The Kevin O’Connor Show

On today's new episode of the Kevin O'Connor Show, we've got NBA Trade Deadline madness, rumors and news with Tom Haberstroh. First up, Jimmy Butler's name has been recently linked to the Golden State Warriors. Kevin has sources close to that situation that you need to hear. Plus, the major contenders that are all showing interest in Zach LaVine. Kevin and Tom weigh in on why the Milwaukee Bucks may have to deal for the Chicago Bulls star if they want to make a run this season. Plus, trade insights involving or affecting Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant, De'Aaron Fox, Victor Wembanyama, Myles Turner, Cam Johnson and more.

And should the Philadelphia 76ers finally just blow it up, and start tanking the rest of this season? What do Tom and Kevin think about Adam Silver's 10-minute quarter idea? It's all on this monster episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show!
 

(0:54) Latest Jimmy Butler trade buzz

(21:22) De’Aaron Fox on the trade block

(33:02) To tank or not to tank: Bulls

(36:35) To tank or not to tank: Pistons

(39:24) To tank or not to tank: Sixers

(43:59) Do Pacers need to make a trade?

(46:18) Do Bucks need to make a trade?

(51:52) Do Thunder need to make a trade?

(55:34) 10 min quarters?

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On today's massive MAILBAG edition of The Kevin O'Connor Show, KOC is joined by 3x NBA champion Danny Green. Which player should the Boston Celtics target in a trade if they want to repeat? The Houston Rockets are rolling thanks to Amen Thompson, but what is his ceiling as a player? Is Danny Green buying stock in the suddenly-surging Indiana Pacers? Should Steph Curry be applying pressure to the Golden State Warriors front office? Plus, wait until you hear Danny's reaction to Jusuf Nurkic's comments about the Phoenix Suns and Coach Bud. And who's more likely to go back-to-back-to-back: Patrick Mahomes or Mac McClung?

Plus, Dane Moore stops by for a deep dive on the Minnesota Timberwolves. Has Julius Randle turned a corner, or should Wolves fans still be praying for a trade? All this and more on a jam-packed mailbag edition of The KOC Show!

(0:08) Jimmy Butler suspended

(2:35) Danny Green joins

(2:41) Amen Thompson ceiling

(6:53) Celtics trade targets

(11:47) Pacers recent surge

(14:29) Richards impact on Suns

(16:29) Nurkic comments on Suns organization 

(20:39) Steph pressure on GSW front office?

(23:58) Which player has been traded most?

(26:42) Dane Moore joins

(27:46) Timberwolves improvements

(35:57) Randle trade?

(43:46) Dillingham usage

(53:07) Ace Bailey draft stock

(55:02) Mahomes or McClung more likely to repeat?

(56:45) Beard contractual obligations

(57:27) Mount Rushmore of guitar players

(58:38) Balancing work, family & friends

(1:00:32) Warzone season 2

(1:02:03) Leg press

(1:04:14) Father John Misty

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On this episode of 'The Kevin O'Connor Show,' NBA player Larry Nance Jr. stops by to remember his former teammate, Kobe Bryant. Both KOC and Larry have a hard time believing it's been 5 years since we lost the legend. They talk about the lasting impact Kobe had on Larry's career and some of the funny moments they shared on and off the court. Larry had a front row seat to Kobe's 60-point final game and told Kevin what it was like watching that special night unfold.

Tom Haberstroh joins to discuss the latest news from around the league, including the latest on trade talks surrounding disgruntled Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler. The two also discuss Steph Curry, Zach LaVine, Khris Middleton, Bradley Beal, the injury-riddled Dallas Mavericks, and more.

(0:53) Suns trade 1st round pick to Jazz

(7:17) Jimmy Butler suspended again

(12:33) Zach LaVine trade buzz

(20:03) Steph Curry to the Spurs?

(40:09) Dereck Lively injury update

(42:43) Jarred Vanderbilt cleared to play

(43:10) Tom's favorite Kobe Bryant memories

(45:48) Remembering Kobe Bryant with Larry Nance Jr. 

