Smith & Jones

Raptors' Future Without Masai Ujiri & Around the Offseason with Shaun Powell

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 3 Jul 2025 20:58:38 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones take a break from their vacation and check back to go over what the future of the Raptors will look like without Masai Ujiri as the President. Do they feel optimistic about the outlook of the Raptors now? Is the team positioned to compete next year? And why would they be looking for a new team president? The guys are then joined by NBA.com's Shaun Powell to get his thoughts on what happened with the Raptors so far this offseason and if we can expect anything else. Does Shaun think they are a playoff team? What were some of his winners and losers from the offseason? The guys wrap up over who is a bonified star in the Eastern Conference.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Season Finale: Looking Back on 30 Years of Raptors Basketball!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones close this year with a look back on 30 years of Raptors basketball. The guys share their memories from covering the team over the past three decades and look back at both some of their favorite memories and players along the way. Former Raptor Tony Massenburg joins the program to look back on Paul's "welcome to the NBA" moment. We also hear from Charles Oakley and Dee Brown on what they first thought when news broke that they had been traded to Toronto. Eric and Paul then take some time to look back at the years that led up to the 2019 championship, before ultimately reflecting on what it meant to win the Larry O'Brien Trophy with Phil Handy. The guys wrap up with thoughts on the future in Toronto and what we can learn from Massi Uriji's end of season press conference.

Thanks for listening - see you next season!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Canadian Basketball CEO Michael Bartlett on the Future of Canadian Basketball

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back! This week, the pair are joined by the CEO of Canada Basketball, Michael Bartlett! The guys get into this week's announcement by the program regarding the road map to 2028 Olympics. Michael outlines what Canadian basketball fans can expect going into this summer, the changes on the horizon on the heels of the Paris 2024 Games, and the state of the team's core ahead of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup. The trio also sort through the financial side of the program, before sharing their most exciting things to look forward to as a basketball fan in Canada! Eric and Paul wrap up discussing how the game has grown from coast to coast over the 30 years since the Raptors' inception, along with thoughts on the development still to come!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Florida Wins the NCAA Title + State of the Raptors with Matt Bonner

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 23:16:23 +0000

Former Toronto Raptor Matt Bonner joins Eric Smith and Paul Jones to discuss Florida's NCAA championship win. He reflects on his experience as a fan vs. a player and shares insights about the current state of college basketball. The conversation covers his upbringing, his journey through basketball from Florida to Italy and Toronto, and his thoughts on the current Raptors season and lessons for the future.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Villanova's Upset, NCAA Championship Glory & Early Raptors Memories with Ed Pinckney

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 2 Apr 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former Raptor and NCAA Champion, Ed Pinckney! The guys start off by chatting with Ed about his memories of Villanova's upset over Georgetown in 1985. How did they achieve this great milestone and what is the lasting legacy of that group? They also dive into his NBA career, how that tournament run propelled his basketball journey, and the ways that the NCAA game has changed 40 years later. Ed wraps up with a look back on time in Toronto and shares what he remembers from those early days on the team, what it was like to play on an expansion team, and the lasting impact the experience left on his life today.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Pops Mensah-Bonsu on Moving to America, Time in Toronto & SEED Ghana

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with another episode! This week, they are joined by former Raptor Pops Mensah-Bonsu! Pop shares his story of moving to the United States of America in Grade 10, the challenges that presented him, being a two-sport athlete with track and field, and why he ultimately chose basketball. The trio dive into his journey to George Washington University, why he ultimately chose to enroll there, and the program's influence on his basketball development. Pop also chats about his time in Toronto, what he learned about the city, and the impact of the area's large Ghanaian community. Eric and Paul take some time to catch up with the former Raptor about his current endeavors with the SEED Ghana Academy, before discussing how fast basketball has grown across Africa. They wrap up with thoughts on the late Dikembe Mutombo and his influence on all African players, as well as the game of basketball as a whole.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Nik Stauskas on Basketball in the GTA, Michigan, and Retiring from the NBA

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back just before March Madness, joined by Michigan legend and former NBA top 10 pick, Nik Stauskas. They discuss his upbringing in the GTA during the rise of the Raptors, and how the team influenced his basketball development. Nik shares his thoughts on how Canadian basketball has evolved since his early days, and whether it's easier for Canadians to break into the pros now. They also dive into why Nik chose Michigan, the influence of the Fab Five, adjusting to college life and what contributed to his on-court success. The conversation then shifts to his decision to enter the NBA draft, whether he would change that choice before exploring Nik's current ventures in broadcasting and what's next for him in his career.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Tom Sterner on Basketball Analytics, Coaching in Toronto & "TV Tom"

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with former Toronto Raptors assistant Tom Sterner! The guys get into how Tom broke into the NBA with analytics on the Orlando Magic, how the analytics have changed since then, working with Dwane Casey on the Dallas Mavericks before ultimately joining him with the Raptors. What was the first thing he noticed in Toronto? How did he adjust living and working in a different country? Finally, the guys get into his "TV Tom" personality and iconic half time interviews he would have.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

John Lucas III on His Family's Legacy, Playing in Toronto & Coaching

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 7 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with another former Raptor to celebrate the Raptors 30th anniversary season! This week, John Lucas III joins the guys to chat about his father's legacy of playing and coaching in the NBA as well as the tennis court, and how he passed that love onto his son. John talks about his journey in basketball and what led him to a tumultuous situation at Baylor, eventually leading him to the Final Four with Oklahoma State Cowboys. The guys discuss John's NBA career, his start with Dwane Casey and the Timberwolves, and how that led him back to Toronto later in his career. John also shares some of his memories of playing in Toronto and why he loves the city so much. Finally the guys talk about what John is up to now in his coaching career and what he hopes to achieve as he moves forward.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Darrick Martin on Going to UCLA, Playing in Toronto, & Talking Trash to Michael Jordan

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:06:30 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back after a week off and they are joined by former Raptors and 13 year NBA vet Darrick Martin! The guys go over his career in basketball from starting on the hardcourts in NYC, to going to UCLA. What was it like adjusting on the other side of the country as an under sized guard? The guys then go over his NBA career, how did he end up on a court with Michael Jordan and talking trash to him? What did he make of Toronto when he first go here? And why couldn't he wear his favorite number? Guys close out the episode getting Darrick's thoughts on the modern NBA and how it has changed from when he played.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Antonio Daniels on Brandon Ingram, Basketball in Vancouver, & His Time in the NBA

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones return with Antonio Daniels, current New Orleans Pelicans broadcaster, host on Sirius XM NBA Radio and former NBA guard! They dive into what Raptors fans can expect from Brandon Ingram both on and off the court, how he will fit in Toronto and where the trade leaves the Pelicans going forward. The guys also chat about Antonio's memorable moments from his time as a player with the Grizzlies, along with what could have been done differently to keep the team in Vancouver. Finally, the NBA Champion opens up about life after basketball and what that transition was like from the hardcourt to the broadcast booth. Eric and Paul close out the show with thoughts on Ingram's contract extension and where the Raptors go from here, before sharing their favorite memories from the NBA in Vancouver.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Smith & Jones: Deadline Edition

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 7 Feb 2025 13:47:17 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones discuss the Raptors acquiring Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans, the likelihood that he will re-sign in Toronto, and the players who are now leaving town: Bruce Brown, Kelly Olynyk, and Davion Mitchell. The guys bring Sportsnet’s Michael Grange in on the conversation with his thoughts on Toronto's moves and what the future holds for Chris Boucher after he remained a Raptor. After the break, Eric & Paul invite Warriors play by play voice Tim Roye (32:38) to the program to talk about Jimmy Butler heading West to Golden State.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

New NBA Alumni President Antonio Davis on His New Role & Toronto Memories

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with another Raptor Great, Antonio Davis! The guys talk to him about his new role as the president of the NBA Alumni association. What will he look to do with his new role as president? What can they do with the players association to help retired players transition into their post playing career? And how can the alumni association better educate people? The guys also look back at his time in Toronto and how far the Raptors have come over the last 30 years. Guys also go over Vince Carter’s retirement ceremony, Antonio’s thoughts on how the game is today, and what we can expect to see in the future!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

30 Years of Raptors History with Alvin Williams

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 22 Jan 2025 23:50:11 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with fan favourite Alvin Williams in a special podcast-only episode! The guys start by going over Alvin's time in Toronto and the start of his basketball career. What was the biggest difference between college and the NBA? What was it like having Butch Carter as his head coach? Where did Alvin's disdain for the city of his birth, Philadelphia, come from? And why does he love Toronto so much? All that and much more as the guys catch up with the former Raptors point guard!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Playing in the NBA with Diabetes, Coming from Panama, & T.O Memories with Gary Forbes

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with another episode of Smith and Jones! This week, former Raptor Gary Forbes joins the show to discuss growing up in Panama during a time of political turmoil, moving to New York City as a young boy, and his memories of playing in the NCAA with two teams. The guys also get into how being diagnosed with type 1 Diabetes affected not only Forbes' basketball career but his life overall. Finally, Forbes breaks down how he broke into the NBA and what his memories of playing for the Toronto Raptors are and they go over some of his current work, including becoming an author with the book 'The Sole Survivor.'

