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On The Ball with Ric Bucher
Quad Shot: Jokic-Towns, JJ's Reality, Kerr's Magic, Bronny Plan
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Ric introduces a new format, diving into four topics or events that caught his attention on a single night's slate of games. In this one: Nikola Jokic laying waste to suggestions Karl-Anthony Towns is more skilled in defeating the OKC Thunder; Lakers coach JJ Redick coming to grips with the challenges of his roster; Warriors' coach Steve Kerr showing his versatility in achieving a 7-1 record playing a 12-man rotation; and the questionable wisdom of not making Bronny James a fixture with the South Bay Lakers.
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Quad Shot: Tatum's Realization, Wemby Timeline, Lee-LaMelo, Latest Caitlin Controversy
30:36|Ric does his weekly four-topic episode, explaining the realization that has led to Jayson Tatum playing like an MVP; the challenge posed by Victor Wembanyama's unique versatility; Charlotte Hornets first-year coach Charles Lee appearing to change his approach with LaMelo Ball; and the wisdom of Caitlin Clark opting not to participate in the fledgling 3-on-3 league, Unrivaled.
What to Make of the Cavs' Historic Start
23:37|Ric discusses the Cleveland Cavaliers' historic 15-0 start that ended with their narrow loss to the Boston Celtics, examining the ingredients that produced it and what it means as far as the Cavaliers' playoff potential.
Sizing Up A Potential Battle For Giannis
30:08|Ric discusses three Western Conference teams he has heard are interested in solidifying their playoff chances with roster upgrades -- the Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers -- and their respective chances of landing Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo should he become available.
Quad Shot: Splash Brothers Collide, Grizzly Feel-Goods, LeBron Hype, Motor City Secret
27:58|Ric breaks down the surprisingly heated battle between former teammates Steph Curry and Klay Thompson; the mixed-bag of story lines currently driving the Memphis Grizzlies; the continued presentation of LeBron James as defying Father Time; and the player who is making the Detroit Pistons worth watching.
The Knicks: What is Wrong and Is It Fixable
37:41|Ric discusses the 4-5 start by the New York Knicks, who were expected to be title contenders after making several high-profile offseason moves to upgrade a team that won 50 games last season and narrowly missed reaching the Eastern Conference finals.
Are the Warriors Title Contenders Once More?
23:40|Ric discusses the hot start by the Golden State Warriors, the likely blueprint for how coach Steve Kerr is utilizing his roster and what their prospects are for winning the franchise's sixth championship.
Who is in Bigger Trouble, Bucks or Nuggets?
37:38|Ric discusses the early struggles of two teams projected as title contenders this season, the Denver Nuggets and Milwaukee Bucks. Also: a look at LeBron James' bucket list and what might be motivating him at this stage of his career.
Lonzo and Giannis, Both Breaking New Ground
20:34|Ric discusses the return of Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball thanks to the latest innovative surgery to replace damaged knee cartilage and what it would mean if the rumors that superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is on his way out of Milwaukee are true.