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On this absolutely jam-packed edition of the Kevin O'Connor Show, ESPN's Bobby Marks *and* college basketball guru John Fanta both stop by to talk hoops. First up, the Front Office insider Marks is asked whether he believes the Memphis Grizzlies are the secret team in the running for Jimmy Butler. Knowing he's a rental like what the Toronto Raptors once got for Kawhi Leonard, would the Grizz do it? Plus KOC and Bobby break down the trade possibilities for 3 disappointing teams: the Phoenix Suns, the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Golden State Warriors. Interestingly enough, Bobby and Kevin both seem to think Draymond Green could be moved to the Dallas Mavericks or the Detroit Pistons. And between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder, which powerhouse is the more likely trade destination for Cam Johnson?

And when John Fanta stops by, Cooper Flagg is the name of the game. Which NBA player comps can they both see in the Duke phenom? Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Garnett, and Anthony Davis are just some of the names that the guys land on when it comes to the guaranteed #1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Plus, TikTok may be in flux but PikTok is here to stay — Kevin introduces a new segment which is just that: talkin’ 2025 NBA draft prospects as seen through the eyes of the college basketball expert, Mr. Fanta.

(1:00) - Grizzlies defeat Timberwolves: Jimmy Butler to Memphis?

(7:45) - Cavs defeat Suns: Should Cavs trade for Cam Johnson?

(21:00) - Julius Randle for Cam Johnson?

(24:50) - Celtics defeat Warriors: time to trade Draymond Green?

(40:55) - KOC saw Cooper Flagg in person

(55:15) - Favorite non-top-three guy to watch: Derik Queen

(1:01:30) - Player who could steal #2 slot: Kasparas Jakucionis

(1:06:35) - Freshman standout to watch: Thomas Sorber

(1:11:10) - Senior ready for the NBA: Kam Jones

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

On this episode of the Kevin O'Connor Show, Tom Haberstroh and KOC play a little game of Panic Meter with certain NBA teams that are struggling as of late. Should these teams feel CHILL, should they be SWEATING or is it full blown PANIC? The guys start with the Boston Celtics, who have been playing .500 ball as of late. Is Kristaps Porzingis entirely to blame for Boston's recent woes? The second team Kevin and Tom evaluate are the Minnesota Timberwolves. Both guys are panicking, and Julius Randle is the main reason why. But is "Dubious Handles" impossible to move ahead of the deadline? And thirdly, the Golden State Warriors. Kevin and Tom both think the Warriors have no shot to win this season, and it may be time for Steph and the Dubs to part ways.

Would that potential divorce look similar to how Tom Brady left the New England Patriots? Would Warriors fans still support Steph, even if he were to leave? KOC thinks Steph owes nothing to the Warriors, and it would benefit Curry and the NBA if he were moved to a contender. In fact, what if that contender was the Houston Rockets? Kevin and Tom have concocted a hypothetical trade you need to see to believe. And if Rockets trade rumors are your thing, don't miss KOC and Tom discuss hypotheticals involving Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, as the Phoenix Suns' season of misery continues.

(0:29) Panic meter

(0:50) Celtics panic meter

(11:35) Timberwolves panic meter

(25:36) Warriors panic meter

(40:26) Suns trade for Nick Richards

(51:18) Scoot Henderson scores 39

(53:31) After the pod: bonus Warriors trade talk

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On this episode of the Kevin O'Connor Show, Morgan Ragan and Deuce Mason of the Deuce & Mo Podcast hop on to tell Kevin how wrong he's been about their beloved Sacramento Kings. Deuce and Mo don't hold back, as they're sick and tired of the negative Kings takes KOC has dished out this season - enough is enough! Especially now that the team is on their improbable win streak. They discuss the surprising differences between interim head coach Doug Christie and former head coach Mike Brown. And a must-see blockbuster trade proposal that KOC concocted to bring Cam Johnson to Sacramento.