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Bob Delaney on NBA Refereeing, Mental Health, & Going Undercover

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 9 Jan 2025 19:16:56 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back from the holidays with a special podcast-only version of the show! The guys are joined by long time NBA referee and former undercover cop, Bob Delaney! They start by going over some of his first memories when it was announced Toronto got an expansion team. The guys then get into some of his stories from refereeing in the NBA, how going undercover helped Bob's career, and dealing with PTSD. The show closes with Eric and Paul pitching the roles they would play in Bob's movie! All that and much more!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Aaron Gray on His Career in NBA, Time in Toronto & Life After Basketball

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back this week as they continue to celebrate the Raptors' 30th season. This week they are joined by seven-year NBA veteran and former Toronto Raptor, Aaron Gray! The guys look back on the start of Aaron's career playing in the Big East at Pitt and how that set the tone for what was to come. He shares his experience being drafted by the Bulls, along with the role Ben Wallace played in his early career. Later, the trio dive into Aaron's time in Toronto including his initial introduction to the city, how the team was constructed, why they could never seem to get over the hump, what happened on the day he was traded, and how he felt seeing the Raptors lift the title in 2024. Finally, the guys close out the episode talking about Aaron's heart condition that cut short his NBA career and what life has been like after basketball.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Glen Grunwald on His Career, Building the Raptors & Canadian Basketball Development

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back! This week they are joined by former Raptors General Manager and current Senior Advisor to the Grizzlies & Canada Basketball, Glen Grunwald! The guys go over how Glen got his basketball career started, from playing under Bob Knight at Indiana to being drafted by Red Auerbach and the Celtics. Later, Glen dives into NBA front offices, what it was like being at the head of the Raptors, and what he remembers most from that period. The trio close out the episode by going over the way basketball in Canada has grown, where it can still go and the role Glen and the Raptors played in that.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Ben Uzoh on His Playing Career, Relationship with Masai Ujiri & That Triple Double

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 4 Dec 2024 21:37:13 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are joined by former Raptor Point Guard, and current Raptors Scout Ben Uzoh! The guys go over his journey to the NBA from Houston to the University of Tulsa. How & why did he pick Tulsa? What was it like being undrafted? How did he end up in Toronto and what were his first feelings when he found out? How did he transition into scouting? What is his current role with the Raptors and what influence did Masai Ujiri have on him? The guys then go over Ben's final game in the NBA and the Raptors first triple double in 11 years. When was he aware of how close he was? And why was that his last game in the NBA? Eric & Paul then share there thoughts on Ben and that time in Raptors history.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Dee Brown on Winning the Slam Dunk Contest, Playing with Larry Bird, & Early Raptors

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 23:51:31 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are joined by 1991 NBA Slam Dunk Champion, and 12 year NBA veteran Dee Brown! The guys get into what it was like breaking into the league with the Boston Celtic's led by Larry Bird. What did he learn from him on how to lead a team? How did winning the Slam Dunk contest effect his early career? The guys then get into what it was like when he first got to Toronto, and how he mentored a young core. The guys wrap up the conversation with talk of how Brown's daughter Lexie Brown, has taken the WNBA by storm. Eric & Paul then share there own memories of Dee, and if the new WNBA team might have a front runner for coach.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Ed Stefanski on Trading for Vince Carter, Basketball in Toronto, & Kyle Lowry's Impact

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 23:34:30 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with former Raptors executive and current Senior Advisor to the Pistons, Ed Stefanski! He shares some memories from when he was in New Jersey of trading for Vince Carter and all that went into that. The guys then get into his time with the Raptors and what both he and Brian Colangelo built in Toronto. Later, the trio look back on the trade that sent Kyle Lowry to Toronto and discuss what his presence has meant to both the franchise and city, before debating whose jersey should go up to the rafters in Scotiabank Arena next. Eric and Paul wrap up with their memories of the Vince trade and provide some examples of when trading a superstar can work out.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Tony Massenburg on Basketball in Canada, NBA Memories, & Len Bias Legacy

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with another former Raptor! Joining the guys this week is 13 year NBA vet Tony Massenburg. The guys go over his introduction to Toronto, and meeting Paul back in the day before getting into what life is like an an expansion team. Tony then goes over his time playing for the university of Maryland with Len Bias and what could have been with his career. The guys then go over the legacy of Len Bias and how over time it has changed to being a more positive one. Tony then compares his time in Toronto to Vancouver and what differences and similarities he saw between the two cities, and organizations. Eric and Paul wrap up the show with there memories of Len Bias and other tales from the road in the NBA!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Vince Carter Legacy w/ Charles Oakley

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 8 Nov 2024 00:22:17 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with another episode. They are joined by NBA legend, and former Toronto Raptor Charles Oakley! The guys go over his first reaction's to Toronto and how he felt about the city. The guys then get into his experience playing with Vince Carter, and how close he thinks the team was to being a serious contender. The guys then get into who they think the next jersey to be retired for the Raptors. Eric and Paul wrap up the show with some audio from Vince Carter's hall of fame ceremony.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

NBA Champions Phil Handy Life in Basketball

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are joined by 3 time NBA Champion Phil Handy! They go over his life in basketball from his early days growing up in the Bay Area, to playing his college ball in Hawaii. The guys then go over just how hard it was to make an NBA roster and his career over sea's, and getting into skill development as a coach. How did all of this lead to eventually getting on Mike Brown's staff to work with Kobe Bryant? Finally the guys touch on Phil's time in Toronto, from his relationship with Nick Nurse to deciding to leave Cleveland and join the Raptors. And finally some of his memories from the 2019 Championship season!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Lucas "Bebe" Nogueira on Life After Basketball, His Time in Toronto, and Basketball in Brazil

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back for another season of Smith and Jones! The guys kick off the season with former Raptors centre and fan favourite, Lucas "Bebe" Nogueira! They chat about what he is up to now following his recent retirement from basketball, how hard the transition has been to his post-NBA life, and what he wishes he could have told his younger self. The guys then get into some of his recent struggles both on and off the court, before wrapping up the conversation with a look back at his time in Toronto and just how close the Raptors were to getting past LeBron James and the Cavaliers. Finally, the guys dive into the handling of mental health in sports and how far we have come.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Bobby Marks on the NBA Off Season & Doug Smith on Team Canada's Training Camp

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 4 Jul 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back for one more time this year! In the season finale the guys welcome on former NBA front office executive and current NBA Front Office insider Bobby Marks. He gives them his thoughts on the Raptors draft & off season so far. The guys then go over his thoughts on Paul George moving to the 76ers, what the Nuggets are doing, and how the new CBA is effecting how teams are constructed. Doug Smith of the Toronto Star then joins Eric and Paul and they go over his thoughts on what the Raptors have done so far this year. The guys then get into team Canada's national men's team training camp so far, and what expectations should be. Finally guys get into the Women's national team headed to Paris and what we should expect from them!

The Views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Seth Greenberg on NBA Draft + Canada Basketball CEO Michael Bartlett & GM Rowan Barrett

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 16:05:57 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with another jammed packed episode! Guys kick things off previewing the opening of Team Canada training camp, and what this summer will look like for the national team. Paul is then joined by the CEO of Canada Basketball Michael Bartlet and General Manager Rowan Barrett. They go over what this roster looks like and what training camp will entail. Eric and Paul then go over there thoughts on the Raptors off season moves thus far. From acquiring Davion Mitchell to resigning Immanuel Quickley are they better now then when the season started? Guys then welcome on former NCAA coach and current ESPN analyst Seth Greenberg! They get Seth's thoughts on the Raptors draft picks, and what we should expect going forward from them. Guys also go over the drafting of Bronny James and what it means for the league!

The Views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Celtics Championship w/ Oshae Brissett & Gary Washburn + Team Canada's Goals w/ David Blatt

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 23:03:16 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back and joined by NBA Champion Oshae Brissett! They go over what it was like to win the NBA title with the Boston Celtics. Who was the first person he called? What leadership role did Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown play in this series? And who is he celebrating with in Toronto? Boston Globe Celtics reporter Gary Washburn then joins the guys to share his thoughts on the Celtics' championship and what's ahead for this team after the title. Finally, former Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach and current Team Canada Consultant, David Blatt joins the guys to share his thoughts on the Canadian roster and what it will take to win in Paris this summer.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Mavs on the Brink w/ Derek Harper + Remembering Jerry West w/ Matt Devlin

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 13 Jun 2024 18:00:44 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with another episode! The guys are joined by the Raptors television play-by-play announcer Matt Devlin! They go over some of his memories from 5 years ago when the Raptors beat the Warriors to win the NBA championship. The guys then get into Matt's experience working beside Jerry West and his impact on both Matt, and the entire league. The guys then welcome on 17-year NBA vet and current Mavs broadcaster Derek Harper! They get into how this series has played out and why the Celtics have dominated the Mavs in the first 3 games. What has Derek observed in this series as opposed to the run to the NBA finals? And what did he learn from his own finals experience that can apply to the current-day Mavs?

The Views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

T-Wolves Associate Head Coach Micah Nori & New Ontario Basketball CEO Claude Nembhard!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 6 Jun 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with another jam-packed episode! The guys are joined by Timberwolves Associate Head Coach Micah Nori to go over his experience in the Western Conference Finals after getting thrust into the head coaching role! They chat about the T-Wolves' season as a whole and the leap the team made this year, before Micah offers his thoughts on the NBA Finals matchup and what it presents for both teams. Later, new CEO of Ontario Basketball, Claude Nembhard stops by to go over what he expects to accomplish in his new role, how the OBA and Canada Basketball can better work together to get the best talent out of Ontario, how his own experience with his sons can help inform his leadership, and if we can expect his son Andrew to suit up for Canada this summer.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Scott Perry & Alvin Williams Playoff Breakdown

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 31 May 2024 00:20:55 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones kick off the show by offering some thoughts on the passing of Bill Walton. About his impact both on and off the court and he meant for the NBA. The guys then welcome on former Knicks GM & current ESPN analyst Scott Perry to hear his thoughts on the conference finals. What stands out for him more then anything else? Would it be a disappointed if the Celtics didn't win the title this year? And what does Scott see in these conference finalists that the Raptors can apply to there rebuild? The guys are then joined by former Raptor, and current NBA Sportsnet analyst Alvin Williams! They get his thoughts on the conference finals and what he see's in each team. How impressed has he been with Anthony Edwards so far? Does he think this for real? All that and so much more!

