About this episode
Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers discuss the NBA season that has wrapped up. Free agent moves and much more. Kevin Durant’s Arrival in Houston (1:45–9:11) Durant was acquired for Green and a pick, with minimal downgrade to rotation. Mackenzie assigned a +3 point net value to Houston, projecting a 58-win season via Pythagorean models. Houston now features elite coaching (Ime Udoka) and depth across positions. Denver Nuggets Strengthen (14:57–20:38) Cam Johnson, Bruce Brown, and a potential Valanciunas deal enhance Jokic’s support. Mackenzie noted improved flexibility and defense. Despite Vegas favoring them less in regular season, they’re top-tier playoff contenders. Milwaukee Bucks Crisis (24:13–29:18) Dame waived for financial and personal reasons. Miles Turner signs for $107M but doesn’t replace Lopez’s defense. Mackenzie ranks them 20th in power ratings despite Vegas’ 40:1 title odds. Janis likely to be traded soon. Lakers Sign DeAndre Ayton (33:31–37:25) Ayton brings personality and effort concerns. His 18% rim contest rate is worst among centers. Despite teaming up with Luka/LeBron, Mackenzie predicts defensive issues. Projects 43.5 wins, lower than market’s 46.5. LeBron’s Decision (37:26–42:08) He picks up $53M player option but keeps future open. Trade to GS for Jimmy Butler floated. Lakers prioritize future cap space over winning now—frustrating for LeBron’s timeline. Knicks Coaching & Continuity (44:49–47:54) Mike Brown seen as a lateral move from Thibs. Knicks kept core roster and added bench depth. Mackenzie makes them East favorites until Garland returns fully for Cavs. Magic Breakout Prediction (51:56–56:43) Desmond Bane and Jalen Suggs boost perimeter threat. Age curve and returns from injury forecast >50 wins. Mackenzie places them #2 in East behind the Cavs, calling them a regular-season powerhouse. Dallas Mavericks Evaluation (57:30–1:00:58) Kyrie’s uncertain return hurts projection. Additions like DLo and Anthony Davis strengthen floor but limit ceiling. Mackenzie projects 39–41 wins, making them a fringe play-in team. Philadelphia 76ers Uncertainty (1:00:58–1:04:52) Despite roster similarity to last year, health of Embiid/PG makes projections volatile. Embiid played only 19 games last season. Munaf leans under; Mackenzie says to wait for in-season evidence. Closing Thoughts & Summer League Preview (1:06:32–1:07:53) Hosts close with excitement for Summer League and reflection on rapid offseason changes. Mackenzie teases potential picks and returns for more Summer League coverage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices