Hardwood Knocks is previewing the 2023-24 NBA season for EVERY NBA team. At least one awesomely thermonuclear guest will be brought on for each squad. You can find all the episodes here as we publish them, as well as our record projections for every team, which will be split into two podcasts (one per conference).

2023-24 Record Predictions for Every Team in the Western Conference

Listen to “2023-24 NBA Season Win Predictions: The Western Conference” on Spreaker.

0:00 – INTRO
3:55 – Dallas Mavericks
7:56 – Denver Nuggets
12:49 – Golden State Warriors
17:45 – Houston Rockets
22:01 – LA Clippers
28:12 – Los Angeles Lakers
33:42 – Memphis Grizzlies
39:54 – Minnesota Timberwolves
44:08 – New Orleans Pelicans
49:20 – Oklahoma City Thunder
55:03 – Phoenix Suns
1:02:54 – Portland Trail Blazers
1:08:29 – Sacramento Kings
1:13:49 – San Antonio Spurs
1:16:59 – Utah Jazz

2023-24 Record Predictions for Every Team in the Eastern Conference

Listen to “2023-24 NBA Win Totals: The Eaastern Conference” on Spreaker.

0:00 – INTRO
4:09 – Atlanta Hawks
8:21 – Boston Celtics
14:47 – Brooklyn Nets
18:51 – Charlotte Hornets
25:21 – Chicago Bulls
28:51 – Cleveland Cavaliers
32:19 – Detroit Pistons
37:56 – Indiana Pacers
41:54 – Miami Heat
46:05 – Milwaukee Bucks
50:57 – New York Knicks
56:16 – Orlando Magic
1:02:11 – Philadelphia 76ers
1:07:26 – Toronto Raptors
1:13:16 – Washington Wizards
1:17:58 – ‘STAT PADDING’

2023-24 NBA Award Predictions

Listen to “2023-24 NBA Award Predictions” on Spreaker.

Dan and Grant go through their 2023-24 NBA Awards predictions ahead of the regular season. Buckle up! TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
5:43 – Awards Criteria
8:48 – MVP
24:43 – Defensive Player of the Year
33:59 – Rookie of the Year
45:54 – Sixth Man of the Year
50:32 – Most Improved Player
1:03:54 – Coach of the Year
1:08:53 – All-NBA Teams
1:14:37 – All-Defense Teams
1:19:09 – All-Rookie Teams
1:24:50 – Executive of the Year
1:29:33 – STAT PADDING

Atlanta Hawks Lookahead

Listen to “Atlanta Hawks 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Lauren Williams (@WilliamsLaurenL) from the Atlanta Journal Constitution to break down the 2023-24 Atlanta Hawks. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:23 – Offseason impressions
6:54 – The Quin Snyder hire
10:31 – Functional changes to expect under Snyder
15:09 – The Dejounte Murray fit entering Year 2
19:38 – Is Trae Young underrated?
24:29 – The development of AJ Griffin
28:51 – Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu
31:24 – Extensions for Okongwu and Saddiq Bey?
33:01 – A bigger role for Jalen Johnson
34:59 – The fifth starter’s spot
37:28 – Can this Hawks core noticeably improve on the defensive end?
40:02 – Pascal Siakam trade rumors
43:20 – The 10-man rotation
45:42 – Atlanta’s biggest weakness/most surprising strength
47:44 – Best crunch-time lineup
48:27 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
51:05 – Over/under prediction
56:20 – Final thoughts

Boston Celtics Lookahead

Listen to “Boston Celtics 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Bobby Manning (@RealBobManning) from CLNS Media and The Garden Report podcast for a deep dive into one of the NBA’s most polarizing teams for the 2023-24 season: The Boston Celtics. Support Bobby’s GREAT work by following his written stuff for CLNS here. And also subscribe to The Garden Report podcast here. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
1:44 – What prompted the Celtics’ aggressive offseason?
8:32 – The Kristaps Porzingis fit
23:18 – The Jrue Holiday fit
32:49 – Can Jaylen Brown evolve?
37:18 – Is Jayson Tatum officially able to drive the offense as a passer?
43:21 – The importance of Derrick White?
47:32 – Payton Pritchard’s role, Who are the Celtics’ seventh and eighth most important players?
52:41 – The 10-man rotation, Lamar Stevens, Oshae Brissett, Neemias Queta, Jordan Walsh, Wenyen Gabriel
55:43 – Best crunch-time lineup, How often will the Celtics play with two bigs?, The pressure on Joe Mazzulla
1:01:33 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:03:48 – Win total predictions
1:05:11- Toughest matchups for Boston
1:10:52 – Dalano Banton

Brooklyn Nets Lookahead

Listen to “Brooklyn Nets 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Lucas Kaplan (@LucasKaplan_) from Nets Daily and Swish Theory to discuss the 2023-24 Brooklyn Nets. FOLLOW LUCAS’ COVERAGE OF BOTH THE BROOKLYN NETS AND NY LIBERTY HERE: https://www.sbnation.com/users/Lucas%20Kaplan. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
1:31 – Moving on from Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving
2:52 – Impressions of the offseason
4:53 – The rise (and continued ascent) of Mikal Bridges
9:41 – Will the Nets play faster this year?
11:52 – Are the Nets too small? How will they change defensively?
13:19 – Expectations for Ben Simmons
20:42 – Cam Johnson’s health, contract and continued development
26:01 – Development of Nic Claxton
30:46 – The future of Cam Thomas
32:51 – Dennis Smith Jr., Lonnie Walker IV, Darius Bazley, Harry Giles, Trendon Watford
35:55 – Day’Ron Sharpe’s role
38:06 – Noah Clowney, Dariq Whitehead
42:03 – Will this team make a big midseason trade?
44:13 – Nic Claxton’s impending free agency
48:59 – Underrated strengths, concerns
52:01 – The 10-man rotation, starting five
54:45 – Best crunch-time lineup
56:51 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
59:19 – Win total predictions, Where do the Nets stack up in the Eastern Conference?

