The Zach Lowe Show - podcast cover

The Zach Lowe Show

The Ringerwww.theringer.com
Same Zach. New home. The Zach Lowe Show keeps you in the know around the Association with a variety of NBA conversations and game breakdowns. Plus guests, including his friends covering the league and some of the biggest names shaping it. Episodes weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
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Episodes

NBA Latest, Training Camp Reports, and Favorite Non-Finals Teams With Chris Ryan

Chris Ryan joins Zach, and they pick up with the latest intel he’s heard on the Fred VanVleet injury (1:41) before hitting the major topics coming out of training camp, including Anthony Edwards working on his post-up game (10:52). Plus, what are the issues in New York and Philly (18:07)? Then, time to go down memory lane as the pair draft their favorite non-Finals teams of the last 15 years (24:57), covering everything from almost champions to the final Process Sixers to Grit-and-Grind Grizz to...

Sep 24, 20251 hr 8 min

The Herro Injury and Veteran Extension Candidates With Sam Amick, Plus UConn Head Coach Dan Hurley

Zach and Sam begin with the news surrounding Tyler Herro’s injury (1:51) and talk about what it means for the Heat and how it might affect a possible extension for the seventh-year guard. That leads to a discussion about some of the more interesting veteran extension candidates out there, including KAT (11:55), KD (21:16), Lu Dort (32:11), and much more. Then, a big discussion on Trae Young (37:00): both his extension candidacy AND pseudo-feud with Pat Bev! Finally, Zach welcomes in UConn head c...

Sep 22, 20251 hr 36 min

How Can Teams Get Over the Hump? Plus, New Clippers Details With Rob Mahoney, and Mets Corner With Sean Fennessey

Zach and Rob begin by asking how the Cavs (1:39) and Wolves (13:58) can get over the hump, before wondering if the Pistons can do it with their youth, or with a trade (23:07)? Next, the Eastern Conference presents a unique opportunity for the Knicks (34:09) and Bucks (40:24). They also look at the Clippers as a basketball team first (48:40), and the new details on their controversy second (55:39). The duo end by digging into the Lakers (1:08:12) and Warriors (1:14:19), along with tangents on Lau...

Sep 18, 20251 hr 50 min

Teams That Need a Makeover on Offense With Mo Dakhil. Plus, the Latest on Jonathan Kuminga.

After a brief baseball check-in, Zach and Mo talk teams that may need to revamp their offenses (1:48), starting with the Magic and Knicks (19:40). What can the Lakers do with a full season of Luka Doncic (28:35)? Has the Heat’s offense gone cold (41:17)? Before moving on, Zach weighs in on the latest with Jonathan Kuminga (52:02), before going back with Mo to debate about who should start for the Blazers (1:04:43). Plus, a HIGHLIGHTS LEAGUE?!?, Giannis and Sengun’s war of words, a rant about mon...

Sep 15, 20251 hr 31 min

Latest Details on the Kawhi-Clippers Saga With Howard Beck, Picking Team USA With Bill Simmons, Mopey Mets Corner, and Much More

We kick off another Zach Lowe Show with the story taking the NBA by storm, the Kawhi Leonard–Clippers scandal (2:03). There's new reporting out today, as well as reactions from the board of governors meeting this week. Next, Zach goes through some news items, including his take on a new rule about end-of-the-quarter heaves (36:28). Spoiler alert: Some booing was done. Then, Bill Simmons comes on for a fun exercise (44:06): picking the 2028 USA men’s basketball team! Who’s in, who’s out, and who ...

Sep 11, 20251 hr 38 min

Clippers Controversy Continues With Legal Expert Michael McCann, Hall of Fame Thoughts With Howard Beck, and 'Simpsons' Appreciation With Alan Siegel

An eclectic Zach Lowe Show begins with law expert Michael McCann, who comes on to discuss all things Clippers (1:42): Steve Ballmer’s defense, Mark Cuban’s opinion, and what might come next. Then, what up, Beck?! Howard joins the show to talk about two of the newest members of the Hall of Fame, Dwight Howard (35:51) and Carmelo Anthony (52:18). Finally, Zach welcomes in Alan Siegel (1:09:21) to talk about their favorite 'Simpsons' moments and episodes to celebrate Alan’s book, 'Stupid TV, Be Mor...

