagues and Crossover NBA Show co-hosts Howard Beck and Chris Mannix to analyze the winners and lo...

A Detailed Breakdown of the Ben Simmons Conundrum from 2022-02-07T21:54:34

On today's episode of Open Floor, Michael welcomes a special guest to the show! Sports Illustrated senior writer John Gonzalez comes on to talk about his new podcast SI Weekly before the two dis...

All-Star Reserves&Red Hot Hawks from 2022-02-04T20:14:43

On today’s episode, Michael and Chris analyze the All-Star reserves. Who was snubbed? Who was a pleasant surprise? Who should be selected as injury replacements in each conference? They then ope...

Jokic vs. Embiid is The Only Debate That Matters from 2022-01-31T23:37:12

On today's show, Michael and Rohan discuss Andrew Wiggins' All-Star status and wonder if the system needs to be changed. They then open up the mailbag and debate Nikola Jokic vs. Joel Embiid. Wh...

Brooklyn's Mess&Zach LaVine Disrespect from 2022-01-28T09:00

On today's episode, Michael and Chris (Brother) Herring take a long hard look at the Brooklyn Nets and wonder if their superteam era might be over before it ever really got started. Will James H...

Introducing: SI Weekly from 2022-01-28T08:00

Here's a sneak peek at SI's newest podcast, Sports Illustrated Weekly! Featuring storytelling, interviews, and unforgettable sports moments – SI Weekly is everything you love about the iconic sp...

The Official 2022 Open Floor All-Stars from 2022-01-24T21:09:14

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss Grayson Allen's flagrant foul on Alex Caruso, and whether a one-game suspension was more or less than what Allen deserved for injuring one of Chicag...

Early Draft Storylines&the Lakers Mess from 2022-01-21T19:07

In today’s episode, Rohan and Jeremy Woo discuss the latest drama with the Lakers, if Evan Mobley should have been the No. 1 pick, and look ahead to the 2022 NBA Draft. They also briefly discuss...

In Conversation: Spike Lee w/ SI's Chris Herring from 2022-01-20T22:37:25

Open Floor's own Chris Herring sat down with legendary filmmaker Spike Lee at NYC's Strand book store to discuss his new book 'Blood in the Garden: The Flagrant History of the 1990s New York Kni...

Championship Wannabes&Panic in Brooklyn from 2022-01-18T21:26:54

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss Kevin Durant's sprained MCL, and wonder how worried the Nets should be not having their best player for the next 4-6 weeks. They then take a look at...

Midseason Awards Picks and Herring's Spike Lee Moment from 2022-01-15T18:39

On today’s episode, Rohan and Chris discuss Chris’s phone call with Spike Lee, who just had to get his hands on Chris's book, "Blood in the Garden: The Flagrant History of the 1990s New York Kni...

Klay Thompson is Back&Kawhi Leonard is Coming from 2022-01-10T19:18:32

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan react to Klay Thompson's triumphant return and wonder if it makes the Warriors clear title favorites or not. They then open up the mailbag and answer a few ...

All-Star Reactions&a Jaylen Brown Debate from 2022-01-07T18:29

On today's episode, Michael and Chris show Dirk Nowitzki some love and wonder if any active players will ever have an emotional jersey retirement ceremony that rivaled his. Then they analyze the...

Appreciating DeRozan&Predicting the All-2020's Team from 2022-01-04T21:46:13

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan stand and applaud DeMar DeRozan, far and away the best free agent signing from last summer, and wonder why so many pundits were down on the Bulls when they ...

All-Star Starters&Most Embarrassing Favorite Players from 2021-12-31T09:00

On their final episode of 2021, Michael and Rohan open up the mailbag and cover a whole bunch of topics. They debate All-Star starters in the Eastern and Western Conference, discuss embarrassing...

Redrafting the 2019 NBA Lottery! from 2021-12-28T19:59:17

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan quickly recap the NBA's surprisingly entertaining Christmas Day games before taking a brief detour away from this season's COVID-related turmoil to redraft ...

The Ultimate Christmas Day NBA Preview from 2021-12-23T09:00

On today's episode, Michael and Chris preview the NBA's Christmas Day schedule by ranking all five matchups from least to most anticipated. How will health and safety protocols impact who is and...

Kyrie's Near Comeback&The 2020's Almost Champions from 2021-12-20T19:33:16

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan take stock of the league's ongoing COVID-19 crisis and Brooklyn's controversial decision to bring back an unvaccinated Kyrie Irving. They then open up the m...

Please Don't Sleep on the Jazz&Curry's MVP Lead from 2021-12-17T09:00

On today's episode, Michael and Chris show the Utah Jazz some love and wonder how important the Danny Ainge hire really is. They then discuss Kemba Walker's increasingly strange situation in New...

An Interesting NBA Trade Season is About to Begin from 2021-12-13T20:13:42

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss a recent report that suggest Kyrie Irving may be close to his season debut and how his presence could help fix some problems the Nets have had this ...

COVID's Never-Ending impact, Pacers Trades,&Weird Stuff In Brooklyn from 2021-12-10T19:33:36

In today's episode, Michael and Chris discuss the pandemic's ongoing impact on this NBA season. Is it really smart to have All-Star Weekend? They then pivot to the Pacers, a team that's finally ...

This Season's Jrue Holiday&Can Steph Win Every Award? from 2021-12-06T18:11:02

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan open up the mailbag and wonder who this season’s version of Jrue Holiday will be, who’s the worst player who can lead a contender in scoring, how many award...

6 Teams That Need To Press The Panic Button from 2021-12-03T09:00

On today's episode, Michael and Chris look at six teams and ask if it's time to hit the panic button. The Heat will be without Bam Adebayo for the foreseeable future. The Bucks won't have Brook ...

Suns Continue League Domination&Our Team Changing Players from 2021-11-29T19:09:15

Michael and Rohan discuss the scorching Phoenix Suns and wonder if their sixteen game winning streak heading into their huge matchup against the Warriors really makes them the leagues best team....

The Best of the Rest of the West&Michael's Best Troll Jobs from 2021-11-26T09:00

In today's episode, Michael and Chris give their thoughts on the Western Conference standings. Assuming the Warriors, Suns, and Jazz all finish in the top three, who else is going to have home-c...

LeBron's Decline, Sacramento Woes,&Boston's Turnaround from 2021-11-22T20:47

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss the mayhem that occurred on Sunday between the Lakers and Pistons, and have a long discussion about what it would mean if LeBron James was no longer...

Open Floor's Official League Pass Recommendations from 2021-11-19T21:09

On today's episode, Michael and Chris offer their official NBA League Pass recommendations! Both give three teams they really think you should be watching if you aren't already—shout out to the ...

The Same Old Jazz&Everything We Got Wrong from 2021-11-15T20:06

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan conduct a three-week temperature take on teams that they were right and oh so wrong about before the season began. They then go deep on the Utah Jazz and wo...

Warriors Trade Potential&A Caruso Conspiracy from 2021-11-12T19:51

In today's episode, Michael and Chris open up the mailbag to discuss the red-hot Golden State Warriors, banged up Milwaukee Bucks, and more. Is now a good time for Golden State to go all in and ...

Lakers Stuck On Westbrook Island&Our Early MVP's from 2021-11-08T21:47

On today's Open Floor Rohan and Chris discuss the reactions by Robert Sarver in the wake of the disturbing allegations surrounding his time with the Suns, the reports of a hostile work environme...

Robert Sarver's Disturbing Allegations&The Sixers Hot Start from 2021-11-05T18:10:24

In today's episode, Michael and Chris discuss ESPN's bombshell story about Suns owner Robert Sarver alleging many incidents of racism and misogyny during his tenure with the team, whether the 76...

How Good Are The Heat&Our NBA Rule Changes from 2021-11-01T19:38:26

In today’s episode, Michael and Rohan wonder if the Heat are a juggernaut, break down the drop in league-wide offensive rating, think of new rules they’d like to see changed/implemented, get opt...

Cavs Are Up, Suns Are Down,&Evan Mobley Is Everything from 2021-10-29T18:23:20

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss exciting starts for the Knicks, Bulls, Warriors, and Ja Morant's Grizzlies. They also cover standout rookies (there are so many!), the surprising Ca...

Disappointing Nets, Rising Bulls,&Positionless Lineups from 2021-10-25T19:31

On today's episode, Michael and Chris break down the first power ranking of the season. Which team has been the most disappointing? Which undefeated team is for real? Who's the best team in the ...

Our Top 5 Players Ever&Beginning of Season Breakdown from 2021-10-22T17:59

On today's episode, Michael and Chris talk about the NBA's Top 75 team and rank their five best players of all time. Then it's a breakdown of Thursday night's doubleheader (Warriors-Clippers, Ha...

NBA Potluck Season Preview Extravaganza (Western Conference) from 2021-10-18T20:32

On today's episode, Michael, Rohan, and Chris Herring are joined by Sports Illustrated Senior writers Howard Beck and Chris Mannix to preview the Western Conference! Can the Lakers miss the play...

Worst NBA Trends&Our Surprise Teams from 2021-10-15T19:45:12

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan open up the mailbag and discuss annoying coaching trends, teams that will surprise people for the better (Sacramento?), the one GM who's the best drafter in...

Kyrie&Simmons Sagas Continue, Best Five Man Lineups from 2021-10-11T19:37

In today's episode, Michael and Chris discuss the latest developments with Kyrie Irving and Ben Simmons (including a brief discussion on why they haven't been traded for each other yet), and the...

Answering the NBA's Annual GM Survey from 2021-10-08T17:41

On today's episode, Michael and Chris open up the mailbag to answer a couple questions before diving into the NBA's annual GM survey, including who is most likely to have a breakout season, this...

Best In Their Prime Teams&Ranking Rebuilds from 2021-10-05T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan open up the mailbag and wonder if the Portland Trail Blazers are better than everybody thinks they'll be, discuss which team would be the best if every play...

Lakers Roster Questions&NBA Star Sustainability from 2021-10-01T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan break down interesting developments with the Lakers, Thad Young's future, and what exactly is sustainable going into this upcoming NBA season!

NBA'S Anti-Vax Issue, Zion's Perfect Lineup from 2021-09-28T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss the NBA's anti-vaccination problem, why the regular season isn't appreciated like it should be, what the perfect lineup around Zion Williamson would...

Ranking The Top 100 Players (30-1) from 2021-09-24T08:00

On today's episode, Michael is joined by SI staff writer Jeremy Woo to break down the rest of Sports Illustrated's Top 100 list! They get into KD vs. Giannis vs. LeBron, whether Trae Young is to...

Ranking The Top 100 Players (100-31) from 2021-09-21T08:00

In today's episode, Rohan and Michael introduce the first half of Sports Illustrated's Top 100! They explain how the list was put together, break down snubs and players they wish were higher or ...

Aaron Gordon's Extension&Predictable Kyrie Rumors from 2021-09-17T08:00

In today’s episode, Rohan takes over hosting duties and is joined by The Ringer’s Paolo Uggetti. They settle the 1-on-1 debate tearing apart the Open Floor family, discuss the Aaron Gordon exten...