Plus an incredible mailbag that features Kevin declaring the Big Baller Brand is all the way back (and he's got the gear to prove it). Find out how LiAngelo, LaMelo and Lonzo are making their old man proud. KOC also weighs in on Tyler Herro's incredible ascent for the Miami Heat, if the Portland Trail Blazers might need to consider moving on from Scoot Henderson, why the New Orleans Pelicans have almost nothing to be optimistic about, and if the Orlando Magic might be the perfect trade destination for Zach LaVine.

(1:08) Deuce & Mo talk the Sacramento Kings

(2:32) Domantas Sabonis improvement

(7:26) Kings offense under Doug Christie

(23:14) How long will the win-streak continue?

(24:31) Should the Kings make a trade before the deadline?

(36:42) Mailbag

(36:48) Mailbag: Big Baller Brand

(38:23) Mailbag: Tyler Herro

(41:13) Mailbag: Russell Westbrook

(45:15) Mailbag: Scoot Henderson

(48:05) Mailbag: Top Shot buy low options

(50:23) Mailbag: New Orleans Pelicans

(52:23) Mailbag: Orlando Magic

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On this episode of the Kevin O'Connor Show, Tom Haberstroh hops on to discuss the instant classic between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder and of course the latest trade rumors as we inch closer to the deadline. Kevin and Tom both agree after Wednesday night's statement victory, the Cleveland Cavaliers are bona fide NBA title contenders. KOC points out the Cavs' depth is full of unsung heroes like Ty Jerome and Dean Wade. They know the matchup might not be the sexiest when it comes to TV ratings, but who cares! They both want to see these two teams face off again in June and luckily for fans these 2 teams face off again next week (if only Chet Holmgren was healthy!)

The guys broke down the chances of the New Orleans Pelicans actually moving Zion Williamson now that he's back in the lineup and looking great. Tom's idea: why shouldn't the Spurs take a swing for Zion? Pairing Williamson and Wemby might be the modern day equivalent of Shaq-Kobe when it comes to unstoppable duos. The trade chatter didn't stop there: each of the guys give their take on where Bradley Beal and Jimmy Butler could wind up, too. While Golden State Warriors fans wish Steph Curry would get some help, the guys explain why GSW may stand pat. And speaking of "Pat," Riley and the Miami Heat might be better off tanking for Cooper Flagg at this point. Fresh off Tom attending Duke's last game, Tom and Kevin discuss the ultra-talented 18-year-old.
 

(1:45) - Cavaliers beat Thunder, prove they are legit

(17:40) - Wemby no match for Giannis in Spurs-Bucks showdown

(26:40) - Zion Williamson returns, should NOP sell-high?

(35:30) - Why the Warriors need to trade now

(40:35) - Latest on Jimmy Butler, Bradley Beal trade rumors

(50:05) - Cooper Flagg, still definitely tops in this year's draft class

(55:30) - Reed Sheppard gets his groove back in G-League

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

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On this episode of the Kevin O'Connor Show, Mo Dakhil of Bleacher Report hops on to discuss a wild Monday night in the NBA, and of course the latest trade rumors as we inch closer to the deadline. One of the teams that can't escape trade rumors, the Phoenix Suns, were in action on Monday — and got a huge win after Coach Bud decided to remove Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic from the starting lineup. Mo wonders if Bradley would waive his no-trade clause, while Kevin thinks a certain Eastern Conference Playoff team could be in the mix. And speaking of trade rumors involving Eastern Conference powers — could the Milwaukee Bucks be the surprise team to make a run at acquiring Jimmy Butler?

The guys broke down the chances of the New Orleans Pelicans actually moving Zion Williamson this season — why they both could see the Golden State Warriors making a run at the oft-injured superstar. Plus — Kevin and Mo react to the Orlando Magic getting the surprise win against the New York Knicks, they hit the Los Angeles Clippers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves game, and also Coby White and the Chicago Bulls' thrilling win over the San Antonio Spurs. Before the guys call it a day, Kevin asks Mo ahead of Wednesday's monster showdown: what is more impressive between the Oklahoma City Thunder defense and Cleveland Cavaliers offense?

(00:45) - Suns win & Jimmy Butler trade talk

(21:05) - Wolves come back against Clippers

(29:15) - Jamahl Mosley for Coach of the Year?