Sep 08, 20251 hr 45 min

Reaction to the Kawhi Leonard Story, Contract Updates, and Most Improved Player Predictions With Kirk Goldsberry

Zach and Kirk begin by dissecting the reporting surrounding Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers (1:55): They go through the timeline of events, what people around the league are saying, and what the NBA might do about it. Then they rip through the Cam Thomas qualifying offer (43:59), the P.J. Washington extension (49:44), and yet another All-Star Game format change (55:50). Finally, they close with an early look at who might be in contention for Most Improved Player this season (1:02:52). Host: Zach ...

Sep 04, 20251 hr 19 min

NBA Summer Catch-Up, Plus the Return of Mets Corner With Sean Fennessey

Zach is back from vacation and ready to catch up on what he’s missed, including the Giannis roller coaster (2:19), De’Aaron Fox's (15:46) and Luka Doncic’s extensions (25:18), John Wall’s career (31:44), the latest with Trae Young (36:54), and much more! To close the show, Sean Fennessey and Zach talk Mets (46:22) as we enter the final month of the MLB season. Host: Zach Lowe Guest: Sean Fennessey Producers: Jesse Aron, Victoria Valencia, and Steve Ceruti Get started today at HubSpot.com/AI Lear...

Sep 02, 20251 hr 23 min

Under-The-Radar Moves of the Offseason with Fred Katz, TV Recommendations with Joanna Robinson, Lakers Check-In, Plus Mets Corner Continues with Sean Fennessey

Zach Lowe hosts an eclectic show featuring diverse segments. Fred Katz discusses intriguing NBA offseason moves, from strategic cap plays by the Wizards to the long-term potential of the Jabari Smith Jr. extension, along with confusing transactions like the Sexton-Nurkic trade and Poeltl's deal. Joanna Robinson offers tailored TV recommendations for a challenging set of criteria, sparking a broader conversation on the state of TV comedy. The episode also provides a check-in on Luka Doncic's physical transformation and how it impacts the Lakers' dynamics with LeBron James. Finally, Sean Fennessey joins for "Mets Corner," breaking down the team's trade deadline bullpen acquisitions, offensive struggles, and overall team outlook amidst an "all-in" strategy.

Jul 31, 20251 hr 59 min

Most Intriguing Players Next Season with Howard Beck, and All Things Mavericks With Tim Cato

What up, Beck?! Howard joins Zach to draft their most intriguing players for this upcoming season (1:20). No rookies or sophomores, no established stars … NO problem! The guys are most intrigued by Ausar Thompson (6:30), Scoot Henderson (32:56), Jalen Green (43:48), and many more! Then, Zach touches on some news around the league, including a cryptic LeBron James-adjacent Instagram post (1:01:08). Lastly, Tim Cato hops on to discuss all things Dallas (1:03:32): Luka’s in shape! Plus, how good ca...

Jul 28, 20251 hr 47 min

Eastern Conference Tiers With Michael Pina, and John Jastremski Joins Mets Corner

Zach welcomes Michael Pina to talk tiers of the Eastern Conference (1:17). Which teams can plausibly make the NBA Finals? What teams are tanking? And where does everyone else fall in? Along the way they discuss who they disagree on the most, including the Hawks (3:43), Raptors (46:45), and Bucks (53:38), as well as teams they differ on from consensus, like the Celtics (59:57) and Pacers (1:07:13). Lastly, everyone’s favorite summer segment continues—Mets Corner! (1:14:40) This time featuring Joh...

Jul 24, 20251 hr 51 min

Dame Returns to Portland, CP3 and Smart Head to LA, Plus More With Rob Mahoney

Dame is back with the Blazers (1:25). Rob and Zach discuss how it happened, how he fits with this team, and the romanticism of it all. There’s yet another reunion with Chris Paul in L.A. (26:27)—a look back at his career and a look forward at this year’s Clippers squad. Across town, the Lakers also make a move and sign Marcus Smart (39:03). How do Rob and Zach think he’ll fit in purple and gold? Then, Zach addresses the Cam Thomas criticism and discourse (52:53), before taking a deep dive on the...