1-on-1 Debate Debacle Fallout, Draft Re-Do's from 2021-09-14T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Chris open up the mailbag to discuss the fallout from last week's 1-on-1 debate (Kevin Garnett forever), then re-do the 2016 and 2017 NBA drafts! 

The History of NBA Tanking w/ Jake Fischer from 2021-09-10T08:00

In today's episode, Michael welcomes special guest Jake Fischer to the show! They discuss his wonderful new NBA book "Built to Lose: How the NBA's Tanking Era Changed the League Forever", Ben Si...

A Heated Hypothetical 1 on 1 Debate from 2021-09-07T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan open up the mailbag to discuss who they think would win a hypothetical 1 on 1 tournament, why Uncut Gems is in fact a basketball movie, whether the Bulls wo...

Ben Simmons Saga Continues, Unpredictable Teams from 2021-09-03T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Chris unpack new developments in the Ben Simmons saga, including a closer look at which team he will be on when the season begins. They then open the mailbag up a...

More Offseason Trades&The Best Basketball Movies from 2021-08-31T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan break down the Lauri Markkanen three-team trade before they open up the mailbag to rank their all-time favorite basketball-related movies, explain why the M...

Mailbag Ep: Fave Starting Lineups&AD vs. Giannis from 2021-08-27T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan hit the mailbag! They talk about the C- grade Michael gave the Lakers in his most recent offseason report card column (available to read on SI.com), what so...

MVP Betting Odds: Long Shots to Sure Things from 2021-08-24T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Chris take a long look at the 2021-22 season's MVP race, using the latest betting odds in Las Vegas to frame their discussion. Would you rather have Giannis Antet...

Christmas Schedule Disappointment&KD's Lasting Legacy from 2021-08-20T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Chris break down the Christmas Day schedule, debate which teams have a right to feel disrespected by the release, digress into a deep conversation about whether K...

Top Ten Best NBA duos from 2021-08-17T08:00

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan quickly break down the Eric Bledsoe/Rajon Rondo/Patrick Beverley trade, answer an email from a listener who's particularly down on the Golden State Warriors...

Ranking The Western Conference Standings from 2021-08-13T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan power ranked the Western Conference! They agreed on just about nothing, especially when it comes to the Lakers, Jazz, and Warriors. 

Ranking The Eastern Conference Standings from 2021-08-10T08:00

In today's episode, Michael and Chris predict the Eastern Conference standings for the 2021-22 NBA season! Every team, from 15 down to 1. 

Offense Obsessed Lakers&Celtics Slow Start from 2021-08-06T08:00

On today's show, Michael and Chris break down a whole bunch of free agency news, including the Celtics' slow offseason, the Lakers deciding to abandon defense, whether the Nets have lengthened t...

Winners (And a Lot of Losers) of NBA Free Agency from 2021-08-03T19:00

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan each give their 3 biggest winners and 3 biggest losers for Day 1 of the NBA's silly season. What are the Lakers and Knicks doing? Can the Heat win the title...

NBA Draft Breakdown w/ Jeremy Woo from 2021-07-30T18:33:43

Rohan and SI's NBA draft insider Jeremy Woo break down the big trade that sent Russell Westbrook to the Lakers, the big winners & losers of the draft, and the surprising picks from one of th...

The Making of an Improbable MVP w/ Mirin Fader from 2021-07-27T08:00

On today’s episode, Chris is joined by Ringer feature writer and author Mirin Fader, who has an upcoming biography on two-time MVP and now Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. They talk about the i...

Mega Crossover NBA Finals Recap from 2021-07-21T22:44:14

On today's episode, Michael and Chris are joined by Rohan and special guest, Sports Illustrated Senior Writer Howard Beck, who also co-hosts SI's Crossover NBA Show. The guys talk about the Fina...

A Game Five Instant Classic&Team USA Drama from 2021-07-19T19:29:52

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan open up the mailbag to discuss Team USA drama and Kawhi Leonard's ACL surgery before a deep NBA Finals dive. Game 5 was another classic. Can the Suns tie it...

An Instant Finals Classic&Giannis' Impossible Block from 2021-07-15T22:13:43

On today's show, Michael and Chris break down Game 4, an absolute and instant Finals classic that was packed with memorable moments, from Giannis' brilliant block to Devin Booker's foul to all t...

Giannis Turn Superhuman, Top 5 Individual Finals Performances from 2021-07-12T19:56

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan break down Game 3 of the NBA Finals and wonder if there are any adjustments the Suns can make to slow down Giannis Antetokounmpo. Speaking of Giannis, in hi...

Suns Stars Do It All&Giannis' Willis Reed Moment from 2021-07-08T18:21:31

In today's episode, Michael and Chris open up the mailbag and answer a few big-picture questions about the NBA playoffs before taking a deep dive into the series. How can Milwaukee slow down Chr...

Jrue Holiday the Deity&Atlanta's Spending Problems from 2021-07-06T19:51:18

On today's episode, Michael and Rohan take a look back at Atlanta's magical season and wonder if they need to consolidate some of their young pieces in order to make a stronger Finals run in the...

We Celebrate All Things CP3 (And Are Crushed Over Giannis) from 2021-07-01T18:47:57

In today's episode, Michael and Chris celebrate Chris Paul's greatness from multiple angles, wonder if Kawhi Leonard will stay in Los Angeles, think about the significance of a potential Hawks-S...

Totally Plausible Lillard Trades, Bucks Operate At 100% from 2021-06-28T19:58:19

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan recap Hawks-Bucks, discuss Portland's controversial Chauncey Billups hire, and give several of their favorite hypothetical Dame Lillard trades 

NBA Draft Lottery Winners, Team USA's Roster,&The Conference Finals from 2021-06-24T18:35:12

On today's episode, Michael and Chris give their NBA lottery winners and losers, question Team USA's roster, answer a few more emails about the Sixers (should they trade Embiid instead?), and br...

What Happens To Ben Simmons?, Conference Finals Live Draft from 2021-06-21T19:00:10

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss where Utah and Brooklyn go from here, Ben Simmons' trade value (including a few hypothetical partners to get a deal done), and Kemba Walker's exit f...

Sixers Epic Collapse, Top Five All Time Playoff Performances from 2021-06-17T18:43:07

In today's episode, Michael and Chris recap Philadelphia's epic Game 5 meltdown against the Hawks, discuss how injuries are impacting the NBA playoffs, and go over several coach/executive firing...

Breaking Down Game 6 of the 2013 Finals w/ Chris Bosh from 2021-06-16T08:00

On a special edition of Open Floor, Rohan and two-time NBA champion Chris Bosh dive deep into one of Chris’s favorite games from his career: Game 6 of the 2013 Finals. They discuss Tim Duncan’s ...

Bucks Even w/ Nets, Nuggets Roster Questions, Suns Complete Sweep from 2021-06-14T19:48

In today’s episode of Open Floor, Michael Pina and Rohan Nadkarni discuss the fallout of Game 4 between the Nets and Bucks, including how Kyrie Irving’s injury affects the series moving forward,...

Jokic A Single MVP Winner?, Power Ranking The Remaining Teams from 2021-06-10T18:39

In today's episode, Michael and Chris answer a few listener emails about Nikola Jokic's chance of winning multiple MVP awards, along with a few interesting fake trades. From there, in honor of h...

Mavs/Clips End Battle, Porzingis Trades, Bucks/Nets Underway from 2021-06-07T19:39:19

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan went deep on the instant classic Mavs-Clippers series and talked about where each organization goes from here. What did we learn about Dallas as they try to...

Suns Beat L.A., Should Portland Blow It Up?,&Beal To Boston?? from 2021-06-04T20:46:04

In today's episode, Michael and Chris look at what went wrong for the Lakers, Anthony Davis' decision to play while injured in Game 6, why it's so hard to picture the Suns actually winning the c...

Bucks Embarrass Heat, Nets Look Unstoppable, How Good are the Hawks? from 2021-06-01T18:44:23

In today's episode, Michael and Rohan discuss the impact injuries are having on the NBA playoffs, whether the Miami Heat can get back to the Finals with Jimmy Butler on their roster, if the Broo...

Fan Unruliness, Luke May Be Unstoppable,&First Round Disappointments from 2021-05-27T22:04:27

On today's episode of Open Floor, Michael and Chris discuss unruly fans, the struggling Clippers, how Kawhi Leonard's free agency may be impacted if Los Angeles is eliminated in Round 1, Nate Mc...

The Playoffs Are Finally Underway from 2021-05-24T19:30:05

In today's episode, Michael Pina welcomes his (other) new co-host, Sports Illustrated staff writer Rohan Nadkarni to the show! The two recap several games from the weekend, and ask how concerned...

Wizards Win Their Way In, Lakers Still Contending,&The Best Playoff Matchups from 2021-05-21T19:19

In today's episode, Michael Pina welcomes his new co-host, Sports Illustrated Senior Writer Chris Herring to the show! The two talk play-in developments—the punchy Wizards, whether or not they s...

Ten questions about LeBron vs. Steph, the play-in&the 2021 playoffs from 2021-05-18T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina wrap up a wild final weekend of the regular season by asking 10 questions about the upcoming play-in tournament and playoffs. As teams jockeyed for seeds down the s...

Playoff Pressure Check&Show Announcement from 2021-05-14T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by discussing the excellent feedback for Michael's SI Daily Cover story about Spurs guard Dejounte Murray. Then, they make a major show announcement: Ben will ...

Luka's temper, Zion's finger&All-NBA backlash from 2021-05-11T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by discussing Luka Doncic's attempted low blow on Collin Sexton. Is Doncic's temper becoming a problem and does an unsportsmanlike act like that change how we ...

Picking the All-NBA teams from 2021-05-07T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina turn their attention to the 2021 All-NBA selections. How do the NBA's positional designations impact this year's teams? Is it okay to treat Joel Embiid as a forward...

Lakers crumbling, King Jokic&"Bubbleball" book preview from 2021-05-04T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina pick up the pieces from a wild weekend of basketball to discuss the crumbling Los Angeles Lakers, the streaking Denver Nuggets, and the exciting duel between the Mi...

Handicapping the 2026 NBA MVP race from 2021-04-30T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina break out their crystal balls in an attempt to handicap the 2026 NBA MVP race. What will the NBA look like in five years? Which types of players will have the insid...

Coach of the Year&Most Improved Player award debates from 2021-04-27T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina search for silver linings during the NBA's pandemic season by highlighting two interesting awards races: Coach of the Year and Most Improved Player. Which criteria ...

NBA reacts to Derek Chauvin verdict, Trae goes down, AD returns from 2021-04-23T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with a rundown of the NBA community's response to the verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial. Was this "justice" for George Floyd? What role did current and former...

Ranking Stephen Curry, NBA clone wars, East match-making from 2021-04-20T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina reflect on Stephen Curry's torrid April by taking a fresh look at the Golden State Warriors guard's place in the MVP, All-NBA and "Best Player Alive" conversations....

LaMarcus Aldridge retires, Joel Embiid dominates, Stephen Curry catches fire from 2021-04-16T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina gather themselves during a storm of NBA news to discuss LaMarcus Aldridge's sudden retirement due to an irregular heartbeat. How will Aldridge be remembered? How wi...

