Episodes

  • Adam Silver's Lining Playbook: NBA Tanking, Expansion & the League’s Future

    Adam Silver's Lining Playbook: NBA Tanking, Expansion & the League’s Future
    Feb 17 2026
    The NBA is at a turning point — and Commissioner Adam Silver knows it.

    In this episode of The Baseline NBA Podcast, we break down Adam Silver’s latest press conference and what it means for the future of the NBA, including the league’s growing tanking problem, potential draft reform, expansion plans, and global growth.

    Silver addressed the NBA tanking crisis directly, acknowledging the draft lottery system may not be working and signaling possible reform. We discuss the impact on competitive balance, fan trust, and the 2026 Tankathon race — plus how expansion decisions in 2026, Seattle and Las Vegas momentum, and the NBA’s long-term push into Europe could reshape the league.

    We also react to NBA All-Star Weekend, Anthony Edwards’ MVP performance, Damian Lillard’s Three-Point Contest win, and whether the new format worked. Finally, we examine post-All-Star storylines including James Harden in Cleveland, Jayson Tatum’s return to Boston, and sleeper teams emerging in both conferences.

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Buzz City Rising: Are the Hornets for Real?

    Buzz City Rising: Are the Hornets for Real?
    Feb 11 2026
    Buzz City is alive. The Charlotte Hornets have ripped off their first nine-game winning streak since 1999 and now sit just one win away from tying the franchise record set in 1997-98. In just three weeks, they’ve gone from the bottom of the Eastern Conference to the 10th seed at 25-28 — completely flipping their season. So what changed? We break down the Hornets’ stunning surge, powered by a true “committee” approach:
    • Brandon Miller emerging as the offensive engine, leading the team in scoring in 6 of 9 games
    • Miles Bridges stepping into the closer role
    • Kon Knueppel catching fire from deep, already top-3 in the NBA in made three-pointers
    • LaMelo Ball orchestrating as the floor general, averaging nearly 19 PPG and 9 APG
    But this run isn’t just about offense. Charlotte owns the #3 Net Rating in the NBA over this stretch, with a top-5 Defensive Rating and a dominant +13 point differential. Moussa Diabaté has turned into a double-double force, controlling the glass with monster rebounding performances. Is this sustainable? Or is this a Play-In mirage?

    Plus, we shift to the NBA buyout market as teams position themselves post-All-Star break. We analyze potential fits and destinations for:
    • Chris Paul
    • Lonzo Ball
    • Khris Middleton
    • Cam Thomas
    • Mike Conley
    Which contenders should make a move? And who could swing the playoff race? Tap in for elite NBA analysis, advanced metrics, roster breakdowns, and playoff implications — only on The Baseline NBA Podcast.

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    55 mins
  • Deadline Energy with Kwab: Giannis Watch, Kidd Responds & Risky Contenders

    Deadline Energy with Kwab: Giannis Watch, Kidd Responds & Risky Contenders
    Feb 4 2026
    Our man Kwab from the 'The Dime featuring Josh & Kwab' joins the show as we break down Jason Kidd’s recent clap back, the looming Giannis factor, and why much of the league feels frozen waiting for that pin to drop. We dive into the latest NBA Trade Deadline moves involving the Cavs, Kings, Bulls, Hawks, and Blazers, then close by debating two teams we still struggle to trust—the Sixers and Clippers—and whether their recent runs are worth buying into.

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    • Get NBA League Pass: https://link.nba.com/LP19MG
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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • NBA Rivals Week Under the Microscope + Say Less on LeBron, Kuminga, Knicks & Rich Paul

    NBA Rivals Week Under the Microscope + Say Less on LeBron, Kuminga, Knicks & Rich Paul
    Jan 28 2026
    This week’s episode is a must-listen as our brother from another mother Jabari Davis joins the show as guest co-host, and we waste no time diving into everything happening around the NBA. We kick things off with our thoughts on NBA Rivals Week, asking the big question: Was it a Heated Rivalry… or just Lukewarm Competition? Did the matchups deliver real intensity, or was the hype louder than the product? From there, we break down the latest league headlines, including:
    • Giannis Antetokounmpo expected to miss 4–6 weeks and what that means for Milwaukee moving forward
    • Derrick Rose being honored in Chicago as the Bulls retire his jersey — reflecting on his legacy and impact on the city
    • A surprising shift during NBA All-Star Weekend, as we discuss why the TNT crew didn’t reveal the All-Star starters like they traditionally do
    Then we roll into our signature segment, Say Less, where we take notable NBA soundbites and translate what’s really being said:
    • LeBron James addresses recent stories and rumored comments involving Jeanie Buss and his standing as a Laker
    • Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. responds to Jonathan Kuminga’s trade demand
    • Mike Brown shares his thoughts on the New York Knicks’ recent struggles
    • And we close with Rich Paul, everyone’s favorite agent, weighing in on his former client Ben Simmons
    Insightful, opinionated, and full of league-wide context — this episode delivers real hoops talk with no filler.
    You don’t want to miss this one.

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    • This show was sponsored in part by Raycon: Visit https://buyraycon.com/baseline for 20% off new buds!

    • Get NBA League Pass: https://link.nba.com/LP19MG
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • More Than Basketball: MLK Day Legacy & Must-Watch NBA Matchups

    More Than Basketball: MLK Day Legacy & Must-Watch NBA Matchups
    Jan 18 2026
    On this episode of The Baseline NBA Podcast, we reflect on the 40-year legacy of MLK Day in the NBA, inspired by Dominique Wilkins’ powerful memories of playing in the very first MLK Day games in Atlanta. More than a date on the schedule, MLK Day represents responsibility, sacrifice, and the platform the league continues to stand on today.