Jul 21, 20251 hr 19 min

Beal to L.A., the Spurs' Future, and More With Mo Dakhil, Plus Sean Fennessey Returns for Mets Corner

Zach and Mo begin by discussing Bradley Beal joining the Clippers (1:28): L.A.’s new rotation and where this leaves Phoenix. Next, they talk Sixers (24:18), including Paul George’s latest injury news and Joel Embiid’s career retrospective. Then, mini-deep dives on two teams with two very different outlooks: the Spurs (38:27) and Pelicans (51:11). And lastly, it’s the return of Mets Corner with Sean Fennessey, (1:06:53) featuring the All-Star Game, David Wright, and mascots! Host: Zach Lowe Guest...

Jul 17, 20251 hr 44 min

A Look at the Lakers With Dan Woike, Plus Key Restricted Free Agents and More With Nekias Duncan

From Las Vegas, Zach welcomes Dan Woike to discuss all things Lakers and LeBron (1:14): What’s the latest, what is each side looking for, and where do the Lakers stack up in the West? Next, Nekias Duncan hops on to talk about the key restricted free agents still not signed, including Quentin Grimes (39:51), Josh Giddey (58:10), Jonathan Kuminga (1:01:57), and Cam Thomas (1:17:07). Lastly, a look at the outlook for the Detroit Pistons (1:27:10) this season and beyond. Host: Zach Lowe Guests: Dan ...

Jul 14, 20251 hr 42 min

Max Extensions, Plus Zach’s WTF Teams With Rob Mahoney and the Debut of Mets Corner With Sean Fennessey

Rob Mahoney jumps on first to talk extensions (1:20)—specifically, the difference between Chet Holmgren's and Devin Booker's latest deals. Then they discuss a group of clubs that Zach is labeling WTF are these teams?! This includes the Heat (23:30), Warriors (35:33), Bulls (45:40), Raptors (59:08), and LaMelo Ball’s Hornets (1:08:36). Lastly, Sean Fennessey stops by for Mets Corner (1:24:02) to answer questions, talk baseball, and hear Zach’s Aaron Boone story! Host: Zach Lowe Guests: Rob Mahone...

Jul 10, 20251 hr 54 min

What Up Trade?! Reaction to Today’s Deal, What It Means for Beal, and a Whole Lot More With Howard Beck.

The three most anticipated words in basketball podcasting begin today with reaction to the Norman Powell–John Collins three-team trade (1:16). The guys discuss what this deal does for the Clippers, Heat, Jazz, and possibly Bradley Beal. After having had a few days to think, Zach weighs back in on the Bucks' situation and what it means for Giannis (43:15). The duo also dig into the Lakers: Is there optimism for Ayton (54:43)? And is this another summer of LeBron (1:04:32)? Lastly, reaction to Mik...

Jul 07, 20251 hr 45 min

NBA Free Agency Instant Reactions With Wosny Lambre and John Hollinger

Zach Lowe and Wosny Lambre react instantly to major NBA free agency news, covering the Milwaukee Bucks acquiring Myles Turner and waiving Damian Lillard to retool around Giannis, and the Los Angeles Lakers navigating LeBron James' player option and roster needs. They then join John Hollinger to analyze the Denver Nuggets' surprising trades for Cam Johnson and Jonas Valanciunas, and smart moves by teams like the Hawks, Rockets, Magic, and Spurs across the league. The episode dives deep into team strategies, player futures, and the financial landscape shaped by recent deals.

Jul 01, 20251 hr 45 min

Zach’s FA Preview! What to Watch for Ahead of the Start of NBA Free Agency.

Zach Lowe previews the upcoming NBA free agency period, highlighting potential major storylines around players like Giannis, Bradley Beal, and LeBron James, despite them being unlikely to move. He breaks down completed early deals, trade speculation around players like Jonathan Kuminga and Ty Jerome, and discusses the outlook for various teams including the Cavaliers, Bulls, Clippers, Lakers, Spurs, Mavericks, Nuggets, Raptors, and Grizzlies ahead of a busy transaction period.