Ten NBA Playoff X-Factors: Aaron Gordon, Tobias Harris, Rajon Rondo&more from 2021-04-13T08:00

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina catch their breath during the dog days of the NBA's regular season to look ahead to the 2021 NBA playoffs. Which players are looming as X-factors in the title chase...

Chris Paul&Devin Booker have the Suns in the spotlight from 2021-04-09T02:39:47

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina take stock of the Phoenix Suns after a signature win over the Utah Jazz. Should Chris Paul be an all-NBA selection? Can Devin Booker be trusted in the clutch? Will ...

Jalen Suggs' best NBA fits&Jrue Holiday's monster contract from 2021-04-06T20:57:31

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by recapping Baylor's NCAA title game triumph over Gonzaga and discussing Jalen Suggs' strong tournament run. Does Suggs have a shot at being the first pick? D...

The NBA's best and worst contracts from 2021-04-01T21:51:29

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina take a look at the NBA's best and worst contracts after the trade deadline and the round of buyout agreements. Who is delivering the most value in the league this y...

LaMarcus Aldridge, Andre Drummond, buyout backlash&the tank is on from 2021-03-29T21:40:25

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina analyze the latest buyout moves, including LaMarcus Aldridge to the Brooklyn Nets and Andre Drummond to the Los Angeles Lakers. What roles will Aldridge and Drummon...

Free agency match-making, Saving the NBA awards, White whale games from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with a summary of the NBA's looming $1 billion hit due to the coronavirus and possible impacts on next year's salary cap. Should the owners and players agree to "...

NBA's lost narratives, our favorite seasons, MJ's return from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina cope with the coronavirus crisis by running through some of this season's biggest lost narratives. What's next for the Bucks, Nets and Rockets? How will the suspended ...

The coronavirus & the NBA schedule, airing old grievances from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina discuss the coronavirus and its ongoing impacts on the NBA schedule. Players have been sent home and the NBA is on hiatus for at least two months. Can a postseason be ...

NBA suspends season due to coronavirus from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina discuss the NBA's decision to indefinitely suspend the 2019-20 season after Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert and guard Donovan Mitchell tested positive for the coronavirus...

LeBron's Lakers enjoy a big weekend, Coronavirus gets real from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina look back at LeBron James's big weekend, as the Los Angeles Lakers enjoyed signature victories over the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Clippers. Did LeBron vault into...

Stephen Curry's next chapter, Does NBA need commentating shake-up? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina welcome Stephen Curry back to the court with an extended discussion about the Golden State Warriors guard's legacy and next chapter. Will Curry win another title and/o...

Giannis vs. Harden escalates, KD considers Tokyo, Peak Westbrook from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by dissecting the escalating tension between James Harden and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Does Harden have a point? Is he guilty of hypocrisy? What constitutes "skill"...

LeBron vs. Zion, Giannis vs. 70, Road jersey etiquette from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with an extended discussion of LeBron James' first game against Zion Williamson. Was LeBron trying to prove a point? How did Zion hold up? Was there some chilline...

MJ honors Kobe, Tatum erupts, Simmons' back woes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina offer a line-by-line breakdown of Michael Jordan's incredibly moving tribute for Kobe Bryant. Why did MJ's speech resonate with so many people? Why...

Kyrie Irving's season ends, All-Star Weekend fixes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina discuss the fallout surrounding Kyrie Irving's season-ending shoulder surgery. What's next for the Brooklyn Nets? Does the concept of a "Gap year" ...

All-Star Weekend winners and losers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina convene for a late-night All-Star Weekend recap. Ben and Michael run through the winners and losers of the midseason showcase in Chicago, praising ...

2020 NBA All-Star Weekend Preview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina preview the 2020 NBA All-Star Weekend. Will Zion Williamson and Team USA crush Luka Doncic and the World Team in the Rising Stars Challenge? Who wi...

Surging Raptors, Damian Lillard's outrage, All-Star mailbag from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina recover from the NBA trade deadline by catching their breath before the upcoming craziness of All-Star Weekend. They start with a deep dive into th...

NBA Trade Deadline Winners & Losers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina run though the winners and losers of the 2020 NBA Trade Deadline. Did the Warriors gamble wisely on Andrew Wiggins? Did the Timberwolves sacrifice ...

NBA trade deadline preview, Kobe Bryant's tribute, All-Star angst from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina preview this week's NBA trade deadline. First, though, they recap the Lakers' Friday night tribute to Kobe Bryant and Damian Lillard's remarkable 4...

Los Angeles, the Lakers & the NBA remember Kobe Bryant from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina discuss the aftermath of Kobe Bryant's tragic death. Ben discusses the scene at the site of the helicopter crash in Calabasas, describes the memori...

Kobe Bryant, remembered from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina react to the tragic deaths of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna Learn more about your ad choices. Visit pod...

Dissecting Zion Williamson's debut & contender check-in from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina tackle all angles of Zion Williamson's electrifying debut for the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. Ben provides some on-scene highlights, then th...

Zion returns, Top 5 under 23, NBA fan conversion strategies from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina preview Zion Williamson's upcoming season debut on Wednesday. What's the baseline for a successful return to the court? What should we expect from the...

2020 NBA All-Star picks, snubs & toughest calls from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina pick their 2020 NBA All-Star teams. They stick tightly to the official rules, naming their starting lineups, reserves, injury replacements and snub...

Kyrie Irving returns, Kevin Durant's title odds, champions & non-champions in the 2020s from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dig into Kyrie Irving's return to the court for the Brooklyn Nets. How did he look and can he pair effectively with Spencer Dinwiddie? Will the Net...

John Beilein's slugs, RJ Barrett's blurry Knicks existence & the NBA's biggest dead ends from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina discuss the John Beilein controversy in Cleveland. Is his "thugs vs. slugs" explanation believable? What do these repeated leaks say about his job sec...

Russell Westbrook returns to OKC, three cheers for Sam Presti, Pondering midseason boredom from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver opens with exciting news about former Open Floor co-host Andrew Sharp, who has made his triumphant return to the NBA podcast world. From there, Ben and Michael Pina...

RIP David Stern, Bold predictions for 2020, Alternative all-decade awards from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with a remembrance of former NBA Commissioner David Stern, who died this week at age 77. What were some of Stern's most memorable moments and acc...

Kawhi, LeBron, Embiid, Luka & 10 Post-Christmas NBA Takeaways from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina reconvene after a short holiday break to run through 10 takeaways from the NBA on Christmas. Did Kawhi Leonard seal his spot as the greatest player in...

NBA on Christmas Preview: LeBron vs. Kawhi, Giannis vs. Embiid & key stats to consider from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina offer a full preview of the NBA's 2019 Christmas quintuple-header, ranking the games in terms of watchability. What's at stake for LeBron James's L...

Who are the NBA's heels? Did the 2010 Celtics break LeBron? What's up with Ayton? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina are joined by special guest Captain Accountability, who has many thoughts on Deandre Ayton's return from a 25-game drug suspension. From there, Ben an...

NBA trade season opens, favorite fake trades, "real fans" from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina celebrate the Dec. 15 NBA trade-eligibility deadline by compiling their favorite fake trades. DeMar DeRozan to the Bulls? Kevin Love to the Suns? Kyle...

Kawhi Leonard’s triumph, Bam Adebayo’s breakout, First-Time All-Stars from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina discuss Kawhi Leonard's return to Toronto for ring night. Did Leonard and the Clippers make a statement? Are they engaged in a "tortoise and the hare"...

Knicks change coaches, Giannis vs. LeBron Finals dreams, the case for Team Fandom from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina ask the questions no one else is asking about the New York Knicks' coaching change. Who, really, is to blame for the players' lack of effort? If Ma...

Live from the Bronny James beat, more NBA cheating ideas, Peak Giannis from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dig deep into Bronny James and the Sierra Canyon Trailblazers. After Ben's visit to the elite high school in California, they discuss the different...

Quarterly NBA awards, the ethics of a scoring rampage, Spurs’ faith dwindling? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina reconvene after the long holiday weekend to hand out first-quarter NBA awards. LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo or James Harden for MVP? Is Luka...

NBA schedule proposals, cheating the game, Harden's double teams from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina vote up or down on the NBA's three major schedule proposals: reseeding the conference finals, adding a midseason tournament, and incorporating play-in...

LeBron James, Luka Doncic and the top 5 stories of the 2019-20 season so far from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina run through the top five basketball stories of the 2019-20 season so far, highlighted by LeBron James's resurgence and Luka Doncic's emergence as an M...

Celtics cruising, Sixers stumbling, Carmelo resurrected, Paul George shining from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver welcomes his new co-host: Michael Pina, NBA writer for SB Nation. With Open Floor's bi-coastal balance restored, Ben and Michael dig into two teams at the top of th...

Knicks coaching crisis, Harden's place in the hierarchy, Shot quality vs. shot location from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's podcast, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney discuss the dilapidated state of the Knicks. Is there any coach, or person, alive who could replace David Fizdale and find success? Why did the fron...

Siakam's soaring Raptors, Lillard's slumping Blazers, Rob Mahoney reflects on 7 years at SI from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney open with extended comments on Pascal Siakam and the Toronto Raptors. Where does Siakam rank right now? Is he actually Giannis-like? Does Toronto's pla...

Giannis revenge mission, NBA statues, load management ethics from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney go deep on the Milwaukee Bucks after their recent win over the Los Angeles Clippers. They engage in comical Giannis Antetokounmpo hyperbole on the foll...

Luka Luka Luka, Bucks check-in, sputtering Rockets from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney discuss the mounting hype around Luka Doncic following his weekend duel with LeBron James and his multiple triple-doubles. Should Dallas be viewed a...

Steph Curry’s injury, Kawhi Stockton, Team Jo or Team KAT? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney discuss the grisly repercussions of Stephen Curry's broken hand for the Golden State Warriors. Should Golden State tank? Does this increase the urge...

Warriors' comeuppance, Trae Young's arrival, Suns' progress from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney consider the Golden State Warriors' slow start. Do their early struggles require a reputation revision for Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Steve Kerr...

The New King of LA, Charles Barkley’s take summit, Opening week instant reactions from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney discuss TNT commentator Charles Barkley's latest take summit. Ben lays out Barkley's thoughts on why Kawhi Leonard has surpassed LeBron James after ...

The NBA season is here! Finals predictions, Zion heartbreak & Jamal Murray's swag from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney gear up for the start of the 2019-20 NBA season by making their predictions. Which teams will make the conference finals? Who will win the title? What'...

LeBron takes on Morey over China, NBA award predictions, Buddy's threat and Beal's deal from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On Today's show, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney pick up their jaws after LeBron James's pointed criticism of Daryl Morey on the Hong Kong/China issue. Did LeBron have a point about Morey's bad timing...

Harden and Westbrook deep dive, California vs. the World, the West's future powers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney dive deep into Rob's Sports Illustrated NBA preview story on the Houston Rockets. How will James Harden and Russell Westbrook actually work together? A...

