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    The Bill Simmons Podcast

    Part 2: Our Favorite NBA Free Agency Moves, Plus the Biggest Mistakes, and the ESPN Layoffs With Ryen Russillo

    Mon Jul 03 2023
    NBAoffseason movesAnthony Davistrade proposalsfree agency signingsClippersMemphis GrizzliesClevelandPortlandMilwaukee BucksJeff Van Gundy

    Description

    The episode covers various topics including the Lakers' offseason moves, Anthony Davis' role, trade proposals and free agency signings, Clippers' roster moves, Memphis Grizzlies' contract signings, Cleveland's signings, Portland's moves, Joe Harris trade, Milwaukee Bucks' decisions, Jeff Van Gundy's departure, Stan Van Gundy's experience, ESPN's broadcast, changing landscape of sports media, and NBA contracts.

    Insights

    The Lakers have made impressive moves in the offseason

    The Lakers made significant acquisitions to strengthen their roster and solidify their position as one of the top teams in the West.

    Anthony Davis needs to embrace playing center for the Lakers' success

    Davis' performance at center is crucial for the Lakers to have a successful season.

    Trade proposal between Indiana and Phoenix

    Indiana proposed a trade involving Miles Turner and McConnell for Aiden, which could benefit both teams.

    Signings and contracts in free agency

    There were notable signings and contracts in free agency, including Bruce Brown's deal with a high salary and Fred VanVleet's contract raising questions about his value.

    Clippers' roster moves and potential additions

    The Clippers acquired KJ Martin and re-signed Westbrook, but they may consider adding Brogdon or James Harden to further strengthen their roster.

    Memphis Grizzlies' contract signing and Orlando Magic's trade

    The Grizzlies signed Dylan Brooks to a contract that raised eyebrows, and the Magic made a trade involving draft picks.

    Cleveland's signings and roster challenges

    Cleveland made several signings, but there are concerns about the contracts and the lack of a versatile power forward.

    Portland's moves and Jeremy Grant's contract

    Portland spent a significant amount on Jeremy Grant despite Damian Lillard requesting a trade, raising questions about the decision.

    Joe Harris trade and Milwaukee Bucks' decisions

    The Pistons traded for Joe Harris, but there are doubts about his defensive abilities. The Bucks brought back Middleton and Lopez, banking on their previous success.

    Milwaukee Bucks' window and Jeff Van Gundy's departure

    The Bucks have a limited window to build around Giannis and Middleton, and Jeff Van Gundy's departure from ESPN is seen as a questionable move.

    Chapters

    1. The Lakers' Offseason Moves
    2. Anthony Davis and the Lakers' Success
    3. Trade Proposal and Free Agency Signings
    4. Clippers' Roster Moves and Other Team Signings
    5. Memphis Grizzlies' Contract Signings and Orlando Magic's Trade
    6. Joe Ingalls' Contract and Cleveland's Signings
    7. Cleveland's Roster Challenges and Portland's Moves
    8. Joe Harris Trade and Milwaukee Bucks' Decisions
    9. Milwaukee Bucks' Window and Jeff Van Gundy's Departure
    10. Minnesota's Centers and Chicago Bulls' Signings
    11. Kyrie Irving's Unpredictability and Jalen Rose's Departure
    12. Tyler Herro's Potential and Jeff Van Gundy's Departure
    13. Jeff Van Gundy's Departure and ESPN's Broadcast
    14. Stan Van Gundy's Experience and Jalen Rose's Departure
    15. ESPN's Broadcast and the Future of NBA Coverage
    16. Changing Landscape of Sports Media and NBA Contracts
    Summary
    Transcript

    The Lakers' Offseason Moves

    00:02 - 06:49

    • The Lakers made impressive moves in the offseason, solidifying their position as one of the top teams in the West.
    • They acquired Reeves, Vincent, Rui, D-Lo, and Prince to strengthen their roster.
    • The Lakers' lineup of AD, LeBron, Reeves, Vincent, Vanderbilt, Rui, D-Lo, and Prince is formidable.
    • They made smart signings with good contracts for players like Reeves and Gabe Vincent.
    • Torian Prince adds defensive strength to the team.
    • Rui's contract may be a bit high but still manageable.
    • AD will need to embrace playing center for the team's success.
    • This season presents a great opportunity for LeBron and AD to win another championship.

