Hardwood Knocks is rolling out 2022-23 NBA season lookaheads for EVERY. SINGLE. TEAM. You can find them all below as they come out. If this is your first time checking us out, please don’t forget to subscribe on BOTH YouTube and wherever you consume the audio version of your podcasts.

Atlanta Hawks Hawks Lookahead

Dan is joined by Lauren L. Williams (@WilliamsLaurenL) of the AJC for a deeeeeep dive into the 2022-23 Atlanta Hawks. They discuss everything from the Dejounte Murray fit with and without Trae Young to the future of John Collins and De’Andre Hunter to the best crunch-time lineup and 10-man rotation and much more! TIMESTAMPS BELOW⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
4:53 – The Dejounte Murray fit
9:41 – Will Trae Young be playing off the ball more?
15:17 – Have the Hawks complicated or optimized John Collins’ role?
22:28 – The future of De’Andre Hunter
24:43 – Clint Capela’s value
27:43 – More reps for Onyeka Okongwu
31:01 – JALEN JOHNSON TIME?!?
34:36 – Revisiting the Kevin Huerter trade
40:24 – The non-Trae minutes vs. The Defense
45:36 – Building a 10-man rotation
49:16 – The importance of starting the season on a high note
51:27 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
53:31 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
56:39 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Hawks finish in the East?

Boston Celtics Lookahead

Dan is joined by Boston Celtics expert Alex Kungu (@Kungu_NBA) to talk about—THAT’S RIGHT—the 2022-23 Boston Celtics. They discuss the impact of Robert Williams III missing probably the rest of 2022, the frontcourt rotation, the next frontier Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, Malcolm Brogdon’s fit, possible lineups, Ime Udoka’s suspension and much more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
1:46 – Ime Udoka/Joe Mazzulla
4:38 – Did the Celtics need to learn anything from their Finals loss?
6:33 – Impact of Robert Williams III injury
8:24 – Danilo Gallinari injury/The frontcourt rotation
11:18 – The Malcolm Brogdon fit
15:23 – Does Jaylen Brown have another gear?
20:02 – The Kevin Durant pursuit
23:22 – Projecting forward for Jayson Tatum
27:27 – Roster concerns
30:01 – Underrated strengths of the roster/Sam Hauser hype/Payton Pritchard’s role
33:09 – Will we see a Grant Williams extension?
36:25 – Are the Celtics built for a trade?
38:37 – The 10-man rotation
41:10 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
41:49 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
44:03 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Celtics land in the East?

Brooklyn Nets Lookahead

Dan is joined by Nets Daily’s Matt Brooks (MattBrooksNBA) for a deep dive into the 2022-23 Brooklyn Nets, a team that could be literally anything at this point. They discuss the offseason from hell, what’s next for Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, the fit of Ben Simmons, Brooklyn’s defensive potential, the rotation, different lineup combinations, substitution patterns and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
3:10 – Is the offseason drama behind the Nets?
6:23 – Timeline for return on Seth Curry, Joe Harris and TJ Warren
11:56 – Early impressions of Ben Simmons’ fit
17:00 – The Ben Simmons-Nic Claxton frontcourt/Ben Simmons-at-the-5
20:11 – New offensive identity?
24:42 – How should the Nets stagger their stars?
27:05 – Is there a role for Cam Thomas in Brooklyn/What about Kessler Edwards?
29:17 – Will Yuta Watanabe make the roster?
31:25 – Defensive identity
36:56 – Underrated strengths of the roster
39:12 – Biggest roster concerns
42:19 – Will the Nets be aggressive in search of roster upgrades?
44:43 – The 10-man rotation
46:45 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
47:37 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
49:42 – Over/under predictions, How many teams are better than the Nets?

Charlotte Hornets Lookahead

Dan is joined by Konata Edwards (@NataTheScribe) from CBS Sports to break down the ins and outs of the 2022-23 Charlotte Hornets. They discuss the team’s offseason, the next step for LaMelo Ball, how Steve Clifford will adapt his defense to Charlotte’s offense, the importance of Cody Martin, roles for James Bouknight and Mark Williams, the value of Gordon Hayward and much, MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:47 – Miles Bridges
8:24 – Offseason impressions
10:45 – The coaching search
14:36 – Can Steve Clifford improve the defense without sacrificing offensive identity?/Will Terry Rozier suffer?
19:10 – Has Gordon Hayward more important this year?
22:40 – How much will LaMelo Ball improve?
25:08 – Does LaMelo Ball need an off-the-dribble three?
27:59 – Mark Williams’ role and fit
30:24 – Year 4 expectations for P.J. Washington
34:12 – Importance of Cody Martin
38:07 – Does Kelly Oubre Jr. have a future in Charlotte?
40:02 – Should Charlotte trade for Jae Crowder?
41:48 – Roles for James Bouknight, JT Thor, Kai Jones
44:01 – Is Jalen McDaniels on his way out?
46:23 – Biggest roster concerns/Secondary guard rotation
52:01 – Building a 10-man rotation
53:24 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
54:20 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
56:24 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Hornets land in the East?
1:05:23 – Will Charlotte be better than expected?

