Warriors' Dilemma: Small Ball Has Become Tall Ball

15 Oct 2025 • 25 min • EN
25 min
00:00
25:45
No file found

Ric dives into an in-depth analysis of why the Golden State Warriors may struggle to match last season’s success despite Steph Curry’s brilliance and Jimmy Butler’s leadership. He argues that the NBA’s evolution toward “tall ball”—skilled, athletic bigs replacing traditional small-ball lineups—has neutralized the Warriors’ once-revolutionary style. Buecher also explores how aging stars like Draymond Green face diminishing impact, why team success naturally cycles due to the salary cap, and how fans’ expectations of perpetual contention are unrealistic. He concludes with sharp commentary on LeBron James’ rumored discontent with the Lakers, calling it a hollow narrative since no contender can or would trade for his $52 million contract, asserting that LeBron’s leverage and championship window have effectively closed. Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/bucher-and-friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From "On The Ball with Ric Bucher"

Listen on your iPhone

Download our iOS app and listen to interviews anywhere. Enjoy all of the listener functions in one slick package. Why not give it a try?

App Store Logo
application screenshot

Popular categories