    Anthony Davis and the Lakers' Success

    06:20 - 13:04

    • LeBron is one of the great players of all time, but AD isn't his prime.
    • Anthony Davis needs to embrace playing center for the Lakers to have a successful career.
    • Yokech is the only player in the conference who could be a problem for Davis.
    • The Lakers have set up a great situation for Davis to potentially win MVP and be a one seed.
    • Cam Reddish could replace Moll Bomba's role on the team.
    • The Lakers had one of the best off-seasons considering their restrictions and budget.
    • Phoenix made good moves with their signings, adding depth and options to their roster.
    • Defense is important in winning titles, and Phoenix currently lacks strong defensive players.
    • Aiden's performance has been disappointing, but there is still hope for improvement.

    Trade Proposal and Free Agency Signings

    12:38 - 19:07

    • Indiana calls Phoenix and proposes a trade involving Miles Turner and McConnell for Aiden
    • The trade is favorable for both sides as Indiana has depth and can afford to make the move, while Phoenix gets two valuable players
    • Bruce Brown signs a two-year, $45 million deal with a player option in the second year
    • Indiana has a talented roster with players like Haliburton, Healed, Toppen, Turner, and more
    • The high salaries in free agency reflect the increased tax teams have to pay to attract players
    • Fred VanVleet's three-year, $130 million contract raises questions about his value
    • The Bruce Brown deal reminds of the Jabari Parker deal with Chicago - short-term commitment with high salary
    • Spending over $20 million on Bruce Brown seems excessive
    • Indiana may not care about spending because they are not a big-market team
    • The Indiana Pacers' roster looks intriguing and could be enjoyable to watch on League Pass

    Clippers' Roster Moves and Other Team Signings

    18:38 - 25:26

    • The Clippers acquired KJ Martin and re-signed Westbrook at a cheap price, adding depth to their team.
    • Westbrook provides a valuable emergency option for the Clippers when key players are injured.
    • The Clippers may consider adding Brogdon or James Harden to further strengthen their roster.
    • There is a desire within the Clippers organization to avoid repeating last year's disappointing performance.
    • The options for the Clippers include breaking up the team or making a three-for-one trade.
    • The Wizards made favorable moves, acquiring Poole, Ties Jones, Shamet, and draft picks.
    • Sacramento also made smart moves by extending Sabonis and trading Lyles.
    • Watching YouTube clips of players can be misleading and not an accurate representation of their skills.
    • The Houston Rockets made significant signings with Fred VanVleet and Dylan Brooks to improve their team.

    Memphis Grizzlies' Contract Signings and Orlando Magic's Trade

    25:00 - 30:43

    • The Memphis Grizzlies signed Dylan Brooks to a four-year, $80 million contract, which doesn't make sense.
    • The Toronto Raptors re-signed Fred VanVleet for $85 million over three years.
    • VanVleet's shooting percentages are not great, but he is considered a good defensive player.
    • Houston Rockets made these signings because they needed more experienced players on the team.
    • Orlando Magic traded their sixth and eleventh picks in the draft for Anthony Black, Jed Howard, Joe Ingles, Mo Wagner.
    • There is uncertainty about whether these contracts will be flipped or if teams will be stuck with them.

    Joe Ingalls' Contract and Cleveland's Signings

    30:23 - 36:40

    • Ingalls signed a two-year contract with $22 million fully guaranteed at 36 years old.
    • Last year, 83% of Ingalls' attempts were three-point shots.
    • Ingalls provided size and playmaking ability as a big wing in the NBA.
    • There are concerns about his playmaking and whether he can still initiate offense like he did in Utah.
    • The team may need to get rid of one of their guards to make room for other players.
    • The Jed Howard pick is controversial, as many believe Kobe is a better player than him.
    • $120 million was spent by Cleveland on Max Drew's, George Niehang, and Caris Le Vert.
    • The contracts surprised some people.
    • $12-15 million is now considered the new mid-level salary range in the NBA.
    • There are mixed opinions on the defense genzo signing.
    • Cleveland wanted options for their fifth closing player and signed Niang and Struce for that purpose.
    • Max Drew's contract was seen as an overpay but justified due to his experience in big games.
    • Cleveland lacks a versatile power forward who can replace Jared Allen when needed.