The Views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Conference Finals Breakdown w/ Mark Jones, Quinn Buckner & Chuck Cooperstein

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 23 May 2024 19:05:29 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with another packed episode! The guys kick things off with their thoughts on the announcement of Toronto getting a WNBA team! What does it mean for the city and the game of basketball in Toronto, as well as for the nation as a whole? Next, the pair dive into the NBA conference finals alongside Dallas Mavericks radio play-by-play voice, Chuck Cooperstein! He breaks down his takeaways from Game 1 including if the Mavs have the defensive chops to win the West, and how Kyrie Irving and Luka Dončić have figured out how to play together. Later, ESPN broadcaster Mark Jones weighs in on both ongoing series and discusses what lessons the rest of the league can learn from the final four remaining teams. Finally, Paul is joined by former NBA player, coach and current Pacers broadcaster, Quinn Buckner! The pair go over what happened to the Pacers in Game 1, how they can avoid those issues for the rest of the series, and the impact Pascal Siakam has had on the team.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Cavs' Next Steps & MVP Talk w/ Tim Bontemps + Second Round Check-in w/ Alan Horton & Eddie Gill

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 16 May 2024 23:32:44 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with another packed episode! The guys share their thoughts on the news of the Nets retiring Vince Carter's number and what it says about Raptors, before being joined by the voice of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Alan Horton! Alan helps break down everything Nuggets-Timberwolves including what's changed from Game 2 to now and how the T-Wolves can counter-punch. Next up, former NBA player and current Pacers analyst, Eddie Gill weighs in on Indiana's chances of clawing back into their series with the Knicks. Later on, ESPN writer Tim Bontemps stops by to go over what happened between the Cavs and Celtics, as well as what lies ahead this off-season in Cleveland. The trio also go over Tim's thoughts on the MVP award and the impact of his straw poll.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Nik Stauskas on Knicks-Pacers & Ed Stefanski on Modern Team Building

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 9 May 2024 23:14:56 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones share there thoughts on the MVP award, and why they think the NBA got it wrong. The guys are then joined by longtime NBA executive Ed Stefanski. They get into his thoughts on the MVP award. Then his thoughts on how both the Timberwolves and Nuggets were put together. The guys then get into Ed's thoughts on Zach Edey and if he can fit into the modern NBA. Eric and Paul are the joined by 2014 Big 10 player of the year & former NBA player Nik Stauskas. They get into what he saw in game 2 at MSG between the Knicks and Pacers. What do the Pacers need to do differently in order to get back into this series? And how does he view how the modern NBA game has changed from when he was in the league? The guys then get Nik's thoughts on the MVP award!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Lionel Hollins on Lakers Next Steps, Championship Mentality & NBA Playoffs

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 2 May 2024 21:24:12 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by NBA champion & former NBA head coach Lionel Hollins! The guys go over his memories and role in Portland's 1977 championship. Next, Hollins unpacks what it's like coaching in the playoffs and what goes into game planning. After that, how can the Lakers retool after being eliminated by the Nuggets yet again? The guys then get into what Lionel is seeing from the Mavs, and Knicks and discuss if they are legit title contenders. Eric and Paul then get his thoughts on Charles Barkley's comments and the development of younger players in the league.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Monica McNutt on Knicks-76ers & Dan Woike on LA's Playoff Run

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back breaking down all the action from the NBA playoffs! Guys are joined by ESPN's and New York Knick radio announcer Monica McNutt to breakdown everything going on in the big apple. Is she surprised by the Knicks start? How are they doing all this without Julius Randle? And is Joel Embiid leaving anything to be desired? The LA time's Dan Woike then joins the guys to share his thoughts on Lakers-Nuggets. Why does it seem like the Nuggets own them? And is there discord coming from the Lakers? Guys then get into Dan's thoughts on the Clipper's and who he thinks is the MVP of the league this year! Eric and Paul close the show with some thoughts on the passing of Bob Cole and what he meant to all Canadians.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

2023-24 Raptors Review w/ Alvin Williams

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 21:16:27 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back to wrap up the 2023-24 Raptors season. The guys are joined by Sportsnet Raptors analyst Alvin Williams as they look back at the high's and low's from the season. Eric and Paul then listen to Masai Ujiri end of season availability and talk about what they expect in the offseason. They then hear from Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and Immanuel Quickley, before offering there final thoughts for the season (33:42).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

P.J. Carlesimo on NCAA Tournament Memories, Zach Edey, & NBA MVP Race

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 18:41:44 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former NCAA and NBA head coach, and current NBA on ESPN radio analyst, P.J. Carlesimo! He shares some of his memories his time with Seton Hall and their trip to the Final 4. How did he prepare them to play Duke? What did he say at halftime when they were down? The guys then pivot to the 2024 NCAA tournament and what P.J. thinks the future holds for Zach Edey. Later on, they discuss who's leading the NBA MVP race and if anyone can stop a Denver-Boston final. All that and much more in a jammed packed episode!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Vince Carter Hall of Famer w/ Muggsy Bogues & Michael Grange

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 4 Apr 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with a special edition of Smith & Jones! With the news of Vince Carter's induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, the guys are joined by his former teammate Muggsy Bogues to look back on his time in Toronto. Was he often under appreciated? Did his love of basketball get lost in the shuffle? How impressive was he in practice? Muggsy also offers some thoughts on the current NBA season and how he sees it shaking out. Later on, Sportsnet's Michael Grange stops by to share his thoughts on the Vince Carter's effect, not only on the fanbase, but the organization as a whole. The guys also go over Grange's piece about how Keith Pelly could shape MLSE as he takes over CEO.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

What is Going On with Jontay Porter? w/ Alex Schiffer + Canada Basketball CEO Michael Bartlett

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 17:35:22 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with a brand new episode! The guys are joined by Front Office Sports Reporter, Alex Schiffer to talk about his reporting on the situation. What happened exactly and how big will the consequences be? Alex has covered the Porter brothers since high school, did he ever see something like this happen? Eric and Paul then get into their own thoughts on it and what the fallout could be for all of sports. Guys shift gears and talk to Canada basketball CEO Michael Bartlett after. What are the next steps the national team can take? How do we continue this momentum going forward? And is this the start of something for basketball in this country?

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Canadian National Team Coach Jordi Fernández & Raptors Legend Mo Pete!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 23:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with another loaded edition of Smith & Jones! Canadian men's national team Head Coach Jordi Fernández joins the guys off the hop to recap the Olympic group draw. Jordi also talks about the impact former national team coaches Jay Triano and Nick Nurse have had on the program and discusses how the perception of Canada basketball has changed internationally. Finally, the guys get into what the roster could look like this summer. Next, Eric and Paul are joined by Raptors legend Morris Peterson! They go over his history in the NCAA tournament with Michigan State and talk about how the NBA has changed from when he played. To close, they highlight the West Park Healthcare Centre tournament of stars happening this weekend in Toronto!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Leigh Ellis on the International Language of Basketball

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 17:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with a special episode this week! Leigh Ellis joins the guys from Brazil, the latest stop in Ellis' '20 games in 20 Cities' basketball tour. How has Leigh found travelling the world and trying to play 20 pickup games in 20 different cities? What's he learned not only about himself, but about the game of basketball and how do different players play in different parts of the world? The guys also touch on Leigh's original goal for this journey and ask him how he would define it as a success.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Noah Croom On Basketball Development & Reflecting on the Vancouver Grizzlies

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 7 Mar 2024 21:15:28 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with a new episode! They are joined by former assistant GM and current player agent Noah Croom! The guys go over how the pipeline to the NBA has changed with Noah. From the development of young players to the influx of Europeans, are we in a worse position now? How has the way referees are calling games impacted the offensive explosion we are currently seeing? The guys also go over some of the memories of the Vancouver Grizzlies, and whether or not basketball could work in Vancouver if given another chance.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Western Conference Playoff Picture w/ Derek Harper & Tim Roye + Sumit Arora on Raptors Uprising

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 1 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with another edition of Smith & Jones! 16-year NBA vet and Dallas Mavericks commentator Derek Harper joins the guys to go over his thoughts on the Mavs right now. Can they be legit contenders in the West despite there poor defense and who else does Derek see as a threat out of the West? Then, voice of the Golden State Warriors Tim Roye joins the guys to go over the Warriors season so far this year. Plus, is this the end of the road for Klay and Draymond, how have the young players adjusted, and just how impressive is Steph Curry? Finally, the guys are joined by Raptors Uprising's Sumit Arora to go over the evolution of 2K and how it has become more intertwined with the sport.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Rex Chapman: A Basketball Life

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 19:01:58 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former professional basketball player and social media influencer, Rex Chapman! They preview his new book 'It's Hard for Me to Live with Me.' How did he deal with addiction and playing basketball at a high level? How aware was he that he was dealing with mental health issues at the time of his playing days? The guys then get into the current NBA and how the game has differed from when he played. Later, they get into how AAU has effected development as opposed to guys coming out of Europe, as Paul shares his own personal experience of playing basketball in the south! Rex Chapman's new book 'It's Hard for Me to Live with Me.' is available everywhere February 27th.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Post-Deadline Thoughts w/ Bobby Marks & Siakam on the Pacers w/ Pat Boylan

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back for another week! The guys welcome on Pat Boylan, Indiana Pacers radio host and sideline reporter, to discuss the addition of Pascal Siakam, his fit with the team, what has he added, and if Indiana is a legit contender now. The guys then get into what lessons the Raptors can learn from the Pacers' rebuild and if it's a path they can pursue. The guys then welcome on former NBA GM turned ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks to look into the buyout market, the most improved teams at the trade deadline, and the Raptors' direction for the future.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Raptors Trade Deadline Review w/ Scott Perry & Doug Smith

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 9 Feb 2024 00:47:10 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back to break down the NBA trade deadline! The guys kick off the show with Doug Smith, Toronto Star Raptors reporter, who looks into Toronto's business today, if the organization picked the right direction, and what we expect to see for the rest of the season. Finally, former New York Knicks General Manager and current ESPN analyst, Scott Perry joins the guys to share his thoughts on the trade deadline including who improved the most, who got worse, and what move stood out from the crowd.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Ryan Hollins & Alvin Williams on How It Feels to be Traded & Honouring Players

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 1 Feb 2024 18:43:46 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former Raptors point guard and current Sportsnet Analyst Alvin Williams! They go over some of his stories of being traded, and how it feels for the players. The guys also get into whether or not Vince Carter's number should be retired in Toronto and what retiring a number means. Alvin also shares his thoughts on Bruce Brown, and his impressions of Darko so far. The guys then welcome former NBA center and current Rockets analyst Ryan Hollins. They get into some of his stories of being traded, and how he feels about jersey retirements. Finally, on the Rockets and how Fred VanVleet, Dillion Brooks, and Ime Udoka have changed the attitude around the team.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Nate Bjorkgren on Challenges of Being a Head Coach + Howard Beck on Bucks' Next Steps