Chicago Bulls Lookahead

Dan is joined by Jason Patt (@Bulls_Jay) from the Cash Considerations podcast as well as ClutchPoints, Blog A Bull and Forbes to discuss—you guessed it—the 2022-23 Chicago Bulls. Everything is on the table, including the Lonzo Ball injury, the development of Patrick Williams, the 10-man rotation, roster concerns, trade targets, Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan, the regression of Nikola Vucevic and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:35 – Offseason impressions
8:55 – Were the Bulls of last season for real?
12:55 – Will DeMar DeRozan regress?
17:16 – Impact of Lonzo Ball injury
21:16 – Patrick Williams’ development
29:30 – Should we be concerned about Nikola Vucevic?
36:20 – The center rotation
42:25 – Zach LaVine
47:19 – Coby White, Ayo Dosunmu, Goran Dragic
54:26 – Dalen Terry
56:46 – Biggest roster concerns
59:16 – Are the Bulls ripe for a trade?
1:05:48 – 10-man rotation
1:08:23 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
1:10:49 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:12:17 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Bulls land in the East?
1:16:26 – Would Chicago consider blowing it up?

Cleveland Cavaliers Lookahead

Dan is joined by Justin Rowan (@Cavsanada) of The Chase Down podcast to dig deep into the 2022-23 Cleveland Cavaliers. They break down the Donovan Mitchel trade nearly one month later, envision what leaps look like for Evan Mobley and Darius Garland, tackle the issues on the wing, cobble together a 10-man rotation and MUCH more! TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:27 – How surprising was the Donovan Mitchell trade?
7:02 – Was this the right time to trade for a star?
11:50 – Donovan Mitchell’s offensive fit
14:15 – Backcourt defense
17:58 – The starting 3 spot
20:56 – Isaac Okoro
22:46 – Dean Wade
25:05 – The future of Caris LeVert
30:07 – What does a leap from Evan Mobley look like?
35:28 – The next frontier for Darius Garland
40:05 – Ricky Rubio’s return/role
42:46 – Kevin Love’s role
46:09 – Can Jarrett Allen get better?
48:31 – Team culture
52:46 – Biggest roster concerns
56:11 – Building the 10-man rotation
58:36 – Go-to crunch-time unit
1:00:44 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:02:52 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Cavs rank in the East?

Dallas Mavericks Lookahead

Dan is joined by Kirk Henderson (@KirkSeriousFace) from Mavs Moneyball to discuss the ins and out of the 2022-23 Dallas Mavericks. They get into how much the team will miss Jalen Brunson, the defensive identity, lineups and rotations, whether the offense can play faster, Christian Wood’s fit and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:33 – Jalen Brunson’s exit
5:00 – Should they have been more aggressive over the offseason?
6:48 – The Luka Doncic-Spencer Dinwiddie
8:54 – Luka Doncic starting strong?
10:28 – The Josh Green experience
12:46 – Will Jaden Hardy play a role as a rookie?/Figuring out the secondary ball-handling
19:01 – Expectations for Christian Wood
23:38 – The impact of JaVale McGee
26:32 – Will the Mavs play two bigs a bunch?
29:38 – Is Dallas still a top-10 defense?
31:22 – Can the Mavericks get out in transition more?
34:06 – Do the Mavs have any underrated strengths?
35:57 – Are the Mavs a team to watch at the trade deadline?
39:38 – The 10-man rotation
40:51 – Go-to crunch-time unit
42:17 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
43:47 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Mavericks stand in the Western Conference?