LeBron James & the Lakers peak, Rockets combust, ECF preview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver opens the floor to angry listeners who demand accountability for Michael Pina's takes about the Lakers. How have LeBron James and company turned things around? How did they dismantle t...

The NBA game goes on in China, Zion hype heats up, the next Jrue contract from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney detail the latest developments from the NBA's China crisis. What should James Harden make of Daryl Morey? Did Adam Silver let down the media by allowin...

Raptors live on, Heat watch and wait, Danuel House in trouble from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by recapping the best game of the bubble: Toronto's double-overtime Game 6 win over Boston. Why did Nick Nurse decide to go super small? Did Jayson Tatum need to ...

Daryl Morey's China crisis, AD's stellar debut, 2020 NBA style of play from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver offers an Open Floor "State of the Union" address in light of Sports Illustrated's recent staffing changes. Ben is then joined by his new co-host, Rob Mahoney of Sport...

4x4 NBA playoff round-up from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina recap the long holiday weekend of NBA playoff basketball by asking four questions about each of the four remaining series. Who's to blame for the Bucks' collapse? Did ...

Meeting the Lakers and Sixers, Kyrie at Media Day, Rookie of the Year Projections from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by sharing some thoughts on the Sixers and Lakers after media days in L.A. and Philly. Then (20:00): The Clippers debut in L.A. and Kawhi gets bo...

Steve Nash to Brooklyn, referee hijinks, Bucks crumbling from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina react to the stunning news that the Brooklyn Nets have hired Steve Nash as coach. Is Nash really the next Steve Kerr? Can he be the Kevin Durant whisperer? Can any coa...

The Fog of a Tampering War, Brown and Ingram Extensions, Chris Paul to the Bucks from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by celebrating the imminent return of the NBA before a wide-open season. Then (5:00): A look at the the NBA's recent passage of new tampering rul...

Jamal Murray's moment, NBA resumes play, Goodbye to Luka and Dame from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by gushing over Jamal Murray's latest scoring explosion and poignant post-game interview. What does Murray's playoff rise say about the Nuggets' pecking order and...

Team USA Is Missing The Hawaiian Sunrise, James Harden PR Advice, NBA Wedding Etiquette from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver reconnect after Golliver's vacation. They begin with a guide to watching the sunrise in Hawaii and some belated thoughts on Team USA's downfall at the ...

An inside look at the Milwaukee Bucks' historic walkout from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina discuss the Milwaukee Bucks' historic walkout and react to the NBA players' decision to continue with the 2020 playoffs. Ben offers a first-hand account of the Bucks' ...

The Lakers Make No Sense, Giannis and Jokic MVP Odds, Finding the NBA's Andrew Luck from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver examine the MVP odds for 2020. First: What do we make of the Lakers and the MVP possibilities for LeBron James and Anthony Davis? Then (20:00): Odds fo...

Luka Mania from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dig deep into Luka Doncic's unbelievable 43-point triple-double against the Los Angeles Clippers by answering a bunch of questions from the Open Floor Globe. Luka or G...

Team USA's FIBA Adventures, The Future of Young American Stars, Bradley Beal to the Nets from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver reunite to get ready for a new year of basketball. They kick things off with an Instagram lecture, defending Taylor Swift, and a quick shoutout to Slov...

Top 100 NBA Players Extravaganza: 2019 review & 2020 preview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver welcomes Sports Illustrated writer Rob Mahoney for an expansive conversation about their Top 100 NBA Players lists. They start by taking a look back at last year. Who ...

Los Angeles Lakers deep dive: Kobe's ping pong skills, LeBron clings to the throne, AD's burden from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver welcomes longtime Los Angeles Lakers media whiz Mike Trudell, the Spectrum Sports sideline reporter, Lakers.com writer and ESPN LA radio personality. A Lakers deep div...

All-Decade team debates, United Spurs of America hit LA, buying stock in the Hawks & Kings from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver welcomes Sekou Smith of NBA TV to discuss NBA.com's All-Decade teams.  What makes the 2010-2019 era so fascinating? Who got snubbed? Who were the toughest cuts? Then, ...

Coach Pop's Team USA revenge, Next Gen stars, KD's decisions & Wall's comeback from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver welcomes Michael Lee, Senior NBA writer at The Athletic, to break down USA Basketball's training camp live from Las Vegas. Is coach Gregg Popovich motivated by patriot...

Some Very Early Over/Unders, AD's New Nickname, An Important Fan Amnesty Ruling from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through the initial wins total numbers released in Las Vegas earlier this week. Topics include: the Wizards at 27.5, the Lakers and Warriors at 49...

Introducing the New Clippers, The State of the Jordan Empire, How to Fix Team USA from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver are talking through the Kawhi Leonard and Paul George introductions in L.A. and the reasons to buy or sell what’s next for the Clippers. Topics include...

The Wizards Go Outside the Box, Giannis Inc. Quarterly Meeting, Three Coaches with Impossible Jobs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by celebrating America's bounty of natural wonders and imploring listeners to tip their tour guides on the way through National Parks. Then (5:00...

Midsummer Saguaro Vision Quests, Best Case/Worst Case Out West, Kemba vs. Kyrie from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through a road trip through the American Southwest and the 2021 rankings. From there (10:00): Running through some best and worst case...

The Universe Sends Westbrook to Houston, Ben Simmons Cashes Out, Final Summer League Thoughts from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing Ben's new rental car and the final days of Vegas summer league. Then (5:00): Russell Westbrook is on the Houston Rockets after Jame...

Adam Silver Responds to Tamperpalooza, Spending Ballmer's Billions, Captain Accountability vs. The Universe from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing the coach's challenge system set to be implemented in next year's NBA. Then: What to do about tampering? Topics include: Adam Silve...

Finding a Home for Westbrook, Revisiting All the Kawhi Moves, Don't Forget that Anthony Davis Exists from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show AndrewSharp and Ben Golliver begin by lamenting the state of summer league and shifting their focus to yet another offseason subplot: Where will Russell Westbrook land? Topics inclu...

Kawhi and the Clippers Earthquake, Winners and Losers Around the NBA, Disaster for the Lakers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver are live in Las Vegas and processing the Kawhi Leonard/Paul George news as it happened Friday night. Topics include: a massive win for the Clippers, Ka...

Kawhi Leonard Helicopter Surveillance, Reviewing the Rest of Free Agency, All the Good Wizards Play in Chicago Now from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with the state of the Kawhi Leonard pursuit and acknowledging that recording this podcast definitely means that Kawhi will announce his decision ...

Kyrie and Kevin Durant to Brooklyn, The Sixers Steal Horford, The NBA Goes Crazy for 24 Hours from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver recap the first 12 hours of NBA free agency. First: Kyrie Irving is going to Brooklyn and he's bringing Kevin Durant with him (2:00). This is obviously...

The Lakers Get the Last Laugh, This Rockets Rumor Makes No Sense, Last-Minute Free Agency Notes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing the Mo Wagner blockbuster and what it means for the future in DC. Then (5:00): The Lakers have max cap space, Pelinka is owed an ap...

Kemba in Boston and Other Free Agency Rumors, Bradley Beal's Future in DC, Projecting the West from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with a nod to NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and then move to the rumors swirling around the NBA this week. Topics include: Kemba Walker and the p...

Draft Winners and Losers, Complicated Pelicans Emotions, Celtics and Lakers Updates from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver are live from New York City where they recap the 2019 NBA Draft. First: The Wizards and the dawn of the Rui Hachimura era, RJ Barrett landing in New Yo...

The AD Trade 72 Hours Later, Parsing the Pelicans Options, How Chris Paul will be Remembered from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through all angles of the Anthony Davis trade. How much does it change the outlook for the Lakers? How much still hinges on when the d...

The Raptors are Champions, Golden State’s Future is Complicated, The East Rises from the Ashes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through the end of the NBA Finals and a Raptors world championshp.  First: The Warriors went out like champs, the Raptors had every answer they ne...

Processing Kevin Durant's Injury and Recapping Game 5 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver are live in Toronto, where they talk through Kevin Durant's disastrous injury and the state of the NBA Finals after Game 5. Learn more about your ad ch...

The Raptors Respond with No Klay, Kawhi vs. LeBron in 2020, Exploring Kyrie to the Nets from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver are live at the Finals recapping Game 3. Topics include: Did Golden State just punt a finals game?, the Raptors' insane shooting performance and the im...

The Warriors Play Like Giants Again, Cousins Comes Through, Hot T'Wolves Takes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver are live in Toronto and recapping Game 2 from Scotiabank Arena. First: Thoughts on a killer performance from the Warriors, DeMarcus Cousins coming up h...

The Raptors Take Game 1, KD and the Question of the Finals, Tillman Takes the Wheel in Houston from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver check in live from Toronto to recap Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Topics include: Pascal Siakam's incredible Game 1 (32/8/5), the Raptors doing their best ...

The Termites Go to the Finals, Giannis Inc. Addresses the Investment Community, Kawhi's Place in History from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through the triumph of the Raptors, Kawhi Leonard, Kyle Lowry, and millions of Toronto Termites who can now look down on legions of doubters. Topi...

Kawhi and Fred VanVleet Against the World, More Supermax Fun, Magic Johnson Has Takes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver connect for a late night recap of Game 5 in the Eastern Conference Finals. Topics include: The shocking turnaround for Toronto, sobering performances across...

The Warriors Sweep, Another Giannis Revelation, NBA Finals First Takes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver is joined by special guest Rob Mahoney of Sports Illustrated live in Portland after the Warriors swept the Blazers to reach their fifth straight Finals. Ben and Rob di...

The Bucks Look Like a Juggernaut, The Warriors as Test Takers, Way Too Early Offseason Ideas from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through the state of the Bucks. Topics include: how surreal this must be for actual Bucks fans, what learned in Game 1 against the Raptors, why th...

Winners and Losers Live from the Lottery, Warriors-Rockets in Review, The Post-LeBron Playoffs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through the NBA Lottery results, including Zion to New Orleans, a lottery room breach, a sidekick for "Jaren", the Knicks, the Lakers, and a close...

Availability is the Best Sixers Ability, Massive Stakes in Rockets/Warriors, The Lakers are Still the Lakers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by recounting a lost episode and a hellish travel day before shifting to Sixers-Raptors in Game 6, Joel Embiid's strange playoff run, and where t...

Rockets Resurrection, Celtics Takes Looking Absolutely Disastrous, Nuggets Growing Up from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking about Austin Rivers, PJ Tucker, James Harden, and the resurrected Houston Rockets who now go to the Bay with the West semis tied 2-2. ...

The Sixers Made Us Look Stupid Again, Big Kawhi Questions, Draymond or Horford from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through both ends of the Kyrie Irving spectrum and why Golliver feels like a snail. Then (7:00): Raptors-Sixers, another revival in Ph...

The Rockets Want a Fair Chance, The Celtics Stun the Bucks, Kawhi is in Kill Mode from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver check in after the first weekend of the second round. First (5:00): What do we make of Rockets-Warriors and the officiating controversy swirling around...