Jun 28, 202533 min

Complete NBA Draft Analysis With Tate Frazier and Mo Dakhil. Plus, a Conversation With New Orlando Magic Teammate Desmond Bane.

Zach welcomes in Tate and Mo to break down last night’s draft from all angles (1:54): What are the Pelicans doing? Can Portland make some noise in the West (12:04)? And of course, Zach talks about the Hawks: CAW, CAW (24:41)! Then, they give some rapid-fire thoughts on other picks, before Zach welcomes Desmond Bane to the show (1:15:15)! Bane shares what it was like to be at Game 7 of the NBA Finals, how and when he found out that he might be traded, and what he’s most looking forward to about j...

Jun 26, 20251 hr 38 min

The Thunder Win in Seven: Their Place in History and a Look at Their Future. Plus, Haliburton’s Injury, Durant’s Trade, and More With Rob Mahoney.

Rob Mahoney joins Zach to discuss what the enduring memories of these Finals will be (1:55), including the unfortunate Tyrese Haliburton injury, the Thunder’s suffocating D, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's stellar play. Then, they look toward the future for the Thunder. How much better can they get (32:41)? And are the Pacers the most memorable championship runner-up (57:46)? Plus, a full breakdown of the Kevin Durant trade (1:14:01), his fit in Houston, and what other offers may have been out the...

Jun 23, 20251 hr 45 min

We’re Going to Game 7!! GAME 7, BABY! Howard Beck on the NBA Finals' Deciding Game, Plus J. Kyle Mann Previews the Draft.

Howard Beck joins from Indiana to recap a Pacers blowout and preview a Game 7 (1:54), including how we got here and what to look for on Sunday. Then, the duo give their thoughts on the sale of the Lakers (50:54), including Howard’s recollections from covering the team, before wrapping up with some offseason questions (1:05:09). And to close the show, Zach welcomes in J. Kyle Mann for an NBA draft preview (1:10:47), covering the biggest story lines—from who Philly will select, to the Ace Bailey d...

Jun 20, 20251 hr 49 min

Game 5 Instant Reaction!! J-Dub’s Dominance, Haliburton’s Struggles, Trade Season Begins, and Much More With Kirk Goldsberry.

Zach and Kirk sit down moments after the final whistle for a full breakdown of Game 5 of the NBA Finals as the Thunder take a 3-2 series lead (1:49). They discuss Jalen Williams's heroics, the Thunder’s adjustments, and predictions for Game 6. Plus, a comprehensive look at the Desmond Bane trade (40:36). Why him? Did the Magic give up too much? And what’s going on in Memphis? Lastly, the latest news regarding Kevin Durant (1:05:50), and where Zach and Kirk think he may end up when it’s all said ...

Jun 17, 20251 hr 29 min

Shai Saves the Thunder, and the NBA Finals Are Now 2-2: All the Drama in the NBA With Bill Simmons.

After a riveting Game 4 of the NBA Finals in Indianapolis, Bill Simmons joins Zach to break it all down (1:52): Did tonight’s game decide the NBA title? They discuss Shai’s stellar MVP performance (16:51) and adjustments from both teams as it’s now a best-of-three for the championship. The pair close the night out with some groggy late-night offseason thoughts (57:57), featuring Giannis, KD, Booker, and … LeBron?! All that and more from Zach and Bill. Host: Zach Lowe Guest: Bill Simmons Producer...

Jun 14, 20251 hr 27 min

All Tied Up in the NBA Finals: What Happened and What to Watch for in Game 3. Plus, Offseason News, Notes, and Fake Trades With Michael Pina.

Zach and Michael Pina discuss the 1-1 NBA Finals from the city of Game 3, Indianapolis (1:52). They talk about the keys to the Thunder's victory, what the Pacers can do to adjust, and much more. Then, with an eye toward the offseason, the pair discusses the Hawks' outlook (41:16), possible Kevin Durant trades (53:29), and the Giannis situation (1:07:34). Host: Zach Lowe Guest: Michael Pina Producers: Jesse Aron, Jonathan Frias, and Mike Wargon The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Pleas...