Denver Nuggets Lookahead

Dan is joined by Adam Mares (@Adam_Mares) from DNVR and Locked on Nuggets for a deeeep dive into the 2022-23 Denver Nuggets. They discuss Nikola Jokic and the defense, offseason additions, the health of Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., the rise of Bones Hyland, the bench, Michael Malone’s rotation, optimizing Aaron Gordon and Bruce Brown, Zeke Nnaji’s future, the potential for trades and firings and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
1:56 – Offseason impressions
3:23 – The Jamal Murray return
4:41 – The Michael Porter Jr. return
7:01 – Staggering MPJ from Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic
8:37 – Will Michael Malone ditch hockey-style lineups?
10:31 – Can a Jokic-led team be good enough defensively to win a title?/His wrist injury
16:29 – The preseason defense
17:53 – Is Aaron Gordon fully optimized on this roster?
20:38 – Year 2 expectations for Bones Hyland
22:38 – The Zeke Nnaji hype
25:46 – Davon Reed’s role
26:36 – Christian Braun and Peyton Watson
28:08 – Underrated strengths
29:16 – The Bruce Brown fit
30:45 – Roster concerns not getting enough attention
31:33 – The 10-man rotation
34:13 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
35:54 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
37:25 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Nuggets land in the Western Conference?
42:38 – Is Michael Malone on the hot seat?/Trade scenarios

Detroit Pistons Lookahead

Dan is joined by Lazarus Jackson (@lazchance) from Detroit Bad Boys for a deeeeep dive into the 2022-23 Detroit Pistons. They discuss Cade Cunningham’s next step, his fit with Jaden Ivey, expectations for Killian Hayes and Jalen Duren, the team’s rotation, Marvin Bagley III’s future, win-loss predictions and MUUUUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
4:15 – Offseason impressions
7:41 – Bojan Bogdanovic’s fit
11:00 – Cade Cunningham’ development
17:16 – Rookie year expectations for Jaden Ivey/His fit with Cade Cunningham
27:49 – Isaiah Stewart playing beside other bigs
35:06 – Rookie year expectations for Jalen Duren/His fit next to Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey
38:58 – The trajectory of Killian Hayes
46:03 – How will Marvin Bagley III get used on this team?/How important is he?
51:16 – WHAT IS SADDIQ BEY?!?
56:54 – Nerlens Noel, Alec Burks, Cory Joseph
58:47 – Will Isaiah Livers have a consistent role?
1:00:05 – Is this team ripe for a midseason move?
1:01:17 – Building the 10-man rotation
1:02:51 – Go-to crunch-time unit
1:03:40 – Weirdo Lineups we want to see
1:04:00 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Pistons place in the East?
1:08:22 – Final thoughts, Does Hamidou Diallo fit into the rotation?, Cade Cunningham is God

Golden State Warriors Lookahead

Dan is joined by Sam Esfandiari (@samesfandiari) from the Light Years podcast (@lightyrspod) for a deep dive into the 2022-23 Golden State Warriors. Will Draymond Green punching Jordan Poole linger over the organization all year? Will Dray, Poole or Andrew Wiggins sign extensions? How much will the Warriors lean on Moses Moody, Jonathan Kuminga and James Wiseman? Is this team good enough to defend its latest title? What’s the rotation look like? Dan and Sam tackle all this—and more! TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
1:45 – Draymond Green, Jordan Poole
5:13 – Draymond Green’s future with the Warriors
8:36 – The Jordan Poole extension
11:43 – Where can Jordan Poole improve?
16:57 – Did they make mistake letting Gary Payton II and Otto Porter Jr. go?
18:58 – The fit of Donte DiVincenzo
20:15 – Will Andrew Wiggins get an extension?/Is his play sustainable?
22:35 – James Wiseman, Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody
26:27 – The offense without Stephen Curry
27:36 – Will Steph play enough in the MVP conversation?
29:27 – Jonathan Kuminga will be a regular rotation staple if…
32:10 – Realistic expectations for Klay Thompson
35:08 – Underrated strengths of the roster
36:45 – Roster concerns/Problematic matchups
41:42 – The 10-man rotation
43:39 – Go-to closing unit
44:49 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
45:50 – Over/under predictions, How many teams are more likely to win a title than the Warriors?
48:32 – What was it like covering last year’s title run?

Houston Rockets Lookahead

Dan is joined by Salman Ali (@salmanalinba) from Red Nation Hoops (@RedNationHoops) to break down the short- and long-term future of the Houston Rockets. Chief among the topics discussed: Jabari Smith Jr.’s trajectory, expectations for Jalen Green, Kevin Porter Jr.’ value, Alperen Sengun’s place in the NBA, the Rockets’ ability to shock the rest of the league, Houston’s 10-man rotation and MUCH more! TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – Intro
5:14: Offseason thoughts
6:13 – Alperen Sengun’s development
11:38 – Expectations for Jabari Smith Jr.
22:38 – Year 2 Jalen Green
27:49 – Kevin Porter Jr.’s ideal role
35:01 – TyTy Washington expectations
37:38 – Impressions of Tari Eason so far
41:02 – The value of Josh Christopher
47:18 – Usman Garuba’s development
50:58 – Building a 10-man rotation
55:34 – KJ Martin/Eric Gordon
1:01:08 – Who’s out before the regular season?
1:03:14 – Roster concerns
1:08:59 – Best crunch-time lineup
1:11:57 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:15:23 – Over/under predictions
1:22:19 – Final thoughts/Stephen Silas