    We then shift to the court with MLK Day game previews, breaking down Bucks vs. Hawks, Thunder vs. Cavaliers, Mavericks vs. Knicks, and Celtics vs. Pistons — highlighting key players, coaching pressure points, pace control, and which teams have the most to prove. Engagement Question:

    Baseline Check-In:
    Does MLK Day still carry the same meaning in today’s NBA — and which matchup delivers the biggest statement this year?

    Lets u know your thoughts

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    • Visit: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS and use code CLNS and get $50 in lineups.

    • This show was sponsored in part by Raycon: Visit https://buyraycon.com/baseline for 20% off new buds!

    • Get NBA League Pass: https://link.nba.com/LP19MG
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    53 mins
  • Fork in the Road: NBA Trade Rumors & Who Ya Got?

    Fork in the Road: NBA Trade Rumors & Who Ya Got?
    Jan 14 2026
    This week on the show, we break down a whirlwind of NBA news, rumors, and franchise-shaping decisions that could redefine the league landscape. We start with the blockbuster scenario of Trae Young being traded to the Washington Wizards for CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert, and what that move would signal for both franchises moving forward.

    We also dive into reports that the Memphis Grizzlies are entertaining offers for Ja Morant, discussing whether a true reset could be coming and what teams would realistically enter the sweepstakes. Injury concerns take center stage as we assess Anthony Davis’ latest setback and extended absence, and what it means for the Lakers’ short- and long-term outlook.

    Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans push back on trade rumors, making it clear they are not interested in moving their star players — but is that stance sustainable? Plus, we revisit the ongoing Jonathan Kuminga situation in Golden State, asking when (or if) the Warriors will finally set him free and which teams would make the most sense as potential landing spots.

    To close, we fire up “Who Ya Got?” — a franchise-building debate between Deni Avdija vs. Jalen Johnson. If you’re starting an NBA team today, which versatile forward are you betting on?

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • NBA Highs & Lows: Christmas Ratings, Records & Reality

    NBA Highs & Lows: Christmas Ratings, Records & Reality
    Jan 7 2026
    This week on The Baseline NBA Podcast, we break down the highs and lows shaping the NBA right now — from major injuries impacting contenders to historic performances that continue to redefine greatness.

    First , as injuries take center stage around the league. Jalen Suggs suffers a Grade 1 MCL contusion and is out indefinitely, while Jonas Valančiūnas is sidelined with a right calf strain and will be re-evaluated in four weeks. Combined with Nikola Jokić’s knee injury, the Nuggets’ frontcourt takes a major hit, raising real questions about depth, durability, and timing as the season unfolds.

    Highs:

    - The 2025 NBA Christmas Day games delivered 15-year viewership highs, with over 47 million U.S. viewers, reinforcing the NBA’s cultural relevance and dominance in marquee moments.

    - Russell Westbrook moves into 7th all-time in assists, passing Magic Johnson — a milestone that adds another chapter to his Hall of Fame résumé. We also celebrate basketball greatness at the highest level.

    - Giannis Antetokounmpo continues his historic run, recording his 158th career 30/10/5 game, passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for second all-time and closing in on Oscar Robertson.

    - LeBron James adds yet another legendary moment, posting 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists, becoming the oldest player ever to score 30+ and surpassing Kareem’s mark for the most points by a 41-year-old. LeBron and Kareem now stand alone as the only players to score 25+ at age 41 — doing it at the exact same age, 41 years and 3 days.

    Lows:

    - We discuss Draymond Green’s ejection following a controversial non–three-second call and what it says about composure, officiating, and reputation

    - Plus, Jaylen Brown’s frustration after missing out on Eastern Conference Player of the Month sparks a deeper conversation on player recognition, narrative vs. metrics, and how awards are truly evaluated. Then we shift to the highs, where the league continues to shine on the biggest stages.

    - From injuries and controversy to records, ratings, and royalty, this episode captures the full spectrum of the NBA — where the highs are historic and the lows are unavoidable.

    🎧 Subscribe, rate, and review The Baseline NBA Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker for real hoops talk, smart analysis, and conversations that go beyond the box score.

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    • This show was sponsored in part by Raycon: Visit https://buyraycon.com/baseline for 20% off new buds!

    • Get NBA League Pass: https://link.nba.com/LP19MG
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    40 mins
  • New Year, New Stakes: NBA Resolutions + Inside the NBA’s Anti-Tanking Push w/ ESPN’s Kevin Pelton

    New Year, New Stakes: NBA Resolutions + Inside the NBA’s Anti-Tanking Push w/ ESPN’s Kevin Pelton
    Dec 30 2025
    The new year brings new priorities across the NBA, and we kick things off by laying out our 2025 NBA New Year’s Resolutions — bold calls on teams and stars at pivotal crossroads, from roster resets and superstar futures to the mindset shifts we want to see from the league’s top talent.

    Then, ESPN NBA analyst Kevin Pelton joins the show for an in-depth breakdown of the NBA’s renewed anti-tanking push in the wake of recent gambling investigations. Pelton walks us through the league’s updated injury-reporting rules, the information gaps sportsbooks have exploited, and the long-term strategies the NBA is considering to curb late-season manipulation without punishing legitimate rebuilds.

    We also examine how the revamped lottery, transparency measures, and league governance could shape competitive balance moving forward. A timely, thoughtful conversation on NBA integrity, accountability, and the future of team-building — with insight you won’t want to miss.

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-baseline-nba-podcast--3677698/support.

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    54 mins