Pure Hoops

Eric Newman and BJ Armstrong take a trip down memory lane, reflecting on the Larry Bird-era of college basketball. The pair also breakdown the latest buyout moves, including Andre Drummond to the Lakers, LaMarcus Aldridge to the Nets, and DeMarcus Cousins possibly joining the Clippers? Also, BJ shares his perspective following the back and forth between Stephen A. Smith and … [Read more...] about Reflecting on College Basketball, the Buyout Market, and Russell Westbrook

Eric Newman and BJ Armstrong discuss the league’s biggest trades following the deadline, including Nikola Vucevic to the Bulls, Aaron Gordon to Denver, Evan Fournier to the Celtics, Rondo to the Clippers, and Norm Powell to the Blazers. In addition, we preview the buyout market and survey the league ahead of the playoffs. … [Read more...] about Trade Deadline Spectacular

Eric Newman and BJ Armstrong discuss what Blake Griffin can do for the Nets, and where they stand in the Eastern Conference. Following news that the Spurs and LaMarcus Aldridge are parting ways, we discuss the best place for the big man. Also, Marcus Smart makes his return for the Celtics, and Eric and BJ give their suggestions on what they need to do to get over the hump. … [Read more...] about Blake Griffin to the Nets, LaMarcus Aldridge Rumors, and the Boston Celtics

Eric Newman and BJ Armstrong breakdown the contenders for the NBA’s awards at the midseason break. This includes the MVP race between Joel Embiid and LeBron James, as well as Quin Snyder and Monty Williams competing for the Coach of the Year. The pair also look ahead to the second half of the season, specifically focusing on the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets. … [Read more...] about Midseason Awards! Plus, Looking Ahead to the Second Half of the Season

Eric Newman and BJ Armstrong cover a myriad of topics in a loaded week of news, including how the coverage of the NBA has shifted more to highlights and flashy play, rather than the production of the league’s best players. The pair also discuss the role of the modern center, and then difference being a “big” versus being “tall”. Also, Eric and BJ give their thoughts on teams … [Read more...] about “Style Over Substance”, “Big vs. Tall”, and Managing Load Management

Eric Newman and BJ Armstrong investigate the problems that have plagued the Celtics to start the season. The pair also dissect a study showing a correlation this season between team health and their performance. Also, what do the Mavericks do to improve this team? What position should Luka actually play? Where does Kristaps Porzingis fit? Finally, Eric and BJ preview the … [Read more...] about Celtics Struggles, The Relationship Between Health and Team Success, and What Exactly is Luka Doncic?

Eric Newman and BJ Armstrong discuss the Nets-Clippers matchup and future outlooks for each. Who has the edge in the MVP race, Joel Embiid or Nikola Jokic? Fred VanVleet sets a franchise record in a 54-point outing for the Raptors, what message does this send to younger players that might be “counted out”? Also, Eric and BJ give their picks for Super Bowl LV. … [Read more...] about Marquee Matchups, the MVP Race, Fred VanVleet, and Super Bowl LV

Eric Newman and BJ Armstrong remember Sekou Smith. The pair analyze the 76ers as potential favorites in the East, and discuss whether the Utah Jazz are good enough to be contenders out West. With Lonzo Ball and JJ Redick potentially on the trading block, where do the Pelicans go from here? What are good landing places for the two guards? Also, Eric and BJ give perspective on … [Read more...] about Conference Contenders, Trade Rumors, Stephen Curry, and the Lakers-Celtics Rivalry

BJ Armstrong and Eric Newman take a deep dive into the first three games of the James Harden era in Brooklyn. While offense will never be an issue for Harden, Kyrie Irving, & Kevin Durant, can this team play enough defense to be a championship team? With COVID-19 vaccinations beginning to be administered to the public, should NBA players be able to jump the line due to the … [Read more...] about First Impressions of James Harden & Brooklyn’s New Big Three, protecting players from COVID-19, and the curious case of Zach Lavine

BJ Armstrong and Eric Newman examine the four team James Harden trade from multiple angles. Can Harden, Kevin Durant, & Kyrie Irving play together? With the Nets trading away all of their depth, what is the identity of the team? Has Brooklyn mortgaged its future with this move? Are they now the clear favorite to win the east? In spite of their offensive firepower, can the Nets … [Read more...] about Sorting out the four team James Harden trade and the future of the Nets & Rockets