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with another jam packed episode! To start things off, senior NBA writer from the Ringer Howard Beck joins the show. They get into everything going on in Milwaukee and what led to the firing of Adrian Griffin. Next, they get into Beck's thoughts on the Raptors moves, and how long he thinks this rebuild could take. Eric then welcomes on Sportsnet Producer Paul Bromby to promote his new children's book 'The Backpack' and what inspired him to write it. The guys wrap up the week with former NBA head coach Nate Bjorkgren. He gets into what he is doing right now with Team Canada as they approach their next international window. The guys also get into his thoughts on the Adrian Griffin firing and Nate's own personal experience of moving from the assistant to head coach.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates

Pascal Siakam Trade Reaction w/ Ric Bucher & Kevin Pelton

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 19:26:30 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones start off today's episode on the heels of Masai Ujiri's post-trade press conference. They discuss if they share his faith about winning in Toronto, whether or not any more trade are coming, and what happened to the relationship between Masai and Pascal Siakam over the summer. Later on, FOX Sports 1 NBA analyst Ric Bucher hops aboard to chat about the recent trades, the direction of the Raptors, and the legacy of the 2019 title. Finally, ESPN NBA writer Kevin Pelton joins the guys to share his thoughts on the deal and what's ahead for this team.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Raptors' Next Steps with Marc Spears + John Ireland on LeBron's L.A. Legacy

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 19:27:39 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with another jam-packed episode! ESPN and Andscape writer Marc Spears joins to talk about how RJ Barrett is fitting in with the Raptors since the trade, why this is projecting to be a rare win-win transaction in the league, and what's on the horizon in Toronto. Next, Lakers radio play-by-play voice John Ireland weighs in on the season that's unfolded in Los Angeles, as well as LeBron James' 21st year in the league. Finally, Eric and Paul chat with Niloofar Abedzadeh, a recipient of the Wayne and Theresa Embry Fellowship, about what the role entails and where she hopes it will leads to.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Breaking Down the OG Anunoby Trade w/ P.J. Carlesimo & Brian Mahoney

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 5 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones breakdown everything to do with the OG Anunoby trade. First they are joined by the Associated Press Knicks reporter Brian Mahoney to take a look the trade from the Knicks perspective. What did the Raptors get with RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley? Where does this trade leave the Knicks now too? Then former NBA coach and broadcaster P.J. Carlesimo joins the guys to share his thoughts on the trade and what he sees in the Raptors this year. Are they better after this trade or worse?

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Raptors Trade OG Anunoby, RJ Barrett Comes Home

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Sat, 30 Dec 2023 22:58:09 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones share their reaction to the Toronto Raptors trading away OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn to the New York Knicks for RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley and a second-round pick. We get Raptors TV voice Matt Devlin's thoughts on the trade, the mood of the team following the loss of OG in the locker room, and if this move signals the next decision surrounding Pascal Siakam's future. Plus, we hear head coach Darko Rajakovic's thoughts on the deal between New York and Toronto.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Smith & Jones Holiday Best-Of: Canada Basketball Edition

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 28 Dec 2023 22:49:26 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with another holiday best of edition! They look back on the year that was in Canada basketball with the General Manager of the national team Rowan Barrett, longtime member Carl English, and current Bronze medalist Dwight Powell! The guys also look back on some of there favorite interviews of the year from NBA champion Popeye Jones, to former NBA ref Bob Delaney, and finally ESPN analyst Tim Legler!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Smith & Jones Holiday Best-Of: Raptors Edition

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 22:42:22 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look back on 2023 with some of their favourite interviews from the past year. This week they concentrate on conversations with former Raptors players Amir Johnson, TJ Ford, Jose Calderon, Dell Curry, Charlie Villanueva, and ‘The Junkyard Dog’ Jerome Williams. Happy Holidays from Smith & Jones!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Catching Up w/ Tyler Hansbrough & Taking a Look at the Hawks w/ Steve Holman

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back for another jammed packed week! They are joined by former Raptor and Naismith player of the year, Tyler Hansbrough! They go over what he is getting up to in his retirement, some of his favorite memories from both college and his time in Toronto. They then get into some of the players he most enjoys watching now. Then longtime radio voice of the Atlanta Hawks Steve Holman joins the guys! They get into the similarities between the Hawks and Raptors teams and direction of the franchise, and how they all felt about the in-season tournament after it's inaugural season!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Catching Up with Chris Childs + Canadian Coaching Legend Jon Goodwillie

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 7 Dec 2023 16:38:52 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with a new episode! The guys catch up with former Raptors point guard Chris Childs and chat about everything he is doing off the court now, some of stories from his time in Toronto, and memories of playing with Vince Carter. Later on, Eric and Paul debate their favourite players to watch in the current NBA. Next up, former Assistant Coach for the Raptors and Team Canada, Jon Goodwillie stops by to share his thoughts on the greatest Raptors of all time, his experience this summer being with Team Canada at the World Cup, and how has basketball grown across the country in his lifetime.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Thoughts on the Raptors at the Quarter Point, In-Season Tournament & Eddie Johnson!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 1 Dec 2023 00:28:19 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back! The pair kick things off with their thoughts on the Raptors at the quarter point of the season, including what has impressed them and what has left them wanting more. Former NBA point guard, NBA on Sirius XM host, and Suns broadcaster, Eddie Johnson joins the guys to chat about the top storylines surrounding the Suns early on. The guys wrap things up with a look at the latest news around the league, before sharing their thoughts on the In-Season tournament.

Views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Alvin Williams on the Impact of Fans & Chuck Swirsky on Bulls Season so Far!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by the radio voice of the Chicago Bulls, and former Raptors play by play voice Chuck Swirsky to give us his favorite holiday memoires while working in the league! The guys then get into how the game has changed, and what he has seen from the Bulls so far this year. Then former Raptors point guard, and current Sportsnet analyst Alvin Williams joins the guys. They get into the Raptors so far and also what happened in San Antonio this week. Did Gregg Popovich do the right thing and does booing effect players or motivate them?

Views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Rowan Barrett on Canada Basketball & Dwane Casey on Life After Coaching

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 00:14:26 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by Rowan Barrett, General Manager of the Team Canada's National Men's Senior team! They go over everything that happened this summer from the coaching change, to the challenges the team faced in the FIBA World Cup. Rowan also shares what to expect going forward with the roster for next summer. Later on, former Raptors head coach and current advisor to the Detroit Pistons, Dwane Casey joins the guys to talk about life after coaching, what he is up to now, and how far the NBA has come.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Dwight Powell on Canada's World Cup, Tim Legler on the New NBA, & Scott McCullough on Load Management

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back! They look back at the summer that was for Canada Basketball with national team member and Dallas Maverick, Dwight Powell! How did it feel to finally qualify for the Olympics? And what can Canadian fans expect from the program moving forward? Next, the guys talk to former Head Trainer of the Toronto Raptors, Scott McCullough, about load management, the goals behind it, and the effect of the NBA's new rules on rest this season (17:20). Finally, the guys talk to 10-year NBA veteran, ESPN NBA analyst, and host of the The All NBA Podcast, Tim Legler stops by to react to the new NBA season and Scottie Barnes' budding superstar status (42:35).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Season Finale w/ Alvin Williams & Jalen McDaniels!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 6 Jul 2023 21:33:10 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back for the final time this season! They go over Fred VanVleet's departure and what it means for the team both on and off the court. They are then joined by the newest member of the Toronto Raptors, Jalen McDaniels! He joins Eric fresh from his introductory press conference to share his excitement about joining the Raptors and what he's learned from former Raptor Kawhi Leonard in their time playing together. To wrap things up, Sportsnet's Raptors analyst Alvin Williams joins the guys to review everything from this season and preview what next year might look like!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Catching Up w/ Mike James & Andrew Nicholson!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 19:24:38 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former Raptor Mike James to look back on his career, from playing in the CBA to the backcourt of the championship Detroit Pistons. They also chat about his memories of playing in Toronto, what he saw in a young Chris Bosh, Kobe Bryant's 81-point game, and why he ultimately left the Raptors. The guys also get into James' work to help the homeless in Houston and share a memory of what he did for Paul and Eric one night. Later on, former centre for the Orlando Magic and Canadian National Team, Andrew Nicholson chats about his transition from the NBA to playing in Asia, how big of an "ego check" it is, and what he is doing in Toronto this summer!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Understanding Gradey Dick w/ Blair Kerkhoff

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 17:09:28 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are coming to you live following Gradey Dick's introductory press conference! The pair offer their thoughts the Raptors' first round pick both on and off the court, how Gradey can help the team address their most pressing issues, and if he can slot into the rotation this year. Later on, Blair Kerkhoff, Jayhawks reporter for the Kansas City Star, looks back on the freshman's only year playing at the Allen Fieldhouse and shares which skills could translate to the NBA level in Toronto.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Alvin Williams on Raptors Off Season Thus Far & Wes Brown on Canadians to Watch in the Draft!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back! They are joined by Former Raptor and current Television color man Alvin Williams! The guys go over some of Alvin's draft memories and what he remebers most about his entry into the NBA. The guys then get into how they feel the Raptors off season has gone thus far. Does Alvin expect to see Fred VanVleet back in a Raptors jersey? And does Gary Trent opting in mean anything for the team? The guys then get into what they are hearing about new coach Darko Rajaković and how Nick Nurse will fair in Philly. Canadian basketball scout and author of Monday Morning Scouting report Wes Brown joins us! They go over what he thinks the Raptors will do at 13, some Canadians to watch, and how the entire process has changed in Canada.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Mile High Champions w/ Popeye Jones & Carl English + The Rajaković Report w/ Eric Hassletine

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The Denver Nuggets are NBA Champions! Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by Nuggets Assistant Coach Popeye Jones to chat about the feeling he had when the final horn went off, his conversations with Nikola Jokić after the job was done, and the unique skillset Jokić possess. Later on, Carl English, former Canadian national team player, shares his memories of playing with Jamal Murray and what it was like seeing his development over time. The guys wrap up the show with Memphis Grizzlies play-by-play voice Eric Hasseltine, who discusses what Raptors fans can expect from Darko Rajaković, who he is both as a coach and a person off the court, and what's next in the Ja Morant saga.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Brilliance of Nikola Jokic w/ Randy Foye + P.J. Carlesimo

