Benjamin Garcia breaks down the Suns' season opener, highlighting their newfound defensive identity and toughness. He analyzes standout performances from Colin Gillespie and Dillon Brooks, who embodied the team's gritty approach. The host explores how this victory signals a shift in the Suns' mentality, contrasting it with previous seasons. Garcia also discusses surprising rotation decisions and playing time distribution, questioning the limited minutes for rookies like Rasheer Fleming and Khaman Maluach.

0:00 Intro: Suns get big win to open season

5:06 Impressive comeback against Kings' shot-makers

10:11 How the Suns found a way to win ugly

15:20 Dylan Brooks' impact beyond the box score

20:25 Game reflects predicted Suns identity

25:00 Questions about rotation and rookie minutes

28:37 Outro: Enjoy the win, Suns fans

Tune in to hear why this win could be a turning point for the Suns and what it means for their championship aspirations.

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DoorDash — In your bag all season long.

Robinhood

You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move.

All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor.

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Phoenix's defensive transformation faces Sacramento's offensive firepower. But injuries to Sabonis and Murray could derail the Kings' plans. Will Devin Booker's playmaking be too much for a shorthanded Sacramento squad? Or can De'Aaron Fox lead an upset?

Hear expert analysis on roster changes, team identities, and game strategies. Plus, get scoring predictions and learn the keys to beating the new-look Suns.

Tune in for insider insights on this crucial early-season matchup between two Western Conference hopefuls.

0:00 Intro: Previewing Suns vs Kings season opener

5:56 Kings' cautious pessimism entering new season

11:46 Impact of injuries on Kings' lineup

17:10 Importance of winning early games for both teams

22:46 Kings' desired identity vs roster realities

27:17 How the Kings can beat the Suns

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DoorDash — In your bag all season long.

Robinhood

You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move.

All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor.

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FanDuel

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Jordan Ott's coaching ability takes center stage as the new head coach faces immense pressure to succeed. Jalen Green emerges as a wild card, with his development alongside Devin Booker crucial for the Suns' offensive firepower. The young talent on the roster, including Ryan Dunn and Oso Igodaro, must step up to fill critical roles.

Will Ott prove himself as a capable leader? Can Green adapt his game to complement Booker? Which young player will rise to stardom? Tune in for an in-depth analysis of the challenges facing the Suns and how they could impact the team's title hopes.

0:00 Intro: What could go wrong for the Suns

3:05 Jordan Ott's coaching crucial for Suns success

10:14 Is Jalen Green the X-factor for Phoenix?

20:28 Young players need to develop into stars

25:35 Importance of finding Booker a star partner

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No Purchase Necessary. Ends April 13th. Open to U.S. residents 21 or older. Visit DoorDashInYourBag.com for full details.

DoorDash — In your bag all season long.

Robinhood

You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move.

All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor.

SKIMS

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Gametime

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Mint Mobile

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BILT

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Peloton

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Monarch

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FanDuel

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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Host Benjamin Garcia shares his expectations for the Suns, including Booker's potential top-six MVP finish and All-NBA honors. He predicts the team will make the playoffs via the play-in tournament, finishing as the 9th seed with a 39-43 record. Garcia also believes the Suns will be a top-eight defensive team, with Ryan Dunn and Dylan Brooks making All-NBA Defensive teams.

Tune in to hear Garcia's analysis of the Suns' defensive capabilities, Booker's leadership, and how new head coach Jordan Goodwin might impact the team's performance this season.

0:00 Intro: Season predictions for Phoenix Suns

5:06 Booker as regular season MVP candidate

10:43 Suns making playoffs through play-in tournament

15:49 Bold prediction: Suns as top 8 defense

20:55 Official season-long Suns prediction breakdown

25:34 Projected Western Conference standings and seeding

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DoorDash

Next time someone goes off for 50, use promo code  NBA50  the next day to get 50% off on DoorDash with DashPass — plus your shot at the Bag Drop.

DashPass members only. 50% off up to $10 the day after a 50-point game with promo code. Terms apply.

