Category / Podcast Episode

by Alex Fischbein

Trendon Watford Masterclass, Nico Harrison Disasterclass

Welcome back to The Atlantic Files! In Episode 325, Alex dives into another wild week around the NBA — including a full recap of Week 3 in the Atlantic Division, Karl-Anthony Towns’ unbelievable stat line, Trendon Watford’s first career triple-double, and the latest drama surrounding the Brooklyn Nets and Dallas Mavericks front office.

This episode is packed with analysis, stats, and some hot takes you won’t want to miss.

🏀 Atlantic Division Week 3 in Review

Week 3 gave us plenty to talk about across the Atlantic Division. The Sixers continue to impress behind Tyrese Maxey’s rise, while the Knicks are proving they belong in the top half of the East. The Celtics are still trying to figure things out, the Raptors’ young core is finding its footing, and the Nets… well, they’re a whole other story this week.

Topics Discussed:

  • Updated standings and trends from the past week
  • The most impressive wins and most disappointing losses
  • Which Atlantic team looks like the biggest threat in the East so far

📈 Karl-Anthony Towns’ Historic Efficiency

Karl-Anthony Towns made NBA history this week with one of the most efficient stretches ever seen — combining elite rebounding numbers with near-perfect free throw shooting. Alex breaks down what makes Towns so unique as a big man and whether his consistency could put him in All-NBA conversation this season.

🔥 Trendon Watford’s First Career Triple-Double

Trendon Watford has officially arrived on the scene with his first career triple-double! We talk about his performance, what it means for his development, and how he’s quietly becoming an underrated bright spot this season.

Talking Points:

  • Watford’s rise as a versatile role player
  • His potential fit on a contender
  • Why his all-around game is catching attention

🤔 What Are the Nets Doing with Their Rebuild?!

The Brooklyn Nets remain one of the most puzzling teams in the league. Alex dissects what’s going wrong with their rebuild, the direction of their front office, and what the future holds for players like Cam Thomas and Michael Porter Jr.

Key Topics:

  • Evaluating the Nets’ long-term plan (or lack thereof)
  • Player development and coaching concerns
  • Whether the team should commit to the rookies

💼 Nico Harrison’s Job on the Line?

Reports suggest Dallas Mavericks GM Nico Harrison’s time could be running out, with many insiders calling his firing “a matter of when, not if.” We break down the Mavericks’ struggles, the questionable roster decisions, and how front office instability could affect Luka Doncic’s future in Dallas.

Join the conversation:

  • Should the Nets play all of the rookies?
  • Is Karl-Anthony Towns finally living up to his potential?
  • What’s next for Dallas if Nico Harrison is gone?

Subscribe to The Atlantic Files on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for new episodes every Monday and Wednesday, and follow us on social media for more NBA talk and reactions.

by Alex Fischbein

Ja Morant Losing Joy and Zion Williamson Hurt Again

Welcome back to The Atlantic Files! In Episode 324, Alex is breaking down all the latest action from the NBA’s Atlantic Division, plus two major storylines shaking the league — Ja Morant’s emotional comments about losing his joy for basketball and Zion Williamson’s latest injury setback in New Orleans.

This episode dives deep into the week’s games, key performances, and what’s next for two of the NBA’s most polarizing stars.

🏀 Atlantic Division Recap: Sunday Through Tuesday Games

The Atlantic Division has been buzzing with storylines early in the season, and this week didn’t disappoint. The Sixers continue to roll behind Tyrese Maxey’s all-around play, while the Knicks are showing strong defensive chemistry. The Celtics and Raptors are still searching for rhythm on offense, and the Nets’ young roster continues to gain valuable experience through tough losses.

😔 Ja Morant Lost His Joy

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant recently shared that he’s been struggling to find joy in the game he once dominated with energy and flair. Alex discusses what may have led to this emotional revelation — from off-court issues to the pressure of being the face of a franchise.

Discussion Points:

  • What Morant’s comments mean for his future in Memphis
  • Whether a change of scenery could revive his career
  • How other NBA stars have handled similar struggles

🚨 Zion Williamson Hurt Again — Should the Pelicans Restart?

It’s become a frustratingly familiar storyline: Zion Williamson is hurt again. The former No. 1 overall pick has once again been sidelined, raising questions about his long-term future and the direction of the New Orleans Pelicans organization.

Alex debates whether it’s finally time for the Pelicans to hit the reset button and start over — or if they should continue to build around Zion.