Charlotte Hornets Lookahead

Listen to “Charlotte Hornets 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Konata Edwards (@NataTheScribe) from CBS Sports to discuss everything and anything about the 2023-24 Charlotte Hornets. FOLLOW KONATA ON BLUESKY: https://bsky.app/profile/natathescribe.bsky.social. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
1:56 – The sale of the team and its implications
4:13 – The Kai Jones video
5:58 – What is this team’s direction?
8:40 – Why did the Hornets draft Brandon Miller instead of Scoot Henderson?
13:24 – What type of role will Brandon Miller have as a rookie?
17:16 – Why did it take so long to re-sign P.J. Washington?
19:47 – The future of Miles Bridges
22:23 – Will Miles Bridges ever start over P.J. Washington or Gordon Hayward?
24:37 – Why didn’t the Hornets sign a veteran point guard or center?
28:45 – The development of Mark Williams
34:18 – The LaMelo Ball extension
37:34 – What’s the next frontier for LaMelo?
40:14 – How will Nick Smith Jr. be used?
43:34 – Players who will play a bigger role than expected/The return of Cody Martin
46:21 – How good can Charlotte’s defense be?
49:56 – Hidden strengths of the roster
51:01 – The backup center situation
52:27 – The 10-man rotation
55:46 – Best crunch-time unit
56:23 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
58:01 – Win total predictions, Where do the Hornets stack up in the East?

Chicago Bulls Lookahead

Listen to “Chicago Bulls 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Jason Patt (@Bulls_Jay) from the Cash Considerations podcast to discuss everything and anything about the 2023-24 Chicago Bulls. SUBSCRIBE TO CASH CONSIDERATIONS: https://www.bluewirepods.com/podcast/cash-considerations-a-chicago-bulls-pod. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
11:18 – General impressions of the Bulls offseason
21:56 – Is Chicago’s defense really this good?
27:10 – Will the Bulls be better on offense?
32:56 – Will DeMar DeRozan sign an extension?
35:33 – The continued development of Patrick Williams
44:44 – Who has a bigger role: Ayo Dosunmu or Coby White?
47:49 – Breaking down the Julian Phillips pick
50:41 – Do the Bulls need more wings?
52:38 – Shout-out Alex Caruso, Can Nikola Vucevic evolve?, Should Zach LaVine take more threes?
59:14 – The 10-man rotation
1:01:33 – Best closing lineup
1:03:21 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:05:10 – Win total prediction, Where do the Bulls stack up in the East?
1:11:41 – Final thoughts, The Zach LaVine discourse

Cleveland Cavaliers Lookahead

Listen to “Cleveland Cavaliers 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Justin Rowan (@Cavsanada) from The Chase Down Podcast (@ChaseDownPod) to discuss everything you need to know about the 2023-24 Cleveland Cavaliers. SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHASEDOWN PODCAST HERE: https://www.nba.com/cavaliers/podcasts.
TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
1:51 – Reflecting on the Cavs’ 2022-23 season
8:11 – Impressions of Cleveland’s offseason
11:42 – Biggest concern for the roster
18:16 – The role of Caris LeVert without Ricky Rubio
21:58 – The development of Evan Mobley
34:02 – Does Isaac Okoro have a future in Cleveland?
39:57 – The next frontier for Darius Garland
46:54 – Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland’s dynamic
53:41 – Dual Bigs vs. Dual-Small Guards
57:54 – Will Dean Wade be healthy/better?
1:00:14 – Developing Emoni Bates
1:03:21 – The 10-man rotation
1:04:19 – Best crunch-time lineup
1:05:36 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:07:15 – Win total prediction, Where do the Cavs stack up in the East?

Dallas Mavericks Lookahead

Listen to “Dallas Mavericks 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Kirk Henderson (@KirkSeriousFace) from Mavs Moneyball and Pod Maverick to discuss the 2023-24 Dallas Mavericks outlook, a discussion that includes lots of focus on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving as well as a surprise name! SUBSCRIBE TO POD MAVERICK: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pod-maverick-a-dallas-mavericks-podcast/id1365537266. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:39 – The Kyrie Irving contract and fit
09:14 – How will Grant Williams fit in?
13:03 – The continued development of Josh Green
16:17 – Will Olivier Maxence-Prosper play a role?
29:07 – Overall impressions of the Mavericks other offseason moves, The Richaun Holmes fit,
23:48 – Minutes for Dante Exum, Jaden Hardy AND Seth Curry?, The continued to development of Jaden Hardy
26:44 – Will Derrick Lively play?, The secondary big man rotation, Is there a dearth of talented American big men?
31:46 – Can the defense meaningfully improve?
33:17 – Is Jason Kidd on the hot seat?, Should we expect a trade?
35:56 – Under-the-radar strengths and concerns
36:44 – The 10-man rotation
37:41 – Best crunch-time lineup
38:39 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
39:55 – Win total predictions, Where do the Mavs stack up in the West?
42:21 – Luka Doncic has abs?