No Purchase Necessary. Ends April 13th. Open to U.S. residents 21 or older. Visit DoorDashInYourBag.com for full details.

DoorDash — In your bag all season long.

Robinhood

You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move.

All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor.

SKIMS

Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows.  

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Mint Mobile

Ready to say yes to saying no? Make the switch at https://MintMobile.com/LOCKEDONNBA

Upfront payment of $45 required (equivalent to $15/mo). Limited-time new customer offer for first 3 months only. Speeds may slow above 35GB on Unlimited plan. Taxes and fees extra. See Mint Mobile for details.

BILT

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PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

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Rugiet

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Peloton

Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

Monarch

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at https://monarch.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year

FanDuel

Right now, new customers can bet just FIVE dollars and if your bet wins—you’ll get THREE HUNDRED dollars in bonus bets to use across the app. Download the FanDuel app now by visiting https://FanDuel.com to get started

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosts Nick Angstadt (Locked On Mavs), Joe Mullinax (Locked On Grizzlies), Rylan Stiles (Locked On Thunder), Ben Beecken (Locked On Wolves), Matt Moore (Locked On Nuggets), Jackson Gatlin (Locked On Rockets), Ben Garcia (Locked On Suns), and David Locke (Locked On Jazz) break down whether the Oklahoma City Thunder can repeat atop the West without relying on injuries, focusing on the crucial offensive growth of Chet Holmgren and half-court improvements. The group debates Denver Nuggets’ chances to dethrone OKC, emphasizing their improved depth behind Nikola Jokic. Minnesota Timberwolves' and Houston Rockets' paths to contention depend on leaps from Anthony Edwards and young guards like Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham. The hosts analyze the importance of Western Conference team depth, highlighting how the Clippers, Warriors, and Mavericks stack up with 240 minutes of viable contributors. Kevin Durant's role with the Rockets is discussed, along with concerns about veteran stars like LeBron James and Luka Doncic handling a full postseason run. The segment wraps with spirited takes on which teams have the roster construction, internal development, and playoff resilience to contend in an increasingly deep Western Conference.

0:00 OKC Thunder's Repeat Chances
7:33 Denver Nuggets vs. Thunder: Biggest Threat?
17:11 Veteran Teams Longevity: Clippers, Warriors, Lakers
22:45 Mavericks: Depth, Luka, & Contender Analysis
33:06 Western Conference Standings Predictions
39:02 Lakers Identity, LeBron "Pouting," & Rebuild
44:37 Can Luka Break OKC's Defense?
49:50 Victor Wembanyama Hype vs. Reality
54:10 Grizzlies, Pelicans & Spurs: Best of the Rest

Benjamin Garcia breaks down the Suns' surprising commitment to defense, analyzing standouts like Ryan Dunn and Dillon Brooks. He projects the starting lineup, with Devin Booker at point guard and Grayson Allen filling in until Jalen Green is ready. Mark Williams' crucial contract year takes center stage, while Jordan Goodwin emerges as a potential bench spark.

Garcia tackles realistic expectations for the Suns' playoff chances and win totals. He also spotlights fringe players fighting for minutes, including his bold take on Nigel Hayes-Davis's fit with the team.

Tune in for an insider's look at the Suns' revamped roster and how their new defensive identity could reshape their season.

0:00 Intro: Analyzing Suns preseason performance

4:35 Suns' improved defensive identity and versatility

9:13 Expectations for Suns as potential play-in team

14:20 Projected starting lineup and rotation analysis

19:56 Backup point guard and center roles

24:36 Rasheer Fleming's potential over Royce O'Neale

28:09 Outro: Excitement for upcoming Suns season

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Gametime

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Wayfair

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Peloton

Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

Monarch Money

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FanDuel

Right now, new customers can bet just FIVE dollars and if your bet wins—you’ll get THREE HUNDRED dollars in bonus bets to use across the app. Download the FanDuel app now by visiting https://FanDuel.com to get started

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Benjamin Garcia and John Voita analyze the Suns' impressive defensive showing, particularly against the struggling Lakers. They discuss Jalen Green's hamstring setback in China and its implications for the Suns' lineup. The hosts debate the third-string point guard battle between Jordan Goodwin and Jared Butler, leaning towards Goodwin's defensive prowess. Rookie Khaman Maluach's rapid improvement draws excitement, with potential to impact the Suns' future alongside Devin Booker.