Jun 09, 20251 hr 17 min

What Happened in OKC? A Full Game 1 Break Down With Mo Dakhil. Plus, More Offseason Check-ins With Howard Beck.

Still delirious from last night, Zach welcomes Mo Dakhil to discuss a shocking Game 1 of the NBA Finals (2:04). They go through Indiana’s turnovers, the Thunder’s decision-making, and what to watch for in Game 2. Plus, What up Beck?! (51:51) Howard joins from Oklahoma City to chime in on what he saw while in the building, as well as more from the fallout in N.Y. (59:49) and some possible moves in the offseason from teams you may not expect (1:09:39). Host: Zach Lowe Guests: Mo Dakhil and Howard ...

Jun 06, 20251 hr 33 min

Thibs Fired: What Now for the Knicks? Plus, a Pacers Deep Dive With Caitlin Cooper and Throwback Thunder Time With Jeff Green and Kendrick Perkins.

Zach begins by reacting to the news out of New York (2:09): What happened, why, and what does the future hold for the Knicks? Then, an Indiana-centric look at the Finals with Caitlin Cooper and a dissection of the matchup from all angles (29:17). And finally, Zach welcomes Jeff Green (59:38) and Kendrick Perkins (1:20:32) for some OKC Thunder nostalgia as the city gets set to host the NBA Finals. Host: Zach Lowe Guests: Caitlin Cooper, Jeff Green, and Kendrick Perkins Producers: Jesse Aron, Jona...

Jun 04, 20251 hr 46 min

WELCOME TO… the NBA Finals: Pacers–Thunder Preview with Kirk Goldsberry, Plus the State of the Knicks with Ian Begley

Zach welcomes Kirk Goldsberry for a comprehensive preview of the NBA Finals (1:53): How the Pacers overcame chaos to reach this point, what to watch for when Indiana has the ball (29:53) as opposed to when OKC has it (47:47). Then, Ian Begley joins to break down the Knicks' offseason outlook (1:07:55): the future of the coaching staff, potential lineup changes, and whether a major roster shake-up could be on the horizon. Host: Zach Lowe Guests: Kirk Goldsberry, Ian Begley Producers: Jesse Aron, ...

Jun 02, 20251 hr 55 min

The Thunder’s Road to the Finals, Looking at the Wolves' Future, and Ranking the Entire Eastern Conference With Wosny Lambre

Big Wos joins Zach to first discuss the Thunder’s path from the 2012 Finals to where we are today (1:15). They then share their thoughts on the discourse around Anthony Edwards (25:07), where the Wolves actually stack up in the West (38:55), and much more. To close, inspired by Bill’s thoughts on the Eastern Conference contenders, Zach and Wos do a full ranking of the teams in the East and discuss their futures (55:33). Who’s at the top? And maybe more importantly … who’s at the bottom? Host: Za...

May 29, 20251 hr 34 min

Knicks Comeback, Towns Comes Up Huge, and Both Conference Finals Inch Closer With Rob Mahoney

Zach is joined by Rob Mahoney to cover a pair of 2-1 conference finals, starting in the East (1:12), where it was the Knicks' turn for a comeback in the series. What did they change, and how will Indiana react moving forward? Before heading west, Zach details his journey with Mets fandom in a special MLB Interlude (49:11). Then, Rob rejoins as they discuss the Western Conference finals, and whether Minnesota’s huge Game 3 is a sign of things to come (57:40). Host: Zach Lowe Guest: Rob Mahoney Pr...

May 26, 20251 hr 16 min

YES 'CERS!! Last Night’s Crazy Comeback With Chris Mannix. Plus, Some Intriguing Offseason Teams With John Hollinger.

Chris Mannix joins Zach to recount a wild night at MSG, as both were in the building for the epic Game 1 between the Pacers and Knicks (1:12). Later, John Hollinger joins to talk about some under-discussed offseason teams (47:13), including the Clippers (1:03:29), Magic (1:20:26), Cavs (1:26:34), and much more. Host: Zach Lowe Guests: Chris Mannix and John Hollinger Producers: Jesse Aron, Chris Wohlers, Bobby Wagner, Oscar De La Luz The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www...

May 22, 20251 hr 43 min
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