Join the conversation:

  • Is Ja Morant’s time in Memphis nearing an end?
  • Should the Pelicans move on from Zion?
  • Which Atlantic Division team impressed you most this week?

Subscribe to The Atlantic Files on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for new episodes every Monday and Wednesday, and follow us on social media for more NBA coverage and discussions!

by Alex Fischbein

MVP Tyrese Maxey, Mavericks sinking fast!

Welcome back to The Atlantic Files! In Episode 323, Alex and Dennis break down everything happening across the NBA through Week 2 — with a special focus on the Atlantic Division. From Tyrese Maxey’s hot start to the Chicago Bulls’ playoff chances, this episode is packed with analysis, predictions, and reactions you don’t want to miss.

🏀 Atlantic Division Week 2 Recap

The second week of the NBA season brought plenty of excitement — and questions — for the Atlantic Division. The Sixers continue to roll behind Maxey’s breakout performances, while the Knicks and Celtics battle for early-season momentum. Meanwhile, the Raptors are finding their identity under a new-look rotation, and the Nets’ rebuild looks quite miserable.

🔥 Can the Chicago Bulls Make the Playoffs Outright?

Despite mixed expectations, the Bulls are showing flashes of life. Alex and Dennis debate whether Josh Giddey, Nikola Vucevic, and Matas Buzelis can push Chicago into the playoff picture without relying on the Play-In Tournament — or if changes are still needed in the Windy City.

🏆 Can Tyrese Maxey Realistically Win MVP?

Tyrese Maxey’s incredible start to the season has the basketball world buzzing. We take a serious look at his MVP chances, how his efficiency and leadership stack up against the league’s elite, and what he needs to sustain that level all year long.

📊 Week 2 NBA Power Rankings

Our Week 2 Power Rankings are in — and a few surprises made big jumps (and drops). From top contenders like the Thunder and Nuggets to rising threats like the Bulls and 76ers, we evaluate where each team stands after two weeks of play.

Key Rankings Talked About:

  • Who’s emerging as early favorites?
  • Most overrated and underrated teams so far
  • Which teams are trending up or down

😬 Should the Dallas Mavericks Be Worried?

It’s been a rough start for Anthony Davis and the Dallas Mavericks. We dig into what’s going wrong — defensive struggles, rotations, and chemistry — and whether this early stumble is cause for concern or just a temporary blip.

Subscribe to The Atlantic Files on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for new episodes every Monday and Wednesday, and follow us on social media for more NBA coverage and discussions!

by Alex Fischbein

Brooklyn Nets Tanking Efforts, Orlando Magic Panic Time?

The Atlantic Files is back with another action-packed episode covering everything happening around the NBA and especially the Atlantic Division! In Episode 322, we break down all of Monday night’s games, check in on Brooklyn’s rookie-led rebuild, and talk about the most surprising storylines so far this season — including the meteoric rise of Victor Wembanyama.

🔥 Atlantic Division Monday Night Recaps

This week’s Atlantic Division matchups delivered plenty of storylines. From gritty performances to clutch moments, our hosts dissect each team’s results and what they mean for the early standings. The Knicks and Sixers both continue to trend upward, while Boston looks like they’re easing into midseason form.

🧱 Brooklyn Nets Rebuild & Rookie Report

The Brooklyn Nets’ youth movement is officially underway. We analyze the development of their rookie core and how they fit into the long-term rebuild. Is there a future star among them — or just solid role players in the making?

🪄 Orlando Magic’s Early Struggles

The Magic came into this season with high expectations after their strong finish last year, but early growing pains have slowed their momentum. We break down what’s gone wrong, what still looks promising, and how Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner can help turn things around.

🌟 Victor Wembanyama’s Rise to Stardom

Victor Wembanyama is already playing like one of the NBA’s brightest stars. We dive into how his elite defense, expanding offensive arsenal, and nightly highlight reel moments are redefining what it means to be a modern superstar. Is Wemby already a top-10 player in the league?

😲 Most Surprising Teams So Far

From unexpected contenders to struggling powerhouses, we spotlight the NBA teams making the biggest headlines for all the right — and wrong — reasons.

🚀 Players Ready to Take the Next Leap

Who’s on the verge of breaking out this season? We give our picks for the players showing early signs of massive improvement and discuss who could become the next household name by year’s end.

🎧 Listen to The Atlantic Files

Catch new episodes every Monday and Wednesday for in-depth analysis of the Atlantic Division and beyond! Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Atlantic Files episode 321 thumbnail
by Alex Fischbein

Illegal Poker Games and VJ Edgecombe Szn!

