Digest

The Ringer NFL show hosts Justin Berrier and Rob Mahoney delve into the NBA offseason, specifically focusing on teams with perplexing moves. They start with the Lakers, who have brought back last year's team with LeBron James signing a two-year max contract, but are still over a million dollars into the second apron. The hosts discuss the Lakers' limited options for improvement and their reliance on LeBron and Anthony Davis's health. Next, they examine the Warriors, who have made mildly intriguing moves after losing Clay Thompson and Chris Paul. The hosts question whether the Warriors can realistically compete with the top teams in the West without making a significant trade. The Jazz are also a source of confusion, with their abundance of cap space and lack of major moves. The hosts speculate on whether the Jazz are truly committed to a rebuild or if they are simply waiting for the right opportunity to make a big move. Finally, the hosts discuss the Mavericks, who have made a series of impressive moves, including signing Clay Thompson. They believe the Mavericks are poised for a strong regular season and could be a contender in the West. The hosts also touch on the Donovan Mitchell extension with the Cavaliers, questioning his level of influence within the organization and the potential for roster changes.

Outlines

00:00:00

Ringer NFL Show Introduction

This Chapter introduces the Ringer NFL show, highlighting its focus on NFL offseason developments and featuring a rotating cast of hosts throughout the summer months.

00:00:39

NBA Free Agency: What's Going On Here?

This Chapter dives into the NBA free agency period, specifically focusing on teams with perplexing offseasons. The hosts discuss the Lakers' decision to run it back with LeBron James, the Warriors' mildly intriguing moves after losing key players, the Jazz's uncertain direction, and the Mavericks' impressive additions, including Clay Thompson.

01:06:02

Donovan Mitchell's Extension and the Cavaliers' Future

This Chapter examines Donovan Mitchell's extension with the Cavaliers, highlighting his significant influence within the organization and the potential for roster changes. The hosts discuss the impact of Kenny Atkinson's arrival as head coach and the future of players like Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are the Lakers' biggest challenges in improving their roster this offseason?

  The Lakers are limited by their salary cap situation and the fact that their best player, LeBron James, is 40 years old. They have limited options for making significant upgrades and are largely reliant on LeBron and Anthony Davis's health.

• What are the Warriors' options for improving their roster after losing Clay Thompson and Chris Paul?

  The Warriors are limited by their cap space and the fact that they have a lot of young players who are important to their team's identity. They could make a significant trade, but it would likely involve giving up some of their young core.

• What is the Jazz's long-term plan, and how does Lauri Markkanen fit into it?

  The Jazz's long-term plan is unclear, but they have a lot of cap space and are in a position to make a big move. Lauri Markkanen could be a key piece in their future, but they may also be willing to trade him for a package of picks and young players.

• What are the Mavericks' biggest strengths after signing Clay Thompson?

  The Mavericks have a deep and talented roster, especially at the wing position. They have a strong offense led by Luka Doncic and a solid defense that will be even better with the addition of Clay Thompson.

• What is the significance of Donovan Mitchell's extension with the Cavaliers, and what does it mean for the team's future?

  Donovan Mitchell's extension signifies his significant influence within the Cavaliers organization. It suggests that he will have a say in roster decisions and the team's direction. The hosts question whether this will lead to changes in the roster, particularly with players like Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen.

Show Notes