Warriors and Rockets (and Clippers), Reliving Lillard Euphoria, Dame Moments Through History from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with some leftover thoughts from Damian Lillard’s 50-point game five and mind-boggling game-winner. Then (8:00): the Rockets and Warriors in firs...

The End of Westbrook's Prime, Celtics Sweeping Toward Milwaukee, Donovan Mitchell and D'Angelo Russell from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking Russell Westbrook in the middle of a difficult first round series. Topics include: Whether this postseason marks the end of Westbrook'...

Two Versions of Kevin Durant, Derrick White Breaks Out, Ben Simmons Destroys Brooklyn from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by processing the week of Kevin Durant scrutiny, from Monday's Game 2 collapse to Thursday's response in Game 3, which was the single most impres...

Shock and Awe and the Sixers, First Round First Impressions, Blazers/Thunder War from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today show's Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by considering the bigger picture for the 76ers. Topics include: Saturday's disastrous Game 1, Monday's Game 2 victory, the price of Ingram over ...

Impromptu Dirk Farewell, Big Picture Playoff Questions, Kings and Lakers Chaos from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with some thoughts on Dirk Nowitzki and everything that made his career so enjoyable. Then (17:00): Finals predictions and various narrative arcs...

Revisiting Preseason Over/Unders, Ominous 'Bad Take' Hubris, Open Floor Book Club from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with an elaborate mid-April hypothetical involving LeBron James, Tim Duncan, career swapping, King Arthur's sword, and religious icons. Then (13:...

History's Least Enjoyable All-Time Greats, Robot Referees, The State of 12-Time Tatum from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin taking stock of the April angst that is sweeping the basketball internet as the regular season winds down. Then (5:00): Who are the least enjoyab...

All the Angles on Zion Williamson, Live Reaction to Ernie Grunfeld News, Golden State vs. the Refs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by disregarding the depressing state of the NBA and talking all things Zion Williamson. What did we learn from his weekend in DC? What weaknesses...

The Devin Booker Super Bloom, The Loss of Nurkic in Portland, Lottery Reform One Year Later from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by noting the parallels between the California super bloom and the annual March tradition of gigantic Devin Booker games in the midst of meaningl...

The State of the MVP Race, The Heat in D.C., Contextualizing Luka and Trae from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

 On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with news that Ben is on LinkedIn and would love to add you to his professional network. Then: Before Harden and Giannis face off Tuesday night,...

The Rejuvenation of Doc Rivers, Drafting Lonzo vs. Trading Russell, USS Zion Returns to Sea from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by highlighting Allen Crabbe's work in his neighborhood back in Los Angeles and Ben's time with Doc Rivers across town. What has changed with the...

An Early All-NBA Conversation, Bucks-Sixers Takeaways, Pistons Nation Strikes Back from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by taking an early look at the All-NBA candidates across the NBA. Who wins the battle between Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic on the first team? Wha...

The NBA's Existential Concerns, "Prove It" Winners and Losers, Sixers Alternate Timeline from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver lose track of time and accidentally record a 90 minute podcast. First, they talk Westbrook in Utah and whether the NBA has bigger problems on the horiz...

The NBA's Second Best Team, The Third Seed in the West, Loans in Basketball from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with a major announcement from Golliver that is, unfortunately, premature. Then: Who is the second best team in the NBA? What are the red flags i...

LeBron Passes Jordan, Viking Funeral for the Lakers, D'Angelo vs. Kyrie from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin the show by agreeing that this is the last week of Lakers takes, but on the way out, there has to be one, final deep dive. At the start: Reconsid...

The Impending LeBron Vacuum, The Suns in the Sarver Wilderness, Other Hot Early March Topics from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by thinking ahead to the playoffs and confronting the reality that LeBron probably won't be there. Who will we focus on instead? Which stars will...

Kyrie's February vs. LeBron's February, The Clippers as a Sleeping Giant, The New Best Player Alive from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with a discussion of the great LeBron/Kyrie leadership and accountability summit and its disastrous bi-coastal aftermath. First, in Boston (6:00)...

The Playoff Race Out West, De'Aaron Fox and the Kings, Your Best Pilgrimages from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through the dog days of the NBA before shifting their attention to the playoff race out West. Topics include: The struggling Lakers, L...

Scenes from UNC-Duke, USS Zion Explodes a Sneaker, The NBA's Age Limit Question from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver did not have an opportunity to watch games Thursday, so instead they talk UNC-Duke for a mini-episode that eventually became a full hour. First: the a...

Recapping All-Star Weekend, Trade Demand Dystopian Scenarios, Visiting Basketball Mecca from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by recapping All-Star Weekend 48 hours later. Topics include: Charlotte as a host city, whether Giannis was robbed of MVP, whether Steph Curry sh...

Charles Barkley Has Some Takes, Golden State Compounds These Problems, Playoff P is the New Oladipo from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver are live from NBA All-Star Weekend in Charlotte. They begin with talk about Nike hacking shoelaces, Zion Williamson, and Charles Barkley's thoughts on ...

Checking in with the Warriors, Making Finals Reservations, Building the LeBron Statue from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with a progress update on DeMarcus Cousins and a reminder that Golden State remains untouchable, and then shift gears to talk through Kevin Duran...

Post-Deadline Wiz Therapy, Sixers/Bucks/Raptors Arms Race, Lessons from the Lakers Strikeout from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through the aftermath of the NBA Trade Deadline. First: Giving the people what they want with 15 minutes of sad John Wall news, mostly irrelevant ...

Dark Web Trade Deadline Preview, Life Comes at the Celtics Fast, Rodney Hood Goes West from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking Golliver's adventures in the Bay Area and celebrating the big winner from Sunday night's Super Bowl. Then: Talking all things trade de...

The Knicks Go All In, Kristaps Porzingis Goes to Dallas, Dell Demps Answers His Phone from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver try to process news of the Kristaps Porzingis Mavericks trade with some winners and losers. Topics include: what just happened and why, the difference ...

Emergency Three Days Late Anthony Davis Trade Demand Pod from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through all angles of the Anthony Davis trade demand. Topics include: Unknowns on all sides except the thirsty Lakers, whether Dell Demps is answe...

Mike Conley Trade Proposals, The James Harden Experience, T-Shirt Brainstorming from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Sharp and Golliver begin with a sobering look at the Pacers in the wake of the Victor Oladipo injury. Then (15:00): Whether Mike Conley makes sense for the Jazz, whether Ben is a se...

Surprise Brow vs. Jokic Argument, Our All-Star Picks, New Lottery Odds from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver open the show discussing All-Star starters, beginning with the debates in the West, including Paul George vs. LeBron James on the wing and Nikola Jokic...

The Kyrie Irving/LeBron James Leadership Summit, Miserable Fanbases, Boogie's Return from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin in Boston, where Kyrie Irving has listened to critics and responded by reaching out to LeBron James to apologize. Then (27:00): Donovan Mitchell'...

This Incredibly Strange Celtics Year, Blake Back in LA, Trading DSJ from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with some buzz before Tuesday's Lakers-Bulls blockbuster and then move to a long-overdue discussion on the Celtics. Topics include: re-thinking s...

Regularly Scheduled Bucks Worship, Early Playoff Races, Zion Dream Team from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing America's team, the Milwaukee Bucks, after Wednesday night's victory over the Rockets. Should the Bucks be favored to make the Fina...

Farewell Tom Thibodeau, James Harden vs. Kevin Durant, Young Lakers Angst from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with discussion of Ron Baker and a late night hotel adventures before moving to the end of Tom Thibodeau's time in Minnesota (8:00). Then they ta...

The Spurs Strike Back, LeBron's GOAT Comments, Sixers Weirdness Continues from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver return to discuss a holiday vacation in the Middle East, the alleged disappearance of Steph Curry on Christmas, and takeaways from a blowout Spurs win ...

Scorching Christmas over-reactions, Luka & Jaren profiles and 2019 NBA resolutions from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Ben Golliver and special guest co-host Rob Mahoney of Sports Illustrated send off 2018 in style by running through the major Christmas Day storylines and offering their top NBA New ...

Jokic and the MVP Conversation, Midseason Celtics Check, Your Best Boylen Suggestions from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing the outstanding performance of Nikola Jokic in December this season and whether he belongs in the MVP conversation. Then (11:00): P...

Anthony Davis Possibilities, De'Aaron Fox Kings Hyperbole, Instantly Regrettable Wizards Optimism from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing the state of Anthony Davis in New Orleans. Is it time for him to embrace a change? If he demands a trade this summer, where could h...

Damian Lillard and the Blazers, Houston One Year Later, American Basketball Culture from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by with an SI sportsperson recap, LeBron breaking down KCP silver linings, and a fantasy overhaul. Then they talk all things Blazers after a roug...

The Bulls and the Almost-Mutiny, Dream Playoff Matchups, Ben Simmons for Luka Doncic from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver are live in LA and they begin the show with reminders to watch SI's Sportsperson of the Year Awards Thursday at 9 pm EST on NBC Sports Network and subs...

Sixers/Raptors Check-In, Toxic LeBron/KD Comments, Bi-Monthly Suns Update from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver connect to talk through Ben's week in DC, Andrew's real name, and then, both sides of the Raptors and Sixers game Wednesday night. Topics include: Kawh...

10 Thoughts After 20 Games, Goodbye Fred Hoiberg, More Nickname Nonsense from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show SI's Andrew Sharp and the Washington Post's Ben Golliver connect in D.C. to discuss art, bobbleheads, and Ben's first day at his new job. Then they talk through 10 big picture thoug...

Five Rookie Questions, Kyle Korver to the Jazz, The Problem with AD Celtics Rumors from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through Kyle Korver and Wednesday night's Jazz-Cavs trade (2:00) before moving on to discuss various NBA rookies. Topics include: Luka...

Bet Your House Playoff Picks, Kawhi Leadership Kerfuffle, James Harden Celebrates from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing Ben's new role at the Washington Post, the future of the Open Floor podcast, and Michigan's disastrous showing against Ohio State. ...

First Month Contender Check, Wizards Thanksgiving Celebration, Kemba Walker Rising from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver celebrate Thanksgiving break with an extended episode before they go. First (2:00): After one month of games they check-in with various contenders arou...

That Clippers Locker Room, The Week in Warriors News, Kevin Durant’s Next Move from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver press pause on the rest of the league and spend an hour talking through the week in Warrior news. First Golliver recounts the scene at the end of Clipp...

Giannis Blue Bubble Gang, Jimmy Butler to the Sixers, Early Celtics Concerns from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin their Jimmy Butler podcast with some on-scene reporting from the Clippers-Bucks game on Saturday. Then (13:00): Thoughts on the Butler trade, inc...

Zion Williamson Brain Scramble, Granting Injury Immunity, Steph Curry's Place in History from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing Zion Williamson's NBA future, his viral past, player comparisons, and what the hell happened against Kentucky Tuesday night. From t...

Would You Rather Wiz/Cavs/Wolves, Amended League Pass Rankings, Doncic Tension in Dallas from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with an impromptu discussion of rampant dysfunction in Cleveland, Minnesota, and Washington that eventually becomes a game of would you rather, a...

Too Early or Not Too Early, The Record-Breaking Warriors, Kings Kings KINGS from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing the latest updates in the neverending Jimmy Butler stand-off with the Wolves, and then discuss when it stops being too early to dra...

OK The Wizards Might Be Dead Now, Coach Bud Goes Electric, Goodbye Ty Lue from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by addressing the shockingly dysfunctional elephant in the room: the 2019 Washington Wizards. Topics include: Otto Porter as a the scapegoat, Joh...

Thunder In Darkness, The Jimmy Butler Godfather Offer, Bulls Nation Checks In from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with more exclusive reporting from Ben's new home at Staples Center. Then (12:30): the state of the Thunder after a rocky start in Oklahoma City,...

Early LeBron in L.A. Symposium, Kawhi in Toronto, The Wizards Are Not Dead Yet from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking about the scoring boom across the NBA through the first week of regular season action, and then, after ignoring them last week, they s...

Ranking the Lakers vs. the last 10 title teams & updating the GOAT debate from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

With the NBA bubble officially wrapped, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina settle into the offseason. They start by giving Lakers fans the opportunity to gloat after their title and then rank how the 20...

Opening Week Observations, Celtics and Sixers Status Updates, G-League Payment Plan from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s episode, before going to blockbuster Thursday night games (Wizards-Heat, Lakers-Blazers) Sharp and Golliver talk through the first two days of the NBA season. Topics include: the Bucks a...

LeBron James & the Lakers win the bubble title from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina discuss the end of the NBA bubble, which saw the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Miami Heat in six games to claim their 17th championship. Ben offers a behind-the-scenes l...

30 Teams 30 Questions, Part II: Hawks Apologies, Celtics Adjustments, and The East Preview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver continue their NBA preview by looking to the East. First (5:00): the Hawks and an official apology regarding Trae Young, the Celtics and their 2010 Hea...

The AD adjustment; 3-1 psychology from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dig back into the NBA Finals, exploring the key Game 4 moments that helped the Los Angeles Lakers build a 3-1 series lead over the Miami Heat. Why was the Anthony Davi...

30 Teams 30 Questions, Part I: Jimmy and the Wolves, Lakers Predictions, and a West Preview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Sharp and Golliver begin by recapping the madness at Wednesday's Wolves practice, taking stock of the Jimmy Butler situation as of Wednesday night, and talking through the Wolves ou...

The Jimmy Butler show from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina react to Miami's Game 3 win in the NBA Finals by offering extended thoughts on Jimmy Butler. Ben and Michael both recount past experiences interviewing Butler and try ...

Farewell Ryan McDonough, Dejounte Murray Depression, Kings Hope vs. Kings Reality from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing all things Phoenix Suns in the wake of Ryan McDonough's dismissal a week before the season. Topics include: Why this move could be ...

Lakers steamroll Heat in Finals opener from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina react to the Lakers' breathtaking performance and the Heat's many injury issues in Game 1 of the Finals. Are the Heat toast? Are we seeing a legendary breakthrough for...

Reviewing the 2019 GM Survey, Calculated Reputation Tanking, Early Durant Murmurs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with two important announcements regarding upcoming events, and then they talk through the results from NBA.com's annual GM survey (7:00). Topics...

LeBron James ends the Nuggets, Bam Adebayo ends the Celtics & the NBA Finals are set from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina recap the exciting end to the conference finals and preview the upcoming NBA Finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat. Did LeBron James reclaim his spot as...

Lakers First Impressions, Doncic vs. the Ducks, Obligatory Butler Trade Ideas from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's podcast Sharp and Golliver catch up to talk through the state of the Lakers as the season begins. Topics include: the re-emergence of the internet's Lakers fans, their lack of dependable...

Tyler Herro's heroics push Celtics to the brink; NBA reacts to Breonna Taylor from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with an extended discussion of Tyler Herro's 37-point explosion in Game 4 of the East finals. Where does that night rank in NBA history for players at his age? Wh...

Butler and Thibs Watch, Giannis Inc. Board Meeting, AD Joins the Klutch Family from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Sharp and Golliver check in with the latest reporting on the Jimmy Butler situation and talk through a few sides of the story as of Thursday afternoon. Topics include: why it's not ...

The biggest shot of Anthony Davis's career; Celtics fight back from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by offering their thoughts on the Los Angeles Lakers' dramatic Game 2 victory over the Denver Nuggets, which came courtesy of an Anthony Davis buzzer-beater. Did ...

Assigning Blame in the Wolves Mess, Jimmy Butler's Trade Value, Media Day Mania from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with a quick recap of Ben's tour through the deep south and weekend with Alabama football. Then (7:00): they catch up on the mess in Minnesota an...

Clippers collapse, Nuggets get their due, West Finals preview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dig in deep to the Clippers' spectacular demise, assigning blame to Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Doc Rivers before listing the extenuating circumstances that contri...

Top 100, 30-1: Middleton, Kyrie, Kawhi, Butler, Embiid, Durant, Steph, LeBron from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Sharp and Golliver are again joined by Sports Illustrated’s Rob Mahoney for part two of their journey through this 2019 ranking of the top 100 players in the NBA. Topics include Khr...

Top 100, 100-31: Lonzo, Carmelo, Dwight, Ingram, Favors, Tatum, Love from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Sharp and Golliver welcome Sports Illustrated’s Rob Mahoney to discuss the top 100 players in the NBA. In the first half of an accidental two-part episode, they talk through realist...

Handicapping the MVP Race, Breakout Season Candidates, Bi-Monthly Suns Update from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by lamenting the state of the Michigan Wolverines before jumping into a discussion of the preseason MVP odds. Topics include: a thinner group of ...

Goodbye Manu, Ranking Teams Without a Title, Midseason Tournament Ideas from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin the show with Ben airing a series of offseason grievances, and from there, they get into Manu Ginobili's retirement (8:00), what they'll remember...

The Hottest Coaching Hot Seats, Pelicans Questions, Antetokounmpo Prophecy from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver look ahead to next year's NBA and sorting through the hot seats that various coaches will inherit this season. Categories include ice cold seats, recen...

Carmelo vs. 24 Year-Old Bloggers, Bad Contract Life Cycle, Devin Booker Hype from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking all things Carmelo Anthony. First they discuss how he might fit in Houston, why low expectations could be healthy after OKC, and what'...

Top 100 Self-Reflection, Bet Your Mortgage Over/Under Locks, Advanced NBA Jersey Purchasing from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by recapping Ben's internal monologue after a few offseason weeks full of mindfulness, World War 2, and top 100 phone calls with Rob Mahoney. The...

Unsolicited Kevin Durant Advice, Team USA Takeaways, The Wal-Mart Warriors from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver celebrate the arrival of August and begin with some thoughts on the aging process. Then (5:00): Scenes from the Team USA practices in Las Vegas, includ...

The Top 10 in 2023, Kevin Love Stays in Cleveland, Dwight Arrives in D.C. from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin the (real) offseason by looking at the big picture. Who will be the 10 best players in the league five years from now? Nominees include: Anthony ...

Jrue Holiday fake trades; NBA Draft pressure check from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by discussing a recent report that New Orleans Pelicans guard Jrue Holiday is on the trading block. Which types of teams should be interested in acquiring him and...

BONUS: Kawhi Leonard is Finally Traded, The Raptors Win Big, DeRozan Heads to the Monastery from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver connect for an emergency episode to talk through the many layers of the Kawhi trade. First, they focus on the Kawhi side and why the trade makes sense ...

The NBA needs a labor deal, Kevin Durant's comeback from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with the latest on the 2020-21 negotiations between the NBA owners and players. Can the two sides afford not to reach a deal given the massive projected losses? H...

Proof of Life from Summer League, Sixers Reality Check, Knicks Pipe Dreams from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by recapping the end of summer league after Ben's two weeks in Vegas. Topics include: Stalking Ben Simmons, close encounters with LeBron, $500 La...

Will Daryl Morey save the Sixers? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dive headfirst into Daryl Morey's expected hiring as president of the Philadelphia 76ers. Will Morey trade Ben Simmons or Joel Embiid? How will the new power dynamic w...

Begrudging Reminder that the Celtics Exist, The Latest Kawhi Talk, Lakers Make the Media Rounds from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through Adam Silver's comments at the board of governor's meeting and whether the league should admit it has a competitive balance pro...

The NBA's 2020-21 schedule plans: pros & cons from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina lay out the good, the bad and the ugly of the NBA's latest proposals for the 2020-21 season. Why is the league now eyeing a pre-Christmas start date? Why cut games out...

The Bulls Win (and Lose) at Summer League, Rockets Try to Reload, More Vegas Impressions from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver check in after the opening weekend of NBA summer league. First they discuss the growing popularity of Summer League and Ben's response to the critics. ...

Zion Williamson gets a new coach from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina weigh all sides of the New Orleans Pelicans' decision to hire Stan Van Gundy as their new coach. Was this all about Zion Williamson? What's Van Gundy's top task as he ...

The Magnificent Summer of the Wizards, Boogie on the Warriors, Playoff P in OKC from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver review the biggest stories through the first week of free agency. First: the Wizards are getting reckless even by Wizards standards, and they talk thro...

Daryl Morey's complex legacy in Houston from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina take an extended look back at Daryl Morey's 13-year run as Houston Rockets general manager. Where does Morey rank as an executive? Which criticisms of Morey were fair ...

LeBron Makes the Lakers Move Official, Business vs. Basketball Arguments, LeBronzo Prophecy Realized from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver react to Sunday night's @KlutchSports exclusive by discussing all angles of LeBron on the Lakers. First: processing the LeBron signing with a side of L...

Lakers Chasing Kawhi, Free Agency Chatter at the 11th Hour, CJ McCollum Calls In from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver celebrate the eve of NBA free agency and connect with Trail Blazers guard CJ McCollum. First: Golliver interrogates Sharp about his conspiracy consumpt...

Awards Show Red Carpet Report, All Eyes On Paul George, Bonus Draft Thoughts from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing the NBA's Awards Show in L.A.. Topics include: killer bees on the red carpet, Oscar Robertson's big night, what Harden's MVP victor...

Mavs, Suns, Sixers, Spurs, and NBA Draft Winners and Losers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver recap the NBA Draft with some winners and losers. First: whether pick tipping is cool, the relatively subdued draft after a week of hype, the league on...

20 NBA Draft Questions on Trae Young, Marvin Bagley, Luka Doncic, and More from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver celebrate the eve of the NBA Draft by reminding you that Open Floor will be broadcasting live on SI's Draft Show Thursday night. Then: the combine inte...

10 teams, 10 takes on NBA opening week from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina wrap up the opening week of NBA action with takes on 10 different teams. Did the NBA handle the latest James Harden controversy properly? What did it feel like inside ...

Kawhi Trade Odds, Trouble at the Monastery, Big Decisions in Boston from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver get together for a Monday morning podcast to discuss the impending trade of Kawhi Leonard and everything that comes with it. First: What went wrong in ...

Coaches on the hot seat; Top 100 of 2021 debates from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina gear up for opening week with a breakdown of the new extensions given to Rudy Gobert and Kyle Kuzma. From there, they shift into a conversation about NBA coaches on th...