(38:00) - Did Doug Christie save the Sacramento Kings?

(40:20) - Should Pelicans showcase Zion for a trade?

(48:50) - Bulls-Spurs recap

(56:30) - Boston Celtics vs. Denver Nuggets preview

(1:02:30) - Thunder vs. Cavs preview

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

Goodbye 2024, hello 2025. With the new year only three days into existence, Kevin O'Connor is joined by Yahoo Sports contributor Tom Haberstroh to conjure up ten wild predictions for the remaining 363 days.

Kevin outlines the reason Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is primed to win his first MVP this season, Tom explains why a LeBron James trade is coming this offseason and how it connects to his son Bryce James' commitment to Arizona and the guys predict into a whole lot more. There's even some predictions for you Charlotte Hornets fans out there.

Buckle up for ten of KOC and Tom Haberstroh's most outlandish, yet realistic, NBA predictions for 2025.

(0:05) - Jimmy Butler's comments signal upcoming trade

(9:45) - SGA wins his first MVP

(16:35) - Wemby breaks Kobe's 81 point mark

(23:15) - Jalen Johnson makes Eastern Conf. All-Stars

(26:55) - Houston trades Reed Sheppard

(29:15) - Phoenix gets rid of stars, goes full rebuild mode

(37:05) - A star draft prospect holds out

(44:55) - Charlotte trades LaMelo Ball

(49:07) - Vince Wiliams Jr. is a starter and major contributor on Memphis

(51:15) - Golden State trades for LeBron James

(1:05:55) - Cleveland wins the Eastern Conference, goes to NBA Finals

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

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In this episode of the Kevin O'Connor Show, KOC is joined by Dan Titus to break down some of the NBA's biggest trade moves and coaching shakeups before deep diving on the Detroit Pistons with Bryce Simon. KOC and Dan start with the recent D'Angelo Russell trade, with the Los Angeles Lakers acquiring Dorian Finney-Smith. KOC and Dan discuss what else the Lakers need before the conversation turns to the Memphis Grizzlies, who missed out on DFS in this deal. KOC and Titus evaluate what this means for Memphis, which has been struggling to find its footing this season. Meanwhile, over in Brooklyn, the Nets' latest moves signal a full rebuild. KOC also takes a moment to reflect on the Orlando Magic’s standout Tristan Da Silva turning heads as the team’s depth continues to shine.

Later in the episode, the guys discuss a range of topics, from Mike Brown's firing in Sacramento to the state of the NBA's culture around fighting and villains in the game. KOC and DT weigh in on the Sacramento Kings' disappointing start and the reality that the team needs a full reset. They debate the best landing spots for D’Aaron Fox, with the San Antonio Spurs emerging as a dream destination.

Later, KOC and Bryce Simon dive into the Detroit Pistons' early season performance, with a focus on Cade Cunningham's development. While Cunningham has made significant strides in his shooting, KOC questions whether his struggles with finishing at the rim and turnovers could hinder his potential as a true #1 option. They also discuss the inconsistency of Ivey and Duren, the Pistons' potential draft plans and whether adding a player like Zach LaVine could be the key to unlocking the team’s next level.

(1:10) - D'Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets, Dorian Finney-Smith to the Lakers

(11:05) - Should Grizzlies fans be concerned about missing out on Finney-Smith?

(17:15) - Magic depth pieces shine in comeback win

(20:10) - Should the NBA allow fights?

(23:35) - Mike Brown fired: will the Kings finally reset?

(43:05) - Pistons deep dive with Bryce Simon

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

The NBA's five-game lineup on Christmas Day delivered against a crowded sports landscape in which the NFL (and Beyoncé) tried to make waves of their own on the Wednesday holiday. Kevin O'Connor is joined by Yahoo Sports contributor Tom Haberstroh to break down all five games from the Christmas day slate.

Starting with Victor Wembanyama's statement game in a road loss to the New York Knicks, the guys argue that Wemby has already entered into elite top-ten player status and his 42-point MSG opus is just the start of another decade of dominance.

They also discuss Luka Dončić's leg injury in a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves and why Luka's lack of conditioning is finally catching up to him.