Indiana Pacers Lookahead

Dan is joined by Caitlin Cooper (@C2_Cooper), the resident GOAT at Indy Cornrows, to break down the short- and long-term future of the Indiana Pacers. How can Tyrese Haliburton take the next step? Is Isaiah Jackson a point guard now? Will Bennedict Mathurin play a big role in Year 1? Do we finally get a Myles Turner trade? Can Indiana defend without true wings? They touch on all this, construct a 10-man rotation and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:40 – Offseason impressions/The Deandre Ayton pursuit
6:22 – Myles Turner trade murmurings
11:55 – How will the Pacers use Myles Turner?
15:52 – Expectations for Tyrese Haliburton
22:52 – How much will Bennedict Mathurin play during his rookie season?
26:27 – Can Jalen Smith succeed at the 4?
28:46 – Isaiah Jackson on the ball?!?
31:52 – Next step for Chris Duarte
35:22 – Offensive identity
38:57 – The wing depth
42:07 – Building a 10-man rotation, Who gets squeezed out of the rotation?
46:33 – Defensive identity
50:42 – Measuring progress of the rebuild
57:17 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
59:00 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:01:32 – Over/under prediction, Where do the Pacers land in the East?
1:07:36 – Popsicle Power Rankings

LA Clippers Lookahead

COMING WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19

Los Angeles Lakers Lookahead

Dan is joined by Jabari Ali Davis (@JabariDavisNBA) from the Miles and Jack Got Mad Boosties (@MadBoosties) and NBA Finals File podcasts for a deep dive into the 2022-23 Los Angeles Lakers. They discuss Russell Westbrook, his role and the potential for a trade. After that, they dig into the Lakers’ new addition, what to watch from Austin Reaves, a potential revenge season from Anthony Davis, the 10-man rotation, potential lineups and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:51 – The Russell Westbrook situation
9:27 – Russ to the bench?
12:19 – Best/worst offseason additions, The fit of Lonnie Walker IV, Importance of Juan Toscano-Anderson
20:15 – Impact of Kendrick Nunn
21:45 – Who gets squeezed out of the guard rotation?
26:48 – Anthony Davis revenge season incoming?
29:23 – Anthony Davis-at-the-5, Roles for Damian Jones and Thomas Bryant
34:42 – Year 2 expectations for Austin Reaves
36:50 – Underrated strengths
39:20 – The 10-man rotation
42:31- Go-to crunch-time lineup
43:54 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
47:17 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Lakers stack up in the Western Conference?
48:58 – Will LeBron James play fewer minutes?

Memphis Grizzlies Lookahead

Dan is joined by Keith Parish from the Fastbreak Breakfast (@fastbreakbreak) and Grits and Grinds (@grizzliespod) podcast for a deep dive into the 2022-23 Memphis Grizzlies. They start out by covering the Grizzlies’ decision to lean further into development over the offseason and getting into the impact of Jaren Jackson Jr.’s absence, as well as his offensive development. After that, they discuss the next frontier for Ja Morant, expectations for Desmond Bane and Ziaire Williams, the revelation that is Santi Aldama, the rotation, trade possibilities and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:46 – The offseason direction
9:49 – The next frontier for Ja Morant
16:19 – Timeline return for Jaren Jackson Jr./Defensive impact of his absence
21:30 – Jaren Jackson Jr.’s offense
24:41 – Year 3 expectations for Desmond Bane/Half-court initiation
29:57 – The development of Ziaire Williams
33:45 – Buy or sell Santi Aldama as an impact player
37:00 – Roles for Jake LaRavia and David Roddy
39:04 – Will Kenny Lofton Jr. get minutes
41:26 – Is the bench worse?
45:46 – Underrated strengths
50:16 – The 10-man rotation
51:40 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
54:36 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
58:20 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Grizzlies land in the Western Conference?
1:01:05 – Are the Grizzlies ripe for a trade?
1:05:21 – Brandon Clarke extension