The NBA season is finally underway, and The Atlantic Files crew is back to break it all down! After the first full week of action, we’re delivering our Top 10 Power Rankings and diving deep into every Atlantic Division storyline that’s heating up early.

The New York Knicks have started strong at 2-1, and the vibes are sky-high in Madison Square Garden. Are the Philadelphia 76ers finally back to contender form, or are fans getting ahead of themselves? Meanwhile, the Toronto Raptors are showing serious potential thanks to their promising young core — could this be the beginning of something big in the North?

On the flip side, the Brooklyn Nets are entering a tough rebuild that’s starting to look even uglier than expected, and we’re asking the hard questions about their direction. And in Boston, could this be a rare “gap year” for the Celtics, or are they simply pacing themselves for another deep playoff run?

We also react to the breaking news that’s shaking up the NBA world — a massive illegal gambling and poker scandal reportedly involving Terry Rozier, Chauncey Billups, and Damon Jones. What does this mean for the league’s reputation, and how far could this investigation go?

Tune in for all that and more as we kick off another exciting NBA season with power rankings, hot takes, and in-depth analysis across the Atlantic Division and beyond!

🎧 Listen to Episode 321 now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

by Alex Fischbein

2025-26 Atlantic Division Preview, We’re Back!

The Atlantic Files is back! After a brief break, we’re kicking off the 2025-26 NBA season with a new format — episodes every Monday and Wednesday, each running around 30–40 minutes so you can stay up to date without missing a beat.

In this return episode, we dive straight into what we do best: breaking down the entire Atlantic Division heading into the new NBA season. From roster shake-ups to offseason signings, we analyze how each team stacks up and what to expect once the games tip off.

In this episode:

  • 📅 The Return: What’s new with the show, the updated schedule, and how the shorter format will keep things fresh and focused.
  • 🏀 Boston Celtics: Can they defend their title, or is there a championship hangover coming?
  • 🗽 New York Knicks: Did their offseason moves finally make them legit contenders in the East?
  • 🇨🇦 Toronto Raptors: What’s next for this rebuilding squad and their young core?
  • 🦅 Philadelphia 76ers: Will Embiid finally get the help he needs after another deep playoff run?
  • 🍀 Brooklyn Nets: Assessing their retooling strategy and whether it’s a step forward or another false start.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Atlantic Division or just love in-depth NBA talk, this episode is the perfect season opener to get you ready for tipoff.

🎧 Listen now to Episode 320 of The Atlantic Files — and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a Monday or Wednesday drop!

by Alex Fischbein

Eastern Conference Preview, 2024-25 NBA Award And Season Predictions | TAF319

Welcome to episode 319 of The Atlantic Files! We’re back with a full court of NBA goodness, just in time for the 2024-25 season to tip off. This week, we’re breaking down three divisions, giving our early predictions for the season’s biggest awards, and discussing all the latest from week one of NBA action. If you’re ready to get hyped for hoops, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s jump into it!

2024-25 NBA Atlantic Division Preview: Battle for the East

We kick things off with a preview of the Atlantic Division, where rivalries are brewing, and every team has something to prove. The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers are once again expected to be the big dogs, but don’t sleep on the New York Knicks or the Brooklyn Nets, who could both make some noise. Plus, the Toronto Raptors are looking to bounce back with a new head coach and fresh energy. We break down each team’s strengths, weaknesses, and what it’ll take for them to emerge as the division champs.

Southeast Division Breakdown: Can the Heat Stay Hot?

Next, we shift our focus to the Southeast Division, where the Miami Heat are looking to keep their fire burning after a deep playoff run. But they’re not the only ones with high hopes; the Atlanta Hawks and Orlando Magic both have young stars ready to make a leap. The Washington Wizards, meanwhile, are still figuring things out post-Bradley Beal, while the Charlotte Hornets hope that their offseason changes can finally lead to some consistency. We dive into all the teams and assess who could be this season’s sleeper.

Central Division Preview: Who’s the King of the Midwest?

The Central Division is stacked with intriguing storylines, from the Milwaukee Bucks‘ new-look lineup to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ ongoing rise. The Chicago Bulls are hoping to make noise with their star power, while the Indiana Pacers continue to build around their young talent. And then there are the Detroit Pistons, aiming to take a significant step forward with Cade Cunningham leading the charge. We break down each squad’s potential and predict how this division might shake out.

2024-25 NBA Awards and Playoff Predictions: Who’s Taking Home the Hardware?