Kevin & Tom later break down the Philadelphia 76ers' win against the reigning champion Boston Celtics and if the Sixers have finally turned things around after a rough start to the season.

LeBron James & Steph Curry had yet another Christmas day battle, this time with Austin Reaves playing the pivotal role in a 115-113 Lakers win. This was everything Christmas day NBA games should be and LeBron even took shots at the NFL encroaching on the NBA's territory after the game.

Wrapping up the show, the guys discuss the Denver Nuggets falling to the Phoenix Suns, why Nikola Jokić needs a better supporting cast, and if improvements don't come to Denver soon, how Jokić could soon be making waves with lobbying to move onto greener pastures.

(1:15) - Wemby shines in MSG loss to Knicks

(12:00) - Luka's injury the big story of MIN/DAL

(20:40) - Did Sixers turn around their season vs. Celts?

(30:55) - Lakers/Warriors was legendary

(39:20) - Lakers or Warriors: who needs a big trade more?

(44:55) - Counting down until Jokić is unhappy in Denver

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

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In this festive episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show, Kevin O'Connor and Wosny Lambre share their NBA Christmas wishes that they want to see come true this season. First, KOC suggests the Sacramento Kings should trade D’Aaron Fox while his value is at its peak. The duo agrees that the Kings need to look ahead and start building around their future stars. Next, the conversation shifts to the Denver Nuggets, where Wosny believes Nikola Jokić needs more help if Denver is going to compete at a higher level. Meanwhile, the New York Knicks could see a big boost from Mitchell Robinson’s return, with Wos stressing the importance of his physical presence to elevate their offense to the next level.

Later, the duo discusses some players and teams needing adjustments, including Zion Williamson’s future with the New Orleans Pelicans and the need for Zach LaVine to finally get out of Chicago. KOC and Wos also hit on the Philadelphia 76ers, Amen Thompson and Jonathan Kuminga, plus KOC has bold predictions for Victor Wembanyama, already calling him a top-5 player in the NBA. The duo finish up with a mailbag question on the Oklahoma City Thunder and whether they'll keep adding.

(1:20) - Time to trade D'Aaron Fox

(8:20) - Nuggets need to get some help for Jokic

(15:40) - Knicks need Mitchell Robinson back

(20:50) - Amen Thompson needs more opportunities

(25:25) - Warriors wash their hands of Jonathan Kuminga

(27:55) - Nick Nurse needs to add layers to the 6ers offense

(30:30) - Zach LaVine finds a new home

(33:50) - Pelicans trade everybody

(39:20) - Victor Wembanyama a top-5 player?

(46:10) - Thunder re-sign Alex Caruso

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

The 2024 Emirates NBA Cup wrapped up on Tuesday night in Las Vegas and there were interesting takeaways both on and off the court. Kevin O'Connor is joined by Yahoo Sports contributor Tom Haberstroh (of The Big Number) to react to the Milwaukee Bucks win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, what it means for both teams involved and a post-game story that should not go overlooked.

On the hardwood, the Bucks notched an easy 97-81 win over OKC, and Giannis Antetokounmpo looked unstoppable, while the Thunder could not get their offense going at all. The guys discuss how OKC may be a bit too defense-heavy in their roster construction and why a trade for elite three-point shooting must be considered this winter.

In the locker room after the game, it was a different story. The Bucks left the league's provided champagne and beer celebration untouched; Kevin & Tom explain why Milwaukee's lack of enthusiasm for winning the Cup is a bad look for the league.

Also a bad look for the league — TV ratings are down. The guys discuss growing concern around the NBA of the league's declining TV audience in the face of record in-game attendance and social media reach, throw out a few rule changes that could improve fan interest in the sport & discuss the new 2025 All-Star Game format.

(0:00) - New York soundly defeats Minnesota in KAT's return

(9:00) - Milwaukee defeats OKC in NBA Cup Final

(26:15) - Bucks don't celebrate NBA Cup win: bad look?

(31:15) - Declining NBA TV ratings

(50:45) - 2025 All-Star Game changes: good or bad?