Denver Nuggets Lookahead

Listen to “Denver Nuggets 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Adam Mares (@Adam_Mares) from DNVR Sports and Locked On Nuggets to discuss everything and anything about the REIGNING CHAMPION DENVER NUGGETS ahead of the 2023-24 NBA season. SUPPORT THE GREAT WORK DNVR DOES HERE: https://thednvr.com/diehard/. SUBSCRIBE TO THE DNVR NUGGETS PODCAST HERE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dnvr-denver-nuggets-podcast/id1070099369. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:17 – Last year’s championship run
7:31 – Bruce Brown’s departure
8:51 – Impressions of taking so many fliers on young guys
10:39 – Peyton Watson
12:23 – Zeke Nnaji
15:31 – Jalen Pickett
17:53 – Hunter Tyson
19:23 – Julian Strawther
21:22 – The development of Christian Braun
24:29 – Reggie Jackson
26:31 – The backup point guard and center spots
28:26 – Next frontier for Jamal Murray
30:58 – Will Michael Malone change up his lineup/substitution patterns?
33:51 – What’s the next step for Michael Porter Jr.?
37:03 – Will Nikola Jokic wear down?, Denver’s size
42:01 – How will the rotation shake out?
44:21 – Best crunch-time lineup
45:52 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
46:11 – Most intriguing possible playoff and Finals matchups
51:08 – Win total predictions

Detroit Pistons Lookahead

Listen to “2023-24 NBA Lookaheads: Detroit Pistons” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Lazarus Jackson (@lazchance) from Detroit Bad Boys to break down the 2023-24 Detroit Pistons. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:17 – General impressions of the Pistons offseason
7:06 – The Monty Williams hire
12:37 – Rookie year role for Ausar Thompson
17:16 – The development of Cade Cunningham
20:44 – Is a Jaden Ivey leap coming?
24:46 – Let’s talk about 
28:48 – WE ARE SMITTEN WITH JALEN DUREN
34:02 – Early impressions of James Wiseman
36:42 – The fit of Marcus Sasser
38:25 – Does Killian Hayes have a future in Detroit? 
42:18 – Isaiah Stewart’s extension
48:37 – Who plays a bigger role?
53:04 – Will the Pistons be sellers this year if their record doesn’t drastically improve?
56:19 – The 10-man rotation
59:01 – Best crunch-time unit
1:00:06 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:01:45 – Over/under prediction, Where does Detroit stack up in the East?
1:06:21 – Believe in Isaiah Livers

Golden State Warriors Lookahead

Listen to “Golden State Warriors 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Sam Esfandiari (@samesfandiari) from the Light Years Pod to discuss all things 2023-24 Golden State Warriors—including, and most notably, the addition and fit of Chris Paul to the core of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins. Be sure to check out the Light Years Pod as they host LIVE shows ON MONDAY NIGHTS all year long on PLAYBACK. Follow all of their content HERE. And be sure to check out their YOUTUBE CHANNEL HERE. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
3:50 – What went wrong last year?
7:38 – The Chris Paul experience so, potential fit, concerns
13:47 – Jonathan Kuminga’s development
17:01 The Klay Thompson aging curve, Will he sign an extension?
23:48 – Andrew Wiggins
25:51 – Development of Moses Moody
28:43 – Brandon Podziemski
30:03 – How will Draymond Green and CP3 fit together?
32:01 – The Bob Myers exit, Faith in Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Kirk Lacob, Are the Dubs prepared to make a big midseason trade?
36:41 – How much better will the bench be with CP3?
38:56 – The 10-man rotation
40:03 – Most-used crunch-time unit
42:29 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
43:51 – Win total predictions, Where do the Warriors stack up in the Western Conference?

Houston Rockets Lookahead

Listen to “2023-24 NBA Lookaheads: Houston Rockets” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Salman Ali (@SalmanAliNBA) from Red Nation Hoops to break down everything about the 2023-24 Houston Rockets. SUBSCRIBE TO HIS INDEPENDENT NEWS LETTER FOR MORE AWESOME ROCKETS COVERAGE HERE: https://t.co/R2FBmIxTMg. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – Intro
2:49 – General impressions of the Rockets offseason
6:49 – Can the Rockets rein in Dillon Brooks on offense?
13:04 – Who benefits the most from the arrival of Fred VanVleet?
14:47 – How will the Rockets change under Ime Udoka?
20:49 – Rookie year expectations for Amen Thompson
26:20 – Rookie year expectations for Cam Whitmore & The Value of Jae’Sean Tate
29:52 – The next step for Jalen Green
34:49 – The development of Jabari Smith Jr.
36:47 – Is Houston committed to Alperen Sengun? (cut out pause)
49:48 – Does Kevin Porter Jr. have a long-term future in Houston?
52:33 – Year 2 exceptions for Tari Eason
54:11 – The 10-man rotation
59:50 – Biggest concern about the Rockets this season
1:02:22 – Best crunch-time lineup
1:03:10 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:07:39 – Over/under predictions, Where does Houston stack up in the West?

