Best of Enemies

EP 39: Lakers & Celtics Check-in

Lakers Check-In Ryan opens with a temperature check on the Lakers after a shooting upgrade at the deadline, sparking a familiar debate about what actually matters in the West right now. With contenders separating themselves and defence still looming as the elephant in the room, the question becomes whether improvement in one area is enough to survive a seven-game series. Celtics Under the Microscope Fred fires back as Boston makes a pragmatic move that raises eyebrows more than excitement. There’s talk of rotations, money, expectations, and a growing sense that the Celtics are being strangely overlooked despite their position in the standings. At the centre of it all sits one uncomfortable question about timing, health, and how much patience is too much.

EP 38: Trade Deadline 2026

Fred and Ryan returns from a whirlwind trip through New Zealand, Taiwan, Japan and Malaysia, just in time for what might be the most chaotic trade deadline we’ve seen in years. The timing couldn’t be better, because there’s a lot to unpack. The East: Big Names, Bigger Questions Cleveland makes a headline move that immediately splits opinion. Is this the kind of deadline deal that actually changes a franchise’s ceiling, or just another experiment with star power? Washington, of all teams, suddenly forces its way into the conversation, raising uncomfortable questions about talent, health, and whether young players can shine when nobody’s watching. The West: Short Term vs Long Term Golden State adds a piece that looks good on paper, but does it really shift their place in the hierarchy? The Clippers take a hard turn toward the future, making moves that feel smart long-term but painful right now. Utah continues its never-ending rebuild with another asset play that somehow keeps working.

EP 37: The Knicks are Champions*

In Episode 37 of Best of Enemies, Ryan and Fred react to the New York Knicks winning the NBA Cup, discussing how their increased depth and composure sets them apart from previous seasons. They debate the relevance and future of the NBA Cup, questioning whether it truly matters to fans and players, and explore possible changes, including moving the event internationally. The conversation then turns to the Lakers, sparked by Rich Paul’s comments about their contender status. The guys break down the Lakers’ statistical profile, debating whether their inside-heavy, low-three-point approach can translate to playoff success against elite teams like OKC. The episode wraps with a deep dive into the Celtics roster, including availability vs talent with Porziņģis and Kornet, Jordan Walsh’s growing role, and whether Jaylen Brown belongs anywhere near the MVP conversation, before signing off for the festive season.

EP 36: Respect, Loyalty, & the OKC Thunder

In this episode... A messy fallout as the Clippers fail to communicate with Chris Paul. The guys call it disrespectful and a bad look for Ballmer and future free agents. Giannis’ loyalty is questioned amid hints he may want out. Does loyalty still exists in today’s NBA? The Thunder’s incredible start goes under-reported. The hosts discuss how small-market bias keeps OKC out of the spotlight despite a dominant record. A break down the latest matchup between the Laker & Celtics, with Ryan dismissing Boston’s win streak and debating whether the Celtics are genuine contenders.

EP 35: Out of the Woodwork

In this Episode 34, Ryan starts pulling names out of the woodwork players you weren’t talking about last year, but suddenly can’t ignore now. From unexpected breakout seasons to teams accidentally winning when they’re meant to be tanking, the boys question whether some of these performances are real… or just the product of opportunity. Then the conversation shifts from the court to the couch with a new segment called “Dollars and Cents.” How much does it really cost to follow the NBA in 2025? From official subscriptions to highlights culture and the uncomfortable truth about how fans are actually watching games — nothing is off-limits. And just when you think it couldn’t get more awkward, the gambling conversation sneaks back in through the side door… where convenience meets consequence.Is the NBA easier to watch today… or harder than ever? And what are fans really paying for anymore? You’ll want to hear this one.