Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective

In this annual early-season tradition, Brian Windhorst, Kevin Pelton and Kevin Arnovitz wonder if James Harden can average 40 points per game, if LeBron James can lead the NBA in assists (9:30) and if the Lakers' defense can continue shutting down its opponents. Plus, they discuss the two most surprising starting units (31:12) and Paul George's GOAT campaign...after two games (53:57).

The Knicks are incapable of sticking to a plan says Brian Windhorst, who is joined by Jackie MacMullan and Tim MacMahon to discuss dysfunction in New York (14:37). Plus, does Portland's uninspiring start to the season mean it's time to deal one of their stars (31:31)? And, the crew talks about Boston's strong start to the season and roster changes they need to make to become serious title contenders.

With the Lakers off to a hot start, Dave McMenamin and Bobby Marks join Brian Windhorst to discuss LA's title hopes and if they can keep this defense up for the entire season (19:38). But before that, what really happened to Dion Waiters -- and what should Miami do about it? Plus, the guys talk about Toronto's stifling defense (32:58) and how Gordon Hayward's injury will impact the Eastern Conference (39:28).

With so many top players and teams struggling early on, Jackie MacMullan and Tim MacMahon join Brian Windhorst to discuss what's wrong with the Rockets, what's right with the Lakers (16:06) and why a few of the league's most notable names can't seem to get it right early on (29:28).

In the modern NBA, the Golden State Warriors have been a dynasty. Appearing in five straight NBA Finals and winning three rings in that span, the team became the stuff of basketball legend. But this season, they've won just two games. And with star Steph Curry out with a broken hand, the Warriors' fate has gone from bad to worse. But could a rough 2019-20 lead to more glory in the future? NBA reporter Nick Friedell joins Mina Kimes to explore what's gone wrong with the Golden State Warriors so far, and why there might just be a silver lining.

Is it too soon for a curtain call? Brian Windhorst, Nick Friedell, Andrew Han and Royce Young ask the question for the Warriors (2:30) and the Bulls (24:50). And what happens if it goes sideways for the Rockets (35:30)? Then, the Blazers get broken down and the guys discuss who will be the best in the West (48:15).

The Warriors have a new normal, and Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan and Kirk Goldsberry discuss whether Stephen Curry's hand injury really marks the end of an era (27:56). Plus, why this year's T-Wolves are different (18:20), the unexpected hero in Miami (42:57) and much more.

There's no overreacting going on, but Brian Windhorst, Kirk Goldsberry and Ohm Youngmisuk identify a few things they'll be keeping track of with the L.A. teams. Then, the Suns and Heat have started the season impressing the guys (22:10) as they pick a few interesting players that have caught their attention early, including Atlanta's Trae Young (45:30).

Are Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant finally happy in Brooklyn? Brian Windhorst, Jackie MacMullan and Tim MacMahon try to answer that question (12:20) before discussing who could lead the NBA in scoring this season (24:30). Plus, a breakdown of the Lakers performance against the Clippers (29:30) and also the Jaylen Brown and Dejounte Murray extensions.

The Clippers defeated the Lakers on opening night of the 2019-20 season and Zach Lowe and Brian Windhorst broke it down from the floor of Staples Center immediately following the game.