Miami Heat Lookahead

Dan is joined by Allana Tachauer (@AllanaTachauer) from Five Reasons Sports to cannonball into the 2022-23 Miami Heat. They discuss the Tyler Herro extension and his development, the next step for Bam Adebayo, P.J. Tucker’s departure, Victor Oladipo’s role, Jimmy Butler, the rotation, trade targets and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
4:55 – Tyler Herro extension/His next step
11:48 – Offseason impressions
14:09 – The loss of P.J. Tucker/His replacement
19:12 – Trade targets at 3/4
22:16 – Duncan Robinson’s role
25:58 – The value of Victor Oladipo
28:34 – Who starts at the 2?
31:32 – How Bam Adebayo can get better
34:56 – THREE IMPORTANT JIMMY BUTLER QUESTIONS
39:07 – Concerned about Kyle Lowry?
44:08 – Actual roles for Omer Yurtseven and Nikola Jovic?!?
46:16 – Biggest roster concerns
48:17 – Underrated strengths of the roster
49:18 – Building a 10-man rotation
50:21 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
51:39 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
52:50 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Heat rank in the East

Milwaukee Bucks Lookahead

Dan is joined by Ti Windisch (@tiwindisch) from the Gyro Step Podcast for a deeeep dive into the Milwaukee Bucks ahead of the 2022-23 NBA season. Are the Bucks still favorites in the East? Will Giannis Antetokounmpo keep getting better? When will Khris Middleton be healthy? What should we expect from Brook Lopez and Jrue Holiday? Will rookie MarJon Beauchamp play? They discuss all of this—AND MORE! TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:11 – Offseason impressions
6:26 – How much of an impact will Joe Ingles have?
12:50 – Frontcourt rotation
19:09 – Khris Middleton’s timeline for return
20:43 – The fifth starter
25:56 – Expectations for Brook Lopez
31:05 – The next frontier for Giannis Antetokounmpo
35:44 – Jrue Holiday’s offensive game
39:46 – Can MarJon Beauchamp carve out a role in Year 1?
43:13 – Jevon Carter, Serge Ibaka, George Hill
47:38 – Biggest roster concern
50:34 – Most underrated part about the Bucks
51:52 – Building a 10-man rotation
54:52 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
56:40 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:00:09 – Over/under predictions/Place in the East

Minnesota Timberwolves Lookahead

Dan is joined by Derek James (@DerekJamesNBA), who covers the Minnesota Timberwolves for his Substack, By Derek James, to talk about—YOU GUESSED IT—the 2022-23 Minnesota Timberwolves. They get into everything from the Rudy Gobert trade and Anthony Edwards’ next step to how this team will defend and the 10-man rotation. Plus…MUCH MORE. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – Intro
3:25 – Offseason impressions
5:39 – The cost of the Rudy Gobert trade
12:46 – Rudy Gobert’s offensive fit
16:06 – The defense with Rudy Gobert
19:46 – Biggest concerns about Rudy Gobert-Karl-Anthony Towns partnership
25:35 – Is Karl-Anthony Towns under more pressure than ever?
26:32 – The trajectory of Anthony Edwards
31:35 The importance of Jaden McDaniels
33:13 – How D’Angelo Russell can make an impact
36:47 – Secondary guard rotation
38:43 – Best use of Kyle Anderson
39:56 – Stagerring Gobert and KAT
41:23 – Biggest roster concerns
43:29 – Building a 10-man rotation
45:58 – Go-to crunch-time unit
46:47 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
48:18 – Over/under prediction, Where do the Wolves stand in the Western Conference

New Orleans Pelicans Lookahead

Dan is joined by Shamit Dua (@FearTheBrown) of Boot Krewe Media and the In the N.O. podcast (@InTheNOPod) for a deep dive into the 2022-23 New Orleans Pelicans. They discuss the return of Zion Williamson, how he’ll fit with CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram, the defensive identity of the Pelicans, the development of Trey Murphy III and Dyson Daniels, New Orleans’ 10-man rotation, fun lineups and MUCH MORE. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
1:53 – The vibes in New Orleans are, in fact, immaculate
6:15 – Zion Williamson’s next step
9:45 – The Zion-CJ-McCollum-Brandon Ingram Dynamic
18:20 – Extensions for CJ McCollum/Larry Nance Jr.
25:08 – What’s next for Herb Jones?
27:08 – How good is Trey Murphy?
31:28 – Rookie-year expectations for Dyson Daniels
36:10 – Does Jaxson Hayes still fit with this team?
41:30 – Roles for Devonte’ Graham and Jose Alvarado
41:58 – The future of Kira Lewis Jr.
46:26 – Defensive identity and ceiling?
50:56 – Underrated strengths/weaknesses
54:51 – The 10-man rotation
56:13 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
1:00:29 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:02:29 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Pelicans land in the West?