    Cleveland's Roster Challenges and Portland's Moves

    36:18 - 42:50

    • The team is hoping one of the three guys can play crunch time instead of a core.
    • They have four small forwards now and need to figure out what to do with the core piece.
    • Mitchell is better with a second, so they may consider moving Garland.
    • The playoff series was horrifying as they had two bigs that nobody felt like they had to guard.
    • The front office may let the players get a year older and hope for improvement.
    • The acquisitions were expensive, especially considering their impact on the team.
    • Jeremy Grant's contract is seen as an overpayment for someone who isn't an all-star.
    • Portland spent a lot of money on Grant despite Damian Lillard requesting a trade.
    • Comparing Grant's contract to others in his category shows it was an overpay panic move by Portland.
    • The Pistons should have made an offer for Reeves and used their cap space wisely.

    Joe Harris Trade and Milwaukee Bucks' Decisions

    42:25 - 48:57

    • The Pistons should have made an offer for Reeves instead of trading for Joe Harris.
    • Joe Harris was unplayable defensively and has been injured multiple times.
    • OKC is known for grabbing contracts and picks, but the Joe Harris trade was not a move like that.
    • Joe Harris looked worse in the playoffs despite his good three-point shooting numbers.
    • Teams didn't want to wait around on Austin Reeves' qualifying offer.
    • There used to be a long waiting period before making an offer to restricted free agents.
    • The Bucks brought back Middleton and Lopez, doubling down on a team that lost in round one.
    • Giannis' injury in the Miami series was a fluke event, so bringing everyone back is justified.
    • The Bucks will have to recreate their success as players like Drew Holiday and Brook Lopez get older.

    Milwaukee Bucks' Window and Jeff Van Gundy's Departure

    48:33 - 55:24

    • The Bucks have a two-year window to build around Giannis and Middleton.
    • Mark Lazry selling his share of the team was a smart move considering the uncertainty of Giannis' future.
    • Middleton's defense has been a concern, especially with his knee issues.
    • Milwaukee doesn't have many other options due to lack of picks and assets.
    • Boston and Miami are tough matchups for Milwaukee in the East.
    • There aren't many angles or changes for the Bucks this year compared to previous seasons.
    • Guarding players like Tatum and Butler has been a problem for Milwaukee.
    • Injuries played a role in their past losses, but they need better defensive solutions.
    • The Bucks may need to consider rebuilding around Giannis for phase two in the future.

    Minnesota's Centers and Chicago Bulls' Signings

    55:00 - 1:02:12

    • Minnesota is paying a significant amount for their centers over the next three seasons.
    • There is speculation that Karl-Anthony Towns may be traded this summer.
    • Chicago Bulls made questionable signings and their strategy is unclear.
    • The signing of Nikola Vucevic by the Bulls has received mixed reactions.
    • Kyrie Irving's contract with the Dallas Mavericks is discussed, with some skepticism about his long-term commitment.
    • Kyrie Irving responded to criticism on Twitter in a cryptic manner.

    Kyrie Irving's Unpredictability and Jalen Rose's Departure

    1:01:56 - 1:08:36

    • Kyrie Irving's history of unpredictable decisions and trade rumors
    • Kyrie declined a player option with the Nets but ended up picking it up
    • He asked for another trade out of Brooklyn during the playoffs
    • There were rumors of him trying to bring LeBron James to Dallas, which quickly fizzled out
    • Recently, there was a leaked story about him potentially meeting with an undisclosed team
    • Dallas may have had concerns about Kyrie's behavior and potential sabotage if he wasn't happy with his contract
    • The high salary of D'Angelo Russell's deal could potentially work in a trade involving Kyrie in the future
    • Two possible outcomes for Dallas signing Kyrie: smooth sailing or instability and potential drama
    • Draymond Green's four-year, $100 million contract is seen as fair and beneficial for the Warriors' core trio
    • Tyler Herro is considered an underrated asset despite his young age, showing great offensive skills