Regrettable Lakers Diss Tracks, LeBron and The Process, Drafting Ayton from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver celebrate the beginning of NBA summer. First: the winners of Open Floor's Bracket Challenge, Lakers diss tracks, Paul George as a glorified Jeff Green,...

Giannis Antetokounmpo's supermax & NBA awards debates from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with a big announcement: SI has formed a slack channel for all Open Floor Globe members to use during the upcoming NBA season. Ben and Michael will be popping in ...

Wrapping Up The Finals, Offseason Rapid Fire, Early Draft Takes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver finish wrapping up the NBA Finals and begin to look to the offseason. First: a ceasefire (not a surrender) regarding the Kevin Durant debate, whether t...

Pina's Postseason Picks: Handicapping playoff bubble races from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open Monday's episode with big breaking news about Michael's exciting new career move. Then, the guys shift into a discussion of the playoff bubble races in both confe...

The Kevin Durant Game, The Rodney Hood Game, Final Colangelo Thoughts from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver discuss all things NBA Finals. First, they recount the thrills of the Rodney Hood game and a Game 3 that was way more fun than it should have been. The...

Handling James Harden's holdout, judging Paul George's extension from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by surveying the latest drama surrounding James Harden and the Houston Rockets. What are the Rockets' options as they enter the season? Can they realistically try...

Cavs-Warriors Reset, LeBron Free Agency Theories, Coffee Shop Revisionism from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver take stock of the Finals after the first two games. Topics include: Ben's new minivan, Ty Lue's Rodney Hood plans, a defense of J.R. Smith, reactions t...

Debating the 2021 NBA Entertainment Value Rankings from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina preview the upcoming season with an annual staple: Ben's 2021 Entertainment Value Rankings. Which teams will be must-see TV and which ones will be totally unwatchable?...

Legendary LeBron Game, J.R. Smith Nightmare, Colangelo Burner Accounts from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through Game 1 of the NBA Finals. First, they discuss an all-time LeBron performance and the frustration of the Cavs loss, the perplexing officiat...

Russell Westbrook traded for John Wall, LeBron James & Anthony Davis re-sign from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina explore all angles of the Russell Westbrook for John Wall trade between the Houston Rockets and Washington Wizards. Who won the deal? Do Wall and James Harden fit, or ...

The Rockets Were Awesome, Future Warriors Questions, LeBron Breaks Boston from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver pick up the pieces after a pair of Game 7s. First, they talk through the end of Warriors-Rockets, including the performance of Houston's role players, ...

Kevin Durant's comeback, East landscape, Atlanta's spending spree from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina ramp up the hype for Kevin Durant's long-awaited comeback with the Brooklyn Nets. What's KD's best-case scenario this year? How does he stack up against the best playe...

Rockets Hater Reckoning, So Many Warriors Questions, All-NBA Fixes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver connect late Thursday night and begin by trying to process the final few minutes of Warriors-Rockets Game 5. Then (6:00): Sharp has to answer for a lif...

John Wall trade request, shaky Clippers & holiday mailbag from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina celebrate the holiday weekend by opening the mailbag to the Open Floor Globe. What's up with the Clippers, is Serge Ibaka really the answer, and do they still need a p...

LeBron Strikes Back, Playoffs Have A Blowout Problem, Thibs Has a KAT Problem? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing the dominant response from LeBron James and the Cavs through Games 3 and 4 in Cleveland (2:00). Topics include: LeBron's strategy f...

NBA free agency winners and losers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina sort through the winners and losers from the opening weekend of the NBA free agency period. Did the Lakers tighten their hold on the 2021 title chase? How will Giannis...

The Kevin Durant Conversation, Drinking Celtics Kool-Aid, Suns Salvation from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through the various threads of Rockets-Warriors. Notes include: another maddening Steph Curry injury, Houston's brilliance in Game 2, ...

2020 NBA Draft Winners and Losers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina run through the winners and losers of the 2020 NBA Draft. How crushing of a blow is Klay Thompson's Achilles injury to the Warriors? Did LaMelo Ball find a good home i...

Celtics Dominate Game 1, More Rockets-Warriors Thoughts, NBA Lottery Preview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through a dominating performance from Boston in Game 1. Is it time to elevate the Celtics from "cute story" to genuine contender? What happened to...

Chris Paul traded, James Harden rumors, top 5 draft projections from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by breaking down the Suns' splashy move for Chris Paul. Why did Phoenix decide to pull the trigger, and could this move backfire? Why is OKC so aggressively teari...

Conference Finals Survival Odds, Big Game James, Sixers Panic vs. Perspective from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver look back at Sixers/Celtics and preview the Conference Finals. They begin by discussing the Conference Finals in the context of the re-seeding conversa...

Matchmaking with LaMelo Ball, Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul & James Harden from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina gobble up the latest round of rumors before the upcoming NBA Draft and free agency period and try to find the best landing spots for the biggest names. Is LaMelo Ball ...

All Things Sixers/Celtics, Raptors Facts, Coaching News Roundup from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through the many angles of Sixers-Celtics. What has gone wrong for Philly through the first four games? What can we learn from the TJ ...

NBA election reaction; Minnesota, Golden State & major Draft decisions from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina round up NBA player reaction to the presidential election. Did the players' More Than a Vote campaign make a difference in key battleground states? What lessons should...

Raptors in Crisis, LeBron in GOAT Mode, Scary Terry vs. the Sixers from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through the collapse of the Raptors through the first two games in Toronto. What has gone wrong? Which was more demoralizing: Game 1 o...

BONUS: SI's Lee Jenkins on the Rockets, D'Antoni, Harden, CP3 & LeBron to Houston from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show, Ben Golliver catches up with SI senior writer Lee Jenkins to discuss Lee's recent cover story on the Houston Rockets. How did a case of the yips form Mike D'Antoni's coaching philo...

Cavs Game 7, The Weekend In The West, Final Westbrook Thoughts from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk through another weekend of playoff games. First, the incredible day of Rodney Hood and LeBron James in Sunday's Cavs-Pacers Game 7. Then: Should t...

The Westbrook Roller Coaster, LeBron Goes John Wall, Relationship Advice from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking all things Jazz and Thunder. Topics include: the madness of Game 4 in Utah, the ongoing struggles of Carmelo Anthony, Golliver's slow ...

LeBron and the Bizarro Cavs, Bucks Ressurection, Blazers Breakdown from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk more playoffs. They begin by discussing whether this year's first round is already better than last year's entire playoffs (2:00), then move to th...

Masked Madness in Miami, Present Cavs/Future Celtics, Angry Playoff E-mails from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by celebrating the arrival of stars all over the playoffs, and then move to another incredible Sixers/Heat game (5:00). Why is this series so muc...

Sixers and Heat, Opening Weekend Reactions, Rockets Traveling Detectives from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver celebrate the opening weekend of the playoffs. First they react to the first two games of the Sixers-Heat series, including the best strategy for defen...

Open Floor Bracket Challenge, Playoff Power Rankings, Westbrook Spicy Food from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver celebrate the arrival of the NBA Playoffs. First they discuss the Open Floor Globe Playoff Challenge, where listeners can submit brackets to this pool:...

Rookie of the Year Royal Rumble, Too Many Coaches, All-NBA Numbers Crunch from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver talk NBA Awards. They begin by revisiting their MVP discussion, including a question on how good the Rockets would be with LeBron instead of Harden, an...

Pre-Playoff Chaos, The Kyrie Injury, Best Players You'd Least Want from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver take of stock of the NBA through the chaotic final week of the season. First (2:00): an update on the Wizards and whether they are worth allocating int...

The Harden MVP Episode, Kawhi Trade Ideas, Knicks Coaching Search from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through the NBA's vague definition of MVP (4:00) and then move to the MVP year of James Harden (9:00), whether this season changes his...

Coping with the Embiid Injury, Kevin Durant vs. Blog Boys, KAT Drops 56 from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin recording five minutes after finding out that Joel Embiid will miss the next 2-4 weeks with a fractured orbital bone. As they sort through their ...

Steph Curry Injury Implications, Sixers Surging, NBA x Amateur Hoops from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing the many implications of the Steph Curry injury and the questions that have emerged as a result. Which West teams could give them t...

Blazers/Raptors Summit, Time Machine Title Race, Most Unimproved Player from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by talking through the Blazers and Raptors (5:00). First: What did we learn from the Blazers winning streak? How close could they play the Rocket...

Warriors and Cavs Attrition, Bulls Tanking, Hayward Alternate Ending from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's episode Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin with quick thoughts after a weekend watching Michigan, Michigan St., UMBC, college refs, Syracuse's zone, and the rest of the NCAA Tournament....

Your New Favorite Team, Wizards/Celtics, Worst Takes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by reliving the Wizards/Celtics game on Wednesday night. Then they make their nominations (8:00) for the best bandwagons in basketball for any fa...

LeBronzo Part Deux, Warriors Without Steph, Overrated/Underrated Playoff Teams from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing LeBron's weekend in Los Angeles. Why was so the visit to L.A. so underwhelming? What did we learn (if anything) about this current ...

Ignoring Rockets Warnings, Reseeding the Playoffs, NBA Twitter Greatest Hits from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing the Rockets (6:00) and whether we've all been ignoring signs that they are title contenders. Can anyone in the league stop Harden f...

Coach of the Year, East Coast Dame Bias, Sixers/Bucks from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by discussing Gregg Popovich, Brad Stevens, Dwane Casey, and the coach of the year race as the regular season winds down. From there they move to...

Eastern Conference Survey, Adam Silver's Tanking Tour, College Hoops Scandal from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Andrew Sharp and Ben Golliver begin by taking a look around the Eastern Conference, including updates on the Pacers, the Pistons, and the Heat. They also talk through potential play...

The Anthony Davis Reminder, West Playoff Race, Tanking Tournaments from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Sharp and Golliver talk through the first weekend of games since the All-Star Game. At the top, Anthony Davis after an outrageous set of performances against the Heat and Bucks (2:0...

Mavericks Dysfunction, Top 10 Players Under 23, Goodbye Kawhi from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Sharp and Golliver begin by discussing the toxic Mavericks culture brought to light by Jon Wertheim and Jessica Luther in this week's Sports Illustrated investigation. How much did ...

All-Star Game Reactions, Dunk Contest Angst, Alien Abductions from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Sharp and Golliver check in from Los Angeles to recap NBA All-Star Weekend. First, they talk through a surprisingly not-terrible All-Star game and the ongoing dominance of LeBron Ja...

Where Art Thou Kawhi, All-Star Storylines, Early Awards Arguments from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s Sharp and Golliver are live from a Los Angeles hotel room where they begin by wondering about the fate of the Spurs and Kawhi Leonard for the rest of the season. From there, they discuss...

Cavs Overreactions, 10 Straight Jazz Wins, and the AD Dark Horse from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Sharp and Golliver begin with 20 minutes of reactions to the new-look Cavs after LeBron James ruined Paul Pierce's retirement party. Questions include: Are the Cavs fixed now? Will ...

