Brian Windhorst is joined by ESPN's Tim Bontemps and Tim MacMahon to preview Luka's return to Dallas and talk the Lakers' battle for playoff seeding before reacting to the Denver Nuggets firing head coach Michael Malone and not extending GM Calvin Booth. Then the guys break down the playoff potential for the Houston Rockets including their potential superstar ready to break through. Finally, Cavs' forward Evan Mobley joins the show to talk a historic season, his growth and his potential for Defensive Player of the Year.
0:00 Welcome to The Hoop Collective!
1:21 Luka's return to Dallas expectations
11:17 Reaction to Denver firing Michael Malone
16:33 Denver parts ways with GM & head coach
31:56 Potential impact on Jokic's future?
36:06 Rockets a threat for deep run?
43:13 Welcome Cavs' forward Evan Mobley!
43:23 Evolving as a player this season
48:59 His preparation as a coach's son
51:53 Complexities of NBA defenses
53:28 Candidacy for Defensive Player of the Year
46:17 Finals thoughts on wild news
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By NBA on ESPN
April 9, 2025