This week on The Restart, The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor gives you two sleeper teams that could win the NBA championship in Orlando: the Dallas Mavericks and Toronto Raptors. Kevin breaks down how Luka Doncic evolved into a top-five NBA player and why his game is built for playoff basketball. Then he explains how under Nick Nurse the Raptors remained a defensive juggernaut after the departure of Kawhi Leonard, and why the elevated play of Pascal Siakam could lead Toronto to a repeat title. Plus, a brief look at the start of the NBA bubble and some other teams to keep an eye on.
The Latest
Dillon Brooks–Klay Thompson Trash Talk, Michael Jordan’s Time in the Front Office, and ‘Snowfall’
Logan and Raja also discuss the significance of a team enforcer
Jeff Jarrett and Orange Cassidy Were Made for Each Other
Elsewhere, Masaaki Mochizuki and Mochizuki Jr. battled for the Open the Twin Gate title, while Drew McIntyre and Sheamus fought their way into a triple threat
Counter Pressed’s Big Day Out, the Magic of the Cup, and Jodie Taylor
The crew also discusses some slightly less enthralling ties over the weekend
“Conte Is Going Out Swinging!” Arsenal Go Eight Points Clear! TFFI 31 With Will Brazier.
Plus, there’s chat about Leeds getting a big win at the bottom of the table
‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’ Reactions
Jomi and Steve talk about the movie’s egregious product placement, confusing villain motives, and not-so-shocking cameo
HBCUs and Funding Disparities With Denise Smith
Bakari and Denise Smith discuss the importance of public HBCUs, the funding disparities between HBCUs and PWIs, and what lawmakers can do to lessen these gaps