It wouldn’t be the start of an NBA season without some bold predictions! We share our picks for the MVP, Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and more. Plus, we take a stab at predicting which teams will make the playoffs and who could be in for a deep run. Are we riding the hype train for Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, or do we see a seasoned veteran reclaiming the MVP throne? Tune in to find out!

News and Notes from Week 1: Early Surprises and What to Watch

The first week of the NBA season always brings some surprises, and this year is no different. We cover the top stories from week one, including standout performances, unexpected struggles, and key injuries. Which teams look like they’re hitting their stride early, and who’s already showing signs of trouble? We’ve got the insights you need to keep up with all the action.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:03:56 Southeast Division Preview
00:28:23 Central Division Preview
00:40:47 Atlantic Division Preview
00:56:28 NBA Awards and Playoffs Predictions
01:12:44 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

Pacific, Southwest Division Previews, Joel Embiid’s Health Strategy, Preseason Thoughts | TAF318

Welcome back to The Atlantic Files, where we’re diving headfirst into everything you need to know about the upcoming NBA season. This week, we’re all about breaking down the Southwest and Pacific Divisions, giving our thoughts on Joel Embiid’s rest strategy, and reacting to the most exciting and eyebrow-raising moments from the preseason. Buckle up as we get you ready for the start of the 2024-25 season with the hottest takes and insider insights!

🏀 2024-25 NBA Southwest Division Preview: Can the Mavs Bounce Back?

We kick things off with a deep dive into the Southwest Division, where Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks will try to shake off last season’s NBA Finals struggles and make a statement. Can they get back to the promised land, or will it be another year of “what ifs”? We also break down the Grizzlies’ hopes with everyone healthy again, the Pelicans’ potential with a (hopefully) healthy Zion Williamson, the young Spurs’ outlook with Victor Wembanyama in the fold, and the Rockets’ young core improving.

🏀 Pacific Division Breakdown: The Land of Big Names and High Expectations

Moving on to the Pacific Division, where superstars and drama are always in abundance. Will the Golden State Warriors’ “big two” keep defying Father Time, or will the Clippers finally stay healthy and make some noise? And let’s not forget about the Lakers, who seem to have found the fountain of youth for LeBron James. We analyze all the teams, including the Suns’ championship aspirations with their newly-formed super team and the Kings looking to build on last season’s playoff run. Get ready for some bold predictions and potentially hot takes!

🏀 Joel Embiid to Skip Back-to-Back Games: Smart Move?

Joel Embiid recently announced his plan to sit out some back-to-back games this season, raising questions and a few eyebrows. Is it smart load management for a guy with a history of injuries, or does it set a tone that might frustrate fans? We discuss the impact this decision could have on the Sixers’ regular-season success, as well as what it means for Embiid’s MVP aspirations and the team’s overall strategy. Plus, we touch on the broader implications for the NBA’s ongoing load management debate.

🏀 Preseason Reactions: Who’s Impressing and Who’s Concerning?

The preseason may not count, but it sure does matter for evaluating the state of the league. We break down the biggest takeaways, from standout rookie performances to some early-season chemistry issues. Which teams are looking ready to hit the ground running, and which ones might still be finding their rhythm? Spoiler alert: Some big names have been underwhelming, while a few lesser-known players are turning heads.

🏀 Players and Teams to Watch as the Regular Season Approaches

With the regular season just around the corner, we highlight some of the players and teams you should keep an eye on. From dark horse MVP candidates to squads that could surprise—or disappoint—we’ve got you covered on who’s primed to make waves. Whether it’s a young star set to break out or a team quietly building momentum, find out who’s worth your attention when the games start to count for real.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 intro
00:03:20 Joel Embiid not playing back to backs
00:09:24 NBA News and notes
00:21:55 Karl-Anthony Towns trade analysis
00:47:06 2024-25 Pacific Division Preview
01:03:21 2024-25 Southwest Division Preview
01:11:36 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

Kirk Cousins Shines, Deshaun Watson Stinks, Bengals Are 1-4, and College Football Upsets! | #019

Welcome to episode 19 of Sideline Specialists, where we have plenty to talk about in this crazy season of the NFL so far. We have Kirk Cousins, Deshaun Watson, the 1-4 Cincinnati Bengals, college football upsets, and much more on the docket!

Kirk Cousins Brings the Heat to the ATL
Who would’ve thought? Kirk Cousins is lighting it up in Atlanta like it’s a summer barbecue. Since joining the Falcons, Cousins has been a revelation, leading the team with precision passes and just enough Cousins-esque awkwardness to keep us entertained. Is this the beginning of an improbable run for the Falcons? We break down his stellar performance, what it means for Atlanta’s season, and whether Falcons fans should actually dare to dream.