New York Knicks Lookahead

Dan is joined by Andrew Claudio (@AndrewJClaudio_) from Knicks Film School (@KnickFilmSkool) to dissect everything and anything about the 2022-23 New York Knicks. They discuss the Donovan Mitchell trade that wasn’t, the impact of Jalen Brunson, how RJ Barrett can develop into a star, the future of Julius Randle, roles for Obi Toppin, Quentin Grimes and Immanuel Quickley, the future of head coach Tom Thibodeau, lineups, the 10-man rotation and so much more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
1:30 – Is Andrew surviving the New York Mets’ postseason elimination?
4:51 – Reflecting on the Donovan Mitchell trade that wasn’t
12:59 – Impact of Jalen Brunson
18:28 – The biggest barrier separating RJ Barrett from stardom
21:11 – The Julius Randle discussion
25:17 – Obi Toppin’s ceiling
29:38 – Isaiah Hartenstein’s fit
31:20 – Can Mitchell Robinson expand his offensive armory?
32:37 – Playing time for Quentin Grimes, Cam Reddish and Immanuel Quickley
36:42 – How good is Quentin Grimes?
39:20 – The future of Immanuel Quickley
42:56 – Biggest roster concerns
45:01 – Underrated strengths
51:30 – The 10-man rotation
56:31 – Is Tom Thibodeau on the hot seat?
1:06:13 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
1:09:07 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:15:05 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Knicks finish in the Eastern Conference?

Oklahoma City Thunder Lookahead

Dan is joined by Olivia Panchal (@olivianba), formerly of Daily Thunder, for an extensive discussion about the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Chet Holmgren injury, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Josh Giddey, the future and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS BELOW⬇️

0:30 – Intro
2:39 – Chet Holmgren injury
4:55 – Impact of Chet’s injury on timeline
6:11 – Outside perception of the Thunder’s rebuild
10:16 – Does Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have another leap in him?
18:00 – Josh Giddey’s development
21:22 – Jalen Williams, Jaylin Williams and Ousmane Dieng
24:04 – Alexsej Pokusevski’s future
27:24 – The futures of Tre Mann, Aaron Wiggins and Vit Krejci
29:06 – Building a 10-man rotation for Oklahoma City
38:48 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
40:02 – Biggest roster needs
42:42 – Best crunch-time lineup
44:39 – Over/under predictions
47:46 – Final thoughts/Lu Dort

Orlando Magic Lookahead

Dan is joined by Khobi Price (khobi_price) of the Orlando Sentinel for a deeeeeep dive into the 2022-23 Orlando Magic. They get into expectations for Paolo Banchero’s rookie year, the importance of Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs trying to have a bounce-back season, lineups the team should try, the potential 10-man rotation, Jonathan Isaac’s role and MUCH MORE! TIMESTAMPS BELOW⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
1:31 – Offseason Impressions
2:56 – Expectations for Paolo Banchero in Year 1
13:00 – The importance of Wendell Carter Jr.
19:36 – Franz Wagner’s next level
26:43 – Expectations for Jalen Suggs in Year 2
34:56 – Timelines for Jonathan Isaac and Gary Harris
38:92 – Jonathan Isaac’s long-term fit
46:53 – Markelle Fultz’s future
53:15 – Chuma Okeke’s development
56:17 – Biggest roster concern
58:32 – Building a 10-man rotation
1:03:48 – Are the Magic ripe for a trade?
1:08:27 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
1:14:06 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:16:51 – Over/under predictions, Orlando’s place in the East

Philadelphia 76ers Lookahead

Dan is joined by Bryan Toporek (@btoporek) from Liberty Ballers and The NBA Podcast (@TheNBAPod) for a deeeep dive into the 2022-23 Philadelphia 76ers. TIMESTAMPS BELOW⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:46 – Offseason thoughts
7:12 – Is James Harden on the decline?
12:37 – Joel Embiid-James Harden partnership
14:28 – Two MVP candidates?
19:19 – Tyrese Maxey’s development
28:50 – Paul Reed/Backup center rotation
33:10 – Matisse Thybulle
36:40 – Speed of the offense
38:44 – Biggest roster concerns
40:03 – Trade targets
44:42 – Player most likely to be traded
45:22 – 10 man rotation
47:17 – Player most likely to have a bigger role than expected
48:48 – Best crunch-time unit
51:01 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
53:33 – Over/Under and playoff predictions
59:53 – Final thoughts