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 8 Jun 2023 20:24:54 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back! The pair kick things off with their thoughts on the NBA Finals, Nikola Jokic's impressive showing, and if the Miami Heat can claw back into it. ESPN Radio colour commentator P.J. Carlesimo joins the guys to remark over what Jokic has been able to do this postseason and how Miami can stop him. Later on, former Nugget Randy Foye stops by to go over what changes he has seen in Jokic both on and off the court, before getting into a deeper conversation about how European development has surpassed that in North America. All that and so much more!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

NBA Finals Preview w/ Mark Jones + Doug Smith on Raptors' Next Coach

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 2 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back with a new edition of Smith and Jones! The guys start off offering their thoughts on Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals as the Miami Heat held off the Boston Celtics' near-historic comeback. The guys then welcome on Toronto Star NBA and Raptors reporter Doug Smith to go over all the latest from the Raptors' head coaching search, who we should keep an eye on, who the team is talking too, and who the guys want to see as coach. They also preview the NBA Finals and talk about if Jamal Murray will resonate nationally like Andrew Wiggins did last year. Later on, ESPN play-by-play voice Mark Jones joins the guys to chat about the Heat's Game 7 victory over the Celtics, just how good Nikola Jokić is, and who he sees emerging from the NBA Finals! Guys close out the show with their predictions on who will lift the Larry O'Brien trophy.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Carmelo Anthony's Legacy w/ George Karl + Ed Stefanski & Ira Winderman!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 26 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with a loaded episode! The guys welcome on Ira Winderman, South Florida Sun Sentinel Heat reporter, to go over Miami's sudden turnaround, what the idea of "Heat Culture" means, and the vibes in the Sunshine State amid the Heat and Panthers' success! Later on, former Raptors VP and current Pistons advisor Ed Stefanski takes a trip around the NBA to chat about LeBron James' rumoured retirement, the rash of head coaching firings, and how promising Canadian basketball looks right now on the heels of Jamal Murray's electric playoff run. Finally, Eric and Paul welcome on former Nuggets coach George Karl to get his thoughts on this team's run and Nikola Jokic's brilliance, before sharing his thoughts on Carmelo Anthony after he announced his retirement.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

The End of the Process w/ Alvin Williams + Scott McCullough!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 18 May 2023 17:36:16 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by Sportsnet NBA Analyst Alvin Williams to chat about the lack of patience within the NBA as it relates to coaching and the quick trigger-finger for change, before reflecting on his past experience working with the 76ers' front office. The guys then sort through the NBA Conference Finals matchups and discuss why Jayson Tatum looked so timid in Game 1 and what would another title would mean for LeBron James' legacy? Later on, former Raptors and Grizzlies Head Athletic Trainer Scott McCullough joins the programs to clear up what exactly load management is, before sharing what's caught his eye at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago and some of the worst injuries he's dealt with in his 20+ years in the NBA (32:38).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Catching up w/ Dwane Casey + Sean Grande on Celtics-76ers

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 12 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by the voice of the Boston Celtics, Sean Grande, as they preview Game 6 between the Celtics and 76ers. They also get into what's happened to the Celtics to lead them to the brink of elimination, who's to blame, and how to recover from it. Later on, former NBA Coach of the Year Dwane Casey chats about his career as he transitions to a front office role. From Western Kentucky to Detroit, they go over his 40+ years coaching and the lessons he has learned from not only basketball, but life. Dwane also shares some of his favorite memories from the sidelines including coaching Sam Bowie and Jason Kidd, coaching with George Karl, and the 2011 NBA Finals.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Playoff Madness w/ Frank Isola, Gary Washburn & Brian Geltzeiler

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 4 May 2023 18:09:47 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with a full edition of Smith and Jones! The guys kick off the show by welcoming the Boston Globe's Gary Washburn to share his takeaways from the Celtics-76ers series, his level of concern surrounding Joe Mazzulla, and who he anticipates coming out on top. The guys then go around the league with Sirus XM NBA host and ESPN contributor Frank Isola! They discuss his MVP vote, how the series schedule impacts the Lakers and Warriors differently, and what the Suns need to change going forward. Finally, Brian Geltzeiler of Sirus XM NBA radio joins the guys and they answer any final burning questions including if Mike Malone or Monty Williams is under more pressure, if the Lakers can really do this after trading half their team, and if the Knicks are well and truly back. All that and so much more!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

A Look at the Western Conference Playoff Picture w/ Shaun Powell

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 2 May 2023 19:56:08 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by NBA.com writer Shaun Powell for a look towards the Cestern conference. What do they expect to see come out of the Warriors-Lakers? Should the Suns be concerned? The guys also go over Dillon Brooks exiting Memphis and what the future looks like for him!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Glen Grunwald + Doug Smith on Raptors Next Coach + Michael Bartlett on World Cup Qualifying

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 19:06:56 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones break down the huge first round upset by the Miami Heat over the Milwaukee Bucks and just how impressed they are by Jimmy Butler. Next, they're joined by former Raptors GM Glen Grunwald. They discuss what a front office looks for in a coach and who would be best suited to take over the Raptors job. Eric and Paul then welcome on Toronto Star Raptors reporter Doug Smith to talk about the Nick Nurse firing and how it came about. Finally, Basketball Canada CEO Michael Bartlett talks about the impact the Nurse firing will have on his future with the program. They also discuss Canada's path to the World Cup this summer and who they should expect to play.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Reaction to Nick Nurse Firing + Masai Ujiri's Press Conference w/ Bobby Marks, Howard Beck And Michael Grange

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 17:51:04 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with an emergency podcast! They go over the firing of Nick Nurse and what it means for the Franchise both long term and short term. After Masai's presser Eric goes over the main points and is joined by ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks to go over the decision and who he thinks might be next for the Raptor's this off season. He is then joined by Howard Beck from GQ sports to discuss the problems the team now faces going forward. Finally Sportsnet.ca Raptors reporter Michael Grange joins Eric to talk about the feeling in the room and where he thinks Masai and the Raptors next move will be.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Masai Ujiri Press Conference

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 17:29:55 +0000

Listen to Raptors team president Masai Ujiri's press conference in the aftermath of firing Nick Nurse. What did the Raptors team president have to say and what are the next steps?

Playoff Mentality w/ Joel Anthony + Michael Grange's Raptors Offseason Preview

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 18:54:14 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by 2-time NBA champion Joel Anthony to discuss his time playing with LeBron James and if he is at all surprised about the level the Lakers' star is playing at now. Then, they go over what it takes to eliminate a team in the postseason and the role experience plays. ESPN NBA writer Tim Bontemps joins the show to talk about the Draymond Green suspension and whether or not he thinks it's justified. Eric and Paul then go around the league, covering Joel Embiid's comments on Nick Nurse, the New York Knicks' chances, and how the Sacramento Kings have taken a 2-0 series lead. Finally, Michael Grange joins the show to preview the Raptors' offseason, Nick Nurse's future, why haven't we heard from anyone from the front office, and if anyone will be moved this offseason.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

2022-23 Raptors Review with Alvin Williams

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 20:07:48 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are back after the Raptors' heartbreaking loss to the Chicago Bulls in the NBA Play-In. Eric and Paul listen to Nick Nurse, Fred VanVleet, and Scottie Barnes on locker room clean-out day and offer their thoughts on the season, and what they expect to see this off-season. Former Raptor Point Guard and Sportsnet NBA analyst Alvin Williams joins the guys as they go over what transpired last night. Alvin shares why he wasn't that surprised, and what they expect to see differently next year from the organization. The guys close out the show by taking a look at Chris Boucher's comments about whether or not he would play for Canada Basketball this summer and what they expect to see from the program!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Catching Up with T.J. Ford + Bobby Marks on the CBA + P. J. Carlesimo

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 7 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul jones are back with a packed edition of of Smith & Jones! They're joined by former Raptor T.J. Ford to reminisce over his time in Toronto, his bond with Chris Bosh, and the scary incident in Atlanta. They also go over his work with kids today and how he is giving back to the community. The guys are then joined by former NBA head coach P.J. Carlesimo to review the NCAA tournament and what to expect in the final few days of the NBA regular season. Finally, ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks joins the show to talk about what he expects to see from the Raptors this offseason and what the new CBA will mean for the league going forward.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Remembering Former Canadian Olympian and Basketball Coach Greg Francis

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 5 Apr 2023 01:45:41 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones take a few minutes to remember the late Canadian Olympic basketball player and coach, Greg Francis.

