Mitch is running the show on his own this week. He starts the pod discussing his most recent experience at the United Center with his wife watching Wemby take on the Bulls. He then talks about the firing of Nico Harrison from the Dallas Mavericks and what's next for Dallas. He wraps up the episode talking about 5 stars that have surprised him in how well they are playing to start this new season.

Check out our Top 50 Players list on the website: https://www.hoopersalmanac.com/rankings/top-nba-players-2025

Mitch opens the pod with a monologue about his biggest surprises and disappointments at the start of the season. He then brings on Warriors expert Cole Stoecklein to talk about the start of the Warriors season. Covering everything from Kuminga, the Jimmy Butler experience, and possible closing of Curry, Kerr, and Draymond.

In this episode, Mitchell and Adam discuss the exciting start of the NBA season, touching on various themes such as gambling scandals affecting the league, the atmosphere of home openers, and the performances of different teams. They also delve into the impact of injuries on player performance and team success, the innovations in broadcasting that enhance viewer experience, and the resurgence of trading cards as a popular hobby. The conversation highlights the competitive spirit of the NBA and the joy of collecting sports memorabilia.

00:00 Introduction to NBA's Opening Week

02:07 Gambling Scandals in the NBA

11:57 Home Opener Experiences

22:28 Team Performances and Surprises

30:41 Offensive Struggles and Player Dynamics

33:25 Pistons' Shooting Struggles

35:27 Injury Concerns in the NBA

36:57 Intensity of Early Season Games

39:07 Broadcasting Quality in the NBA

41:48 NBA's New Broadcast Partners

46:54 The Evolution of Sports Card Collecting