    Tyler Herro's Potential and Jeff Van Gundy's Departure

    1:08:06 - 1:15:18

    • Tyler Hero is a really good offensive player who is only 22 or 23 years old and has the potential to keep getting better.
    • Miami would need to offer more than just Tyler Hero in a trade for Damian Lillard, as Portland would want additional assets.
    • Tyler Hero averaged 25 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.2 assists last year, shooting 38% from three-point range and over 93% from the free-throw line.
    • Trading for James Harden would not be worth giving up Tyler Hero for Miami or Philadelphia.
    • The reason behind Houston cooling off on trading Harden to Philadelphia remains unclear.
    • Jeff Van Gundy's layoff from ESPN was surprising and his perspective as a color analyst will be missed.

    Jeff Van Gundy's Departure and ESPN's Broadcast

    1:14:55 - 1:21:16

    • The decision to let go of Jeff Van Gundy from the NBA broadcast is seen as a questionable move.
    • Van Gundy was considered one of the best in the business and brought valuable insights to the game.
    • Finding broadcasters with the ability to make games feel bigger is difficult, and TNT should have kept Van Gundy.
    • While some people criticized Van Gundy for complaining too much, his complaints often highlighted important aspects of the game.
    • His partnership with Mark Jackson worked well due to their decades of experience and mutual respect.
    • There are rumors that the league never liked the Van Gundy brothers and wanted them off the main broadcast.
    • Personal experience suggests that there may be truth to these rumors, as Stan Van Gundy was prevented from joining ESPN's Countdown show in 2012.

    Stan Van Gundy's Experience and Jalen Rose's Departure

    1:20:54 - 1:27:12

    • Stan squashed the plan for Bill Simmons and Jalen Rose to join together
    • Doc Rivers' departure from ESPN is strange and there may be other reasons behind it
    • Jalen Rose was a pioneer in bringing a different perspective as an ex-player in media
    • Jalen Rose's work at Grantland was cutting edge and provided insights into being an NBA player
    • Jalen Rose started his own school in Detroit and was an incredible asset for ESPN
    • Losing a job abruptly can be tough, even if you've made a lot of money
    • Working at ESPN can be an amazing opportunity, but it can also be fleeting
    • 'Countdown' on ESPN lacks the space for meaningful discussion compared to TNT's show
    • 'Countdown' has always had problems with time constraints and lack of proper production
    • Bob Myers may replace Jalen Rose on 'Countdown', but time constraints will still limit meaningful discussion

    ESPN's Broadcast and the Future of NBA Coverage

    1:26:51 - 1:33:13

    • Bob's not going to have enough time to talk NBA
    • It's part of your responsibility to make people succeed when they're doing stuff for you
    • The MBA coverage consistently fails to do that
    • The show lacks substance and meaningful discussion
    • Commercials are valued more than quality content
    • People who strike oil with hot takes are rewarded
    • Talk radio still resonates with listeners
    • If someone is too married to a take, their credibility suffers
    • ESPN used to be the best place to work when they trusted their talent's opinions
    • Having an excellent color person enhances the viewing experience

    Changing Landscape of Sports Media and NBA Contracts

    1:32:53 - 1:37:37

    • Some individuals, like Legler, have experienced a resurgence in their careers due to their hard work and dedication.
    • The sports industry is starting to reflect the trend of having expensive stars and a lower middle class.
    • Live rights fees play a significant role in the value of teams and TV rights.
    • Streaming content that is still live gives ESPN an advantage over others.
    • There may be a shift in how talent is compensated, similar to the NBA collective bargaining agreement.
    • The mid-level players may not be able to maintain their previous lifestyle.
    • Late '90s and early 2000s movies had memorable twists that surprised audiences.
    • Audiences today are more educated and can pick up on twists quicker than before.
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