Tune in to hear why the hosts believe the Suns' path to playoff contention hinges on becoming a top 10 defensive team in the NBA.

0:00 Preseason recap and Jalen Green injury

5:45 Suns establish defensive identity in preseason

12:18 Jalen Green re-aggravates hamstring, out weeks

20:10 Impact of Green's absence on Suns lineup

24:58 Jordan Goodwin vs Jared Butler debate

30:05 Khaman Maluach impresses with basketball IQ

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Wayfair

Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.

Peloton

Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at https://monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year

FanDuel

Right now, new customers can bet just FIVE dollars and if your bet wins—you’ll get THREE HUNDRED dollars in bonus bets to use across the app. Download the FanDuel app now by visiting https://FanDuel.com to get started

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Phoenix's young guns stole the show, dominating a near-full-strength Los Angeles squad. Benjamin Garcia breaks down Maluach's breakout performance, comparing his defensive upside to the 3-time DPOY. Rasheer Fleming makes his case for rotation minutes, while Koby Brea shows promise despite shooting woes.

Tune in for an in-depth look at how these rookies are shaping the Suns' identity and why they might be the key to running older teams off the court this season.

0:00 Intro: Suns rookies shine against Lakers

5:09 Suns culture permeates entire roster

10:15 Khaman Maluach impresses

26:14 Koby Brea shows promise despite poor shooting

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Jalen Green and Mark Williams in the starting lineup? Garcia analyzes their fit and potential impact on the Suns' defensive identity. Plus, a deep dive into the center position logjam featuring Oso Iguidaro, Mark Williams, and Come on Malawatch.

From preseason performances against the Lakers and Nets to roster decisions that could shape the Suns' season, this episode covers it all. Will lower expectations lead to better results for Phoenix?

Tune in for Garcia's insights on how team chemistry, defensive prowess, and roster moves could define the Suns' upcoming campaign.

0:00 Kevin Durant's comments on Suns expectations

5:08 2021 Suns season remembered more fondly

10:21 Suns' new young core and visible development

15:25 Potential defensive changes with lineup adjustments

20:31 Jalen Green's defensive potential as X-factor

24:38 Suns' center rotation and playing time concerns

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Ben Garcia https://x.com/BenGarciaShow

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Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More

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📢 Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Wayfair

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Peloton

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Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at https://monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year

FanDuel

Right now, new customers can bet just FIVE dollars and if your bet wins—you’ll get THREE HUNDRED dollars in bonus bets to use across the app. Download the FanDuel app now by visiting https://FanDuel.com to get started

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Benjamin Garcia breaks down the Suns' preseason games in China, revealing a team reborn through gritty defense. From Grayson Allen's sharpshooting to Nick Richards' rebounding prowess, Garcia analyzes standout performances and potential lineup shakeups. He explores the Suns' evolving identity, questioning Oso Ighodaro's fit and praising Khaman Maluach's rapid development.

Tune in for an insider's look at how the Suns' newfound defensive focus could reshape their season and challenge the NBA's offensive powerhouses.

0:00 Intro: Suns split games in China

5:10 Suns' defensive identity shines through

10:47 Players standing out for right and wrong reasons

15:52 Evaluating Nigel Hayes-Davis and rookies

25:05 Ighodaro fit and Khaman Maluach's progress

29:11 Jordan Goodwin likely to make roster

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Ben Garcia https://x.com/BenGarciaShow

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🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOSuns?sid=YouTube

Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA

📢 Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Wayfair

Get organized, refreshed, and back to routine for way less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.

Peloton

Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

Monarch Money

Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at https://monarchmoney.com/lockedonnba for 50% off your first year

FanDuel

Right now, new customers can bet just FIVE dollars and if your bet wins—you’ll get THREE HUNDRED dollars in bonus bets to use across the app. Download the FanDuel app now by visiting https://FanDuel.com to get started

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)