Sonny Vaccaro On Signing MJ + Chuck Swirsky on The Bulls

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 03:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith And Paul Jones are back with a new episode featuring former Nike Executive Sonny Vaccaro! They talk about the new movie 'Air' on his pursuit of Michael Jordan and what separated him from other athletes at the time. How did he elevate Nike to new levels? Former Raptors and current Bulls radio play by play voice Chuck Swirsky then joins the guys to go over the Bulls season and promote his new book "Always A Pleasure". Finally, former NBA player Jim Jackson joins the guys to talk about the Heats season so far, how the play-in has effected things, and his thoughts on the NCAA tournament.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

2-On-1 with Former Bad Boy Rick Mahorn

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 19:29:23 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former NBAer, NBA champion and radio analyst for the Detroit Pistons Rick Mahorn to discuss how players and coaches can continue to stay motivated in a losing season, the veteran presence in the locker room with Canadian Cory Joseph, how can the organization work on James Wiseman's athletic potential, the relationships between players and officials from the time he played in the 90s up till now, the impact of Fred VanVleet's comments on Ben Taylor, and his view on what makes an MVP.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Jonesy E & Charlie V + Canada Basketball CEO Michael Bartlett

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former Raptor Charlie Villenuvea off the top! They talk about his brief yet memorable time in Toronto. What game from his career stood out the most to him and what are his fondest memories of Toronto? Charlie also offers insight into his biggest adjustment to the professional game. The guys are then joined by Canada Basketball CEO Michael Bartlett to talk about the program's continued development and the announcement of GloblJam 2023!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Catching Up W/ JYD + Drexel Guard Keishana Washington

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 18:57:48 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with a full episode! They catch up with Raptors legend Jerome Williams and talk about his fondest memories and what he is up to now. JYD discusses the West Park Tournament of Stars celebrity basketball event, in support of West Park Healthcare Centre happening March 24th and 25th. The guys then welcome on Pickering Ontario native and Drexel university guard Keishana Washington. They talk about her season which saw her finish 2nd in the NCAA at scoring and what her plans are for the future. Finally Eric and Paul are joined by former NBA referee and author of 'Humans are Hero' Bob Delaney. they talk about Fred Van Vleet's incident with Ben Taylor and how that could have been avoided. They then go over his career, what he has been up to since retirement and his newest book!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Smith And Jones Bonus Pod! + A Look at March Madness

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 17:40:32 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones preview the pod dropping tomorrow, we get a little look at the guys conversation with Bob Delaney, preview the Raptors weekend and take a quick look at the NCAA tournament!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Is the Player-Referee Relationship Getting Worse? w/ Alvin Williams + Brian Geltzeiler

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 01:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones breakdown Fred VanVleet's explosive post-game comments and whether or not they were warranted, before discussing if this is a Raptor-specific problem or a league-wide issue? The guys are joined by Sportsnet Raptors colour analyst Alvin Williams to share a former player's perspective and reflect on if the issue has changed at all since his time in the league. Next up, Brian Geltzeiler from Sirius XM NBA radio focuses in on the deteriorating relationship between players and refs this year and looks ahead to if we could this trend continue into the postseason.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Dan Woike on Lakers Playoff Push + Catching up with Chuck Swirsky

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 2 Mar 2023 18:25:22 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back with a jammed packed show! We kick things off with former Raptors play-by-play voice and current Bulls broadcaster Chuck Swirsky, who reminisces about his time in the city of Toronto, before getting into the specifics of Chicago's season so far. Next up, Wizards radio analyst Glenn Consor joins the guys to preview the Raptors' back-to-back against Washington amidst their battle for a Play-In Tournament spot. Finally, Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times chats about the impact LeBron James' injury has had on the Lakers, and looks ahead to forecast if the team will make the playoffs.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

All-Star Extravaganza ft. SGA, Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes & more!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 19:21:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are back! The pair recap their trip to All-Star weekend in Salt Lake City and share their takeaways from the festivities. They catch up with AJ Griffin, Andrew Nembhard, Dave McMenamin, PJ Carlesimo, Scottie Barnes, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Pascal Siakam!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

NBA Trade Deadline Review w/ P.J. Carlesimo, Doug Smith & Shaun Powell

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 01:53:28 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the chaos of the 2023 NBA trade deadline. They kick it off with their thoughts on the Raptors' reacquisition of Jakob Poeltl, the first and only move made by the team. They are then joined by former NBA coach and voice of the Spurs P.J. Carlesimo to talk about Jakob's time in San Antonio and his expectations for him in Toronto. Later on, Raptors reporter for the Toronto Star Doug Smith joins the guys to go over Masai Ujiri's post-deadline press conference, before getting into what the rest of the season might have in store. Finally, NBA.com writer Shaun Powell takes a trip around the rest of the league to discuss who got better, who got worse, and what his favourite trade was from yesterday's deadline.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Pascal Siakam Snubbed from the NBA All-Star Game

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 3 Feb 2023 01:38:08 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones are joined by NBA.com's Steve Aschburner to preview the coming NBA Trade Deadline. Will this be a big or small deadline when it comes to player movement? Plus, OG Anunoby seems all but gone - is that actually the case? Afterwards, CEBL Commissioner Mike Morreale joins to talk the continued development of the league and where he sees it going next, including the prospects of collaboration with the G-League and potential league expansion. Finally, they react to the All-Star reserves being announced, which included Pascal Siakam not being named an All-Star. Was he snubbed?

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Jose Calderon + Howard Beck + All Star Reserve Predictions!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 01:02:20 +0000

On the Newest Smith & Jones the guys are joined by Raptors Legend Jose Calderon! They go over his career in Toronto, what he is doing now with the Cavs and so much more! Then the guys are joined by Sports Illustrated basketball reporter Howard Beck to help us get ready for the deadline and everything that it entails! Finally fresh off the all star starters being named the guys give you there thoughts on the Starters as well as who they think the reserves should be this year.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Where Has the Defence Gone? w/ Matt Devlin + Dan Woike on LeBron's Record Chase

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 20:06:43 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by Raptors play by play announcer Matt Devlin to talk about the Raptors’ tough season so far. The guys then talk about the league wide trend of high scores and poor defensive play - Is this a trend we expect to continue? Next, LA Times reporter Dan Woike joins the show to talk about Lebron's purist of the scoring record and how that is affecting the rest of the team. Finally, Eric and Paul offer their thoughts on how they see Lebron's time with the Lakers playing out.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Amir Johnson on His Time In Toronto + Pat Garrity and Dell Curry!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 19:20:31 +0000

On the latest Smith & Jones, Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former Raptor great and 14-year NBA vet Amir Johnson! They talk about his legacy in Toronto, what he is doing now in Las Vegas with his foundation, and Amir’s passion for coaching. Eric and Paul are then joined by 10-year NBA vet and former Pistons assistant GM Pat Garrity to go around the league as teams prepare for the trade deadline. Finally. former Raptors shooting guard and Charlotte Hornets analyst Dell Curry joins the show to talk about how the game has changed since he played, and what he sees in this Hornets team this year - Is LaMelo Ball the real deal?

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Canada Basketball 2023 Preview with Rowan Barrett

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 6 Jan 2023 20:01:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones kick off 2023 with the General Manager of the Canadian National team Rowan Barrett to look back on how important 2022 was to the National team and why 2023 will be the biggest year yet. They also go over the 3-year commitment, why that is so important for the team, and what it means for players that won't commit. Finally, they talk about how to get the momentum behind Canada Basketball that we saw for Canada Soccer. The guys are then joined by Michael Grange to talk about a Raptors squad at a crossroads and where they go from here. Will they be buying or selling, and what other big questions are they facing? Finally, Eric and Paul close out the show with the radio voice of the Clippers Noah Eagle. How Norm Powell is fitting in and what Kawhi's presence (and sometimes lack of) means for this team are among the topics discussed.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Raptors 2022 Recap + Reflections on Pascal's Historic Night at MSG

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 01:00:00 +0000

On the latest Smith & Jones, Eric Smith & Paul Jones conduct their Raptors year in review, including what impressed them about the team and what disappointed them (00:13). Next, they discuss Pascal Siakam's historic night at MSG, before talking to the radio voice of the Knicks Ed Cohen about their resurgence (12:34). FS1 Analyst Ric Bucher joins the show to tour the league, including the drama in Los Angeles. Finally, Alvin Williams joins the guys and reflects on his memories from playing on Christmas day (45:46). And lastly, a little Christmas Surprise ...!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Catching up with Jama Mahlalela + Time to Panic in Toronto?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 14:00:00 +0000

On the latest Smith & Jones, Eric and Paul analyze the state of the Raptors a third of the way through the season. Hoopswire.com writer Sam Amico joins the show to talk about what moves the Raptors could make this year and some other rumours he's hearing around the league (17:32). The guys then shift their view West and talk to Warriors assistant Jama Mahlalela about what goes into player development and how it shifts from year one to year two (30:09). Finally, ESPN's Mark Jones talks about the resurgent Sacramento Kings on the heels of their win in Toronto and offers his thoughts on what trends he's noticed around the league (41:32).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Catching up with Mo Pete + Doug Smith on the Raptors at the Quarter Mark

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 9 Dec 2022 01:14:37 +0000

On the latest edition of Smith & Jones, Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by Raptors legend Morris Peterson! The guys catch up with Mo about what he has been up to since retirement, from his diet changes to how he watches games now. The guys also go over some of his accomplishments while on the Raptors, how the game has changed, and some of his favorite players in the NBA right now (00:01). Then, Toronto Star Raptors reporter Doug Smith joins the show to go over the state of the Raptors at the quarter mark of the season. Does he like where they are at? And how does he see them finishing the season this year? (25:34). Finally, the guys close out the show with some thoughts on Brittney Griner and her release from prison.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Charles Oakley + DeMarre Carroll + Tim Bontemps

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 2 Dec 2022 00:35:27 +0000

On the new Smith & Jones, Eric Smith & Paul Jones are joined by 19-year NBA veteran and former Raptor, Charles Oakley to discuss a wide range of topics including: differences in today's NBA compared to when he played, the player empowerment era, and the important role LeBron James plays in today's game both on and off the court (02:11). The guys are then joined by Milwaukee Bucks Assistant Coach DeMarre Carroll to talk about his transition to coaching, what he has learned, and memories of his time in Toronto (27:27). Finally, ESPN writer Tim Bontemps joins the show to swing around the league to discuss when will the first trade of consequence happen, who his biggest surprise team is so far this season, and who is leading the MVP race (38:32).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Bobby Marks and Ian Eagle on Trouble in Brooklyn + WNBA Star Natalie Achonwa

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 01:43:50 +0000

On the newest Smith & Jones, Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by the voice of the Brooklyn Nets Ian Eagle (00:03). They discuss Brookyln's rough start to the season, the Steve Nash firing, and a little NFL. The guys are then joined by WNBA star and Canadian national team member Natalie Achonwa to talk about her exciting announcement, playing in the Olympics, and what the future holds for her (16:32)! Finally, ESPN NBA insider Bobby Marks joins Eric and Paul to go around the league from the drama in Brookyln and Los Angeles, to the surprising Kings, and what he sees in this Raptors squad! (25:40)

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Life After Basketball with Alvin Williams + Brian Oliver on Hawks' Backcourt Chemistry