Indiana Pacers Lookahead

Listen to “Indiana Pacers 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan and Grant are joined by Caitlin Cooper (@C2_Cooper), THE GOAT HERSELF, from ‘BASKETBALL, SHE WROTE’ to discuss the incredibly fun, frenetic and fascinating 2023-24 Indiana Pacers. SUBSCRIBE TO ‘BASKETBALL, SHE WROTE’ ON PATREON RIGHT THE HELL NOW: https://www.patreon.com/basketballshewrote/posts. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:36 – How good were last year’s Pacers?
5:44 – How will this year’s Pacers team defend?
8:11 – The defensive impact of Bruce Brown
10:08 – Development of Bennedict Mathurin, his impact on
the rest of the rotation and the roles of Andrew Nembhard and Buddy Hield
20:01 – Obi Toppin’s fit, his impact on the role of Myles Turner
23:59 – How will Indiana use Jarace Walker on offense
27:02 – Can Jarace Walker have an immediate impact on defense?
29:07 – How will the frontline rotation shake out? What does it mean for Myles Turner?
32:01 – Tyrese Haliburton’s defense
38:03 – Will Indy’s half-court offense be better?
40:04 – What do we make of the Pacers interest in Pascal Siakam?
45:05 – Initial impressions of Ben Sheppard
47:29 – What about the Pacers is flying under the radar?
49:52 – The 10-man rotation, Will Isaiah Jackson play?
52:24 – Best closing lineup
53:48 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
55:19 – Win total predictions, Where do they stack up in the East?

LA Clippers Lookahead

Listen to “LA Clippers 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Justin Russo (@FlyByKnite), who does the LA Clippers and NBA at large on Substack to discuss—YOU GUESSED IT—the trajectory of the 2023-24 Clippers. And yes, out of obligation, they do delve into the James Harden trade rumors and his potential fit on this roster. SUBSCRIBE TO JUSTIN’S SUBSTACK HERE. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:08 – What went wrong last season?
6:04 – Do Kawhi Leonard and Paul George deserve criticism for their availability?
9:48 – Will Kawhi play back-to-backs? How have he and PG looked so far?
13:42 – Will Kawhi or PG sign an extension?
16:07 – The Russell Westbrook fit
19:48 – The importance of Terance Mann
26:01 – Robert Covington is critical to the rotation
28:09 – K.J. Martin’s role
31:18 – Diagnosing the Clippers’ defensive problems, Tactical adjustments from Ivica Zubac
37:06 – How much faster will the Clippers offense play?
41:03 – Brandon Boston Jr.
42:56 – Kobe Brown
44:02 – Bones Hyland
46:01 – Prospective fit of James Harden
53:32 – Are the Clippers prepared to make another trade if they don’t get Harden?
55:57 – The future of Marcus Morris Sr.
56:41 – The 10-man rotation, Who is in the starting five?
1:01:28 – Best crunch-time unit
1:02:-57 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:03:46 – Win total prediction, Where do the Clippers stack up in the regular season?
1:06:03 – The new arena, Final thoughts

Los Angeles Lakers Lookahead

Listen to “Los Angeles Lakers 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Jabari Ali Davis (@JabariDavisNBA) from the Mad Boosties podcast to discuss everything and anything related to the 2023-24 Los Angeles Lakers. SUBSCRIBE TO MAD BOOSTIES HERE: https://t.co/k0fdAI2AMD. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:37 – How did the Lakers turn it around last season?
4:58 – General impressions of the Lakers offseason
6:39 – The most intriguing new addition
9:29 – Will Max Christie play a role?
12:28 – Gabe Vincent’s fit
15:29 – The continued development of Austin Reaves
28:05 – What’s the future of D’Angelo Russell hold?
30:55 – The utility of Rui Hachimura
34:25 – Can Christian Wood make an impact? / Anthony Davis’ disdain for playing center
39:02 – Is Anthony Davis too reliant on jumpers? / His fit with Christian Wood
44:59 – Will the starting five change?
46:51 – The secondary frontcourt rotation
47:32 – Did LeBron James have foot surgery? Will he regress? Is LeBron as the roll man about to be more of a staple?
55:50 – How important is the Lakers’ continuity?
57:51 – Can Jalen Hood-Schifino play a role?
58:35 – Will the half-court offense meaningfully improve?
1:01:34 – Under-the-radar strengths and weaknesses
1:03:46 – The 10-man rotation
1:05:53 – Best crunch-time lineup
1:08:17 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:09:51 – Win total predictions, Where do the Lakers stack up in the Western Conference?

Memphis Grizzlies Lookahead

Listen to “Memphis Grizzlies 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan and Grant are joined by Keith Parish from the Fastbreak Breakfast (@fastbreakbreak)and Grits and Grinds (@grizzliespod) podcasts to discuss—YOU GUESSED IT—the 2023-24 Memphis Grizzlies. SUBSCRIBE TO FASTBREAK BREAKFAST here: https://t.co/XXQ1MjPNlx. SUBSCRIBE TO GRITS AND GRINDS here: https://t.co/eJcwfQwZE0. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
5:36 – The Ja Morant suspension
17:13 – The Marcus Smart trade, Are the Grizzlies better built
to navigate life without Ja Morant?
28:51 – Continued development of Desmond Bane/The Desmond Bane extension
32:53 – Can Jaren Jackson Jr. level up again?
37:56 – Where can the Grizzlies improve them most?
45:10 – The future of Ziaire Williams
49:46 – The 10-man rotation
52:51 – Best crunch-time unit
54:32 – Weirdo lineups we want to see, Win total predictions, Where do the Grizzlies stack up in the West?