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

Check out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at Yahoo Sports Podcasts

In this episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show, Kevin deep dives on the two NBA cup final teams and what to expect in their upcoming showdown before discussing ALL of the latest news and storylines around the NBA.

Kevin is first joined by NBA expert Andrew Schlecht to dive deep into the Oklahoma City Thunder's impressive 20-5 start to the season and their upcoming challenge against the revamped Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA cup final. With Giannis Antetokounmpo looming as a major test for the Thunder's top-tier defense, Andrew explains how OKC plans to handle the Greek Freak by committee, with key contributions from Lu Dort and Alex Caruso. The duo also break down the Thunder's unique style of play, including their small-ball strategy and the crucial impact of Isaiah Hartenstein's screening and lob connections on offense. They discuss the vibes in Las Vegas and the growth of the event, and how the Thunder's ultra-competitive guards will help fill in any gaps when Chet Holmgren returns. Plus, Andrew shares a story from his Oklahoma roots about winning a Shaq Phoenix Suns jersey through an unforgettable peanut butter competition.

Later, Kevin and Ekam Nagra (Ball Don't Stop) dive into the early-season performances of several NBA teams and standout players, starting with the Milwaukee Bucks. Kevin and Ekam praise Giannis's MVP-caliber play and his evolving chemistry with Damian Lillard. They also discuss the challenges opposing defenses face in stopping Giannis from getting into the paint, a key area where the Bucks’ dominance continues. The duo also reflects on the Atlanta Hawks' struggles to build a consistent identity, noting that Trae Young needs a reliable secondary scorer to help elevate the team.

Moving on to the Houston Rockets, Ekam breaks down Jalen Green's highs and lows, suggesting the young guard needs to find a consistent rhythm and control his pace to become a star. They also discuss the Dallas Mavericks & Golden State Warriors scoring 48 threes in a game, and how the current NBA trend toward data-driven, analytically optimized play has led to a more homogenized style of basketball, impacting the uniqueness of teams. The conversation turns to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, with Ekam pointing out how their older, more physical style of play still holds weight in the modern game but isn't enough to make the Lakers title contenders without more roster moves. They close with thoughts on NBA trades, with a focus on Dennis Schröder's role in Brooklyn, potential moves for Zach LaVine and how Jimmy Butler's fit in Phoenix might not maximize his strengths for a title run.

(00:55) - Thunder vs. Bucks preview

(18:25) - NBA cup vibes in Las Vegas

(28:40) - Andrew's peanut butter competition for a Shaq jersey

(35:00) - Dame & Giannis are starting to click

(39:00) - How can the Hawks keep building an identity?

(44:55) - How far away are the Rockets?

(50:30) - Why more threes isn't necessarily good for the NBA

(56:45) - What's clicking for LeBron and AD?

(1:01:55) - Could Dillon Harper challenge Cooper Flagg for top prospect?

(1:06:55) - Dennis Schröder to the Warriors

(1:12:40) - Potential NBA trades: Jimmy Butler & Zach Lavine

(1:21:30) - Quick hitters

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

The NBA world has been enraptured all week by the idea of Miami Heat SF/SG Jimmy Butler being available in trade rumors. Kevin O'Connor is joined as always on Fridays by Yahoo Sports NBA contributor Tom Haberstroh to discuss a handful of landing spots, which ones seem likely, which don't and which teams have surprisingly not been mentioned at all.

As Tom highlighted in this week's episode of The Big Number, cities like Houston & Golden State make a lot of sense for the six-time All-Star, but Kevn has other ideas for the eccentric Butler. Making matters more complicated, Butler's agent Bernie Lee got into a public spat with ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania over the reporting of the news. Kevin & Tom explain the complicated player-team-agent-reporter dynamic.

Later in the show, the guys discuss Wednesday night's one-point Houston Rockets win over the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Cup quarterfinals, and how a single end-of-game penalty call nearly ruined the whole thing.

Wrapping up the episode, the guys look forward to the NBA Cup semifinal matches between the aforementioned Rockets and Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference and the Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks facing off in the East.

