
Oct 28, 2026 · 1h 31m
Injuries redraw the Western Conference hierarchy
Live from Minnesota: Reassessing the West, a Wolves "That Guy" Draft, and More | Group Chat
The episode tests whether early-season contenders can withstand major injuries while Minnesota’s rising profile faces its biggest uncertainty yet.
- 1Anthony Edwards’ knee procedure forces Minnesota to reconsider its ceiling and LaMelo Ball’s role in keeping the season on track.
- 2Houston and San Antonio emerge as the West’s most convincing top-tier teams, while Oklahoma City’s injuries threaten its depth.
- 3A playful Timberwolves draft turns franchise history into a contest of personality, intimidation, cult appeal, and unforgettable vibes.
Don't miss
The hosts conduct a humorous Timberwolves “That Guy” draft, selecting memorable players for aura, personality, and cult appeal rather than performance.
The brief
Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and J. Kyle Mann reassess the Western Conference as injuries reshape expectations for Minnesota, Oklahoma City, Denver, and other contenders.
Anthony Edwards’ knee procedure becomes the central uncertainty for Minnesota, prompting debate about LaMelo Ball’s fit, the Wolves’ defense, and whether their improved standing can survive his absence.
The hosts place Houston and San Antonio atop the West while weighing the Lakers’ offense, Oklahoma City’s injuries, Denver’s defensive problems, and the fragility of early-season tiers.
The standout segment is a Timberwolves “That Guy” draft, where Nikola Pekovic, Ricky Rubio, Alexey Shved, and other franchise figures are chosen for personality and vibes rather than basketball quality.
Audience questions widen the lens to championship droughts, East-versus-West geography, failed breakouts, NBA personalities, and Justin’s all-haters lineup featuring Luka Dončić and Nikola Jokić.
Weekly email
State of the Pod, every Monday
The week's most-discussed names and stories from podcasts, with the moments behind them. Free, five minutes, unsubscribe in one click.