Miami Heat Lookahead

Listen to “Miami Heat 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Miami Heat podcaster and fan Allana Tachauer (@AllanaTachauer) to talk about…the 2023-24 Miami Heat! TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
1:01 – Miami’s 2023 Finals run
4:48 – The departures of Max Strus and Gabe Vincent
5:59 – Kyle Lowry and Tyler Herro reactions to being in trade rumors
7:46 – The continued development of Tyler Herro
11:43 – Josh Richardson, Thomas Bryant, Kevin Love
14:03 – Is Duncan Robinson back???
14:48 – Bam Adebayo taking it to the next level
17:18 – Can the Heat meaningfully improve the off3ense, or do they need a trade?
19:54 – Early impressions of Jaime Jacquez Jr.
22:14 – Role expectations for Nikola Jovic
23:02 – Any concerns about the defense
26:03 – How many threes will Jimmy Butler hit? His aging curve
28:41 – Are the Heat prepared to make a midseason trade?
32:43 – Be more excited about Josh Richardson, DAMMIT
33:45 – The 10-man rotation
35:34 – Best crunch-time unit
37:14 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
38:51 – Win total predictions, Where do the Heat stack up in the Eastern Conference?

Milwaukee Bucks Lookahead + Damian Lillard Trade Reaction

Listen to “DAMIAN LILLARD TO THE BUCKS TRADE REACTION” on Spreaker. Listen to “2023-24 NBA Lookaheads: Milwaukee Bucks” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Ti Windisch (@TiWindisch) of the Gyro Step Podcast ( @WatchGSPN ) to break down everything about the 2023-24 Milwaukee Bucks. SUBSCRIBE TO THE GYRO STEP PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gyro-step-podcast-network-covering-all-things-milwaukee/id1451573723. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
3:36 – Why are the Bucks so nerve-wracking on a national level?
8:38 – General impressions of the Bucks offseason
12:36 – Impact of Malik Beasley and Jae Crowder
17:01 – Mike Budenholzer’s exit/Adrian Grffin’s arrival
23:46 – The fifth starter
27:03 – Any concern about Giannis Antetokounmpo’s left knee
29:16 – How will Giannis Antetokounmpo change as he ages?
31:27 – Any reason to worry about the absence of a Giannis extension?
33:41 – The importance of a healthy Khris Middleton
37:25 – Will Andre Jackson Jr., Chris Livingston or A.J. Green have a role?
43:10 – How will MarJon Beauchamp fare in Year 2?
48:29 – What will the offense look like? How many minutes will the stars play?
52:16 – What is Milwaukee’s title window with this core?
59:21 – Will the Bucks look to add another shot creator?
1:09:27 – The 10-man rotation
1:13:19 – Best crunch-time lineup
1:14:10 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:16:06 – Over/under prediction, Where does Detroit stack up in the East?
1:18:46 – Will Jrue Holiday benefit from the coaching change?

Minnesota Timberwolves Lookahead

Listen to “Minnesota Timberwolves 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Kyle Theige (@KyleTheige) from The Dane Moore NBA Podcast and the Flagrant Howls Podcast to discuss the 2023-24 Minnesota Timberwolves and the high-stakes NBA regular season they’re about to embark upon. SUBSCRIBE TO THE DANE MORE NBA PODCAST HERE AND THE FLAGRANT HOWLS PODCAST HERE. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
1:42 – How much do we read into last season?
3:59 – Changes to the offense
8:08 – Can Rudy Gobert evolve on offense?, Who does he need to be on offense?
13:11 – Karl-Anthony Towns giving short answers to the media, What do the Wolves need him to do this season?
19:37 – The continued development of Naz Reid
21:38 – Which dual-big combination is most concerning? Which is most intriguing?
25:01 – Will the Wolves ever run one-big lineups?
27:03 – Does Kyle Anderson have a future in Minnesota?
30:43 – The continued development of Anthony Edwards
38:03 – How will Jaden McDaniels’ role change on offense? Will he sign an extension?
48:07 – The importance of Nickeil Alexander-Walker
53:06 – Leonard Miller, Josh Minott, Wendell Moore Jr.
59:16 – Are the Wolves cursed???, New ownership
1:02:07 – The 10-man rotation
1:05:03 – Best crunch-time unit
1:06:49 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:08:56 – Win total predictions, Where do the Timberwolves stack up in the Western Conference, Final thoughts on the Wolves’ direction

New Orleans Pelicans Lookahead

Listen to “New Orleans Pelicans 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Shamit (@FearTheBrown) from the In The N.O. podcast and the In The N.O. Substack to discuss the 2023-24 New Orleans Pelicans and the stakes they’re facing heading into this NBA regular season. SUBSCRIBE TO THE IN THE N.O. SUBSTACK HERE: https://intheno.substack.com/. AND SUPPORT THE IN THE N.O. PODCAST HERE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-n-o-a-new-orleans-pelicans-pod/id415571358. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
1:01 – Last season’s performance
3:16 – General impressions of the offseason
9:02 – When will the Pelicans make a swing on the trade market?
11:51 – The Trey Murphy injury, and his development
18:01 – The future of Brandon Ingram
20:02 – What to make of Zion Williamson’s injury history, Does he have another level to hit?
25:13 – Driving factors of the Pelicans defensive success
27:34 – Expectations for Herb Jones on offense, How do we feel about his contract extension/
33:14 – Development of Dyson Daniels
34:57 – Will Jordan Hawkins play?
35:52 – Under-the-radar strengths and weaknesses
37:41 – The 10-man rotation
38:54 – Best crunch-time lineup
39:34 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
40:42 – Win total prediction, Where do the Pelicans stack up in the Western Conference?, CJ McCollum’s importance to the team