(0:35) - Jimmy Butler possible trade destinations

(19:10) - Butler's agent Bernie Lee vs. Shams Charania

(26:35) - Rockets advance to NBA Cup Semifinals thanks to strange officiating

(37:05) - OKC's defense might be best ever

(44:25) - Hawks defeat Knicks to advance to NBA Cup Eastern semis against Bucks

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

Check out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at Yahoo Sports Podcasts

Kevin O'Connor is joined by Jason Timpf to discuss seven big takeaways from last weekend's NBA action before previewing the NBA Cup. The duo kick things off with the red-hot Miami Heat and Tyler Herro’s breakout play. With Herro stepping up, the guys discuss how Miami might have actually benefitted by not trading for Damian Lillard. From there, they dive into the Philadelphia 76ers, as Joel Embiid looks dominant, and Jason wonders if Philly has finally turned the corner—provided they can stay healthy.

They also discuss Brandon Miller, who’s been impressing early for Charlotte, and the Indiana Pacers, for whom things might get ugly with Tyrese Haliburton in a slump. KOC and Jason also hit on Cooper Flagg, the Brandon Ingram injury and the Denver Nuggets.

The NBA Cup is front and center, with the guys analyzing Milwaukee Bucks title chances and Giannis’ career-best play. Plus, they break down the Orlando Magic, the rising Oklahoma City Thunder and the Dallas Mavericks—with Jason even picking Dallas as his favorite to win it all.

Finally, they wrap with Golden State Warriors drama around Draymond Green’s benching and the balance between veterans and young talent in today’s NBA before getting musical with some discussion around the Las Vegas Sphere, the Grateful Dead and John Mayer's impact on music.

(1:00) - Heat are coming alive

(5:00) - Are the Sixers turning a corner?

(9:05) - Brandon Miller is taking a leap

(14:10) - Things could get ugly for the Pacers

(18:35) - Capture the Flagg

(24:00) - Does the Brandon Ingram injury actually help the New Orleans Pelicans?

(27:20) - Do the Nuggets still have a chance?

(36:45) - NBA cup preview

(1:05:45) - The Vegas Sphere, the Grateful Dead & John Mayer

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

In this episode of the Kevin O'Connor Show, Kevin is joined by Tom Haberstroh to dive into the latest news and storylines around the NBA. Kevin kicks things off solo as he reacts to the Denver Nuggets getting walloped by the Cleveland Cavaliers, as Kevin goes points out Jamal Murray's inability to help Nikola Jokic win games and whether there's a move the Nuggets could make to save their season.

Later, KOC and Tom Haberstroh dive into the Los Angeles Lakers' ongoing struggles and explore potential fixes for the team. They dissect JJ Redick’s fiery critiques of the Lakers, including their lack of effort and communication on defense. Are LeBron James and Anthony Davis running on empty already? The guys also discuss the possibility of trading for big names like Zach LaVine, or even moving on from AD as the Lakers look for answers.

From there, they turn their attention to the Miami Heat’s recent dominant win over the Lakers, assessing whether the Heat's victory is more about their success or LA’s decline. Plus, with trade rumors swirling around Brandon Ingram, KOC and Tom weigh in on the New Orleans Pelicans' rocky season and what Ingram’s future could look like.

Later in the show, the conversation shifts to Ja Morant’s shift away from dunking, Khris Middleton’s importance to the Milwaukee Bucks and what it means for the title race.

(00:25) - KOC on the Nuggets

(5:45) - What's wrong with the Lakers?

(28:20) - Brandon Ingram trade speculation

(32:45) - Ja Morant is done dunking

(38:25) - Khris Middleton returns to the Bucks

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

In this week’s episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show, Kevin O'Connor and Dan Titus dive into the latest NBA trends, including a closer look at LeBron James and the struggling Los Angeles Lakers. Is this the worst stretch of LeBron's legendary career? Can the Lakers stay afloat, or are they cooked? Kevin and Dan discuss the team’s lack of creation, LeBron’s fatigue and the challenges ahead unless a major trade is made.

