The NBA is back at long last, with regular-season action tipping off on Oct. 18.
The reigning champion Golden State Warriors topped our opening-night power rankings in their quest to join rare company with a possible fifth title under the core nucleus of coach Steve Kerr and superstars Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green.
But it's not all candy and rainbows for the Dubs. Their repeat bid is already off to a shaky start, after the shocking practice fight between Green and last season's breakout star, Jordan Poole.
And there is no shortage of compelling storylines outside of the Dubs.
The Bucks still have arguably the league's best player in Giannis. Kawhi Leonard is back for the retooled and very deep Clippers. The Celtics are returning essentially the same roster, only without suspended head coach Ime Udoka, and with veteran combo guard Malcolm Brogdon now in the mix. The 76ers and Nets get their first look at a full season with their revamped cores after last season's blockbuster trade. The Hawks, Wolves and Cavaliers all look vastly improved.
To cover all of these fascinating angles and more, we've compiled a list of some of our favorite podcasts to keep you apprised of the latest chatter, rumors and story lines throughout the season and into the playoffs.
Here our eight must-listen NBA pods for the 2022-23 NBA campaign:
Heat Check with Trysta Krick
If you live for the drama of the NBA, you’re going to love HEAT CHECK. Stay up to date with host Trysta Krick, who humorously breaks down the many storylines, drama, and rivalries that make the NBA the world’s greatest sports soap opera. From spicy takes to hilarious interviews, catch the HEAT CHECK so you can keep up on all the fun.
Locked On NBA
Your daily NBA podcast, breaking down all the games, basketball news, updates, rumors, and analysis in 30 minutes from the hosts of the Locked on Podcast Network. Highlighted by Jackson Gatlin (Locked On Rockets) on Mondays, Matt Moore (Locked On Nuggets) and David Ramil (Locked On Heat) on Tuesdays, John Karalis (Locked On Celtics) and Jake Madison (Locked On Pelicans) on Wednesdays, Nick Angstadt (Locked On Mavericks) and PatTheDesigner (Locked On Bulls) on Thursdays, Adam Mares (Locked On Nuggets) & Wes Goldberg (Locked On Heat) on Fridays. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network.
Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective
Longtime ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst needs no introduction. The veteran reporter burst onto the national scene covering the LeBron James-era Miami Heat, and has been a fixture in the game ever since. On this podcast, he is joined by a rotating cast of top names from in and round NBA media, including ESPN's Tim McMahon, Tim Bontemps, Dave McMenamin, Ramona Shelburne, Kendra Andrews, and Marc J. Spears.
The Woj Pod
Get the inside scoop on all the biggest NBA news, as the biggest names in the game join ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski for "The Woj Pod" featuring in-depth conversations, breaking news reaction and analysis, and coverage of the biggest events on the NBA calendar, as well as an occasional deep dive into some of the most notable events in NBA history. This pod isn't the most prolific one out there, but you know it's worth the wait given the host and guests involved.
All The Smoke
Among podcasts created by former players, few bring the incisive perspective of ALL THE SMOKE. It pairs two of the most outspoken and controversial players of their time. Known as fiery, intense competitors during their on-court careers, Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson are now two of the most widely respected voices by today’s crop of NBA stars. Serving as mentors to numerous players throughout the league and with their hands firmly on the pulse of the game, they have first-hand insight into the minds, lives and pressing issues facing today’s players. Barnes and Jackson, who have played alongside two generations of All-Stars, will dish on the latest news and drama from on and off the court without boundaries.
The ETCs With Kevin Durant
Hosted by Brooklyn Nets star Kevin Durant, The ETCs is arguably the podcast featuring the most accomplished active NBA player today. Durant and co-host Eddie Gonzalez, along with a variety of special guests, have candid conversations about the best of sports, music, entertainment and culture. From what's currently going on in the NBA to the history of some of your favorite albums, to actors and producers who have changed the way that film and TV are made, The ETCs brings you never-before-heard stories and perspectives about all of your favorite topics.
The Old Man And The Three With JJ Redick and Tommy Alter
Former NBA sharpshooter and Duke legend JJ Redick and his co-host Tommy Alter discuss the NBA, current events and interview some of the biggest names in the NBA, entertainment and political worlds. Launching from inside the NBA bubble, the show offers unprecedented access to the league while telling the stories of an eclectic rotating group of guests.
The Lowe Post
ESPN senior writer Zach Lowe has long been popular among basketball junkies for his insightful brand of analysis, influenced by both new-school analytics and old-school film study. His weekly column "Ten Things I Like And Don't Like" is appointment reading for NBA diehards.
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