New York Knicks Lookahead

Listen to “New York Knicks 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Andrew Claudio (@AndrewJClaudio_) from Knicks Film School (@KnickFilmSkool) to discuss the outlook for the 2023-24 New York Knicks and their quest to become a legitimate NBA title contender. SUBSCRIBE TO KNICKS FILM SCHOOL: https://www.youtube.com/@KnickFilmSkool. SUPPORT THEIR PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/KnicksFilmSchool. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:09 – Julius Randle leaves CAA
5:15 – Revisiting the Knicks 2022-23 season
10:16 – Impressions of the Knicks offseason
14:03 – Donte DiVincenzo’s fit
20:41 – Will Josh Hart increase his three-point volume?
26:27 – Continued development of Immanuel Quickley
35:02 – Evaluating the future of Julius Randle
41:07 – The RJ Barrett and Julius Randle conundrum
50:56 – Continued development of Quentin Grimes, Are the Knicks to built to expand the roles of their youngsters?
56:07 – How does the emergence of Jalen Brunson change New York’s approach to the trade market?, Potential Knicks trade targets
1:15:08 – Do the Knicks have enough assets to acquire a megastar?
1:19:46 – Under the radar strengths and concerns, Mitchell Robinson’s value, Julius Randle injury risk
1:24:31 – The 10-man rotation
1:25:37 – Best crunch-time lineup
1:26:14 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:32:45 – Win total predictions, Where do the Knicks stack up in the Eastern Conference

Oklahoma City Thunder Lookahead

Listen to “Oklahoma City Thunder 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by three of the co-hosts from The Uncontested Podcast (@The_Uncontested): Nick Crain (@Crain_NBA), Jacob Kniffen (@JacobKniffen) and Tayler Petersen (Tayler_P15) to talk about the 2023-24 Oklahoma City Thunder. SUBSCRIBE TO THE UNCONTESTED PODCAST HERE: https://t.co/qBiNELJolG. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
3:01 – Last season’s success
8:02 – Offseason impressions
11:29 – How Chet Holmgren’s injury changed OKC’s approach
13:03 – The Cason Wallace trade
17:34 – Cason Wallace vs. Vasilije Micic
20:51 – Chet Holmgren’s role
28:57 – The next frontier for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
35:03 – The continued development of Josh Giddey
45:58 – What to expect from Jalen Williams?
55:53 – Is Ousmane Dieng primed for a big season?
1:01:03 – Does Aleksej Pokusevski have a future in OKC?
1:03:56 – Who makes the final roster?
1:08:01 – Will Mark Daigneault shorten the rotation?
1:10:37 – The 10-man rotation
1:15:53 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:17:51 – Under the radar strengths and concerns
1:19:50 – Win total prediction, Where do the Thunder stack up in the Western Conference
1:23:24 – Final thoughts

Orlando Magic Lookahead

Listen to “Orlando Magic 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Kyle from Court Cousins: An Orlando Magic NBA Podcast (@Court_Cousins) to discuss—YOU GUESSED IT—everything and anything about the 2023-24 Orlando Magic. SUBSCRIBE TO COURT COUSINS on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS24xb3LSYbzzTBtE3ASLvg. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
4:16 – General impressions of the Magic offseason
7:17 – Breaking down the role of Joe Ingles
10:23 – Anthony Black’s fit and role
15:11 – Is Markelle Fultz the point guard of the future?
20:37 – Jett Howard’s fit and role
23:59 – The development of Paolo Banchero
39:01 – The next frontier for Franz Wagner
44:33 – Is Jalen Suggs on the ascent?
50:47 – The Suggs, Cole Anthony and Gary Harris conundrum
54:01 – Extensions for Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony?
59:14 – The importance of Wendell Carter Jr.
1:06:38 – Are Jonathan Isaac and Chuma Okeke on their way out?
1:10:01 – Will Kevon Harris or Caleb Houston play?
1:12:31 – Biggest concern aside from shooting
1:15:44 – What makes the defense special?
1:18:10 – The 10-man rotation
1:21:51 – Best crunch-time unit
1:23:24 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:25:38 – Win total prediction, Where do the Magic stack up in the Eastern Conference?