Next, the guys turn their attention to the Western Conference playoff race. The Minnesota Timberwolves just secured a big win, but are they truly a contender? Dan thinks they have the best chance to make the playoffs out of the bottom teams, though they still need more to reach the next level. Meanwhile, Kevin isn’t buying into the Sacramento Kings’ playoff hopes, citing coaching concerns and the rise of other teams in the conference.

In a surprising turn, the Milwaukee Bucks are on a 6-game win streak, but are they legitimate championship contenders? Kevin and Dan break down Giannis Antetokounmpo’s MVP-level play, but warn against getting too carried away until they face tougher competition.

Meanwhile, the Orlando Magic are rolling with Franz Wagner leading the charge, and the Memphis Grizzlies have won 6 in a row thanks to impressive depth. Could either of these teams be a sneaky playoff contender? Kevin also dives into the struggling New Orleans Pelicans and wonders if it’s time for a full rebuild.

Later, the guys address the Washington Wizards' ongoing misery and preview James Harden’s recent dominance for the Los Angeles Clippers. Plus, what to expect from the Charlotte Hornets in LaMelo Ball's absence, and how to navigate fantasy hoops in this weird double week.

(1:05) - Can the Lakers overcome LeBron's declining play?

(8:20) - Timberwolves & the Western Conference playoff picture

(17:40) - Are Bucks back to being a contender?

(24:05) - What clicking for the Magic?

(28:40) - Are the Grizzlies sneaky contenders this season?

(31:50) - Time for the Pelicans to blow it up?

(38:15) - Wizards on pace for historically bad season

(41:50) - Fantasy basketball corner

📢Yahoo Sports podcast network: https://apple.co/3zEuT

On a special Thanksgiving edition of The Kevin O'Connor Show, Tom Haberstroh joins the show to help share what they're thankful for this Thanksgiving.

They discuss their favorite players, trends, and statistics across the league this season that make the NBA exciting an entertaining. Among the topics discuss, they cover Giannis Antetokounmpo's improved jump shot, older players outperforming their age, Jarrett Allen's unique personality and the NBA Cup.

(1:33) "Golden Guys"

(7:47) Players being honest

(13:21) Hubie Brown

(16:04) Kris Dunn

(19:40) Dunk Score

(27:55) Giannis Antetokounmpo's jump shot

(32:54) Jarrett Allen

(36:35) Area 51

(40:35) The NBA Cup

In this week’s episode of The Kevin O'Connor Show, Kevin is joined by Tate Frazier to dive deep into the biggest storylines in college basketball, with an eye on the 2024 NBA Draft. They break down the top prospects, sleepers, and potential steals in a packed episode.

Cooper Flagg continues to dominate as the top 2024 draft prospect, and Tate and Kevin discuss his impressive defensive play, his development potential and how he might fit with NBA teams like the Philadelphia 76ers. They also take a look at other high-level freshmen like Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper, and explore whether someone can challenge Flagg for the #1 overall spot.

The conversation shifts to some intriguing draft sleepers, with Tate spotlighting Lebaron Philon from Alabama and Kevin highlighting Collin Murray Boyles, who draws comparisons to Draymond Green. They also discuss Egor Demin from BYU and whether he could make a push into the lottery or even the top pick conversation.

The guys also talk about UConn's rising stars, including Liam McNeeley and Alex Karaban, two prospects who are seeing their draft stock rise early in the season. Tate weighs in on UConn’s chances of a three-peat, and Kevin breaks down how these young players are developing under Dan Hurley’s system.

Finally, they touch on the state of the Charlotte Hornets, with Tate sharing his thoughts on LaMelo Ball and the future of the franchise as they look to build around the promising Brandon Miller.

(1:50) - Cooper Flagg and Duke's impressive freshmen

(12:30) - Who can challenge Flagg for the #1 overall spot?

(18:55) - Favorite NBA draft sleepers

(34:15) - UConn deep dive: impressive freshmen & three-peat chances

(42:20) - Tate's Hornets thoughts

Check out the rest of the Yahoo Sports podcast family at https://apple.co/3zEuTQj or at Yahoo Sports Podcasts