Phoenix Suns Lookahead

Dan is joined by Mike Vigil (@protectedpick) from The Timeline Podcast (@TheTimelinePod) for a deep dive into the 2022-23 Phoenix Suns. They tackle…well, they cover EVERYTHING. Robert Sarver, DeAndre Ayton, Jae Crowder trades, the development of Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson, Chris Paul’s age, Devin Booker’s stardom, the rotation, quirky lineups, Phoenix’s place in the NBA title picture—you name it, they go into detail on it. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
3:28 – Robert Sarver
9:35 – Should we be concerned about Deandre Ayton?
13:00 – The Jae Crowder situation
19:17 – What will a Jae Crowder trade look like?/Trade targets
34:23 – Deandre Ayton’s next frontier
39:28 – Is Mikal Bridges ready for more on-ball responsibility?
43:14 – Cam Johnson extension
45:22 – Cam Johnson with the starters/His next offensive frontier
48:46 – How good can Chris Paul be at age 37?
51:05 – DEVIN BOOKER AT POINT GUARD?!?
57:44 – Expectations for Landry Shamet
1:00:12 – The secondary frontcourt rotation, Jock Landale, Dario Saric
1:05:59 – Damion Lee vs. Josh Okogie vs. Torrey Craig
1:08:18 – Hidden gems or concerns
1:09:50 – The 10-man rotation
1:14:53 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
1:17:16 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:18:31 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Suns rank in the Western Conference?

Portland Trail Blazers Lookahead

Dan is joined by Tara Bowen-Biggs (@tcbbiggs) from the We Have A Take Podcast (@wehaveatake) for a deeeeeeep dive into the 2022-23 Portland Trail Blazers. They discuss the team’s biggest offseason additions in Jerami Grant and Gary Payton II, along with the extension and future for Damian Lillard. After that, they get into Anfernee Simons’ development, the importance of Jusuf Nurkic, the rotation, lineup, predictions and MUCH more! TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
3:39 – Offseason impressions
6:25 – Chauncey Billups
10:26 – The direction
14:36 – Damian Lillard’s return from injury
17:45 add
19:46 – The impact of Jerami Grant/His fit with Jusuf Nurkic
25:01 – Gary Payton II’s fit
29:13 – How tall is Anfernee Simons REALLY?
29:56 – Where has Anfernee Simons improved?, His partnership with Dame
35:00 – How much will Shadeon Sharpe play?
39:08 – The fifth starter
39:36 – The importance Nassir Little
40:58 – Expectations for Jusuf Nurkic
45:55 – Secondary center rotation, Roles for Trendon Watford and Jabari Walker
49:10 – Preparing for a different style
51:04 – Roster concerns
53:36 – Building a 10-man rotation, Justise Winslow’s role, Greg Brown III
58:02 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:01:06 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
1:06:53 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Blazers stack up in the West
1:09:40 – Blazers player pet sleuthing!

Sacramento Kings Lookahead

Dan is joined by Managing Editor of The Kings Herald Greg Wissinger (@gwiss) to talk about—you guessed it—the 2022-23 Sacramento Kings. Is the Domantas Sabonis trade looking better? How’s his fit with De’Aaron Fox? Was Keegan Murray the right draft pick? How will this team defend under head coach Mike Brown? What’s the wing rotation look like? Is this squad rip for a trade? We get into it ALL…and more! TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:13 – The Mike Brown hire
7:26 – Thoughts on the Domantas Sabonis trade
11:58 – Early impressions of the De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis fit
14:46 – What do the Kings need to see from De’Aaron Fox in Year 6?
20:48 – Rookie-year expectations for Keegan Murray
23:55 – Thoughts on the Kevin Huerter trade/The Kevin Huerter fit
26:52 – How will the new-look Kings use Davion Mitchell?/Davion Mitchell’s offensive development
31:03 – Does Richaun Holmes have a future in Sacramento?
35:01 – How will the Kings defend with Sabonis at the 38:04 – Harrison Barnes’ defense/His future in Sacramento
42:42 – The secondary frontcourt rotation
45:22 – Trade targets to fill minutes on the wing
49:00 – Building a 10-man rotation
51:42 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
53:00 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
56:01 – Over/under predictions, The Kings’ place in the Western Conference

San Antonio Spurs Lookahead

Dan is joined by Paul Garcia (@PaulGarciaNBA) from Project Spurs and Spurscast (@TheSpurscast) for a deep dive into the 2022-23 San Antonio Spurs. They talk about the organization’s decision to really rebuild, the development of Devin Vassell and Josh Primo, Keldon Johnson’s trajectory, rookie-year expectations for Jeremy Sochan, Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley, trades, Victor Wembanyama, the 10-man rotation and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
1:48 – The Dejounte Murray trade, Franchise direction
4:35 – How much longer will Gregg Popovich coach?
6:56 – Keldon Johnson timetable for return/What will his role look like?
10:00 – Josh Primo timeline for return/His offensive development
13:01 – The lowdown on Tre Jones
14:12 – Devin Vassell’s development
18:38 – How much leeway will the rookies get?
19:28 – Rookie-year expectations for Jeremy Sochan
21:37 – Roles for Malaki Branham, Blake Wesley
23:38 – Offensive identity
25:56 – Early impressions of HEALTHY Zach Collins
27:46 – Who’s the third big?
29:06 – The futures of Jakob Poeltl, Josh Richardson and Doug McDermott
32:10 – Should the Spurs trade for Russell Westbrook?
34:10 – Roster concerns beyond the obvious
34:57 – Roster strengths beyond the obvious
36:44 – The 10-man rotation
37:41 – Go-to crunch-time unit
38:18 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
39:14 – Over/under predictions, Where will the Spurs finish in the West?
43:37 – Victor Wembanyama