Philadelphia 76ers Lookahead

Listen to “Philadelphia 76ers 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan and Grant are joined by Bryan Toporek (@btoporek) from The NBA Podcast, Liberty Ballers, Forbes and Bleacher Report to discuss the outlook on the 2023-24 Philadelphia 76ers amid James Harden trade rumors and general uncertainty. SUBSCRIBE TO THE NBA PODCAST HERE: https://www.spreaker.com/show/3240433. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
3:01 – Are the Philadelphia 76ers to blame for the James Harden situation?
6:05 – What is Harden’s actual trade value?
8:21 – Are the Sixers smart to prioritize 2024 cap space?
12:03 – Can Philly feasibly avoid a gap year this season?
14:06 – Did the Harden situation cost the Sixers other opportunities?
18:08 – How will Harden handle things if he’s still on the roster at the start of the regular season?
21:06 – Figuring out the right backcourt fit for Tyrese Maxey
24:31 – The timeline for Joel Embiid’s happiness
26:21 – Final thoughts on James Harden
29:02 – Impressions of how the Sixers will change under Nick Nurse
34:16 – Evaluating the Sixers need additions
36:38 – The next step for Tyrese Maxey
43:32 – What will Paul Reed’s role be?
47:09 – Biggest strengths and concerns about the Sixers roster, Could Joel Embiid burn out after winning MVP?
51:18 – Expectations for PJ Tucker
53:55 – The importance of Tobias Harris
58:24 – The 10-man rotation
1:01:01 – Best crunch-time lineup
1:02:23 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:05:05 – win total predictions, Where do the Sixers stack up in the Eastern Conference?
1:10:13 – Final thoughts on the 2023-24 Sixers
1:13:12 – GARBAGE TIME!

Portland Trail Blazers Lookahead

Listen to “Portland Trail Blazers 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Tara Bowen-Biggs (@tcbbiggs) from the We Have a Take podcast to talk about the 2023-24 Portland Trail Blazers as they embark on transitioning from the Damian Lillard era to the Scoot Henderson- and Shaedon Sharpe-centric rebuild. SUBSCRIBE TO WE HAVE A TAKE. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:49 – The end of the Damian Lillard era
17:24 – What is Chauncey Billups’ coaching identity?
21:17 – Blazers stylistic leanings this season
27:56 – The importance of Malcolm Brogdon, Deandre Ayton, Robert Williams III
29:53 – Is Deandre Ayton headed for a bounce-back year?
36:17 – Do the Blazers view Robert Williams III as a long-term piece, Will he play with Ayton?
39:38 – How long will Malcolm Brogdon be in town?
39:47 – Expectations for Scoot Henderson
45:16 – The continued development of Shaedon Sharpe
49:43 – Is Anfernee Simons a core member of this team?, Will Simons, Sharpe and Scoot play a lot of minutes together?
53:25 – Matisse Thybulle’s fit
54:33 – When will Jerami Grant be traded
57:20 – Moses Brown
59:57 – Toumani Camara
1:02:29 – Rayan Rupert
1:04:58 – Jabari Walker
1:06:11 – Kris Murray
1:08:56 – Importance of the G-League Team
1:09:59 – The starting five, The 10-man rotation
1:11:40 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:14:47 – Win total prediction

Phoenix Suns Lookahead

Listen to “Phoenix Suns 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Sam Cooper (@scooperhoops) and Mike Vigil (@protectedpick) from The Timeline Podcast (@TheTimelinePod) to break down the 2023-24 Phoenix Suns as well as the latest Deandre Ayton trade rumors. Dan is joined by Sam Cooper (@scooperhoops) and Mike Vigil (@protectedpick) from The Timeline Podcast (@TheTimelinePod) to break down the 2023-24 Phoenix Suns as well as the latest Deandre Ayton trade rumors. SUPPORT THE TIMELINE PODCAST ON PATREON: https://t.co/0OCB8hH1Bx. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:18 – Jusuf Nurkic/OG Anunoby Rumors
10:03 – How much Deandre Ayton regressed?
13:08 – Ayton’s role this season
15:21 – The reaction to the Bradley Beal trade
17:22 – Impressions of the Matt Ishbia era
23:31 – The fifth most important player in the rotation
26:01 – The sixth most important player in the rotation
31:51 – Lack of non-star playmaking
38:39 – Changes under Frank Vogel
40:38 – Bradley Beal’s fit, How will the stars adjust to one another?
53:56 – How does Devin Booker’s role change on this
57:01 – Will Jordan Goodwin play a big role?
59:34 – Kevin Durant’s rim pressure
1:03:49 – Phoenix’s shot selection
1:06:25 – Biggest overall strengths and concerns
1:07:31 – The 10-man rotation
1:12:18 – Best starting five, best crunch-time lineup
1:14:31 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:17:48 – Win total predictions, The toughest potential playoff opponents

Sacramento Kings Lookahead

Listen to “Sacramento Kings 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan and Grant are joined by Greg Wissinger (@gwiss) from The Kings Herald (@thekingsherald) to discuss everything about the 2023-24 Sacramento Kings. Support The Kings Herald here: https://kingsherald.com/ TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:01 – General impressions of the Kings offseason
3:58 – The Domantas Sabonis renegotiate-and-extend
15:27 – Does Sabonis have another level to hit?
20:26 – The defense
22:41 – Impact of Sasha Vezenkov
25:02 – The development of Keegan Murray
28:06 – Does Davion Mitchell have a future in Sacramento?
30:02 – De’Aaron Fox’s defense/The next frontier for De’Aaron Fox
35:16 – Can this core improve substantially on defense?
38:55 – Roles for Chris Duarte and Kessler Edwards
41:58 – How will the secondary big man rotation shake out?
45:12 – Predicting the 10-man rotation
47:23 – What’s one thing with this team that flies under the national radar?
49:33 – The best crunch-time lineup
50:46 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
51:52 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Kings stack up in the West?
58:21 – Colby Jones

