Oct 23, 2026 · 1h 15m
NBA contenders reveal early cracks and new possibilities
Lakers Being Slept On? Plus, More First Week Impressions | Real Ones
The opening week offers an early test of Miami’s Giannis-centered identity, Minnesota’s expanded offense, the Lakers’ promise, and Golden State’s narrowing options.
- 1Miami must turn Giannis Antetokounmpo’s transition impact into a more versatile half-court offense.
- 2The Lakers’ strong debut raises questions, but an undersized opponent makes sweeping conclusions premature.
- 3Golden State’s roster problems and Kristaps Porziņģis’ health leave Stephen Curry’s team facing difficult choices.
Don't miss
The hosts debate whether Yaxel Lendeborg’s confrontation with Luka Dončić showed valuable competitiveness or poor composure.
The brief
Logan Murdock, Raja Bell, and Howard Beck begin with the league’s new offensive possibilities, asking whether creative playmaking can unlock Minnesota alongside Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert.
Miami’s early blueprint depends on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s transition force, but the bigger question is whether he and Bam Adebayo can create enough advantages when games slow down.
Luka Dončić’s Lakers debut looked promising, with Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler contributing, though the opponent’s undersized frontcourt limits what the performance proves.
Golden State’s lack of size and defensive versatility becomes more urgent alongside Kristaps Porziņģis’ health concerns, Jimmy Butler’s absence, and Stephen Curry’s desire to remain a Warrior.
The episode closes on a more competitive league, from Yaxel Lendeborg’s fiery debut to Ty Jerome’s 45-point breakout and Utah’s reminder that young teams must learn to win.
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.