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 21:12:00 +0000

This week on Smith and Jones, Eric flies solo and is joined by former NBAer and Atlanta Hawks analyst Brian Oliver (0:50) to discuss the offseason trade between the Hawks and San Antonio Spurs for Dejounte Murray and becoming court mates with Trae Young, why the Spurs made the move, the competitiveness of the Eastern Conference, John Collins' future in Atlanta and "The Lethal Weapon 3" documentary. Afterward, former Raptor and Sportsnet analyst Alvin Williams (21:30) stops by to chat about the impact Thad Young and Otto Porter Jr. have had on the young Toronto roster, former NBAers using their time to help out up-and-coming players, and if he ever looked into his future about life after basketball during his playing career. Finally, Eric went one-on-one with Thad Young (37:32) to look at re-signing with the Raptors, his role on the team, and being a veteran.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

LeBron's Legacy + Players' Commitment to National Teams

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 01:00:00 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by NBA.com's Steve Aschburner (0:43) to discuss his career covering the NBA, LeBron James' final years of his career, how will his legacy end, and the Lakers' up and down season. Afterward, Sportsnet.ca's Michael Grange (23:39) stops by to chat about players' decisions to represent their home countries in international basketball, having committed players and consistency to national teams, and the Raptors testing their depth with injuries piling up. Finally, former NBAer and Houston Rockets analyst Ryan Hollins (37:03) weighs in on the transition for rookies on contending and non-contending teams, balancing individual awards and winning as a team, and Houston's rebuild.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Eric Khoury's Path to Raptors 905 + C.J. Miles on Siakam's Trajectory

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 3 Nov 2022 21:04:33 +0000

Raptors 905 head coach Eric Khoury jumps (0:41) on with Eric Smith and Paul Jones to discuss his path to becoming Raptors' G-League affiliate's new bench boss, his time studying at University of Toronto to working in basketball, when he got the coaching bug, the use of analytics in sports and how he can translate it as a coach, and if players have accepted the use of numbers. Then, Smith and Jones weigh in with their thoughts on the Brooklyn Nets and head coach Steve Nash parting ways (25:06). Afterwards, former Toronto Raptor and long-time NBA vet C.J. Miles (36:14) joins the show to share where he's at with his playing days, how he views the 2022-23 Raptors team, the value of having players buying into a particular system and playing style, the defensive approach from Nick Nurse, and Pascal Siakam's journey to becoming a superstar.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Season Premiere with Chris Boucher & Sixers Radio Voice Tom McGinnis!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 23:10:22 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by long-time Sixers radio voice Tom McGinnis (0:50) to discuss the introduction of having back-to-back games against one team in the NBA just like in MLB, who's the greatest rival team for Philly, the competitiveness of the Eastern Conference, if he's a fan of the play-in near the end of the season, and his assessment of the Sixers through their first few games of the year. Afterward, Smith and Jones look back at the start of the NBA season for the Raptors, Pascal Siakam's outburst on offence, and the willingness to be unselfish on the roster. Plus, Eric sat down with Raptors forward Chris Boucher (40:40) to discuss his experience in free agency and his journey before entering the NBA to his new contract with Toronto.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Nik Stauskas on the NBA Finals + Alvin Williams on his Draft Day memory

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 00:02:58 +0000

On this edition of Smith & Jones, Eric Smith & Paul Jones congratulate the Warriors on the NBA championship before being joined by the radio voice of the Warriors Tim Roye (:06). They discuss the similarities between Nick Nurse and Steve Kerr, and the Warriors Canadian flavor. They are then joined by former Raptor Alvin Williams (:18) to talk about his draft day experience. Finally they are joined by Celtics Shooting Guard Nik Stauskas (:32) and discus his experience being in the NBA finals, and what the future holds for him!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Raptors Assistant GM Dan Tolzman on the Teams Draft Process + NBA Finals Talk!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 00:08:35 +0000

On this episode of Smith & Jones, Eric Smith and Paul Jones talk everything NBA finals and preview game 6. They then welcome on former Raptor and current Sportsnet Analyst Alvin Williams (:06) to talk about the emergence of Andrew Wiggins this series as well as how he see's game 6 going down. Assistant GM and VP of Player Personnel for the Raptors Dan Tolzman (:25) comes on to talk about all things Raptors and NBA draft. From the teams process of evaluating players, to how they handle undrafted free agents. The guys wrap it up with a mini review of the new Adam Sandler Netflix movie hustle!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Is the NBA Actually Softer Now?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 00:48:23 +0000

On this edition of Smith & Jones, Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap game 3 of the NBA finals and how the Celtics were able to take a 2-1 series lead. Then the voice of the Celtics Sean Grande joins them (:08) to talk about the journey of this Celtics team this year, How the coaching change has helped them, and what he expects to see the rest of the series. The guys then talk about Draymond Green and CJ McCollum transition to the media, and just how the league has changed.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Warriors, Celtics, and OG, Oh My! A 2022 NBA Final preview

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 3 Jun 2022 00:16:07 +0000

On this episode of Smith & Jones, they are joined by the voice of the Warriors Tim Roye (:01). They preview everything Warriors related from the finals, to Klay Thompson's recovery, to Andrew Wiggins development, and to the Warriors could-be dynasty. Then the guys give you their thoughts on the NBA finals. And the trade rumors circling around OG Anunoby in Raptor land. Alvin Williams joins them (:22) to talk about the what the Raptors roster can improve on, as well as offer his thoughts on the NBA Finals. Finally they are joined by John Karalis (:45) from the Boston Sport Journal to talk all things Celtics, how this team got here, and how he sees the series playing out.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

The Summer of Basketball in Canada

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 27 May 2022 00:24:01 +0000

On this episode of Smith & Jones the guys talk about the exciting announcements coming out of Canada Basketball and what we can expect to see this summer with the GM of Canada Basketball Rowan Barrett (8:00). How the roster came together, and where you can catch the team this summer. Then the guys are joined by former NBA player and Dallas Maverick's analyst Derek Harper to talk about the western final, the role of Dwight Powell on the team and how to stop the Warriors (22:00). Alvin Williams reunites with the guys to breakdown all the conference final action, Kyle Lowry struggles, and the role of the three-ball in the game today.(40:00). Finally, the guys offer predictions for how they see the conference finals playing out!

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

NBA Conference Finals Thoughts and Observations

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 20 May 2022 00:51:34 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones talk about Game 1 of the Conference Finals in both the East and the West, including thoughts on the Mavericks ability to contain the Warriors, and whether or not the Heat are (somehow) underrated. Sportsnet's Alvin Williams joins the show to give his thoughts on the first few Game 1s, plus to review what happened to Chris Paul and the Suns (5:34). Pistons senior advisor and former Raptor executive Ed Stefanski stops by to discuss how franchises develop modern stars, the importance of things like diet play, and Cade Cunningham’s rookie year (20:54). Warriors assistant coach Jama Mahlalela talks the Warriors path to the Western Conference Finals, Andrew Wiggins' development, and Draymond Green's importance to the team (35:03). To wrap, they chat about regular season awards and how they translate to the postseason.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

How Much Longer Can You Trust The Process?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Sat, 14 May 2022 18:32:03 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones share their thoughts on Joel Embiid's post-game comments about James Harden and the entire state of the 'Process'. Alvin Williams joins to talk about how those comments can affect the locker room, and what the 76ers can do to improve going forward (8:00). Warriors Play by Play Tim Roye stops by to discuss the Warriors once again advancing to the Western Conference Finals, and the emergence of Andrew Wiggins (24:00). ESPN's Bobby Marks joins to continue breaking down the 76ers, Kyrie Irving vs. the Nets, and how the Warriors were able to bounce back so fast (32:00). Finally, they give their final thoughts on the MVP being awarded to Nikola Jokic, discuss the other contenders, and offer their Game 7 predictions ahead of Sunday's slate.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Expectations and Surprises from the Second Round

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Sat, 7 May 2022 18:35:36 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones share some thoughts on the second round of the NBA Playoffs so far, discuss the press conference by Masai Ujiri, and chat about Nick Nurse's future. They are joined by Raptors analyst Alvin Williams to talk about the team's off-season plans, and his thoughts on the Sixers - Raptors first round series (8:00). LA Times' Dan Woike stops by to talk about the Lakers interest in both Nick Nurse and Adrian Griffin, and what the Lakers need to do this off-season to right the ship (23:00). Afterwards, Canada Basketball's President and CEO Mike Bartlett previews what the summer holds for the national programs and takes a look at a few specific athletes across the country (40:00).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

The Raptors in Review

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Sat, 30 Apr 2022 18:12:51 +0000

Eric and Paul weigh in on the end of the Raptors season and some reaction to Fred Van Vleet’s post-season availability. Doug Smith looks at the improvement of the core over the course of the season, the future for both Thad Young and Chris Boucher as well as the need for adding shooting off the bench (10:56). Marc Spears chats about Scottie Barnes’ rookie year, why the best is yet to come and if the Raptors’ roster composition might be something other teams try to emulate (32:19).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Raptors on the Verge of Getting Bounced Early by Sixers

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 00:02:54 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones chat about the Raptors Game 3 loss to the Sixers in overtime and are joined by SiriusXM NBA's Justin Termine to touch on Joel Embiid's game-winning shot, the valuable playoff experience the young players on Toronto will receive, how Devin Booker's injury could affect the Phoenix Suns' playoff run and why the Celtics-Nets series is one of his favourites to watch (10:45). Afterward, former Raptor and Sportsnet analyst Alvin Williams (28:46) hops on to share his thoughts on Toronto's defence in the final play in OT, a player's perspective after losing a game that was in their hands, and how they can get Pascal Siakam's offence going.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

How Will The Raptors Adjust in Game 2?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 23:21:35 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former Toronto Raptor and Sportsnet TV analyst to chat about the adjustments the team should make ahead of Game 2 vs. the Sixers, not playing with their rookie Scottie Barnes, the importance of OG Anunoby, and much more.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Dwane Casey On How To Beat Raps or 76ers

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 23:01:06 +0000

We discuss news that Paul George will not be available for the play-in game tonight and then look at the final playoff spots that remain in the NBA. Later we check in with former Raptors coach and current Detroit Pistons head coach Dwane Casey (6:00) and he gives his view of the Raptors and Sixers matchup. He was really impressed this year by Tyrese Maxey. Then we push Coach Casey for why his Pistons have had so much success vs the Raptors ever since he left town. Finally we are joined by Tim Legler of ESPN (35:00) discusses the transition from college to pros with the focus on Scottie Barnes and what to expect in his first experience in the playoffs. Tim also says that James Harden has more pressure on him than any player in the NBA.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Secret Behind Stopping Joel Embiid

