Bob Ryan joined Baskin and Phelps and shared the latest updates on Jayson Tatum's potential return when the Celtics face the Mavericks and whether or not he thinks Tatum can return to form, as well as how the Celtics have gotten as far as they have without him. He discussed the addition of James Harden to the Cavaliers and whether or not he thinks Harden will be able to get over the playoff hump with the Cavs, why he thinks the Eastern conference is wide open, and he shared his thoughts on the current state of the NBA with load management and current playing styles.
Bob Ryan: The East is wide open and James Harden has put the Cavaliers back in the conversation
OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - FEBRUARY 22: James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket around Isaiah Joe #11 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first half at Paycom Center on February 22, 2026 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.
Photo by William Purnell/Getty Images
By Baskin & PhelpsMar 06, 2026
Baskin & Phelps
The only place to talk about the Cleveland sports scene weekday mornings is with Ken Carman and Anthony Lima from 6-10a!