Deshaun Watson’s Struggles: Time for the Bench?
On the flip side, Deshaun Watson’s return to form is still on hold. In fact, he’s been struggling so much that Cleveland fans might be Googling “How to bench a $230 million quarterback.” Should the Browns stick with him or give someone else a shot? We dive into Watson’s on-field woes, how this affects the Browns’ playoff hopes, and whether the Browns’ front office is quietly regretting the largest guaranteed contract in NFL history.

Bengals Hit the Panic Button
At 1-4, the Cincinnati Bengals are in free fall. Joe Burrow and company were supposed to be contenders, but now the only thing they’re competing for is last place in the AFC North. Can they turn it around, or should Bengals fans start scouting for the 2025 draft? We discuss the key issues holding the Bengals back and debate whether Burrow’s calf injury is just one of many cracks in Cincinnati’s armor.

NFL Week 5 Recaps: Drama on Every Field
Week 5 of the NFL season had more plot twists than a soap opera. We recap the biggest games, including some shocking upsets and season-defining performances. From last-second heroics to jaw-dropping blunders, we break down all the major storylines from the weekend. If you missed any of the action, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

College Football Week 6: Upset City
College football just keeps delivering, with Week 6 serving up a buffet of upsets. Whether it was an unranked team taking down a giant or a powerhouse program barely surviving, the chaos was real. We analyze the most shocking games and what these upsets mean for the College Football Playoff race. Spoiler alert: Your bracket might already be busted.

NFL Predictions and Updated Power Rankings
With five weeks in the books, it’s time to update those NFL power rankings! Which teams are rising, and who’s falling faster than a wide receiver with butterfingers? We also make some bold predictions for the rest of the season. Will the 49ers stay undefeated? Are the Cowboys legit contenders? Tune in as we give our updated takes on how the 2024 season might shake out.

Sideline Specialists Power rankings for the NFL through 5 weeks.
by Alex Fischbein

NFL Week 2 Upsets, Disappointments, and Major Injuries | SS016

Welcome back to another episode of The Sideline Specialists! In episode 16, we’re diving into an action-packed week of football, both on the college and professional fronts. We start with a recap of Week 3 in college football, followed by our reactions to Week 2 of the NFL season. We also share our NFL Week 3 picks, break down the latest Immaculate Grid for the NFL, and create our own power rankings based on the first two weeks of NFL action. Let’s get started!

College Football Week 3 Recap
We kick things off by breaking down the standout performances and key moments from Week 3 of the college football season. From unexpected upsets to impressive individual efforts, we analyze how the landscape is shifting in the early part of the season. Did your team exceed expectations or fall short? We provide insights on the top games and what they mean for the race toward the College Football Playoff.

Reactions to NFL Week 2
The NFL season is heating up, and Week 2 did not disappoint! We dive into the biggest storylines, surprises, and disappointments from the second week of NFL action. Which teams are emerging as early contenders, and which ones are already facing major questions? From dramatic comebacks to dominant performances, we break down all the action and share our thoughts on how the season is shaping up so far.

NFL Week 3 Picks
As we look ahead to Week 3 of the NFL season, it’s time to make our game picks. We analyze each matchup, highlighting key factors such as injuries, team form, and head-to-head history. Whether you’re looking for betting advice or just want to know who we think will come out on top, this segment has you covered with in-depth analysis of every game on the slate.

Immaculate Grid NFL Game
One of our favorite segments is back: the Immaculate Grid! This week, we tackle the NFL version of the grid game, where we test our knowledge of players, teams, and stats. Tune in as we complete Monday’s grid, discussing the players and moments that make the NFL such a fascinating sport. How many squares can we get right this time?

NFL Power Rankings After Two Weeks
Finally, we reveal our power rankings for the NFL after the first two weeks of the season. Which teams are at the top, and who’s struggling to find their rhythm? We rank all 32 teams, considering their performances, injuries, and potential as the season progresses. See where your favorite team stands and if they’re trending up or down after two weeks of action.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 NFL Week 2 recap
00:32:03 NFL injuries, McCaffrey, Pacheco, etc
00:41:20 NFL Power Rankings
01:42:42 College Football Week 3 recap
01:48:54 NFL Week 3 picks
02:10:20 NFL Immaculate Gride
02:26:49 Outro