Cavs Madness, Lakers Calibrations, and All Things Trade Deadline from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today’s show Sharp and Golliver talk through the trade deadline as the dust settles on wild day in Cleveland. First they talk through how Koby Altman and the Cavs pulled a fun roster out of thin...

Reseeding the Playoffs, CBA Questions, NBA Pet Name Hall of Fame from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Sharp and Golliver celebrate the calm before the trade deadline storm. First, after another disastrous Cavs game, when will the NBA think about abandoning conferences and re-seeding...

Another Warriors Banner, More Blake Takes, Montessori Madness from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

On today's show Sharp and Golliver begin with some praise for their colleague Rob Mahoney and the Breakaway podcast, and then dive into the bizarre LeBron Warriors rumor (7:00). Is this fake news? ...

Goodbye to Boylen, Vlade, Gentry & hello to NBA playoffs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by recapping a busy weekend on and off the court. Jim Boylen is out in Chicago, Vlade Divac is out in Sacramento, and Alvin Gentry is out in New Orleans. Will Boy...

NBA playoffs preview from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina preview the long-awaited NBA playoffs by breaking down the seven first-round match-ups that have been set in stone and guessing who will face the Los Angeles Lakers. B...

Luka's magic, Lillard's beef, Zion's stumbles from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina recap a wild weekend of NBA action by rethinking some of their conventional wisdom from before the bubble. Why aren't defenses ahead of offenses? Did the NBA really in...

LeBron James vs. Donald Trump, evolving threes, bubble eavesdropping from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by discussing the back-and-forth between LeBron James and Donald Trump over the NBA's kneeling demonstrations. Did LeBron show a strategic shift from the "U bum" ...

NBA Bubble opening weekend HEATERS - NBA Bubble Insider from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina react to the opening weekend of the NBA Bubble with their boldest opinions and hottest takes. Before diving into the action, they discuss Jonathan Isaac, Meyers Leonar...

Recapping NBA bubble opening night: Kneeling! LeBron! Rudy! Zion! - NBA Bubble Insider from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina offer a detailed breakdown of the NBA bubble's opening night. They start by analyzing the pre-game social justice demonstrations during the National Anthem by players,...

BONUS: Podding the Bubble - Part 3: Will the NBA Bubble Burst? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Podding the Bubble is a three-part mini-series taking a deep dive look into the biosphere created by the NBA in Orlando. Part 3 puts the NBA's plan into the context of what other major sports leagu...

BONUS: Podding the Bubble - Part 2: Will the NBA Players Go Stir Crazy? from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Podding the Bubble is a three-part mini-series taking a deep dive look into the biosphere created by the NBA in Orlando. Part 2 follows the lives of the NBA players inside the bubble who now face a...

The NBA returns, complete with strip club drama - NBA Bubble Insider from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina welcome NBA fans to opening week of the bubble restart. They discuss how stars like LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Doncic looked in early scrimmage play,...

BONUS: Podding the Bubble - Part 1: A Deep Dive into the NBA Biosphere from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Podding the Bubble is a three-part mini-series taking a deep dive look into the biosphere created by the NBA in Orlando. Part 1 explores how the NBA decided that a bubble was the right solution for...

LeBron James & Giannis Antetokounmpo meet the media at NBA bubble practices - NBA Bubble Insider from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina celebrate as the NBA's Disney bubble opened practice sessions to the media. What was the best thing LeBron James said? How did Giannis Antetokounmpo's shot look? Are t...

NBA bubble tour & top informant suspects - NBA Bubble Insider from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina get into the NBA bubble talk with a quick tour from Ben of the media's access area after he finally cleared his week-long quarantine. Which Disney World areas and amen...

Latest from NBA bubble & playoff X-factors - NBA Bubble Insider from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with the latest from the NBA bubble, where Ben has entered Day 5 of quarantine. How is Ben holding up? Is Michael starting to get worried? Are the NBA's safety pr...

Reporting live from the NBA's Orlando bubble - NBA Bubble Insider from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina detail the launch of the NBA's Orlando bubble, with Ben reporting live from Disney World as he begins his seven-day hotel room quarantine. They talk through a variety ...

It's finally NBA bubble time! Plus, more worst decisions of the decade - NBA Bubble Insider from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina announce that Ben will enter the NBA's Orlando quarantine bubble this weekend. Michael offers his travel tips and the two discuss health, food, exercise, and other qua...

The 10 worst NBA decisions since "The Decision" by LeBron James from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina commemorate the tenth anniversary of LeBron James's "The Decision" television special by running through the 10 worst NBA decisions of the past decade. Before they dig...

NBA ramps up and top contenders push back on asterisk talk from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina take stock of the NBA ramping up its return for the Orlando bubble. Top contenders like the Lakers, Clippers and Bucks met the media this week, seeking to pick up thei...

Vince Carter retrospective & NBA schedule breakdown from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by taking a long look back at Vince Carter's career after the 22-year vet announced his retirement? Where did he rank compared to his contemporaries? What were hi...

NBA players test positive for coronavirus, renaming awards, star semantics from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina take stock of the NBA's return plan, which saw players report to their teams for coronavirus testing this week. Is the media to blame for reporting an individual playe...

Remember that NBA move? Plus, Florida's coronavirus spike from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by going back to review some of the NBA's minor transactions from February and March before the shutdown. Consider this "Who he play for?" Open Floor style. Who s...

Life, safety and games in the NBA's Disney World bubble from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dig into the NBA's health and safety protocol for the upcoming season at Disney World. Is this a good plan? How will games be played and which hotels will house the pl...

NBA players voice concerns about Orlando return from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina react to the NBA players' various concerns about the Orlando return plan. What is Kyrie Irving's role in all of this? What did Damian Lillard tell Michael about his st...

NBA superstars mobilize for social justice from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by surveying the superstar landscape to detail how the NBA community is gearing up in the wake of George Floyd's death. LeBron James tackles voting rights, Michae...

Ten predictions for the new NBA playoffs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dive headfirst into an impossible task: trying to predict the most unpredictable playoffs in NBA history. Will the NBA be able to keep its players safe and crown a cha...

The NBA sets return plans & an all-quarantine draft from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by recapping the NBA's 22-team return-to-play plan. Was it a good compromise, a money grab or both? Will it succeed in generating interest out of the gate? From t...

The NBA responds to George Floyd's death from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina recount the weekend of nationwide protests that followed George Floyd's death in police custody in Minneapolis. They address what things are like in their communities ...

Playoff format overload, scoring champ title winners from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by running through this week's developments regarding the potential format of the 2019-20 resumed NBA season. Why is Adam Silver even bothering with World Cup gro...

Jack McCallum on Michael Jordan and the 1992 Dream Team from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver is joined by legendary basketball writer Jack McCallum to discuss his new podcast project, "The Dream Team Tapes." Which Michael Jordan story does Jack wish he could have told on "The ...

The NBA's return plans: the good, bad and ugly from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dig through the NBA's first official steps towards a resumption of the 2019-20 season. Do they like Disney World as a host? How many teams should be invited? How shoul...

Closing thoughts on The Last Dance, Michael Jordan, the Pacers and the Jazz from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina conclude their coverage of "The Last Dance" by taking questions from the Open Floor Globe. Should this project be considered a documentary? How should Jordan be viewed...

Michael Jordan didn't want the Bulls dynasty to end from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina discuss the key revelation of the final two episodes of "The Last Dance": That Michael Jordan wanted to run things back with the Chicago Bulls during the 1998-99 seaso...

Being Michael Jordan's teammate, more NBA quitters from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina begin their latest recap of "The Last Dance" by asking how they would survive as Michael Jordan's teammate. Would Ben take the bullying without responding? Would Micha...

Scottie Pippen's sit down & the biggest quitters in NBA history from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina look back at Scottie Pippen's decision to sit out the closing seconds of a 1994 playoff game against the New York Knicks. Was Pippen guilty of a cardinal sporting sin?...

Michael Jordan comes up short on politics & gambling, top under-25 duos from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina break down the latest episodes of "The Last Dance" by dissecting Michael Jordan's shaky defenses of his gambling habit and lack of interest in politics. Should the doc...

Michael Jordan's most tortured opponents, NBA shutdown fall-offs and bounce-backs from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by arguing about an age-old question: Who was Michael Jordan's most tortured opponent? Charles Barkley or Patrick Ewing? From there, they discuss the impact that ...

Bad Boys revisited, the real Dennis Rodman, 2020 expansion draft from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina review episodes 3 and 4 of "The Last Dance" by digging into the rivalry between the Bulls and Pistons. Did Isiah Thomas deserve Michael Jordan's hate? Are the Bad Boys...

The NBA's Most Hated, basketball's chemistry majors from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina use Michael Jordan's intense hatred of Isiah Thomas and the Detroit Pistons as a jumping off point to discuss the most reviled people in NBA history. Which former play...

First impressions of Michael Jordan's "Last Dance," NBA name games from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina deliver their first impressions of the first two episodes of "The Last Dance," the 10-part documentary about Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls. Was Jerry Krause portrayed...

Last Dance hype, NBA numerology, Basketball stars as track athletes from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with a quick rundown of the excitement around "The Last Dance," the Michael Jordan documentary, but decide to save their full commentary until Friday to avoid ear...

Previewing ESPN's "The Last Dance" documentary about Michael Jordan's Bulls from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina offer an extended preview of "The Last Dance," ESPN's 10-part documentary about Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. Ben teases some memorable scenes, lays out Jordan...

Rudy Gobert fake trades, Our biggest draft misses, NBA inspirations from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dig deep into the strained relationship between Utah Jazz stars Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell. They lay out the importance of both players to the franchise and expl...

The most overrated NBA players, coaches, front offices & owners from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

In response to a question from the Open Floor Globe, Ben Golliver and Michael Pina sift through nominees for the NBA's most overrated figures. They debate the likes of Mike D'Antoni, Reggie Miller,...

Best and Worst HORSE players, 1990s cult heroes, no-ring-yet Dream Team from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open by diving deep into the NBA's proposal to launch a HORSE tournament during quarantine. Is the NBA desperate? Are we desperate enough to watch? Which players make ...

Best games of 2019-20, coronavirus mid-life crises, past greats in modern NBA from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with Michael's story on a Palo Alto company's ranking of the most memorable games of the 2019-20 season. What does the company's algorithm prioritize? Does it hav...

Hakeem's what-if, MJ's 55, the wall of sound from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina dive into another batch of questions from the Open Floor Globe, starting with an incredible "What if?" involving the Houston Rockets and a possible 1984 trade that cou...

Two truths and a lie, media as fans, social distancing stars from 2021-01-31T22:10:42.023393

Ben Golliver and Michael Pina open with a game of "Two Truths and a lie." Did Michael have a 40-inch vertical in high school? Is he really related to Dana Barros? Did Ben once shatter a backboard? ...

Giannis revenge mission, NBA statues, load management ethics from 2019-11-08T14:55

On today's show, Ben Golliver and Rob Mahoney go deep on the Milwaukee Bucks after their recent win over the Los Angeles Clippers. They engage in comical Giannis Antetokounmpo hyperbole on the foll...