Ric discusses four topics: Paul George's unfathomable explanation for a recent fourth-quarter meltdown; JJ Redick taking a novel approach to being a first-time NBA head coach; the source of the Sacramento Kings' 5-1 record since replacing head coach Mike Brown with Doug Christie; and takeaways from the recent battle between the conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder and Cleveland Cavaliers.

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Ric discusses the circumstances that have driven a wedge between star forward Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat and why it signals NBA owners have achieved their goal of putting a crimp in, or even potential end to, the player empowerment era.

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Ric discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the Lakers' acquisition of Dorian Finney-Smith for D'Angelo Russell; the upcoming test the Orlando Magic are about to face; the Sacramento Kings' response to widespread criticism of how they handled the firing of head coach Mike Brown; and why he hopes the NBA does not feel threatened by the recent spate of physical altercations between players.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.