San Antonio Spurs Lookahead

Listen to “San Antonio Spurs 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Noah Magaro-George (@N_Magaro) from AirAlamo and the Alamo City Limits (@AlamoCityLimits) podcasts to discuss the 2023-24 San Antonio Spurs and, of course, superstar cornerstone Sandro Mamukelashvili. Oh, and Victor Wembanyama, too. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
7:17 – Offseason impressions
14:16 – The Devin Vassell extension, What’s the next frontier for him?
23:52 – Victor Wembanyama’s offensive role, defensive impact, fit with the rest of the roster, strengths, concerns, etc.
39:28 – Who will start?
43:29 – The future of Keldon Johnson
45:24 – The development of Jeremy Sochan
50:17 – Julian Champagnie
51:36 – Malaki Branham
54:10 – Blake Wesley
55:57 – Charles Bassey
56:38 – Sandro Mamukelashvili
58:17 – Dominick Barlowe
59:41 – Cedi Osman, Doug McDermott, Devonte’ Graham, Khem Birch
1:02:21 – Will the Spurs keep playing fast?, The new shooting coach
1:05:58 – The 10-man rotation
1:09:02 – Best crunch-time unit
1:09:59 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:12:28 – Win total predictions, Where do the Spurs stack up in the Western Conference
1:19:14 – Sidy Cissoko

Toronto Raptors Lookahead

Listen to “Toronto Raptors 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Imman Adan (@Imman_Adan) from the Pros & Claws blog and Yahoo Sports Canada to discuss everything and anything about the 2023-24 Toronto Raptors. SUBSCRIBE TO PROS & CLAWS HERE: https://proseandclaws.substack.com/. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
2:18 – What happened to the Raptors last season?
5:53 – How will the Raptors defend under Darko Rajokovic?
7:52 – The significance of Fred VanVleet leaving
15:23 – What is the Raptors’ direction?
19:02 – The continued development of Scottie Barnes
25:21 – The value of Pascal Siakam
33:49 – Jakob Poeltl’s fit without Fred VanVleet, the
impact of Dennis Schroder
37:03 – Does OG Anunoby have another level?
40:54 – Will there be a Gary Trent Jr. extension?
43:58 – Should Gary Trent Jr. start?
46:34 – Gradey Dick’s role
49:03 – The continued development of Precious Achiuwa
52:01 – Otto Porter Jr., Chris Boucher, Jalen McDaniels
56:10 – Will the half-court offense be better?
59:00 – This roster has depth
1:00:22 – The 10-man rotation
1:03:44 – Best crunch-time lineup
1:04:47 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:10:28 – Will the Raptors double-down on the trade market?
1:14:17 – Win total predictions, Where do the Raptors stack up
in the Eastern Conference?
1:18:32 – Final thoughts

Utah Jazz Lookahead

Listen to “Utah Jazz 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Tony Jones (@Tjonesonthenba) from The Athletic to discuss everything and anything about the 2023-24 Utah Jazz. SUPPORT TONY’S WORK BY SUBSCRIBING TO THE ATHLETIC HERE: https://theathletic.com/author/tony-jones/. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
1:40 – How did last season impact the rebuild?
6:54 – What does the offseason say about their future? Interest in Jrue Holiday???
10:55 – John Collins’ fit, How does he impact the rotation?
16:18 – Will Hardy’s coaching style and principles
19:23 – The backcourt rotation, Rookie year expectations for Keyonte George
26:24 – Jordan Clarkson, the playmaker
28:16 – Can Collin Sexton improve his stock in Utah?
31:01 – Talen Horton-Tucker, Kris Dunn, the “creator” rotation
38:03 – Will Lauri Markkanen’s role change?
45:42 – Sophomore expectations for Walker Kessler
49:08 – How good is Ochai Agbaji?
53:02 – Roles for Brice Sensabaugh and Taylor Hendricks
56:58 – Defining strengths, weaknesses
58:16 – The 10-man rotation
59:07 – Best crunch-time unit(s)
1:01:03 – Win total prediction, Where do the Jazz stack up in the Western Conference?, Final thoughts

Washington Wizards Lookahead

Listen to “Washington Wizards 2023-24 Lookahead” on Spreaker.

Dan is joined by Matt Modderno (@MattModderno) from the Bleav in Wizards podcast (@BleavinWizards) to discuss the 2023-24 Washington Wizards and the beginning stages of their rebuild. SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLEAV IN WIZARDS pod here: https://bleav.com/shows/bleav-in-wizards/. TIMESTAMPS⬇️
0:00 – INTRO
1:01 – The Teardown!
4:21 – Did the Wizards get enough when they blew it up?
9:37 – Preparing Bilal Coulibaly experience
15:07 – Is Wes Unseld Jr. on the hot seat?
18:04 – The continued development of Deni Avdija
27:53 – Jordan Poole’s role
32:37 – Is Kyle Kuzma here to stay?
40:41 – Most intriguing long-term players on the roster
45:01 – Figuring out the back end of the roster: Anthony Gill, Xavier Cook, Patrick Baldwin Jr., Ryan Rollins, Danilo Gallinari, Johnny Davis
48:20 – How will the Wizards play on offense? On defense?
52:34 – The 10-man rotation
55:23 – Best crunch-time unit
56:34 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
59:06 – Win total prediction, Where do the Wizards stack up in the East?

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