Ep.092 | How NBA Finals Injuries Impact the Future of the League

Achilles injuries are piling up among NBA stars and professional athletes all over — what’s going on? In this episode, we dive into the disturbing trend of top-tier athletes like Tyrese Haliburton, Jayson Tatum, and Damian Lillard suffering Achilles tears. Could it be the new-age training methods, evolving shoe tech, or just the grind of the modern NBA season? Is the postseason format partly to blame for wearing down superstars at the worst possible time? Regardless, everyone will now be Aaron Rodgers' best friend while trying to come back from this kind of injury quickly.

We also break down the unprecedented parity in today’s NBA. Is the league’s current level of balance — where multiple teams have a real shot — actually a good thing? Or does it hurt long-term narratives and dynasties that drive fan loyalty?

Then we shift focus to one of the most fascinating teams in the league: the Oklahoma City Thunder. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander just wrapped up a legendary season (MVP, Finals MVP, and scoring champ), but the real story might be behind the scenes. From the culture Sam Presti has built to Jalen Williams’ powerful interview, we talk about how OKC quietly became the model franchise. Are we giving them enough credit?

We even touch on a hilariously bad Skip Bayless take that aged worse than milk — posted minutes before a major injury — and ask: are elite GMs more valuable than elite coaches in today’s NBA?

Also: some of our favorite personal team memories, a great leadership quote from 2021 that still resonates, and why Howie Roseman’s success in the NFL might carry lessons for other front offices.

Let’s get into it.

0:00 - ChatGPT Causing Injury?!

1:01 - Why Young Athletes May Be Tearing Achilles

7:30 - Related? ChatGPT Users + Under-Trained Athletes

9:03 - NBA Season Length & Training Variation Evaporating

15:05 - Career K!ller & Hesitation: Proliferation of Injuries In Pro Players

19:06 - Jalen Williams' Perspective Is 🔥 & OKC is Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

26:12 - GM or Head Coach: Who Is MOST Important In Today's Sports?

33:55 - NBA Parity & Transient Talent: Good or Bad Evolution?

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