Toronto Raptors Lookahead

Dan is joined by Imman Adan (@Imman_Adan) from Yahoo Sports Canada and the Dishes & Dimes podcast (@dishesdimespod) for a deep dive into the 2022-23 Toronto Raptors. They discuss the next phase of Scottie Barnes’ development, whether Pascal Siakam can enter the MVP discussion, OG Anunoby’s offensive potential, Precious Achiuwa going kaboom, the half-court offense, the defense, the rotation, Toronto’s long-term future and so much more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
4:16 – Offseason impressions
7:10 – Year 2 expectations for Scottie Barnes
11:10 – OG Anuonby’s role on offense
15:49 – Does Pascal Siakam have another gear?
24:35 – The rise of Precious Achiuwa
33:42 – Role for Dalano Banton
37:30 – The half-court offense
39:41 – The future of Gary Trent Jr. and Fred VanVleet
43:07 – Impact of the “take foul” on the Raptors offense
46:55 – Early impressions of Christian Koloko
48:04 – Underrated strengths of the roster
49:18 – The 10-man rotation
57:11 – Go-to closing unit
1:00:12 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
1:02:27 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Raptors land in the East?

Utah Jazz Lookahead

Dan is joined by Tony Jones (@Tjonesonthenba) from The Athletic for a deep dive into the 2022-23 Utah Jazz. They discuss the organization’s decision to trade Rudy Gobert, Donovan Mitchell, Bojan Bogdanovic and Royce O’Neale over the offseason, and what it means for the future. Then, they get into how the Jazz will play this year, the early rotation, expectations for Walker Kessler and Ochai Agbaji, trade candidates and much more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:22 – THE OFFSEASON
5:59 – Was keeping Donovan Mitchell ever on the table?
7:35 – Play style under Will Hardy
9:05 – Will the Jazz tank?
15:59 – Collin Sexton’s long-term value
20:08 – How to measure progress for the Jazz?
24:41 – Early impressions of Walker Kessler
27:56 – The value of Jarred Vanderbilt/Can he play with Walker Kessler?
29:12 – Will Ochai Agbaji be in the rotation?
31:10 – Nickeil Alexander-Walker vs. Talen Horton-Tucker
37:16 – Underrated strengths
40:34 – The future of Jordan Clarkson
41:41 – The 10-man rotation
42:37 – Go-to crunch-time lineup
44:28 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
47:56 – Trade over/unders, The future of Mike Conley
51:55 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Jazz land in the West?
56:34 – The importance of getting this rebuild right

Washington Wizards Lookahead

Dan is joined by Matt Modderno (@MattModderno) from Bullets Forever and the Bleav in Wizards Podcast (@BleavinWizards) for a deep dive into the 2022-23 Washington Wizards. They discuss the decision to give Bradley Beal EVERYTHING in free agency and whether he can have a bounce back year. From there, they get into Kristaps Porzingis and his fit with Beal, the development of Deni Avdija, Corey Kispert and Rui Hachimura, the ideal role for Kyle Kuzma, the rotation, over/under predictions and MUCH more. TIMESTAMPS⬇️

0:30 – INTRO
2:14 – The Bradley Beal decision
6:07 – Any concerns about Beal’s 2021-22 season?
7:30 – Reflecting on the Will Barton and Monte Morris trade
10:31 – Kristaps Porzingis’ impact/fit with Bradley Beal
17:03 – The fit and future of Kyle Kuzma
22:45: The Deni Avdija experience/His development
28:16 – What is Rui Hachimura?
31:58 – Development of Corey Kispert
34:06 – Role for Daniel Gafford
37:08 – Concern for Johnny Davis?
41:19 – Defensive ceiling
46:00 – Roster concerns
47:56 – Underrated strengths of the roster/The value of Delon Wright
50:06 – The 10-man rotation
51:33 – Go-to crunch-time unit
52:52 – Weirdo lineups we want to see
54:50 – Over/under predictions, Where do the Wizards land in the Eastern Conference?