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 22:05:08 +0000

Eric and Paul open up the show looking ahead to the Raptors and Sixers series starting up tomorrow night and reflect on the memories of previous series, especially Game 7 in 2019, and how much each team has changed. Later we catch up with Alvin Williams who gives us his x-factor for each team and how he feels Nick Nurse and the Raptors need to approach Joel Embiid (15:18). Finally, we chat with Jamie Campbell about the early start of the Jays' season and why even MLB's elite teams are still hovering at .500 well into the season (34:35).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Is Rest A Key For Some Raptors Starters?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Sat, 9 Apr 2022 18:33:31 +0000

Eric and Paul kick off the show talking about how the team may rest some starters with potentially nothing to play for and why success may not be linear for this group (0:35). Then Alvin Williams looks at the chances for this Raptors team to go on a run in the playoffs, how important Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam are to the younger players and a huge moment from his career (12:58). The guys finish the show by talking about the chance for some Raptor players and Nick Nurse to be in the conversation for awards and the idea of voter fatigue (41:11).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Kyle Lowry: Villanova to NBA Champion

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 1 Apr 2022 16:41:32 +0000

Longtime NBA coach and champion Lionel Hollins shares his views on the current state of the NBA including playoff teams needing young impact players to thrive not necessarily playoff-tested veterans and the coaches in the mix for Coach of the Year (0:25). Ahead of his return to Toronto with the Heat, Kyle Lowry’s former Villanova teammate Randy Foye shares stories about Lowry when he was a young Wildcat at school and discusses his trajectory from college to becoming an NBA champion (16:27).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Wild Wild East and West

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 1 Apr 2022 16:15:38 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones assess the standings after another night of NBA action and agree that things have never been tighter amongst playoff teams in both conferences, especially the East (1:16). NBA insider Bobby Marks discusses teams potentially jockeying for position in order to not face Brooklyn, and shares his thoughts on if certain Sixers and Celtics players will be eligible to play in Toronto come playoff time (19:52). CBS Sports’ Clark Kellogg breaks down the Final Four in the NCAA Tournament, particularly Duke's motivation to defeat UNC after the way they spoiled Coach K’s final home game (36:30).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Raptors Can’t Be Ignored

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 31 Mar 2022 16:33:14 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones break down the Raptors latest win - a 125-102 effort vs the Timberwolves, and discuss Toronto's hot play of late as they current sit 6th in the Eastern Conference and out of the play-in (0:18). Next, the Toronto Star’s Doug Smith weighs-in on the rookie race between Scottie Barnes and Evan Mobley and chatting with Kyle Lowry ahead of the Raptor great’s upcoming return to Scotiabank Arena (21:53). To finish, NBA TV’s Jared Greenberg catches up with Eric and Paul with more on the NBA Rookie of the Year Race, and the standings in the East and West as the playoff picture takes shape (33:25).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Talent vs. Work Ethic w/ Alvin Williams

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 16:54:29 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones break down the playoff teams in the Eastern Conference, notably the Bucks playing well with a championship pedigree (and their similarities to the 2020 Raptors) and if Cleveland’s lack of experience could hurt them come playoff time (0:12). The guys welcome Alvin Williams in on the conversation with his thoughts on the seeding in the East, the Raptors organization being proven and playoff-tested, and who he played with that he felt made a difference come playoff time (16:50). Afterwards, Minnesota Timberwolves voice Alan Horton previews tonight’s matchup vs. Toronto and discusses the job ex-Raps assistant Chris Finch has done in his first full-season with the team (35:29).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Breaking Down Possible Raptors Playoff Opponents

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 16:46:08 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap a hard-fought 115-112 Raptors win over the Boston Celtics, on a night where Pascal Siakam took over with 40 points. E and Jonesy discuss the game’s playoff atmosphere, their view on the officiating, Boston hanging tough without key players, and Thaddeus Young’s presence on the floor (0:47). Later, Sportsnet’s Michael Grange joins the fellas with more on Pascal Siakam’s big night, the tight Eastern Conference standings and how the Raptors stack up against the other playoff teams in the East (29:30).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

A Crucial Clash Against the Cavs

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 16:34:11 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by Canada Basketball’s President and CEO Michael Bartlett to discuss GLOBL Jam that will be taking over Toronto this summer and the different initiatives and programs created to keep growing the sport across the country (17:34). Next, Alvin Williams joins for Alvin Williams Wednesdays ahead of the Raptors next game against Cleveland: an important game for both clubs as it pertains to the standings. Alvin discusses Toronto being a tough out in the playoffs no matter who they match up with, why he still fears the Bucks in the East, and the effect that OG Anunoby’s absence is having on the Raps' lineup (32:45).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

What Went Wrong vs. The Bulls? + Setting up the Sweet 16

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 17:11:42 +0000

Eric and Jonesy break down the Raptors' loss to the Bulls on Monday night, and play some audio from Fred VanVleet and Nick Nurse (0:27). Next, Matt Devlin stops by to give his thoughts on the Raptors' recent stretch, their loss to Chicago, the team's upcoming matchup with the Cavs, the final three weeks of the schedule, and how life has been on road (21:51). Afterwards, Dan Bonner breaks down the March Madness tournament up until this point, and looks ahead to the Sweet 16 matchups (39:47).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Lakers Rematch & March Madness Day 1 Recap w/ Seth Greenberg

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 16:23:35 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look ahead to Friday night's Raptors-Lakers rematch with Toronto in search of its sixth straight win (0:35). They welcome in Lakers play by play voice John Ireland to discuss the teams’ recent play, the hope that Anthony Davis can return soon, and why Russell Westbrook’s season has been so difficult (22:52). Afterwards, ESPN Analyst and former NCAA head coach Seth Greenberg discusses an eventful start to the March Madness tournament highlighted by Saint Peter’s upset win over John Calipari and Kentucky (41:03).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Pascalifornia!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 17 Mar 2022 17:10:14 +0000

Eric Smith hosts solo and is joined by Alvin Williams coming off of the Raptors’ 5th straight win - a 103-100 effort against the Clippers where they were led by Pascal Siakam’s 33 points (15:39). Later, NBA Radio’s Justin Termine goes around the association and examines the Lakers’ future beyond this season, the Suns’ impressive run in the West without Chris Paul, and who can be trusted come playoff time in each conference (32:13).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

A Frustrated King James

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 16:19:08 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones discuss the Raptors’ impressive win over the Los Angeles Lakers - the team's fourth straight victory (0:38). E and Jonesy get into LeBron James’ noticeable frustration on the court and Scottie Barnes taking his play to another level since the All-Star break (9:07). Later, Sportsnet’s Michael Grange joins the conversation and speculates with the guys on what could happen with James going forward after a disastrous season for the Lakers (33:02).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Raptors Optimism & Playoff Potential with C.J. Miles

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 16:53:13 +0000

Paul Jones and Eric Smith reflect on the Raptors' three-game winning streak, including impressive back to back wins over the Suns and Nuggets (0:58). Then former Raptor C.J/ Miles talks about talking in Raps-Spurs last week and what he likes from Nick Nurse’s squad this season (14:47). Afterwards, former Laker and UCLA Bruin Tracy Murray discusses the Lakers’ woes ahead of tonight’s Raptors game and which team he thinks has a legitimate shot to win the NCAA’s National Championship (33:40).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

A Bronx Cheer for Ben Simmons in Philly?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 17:31:42 +0000

Eric and Paul recap the the Raptors' win over the Spurs that saw Fred VanVleet return to the lineup with an impressive performance and Precious Achiuwa making some clutch shots down the stretch (0:28). Afterwards, Sixers TV voice Kate Scott talks about tonight’s big Philly-Brooklyn matchup, how Ben Simmons will be greeted by fans, and James Harden and Joel Embiid’s play since the trade (35:21). Later, TNT Sports’ Nabil Karim discusses his career path from studying criminology to hanging out with Shaq, Chuck, and the Great One (50:53).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Pop Talk with Matt Bonner and PJ Carlesimo

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 9 Mar 2022 17:13:20 +0000

Spurs analyst and NBA Champion Matt Bonner shares his favourite Gregg Popovich stories and what it was like playing for him as he is on the cusp of becoming the NBA’s all-time wins leader (11:56). Former NBA coach PJ Carlesimo talks about sharing the sideline with Popovich and the various memories and dinners they shared on and off the court from his five years as an assistant with the Spurs (30:42).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Freddy’s Knee & 50 from Kyrie

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 9 Mar 2022 17:10:16 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones talk about Kyrie Irving’s talent as it was on full display during his 50-point performance vs Charlotte and discuss the complicated rules around his vaccination status (0:37). Next, Sportsnet’s Alvin Williams discusses the Raptors' recent skid, the team being cautious with Fred VanVleet’s knee, and his admiration of Gregg Popovich from afar as Toronto gets ready to face San Antonio (29:52).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

NBA Rapid Fire with Doris Burke

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 8 Mar 2022 17:40:17 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones open with some International Women's Day shoutouts, before discussing San Antonio’s Gregg Popovich earning his NBA record 1,335th career victory, tying him with Don Nelson (which makes Jonesy reach deep into the memory bank!) and Russell Westbrook’s comments on fans disrespecting him and his family (0:44). Afterwards, ESPN analyst Doris Burke discusses Westbrook, Sunday's showdown between Jayson Tatum and Kevin Durant, her view on the Raptors, and Ben Simmons returning to Philadelphia this week but not playing (31:06).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Scottie Barnes at the Point & Vintage LeBron

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 7 Mar 2022 17:52:31 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones break down the Raptors' loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers: Scottie Barnes playing the point with injuries to VanVleet and Flynn, the team’s struggles from 3-point range, and the lack of production from the bench (0:44). Former Duke player and NBA executive Billy King discusses the celebration for legendary Head Coach Mike Krzyzewski as he coached his final home game and if the Nets can gel in-time to make a deep run (32:35). Later, Dan Woike of the LA Times talks about LeBron James’ epic 56-point performance versus the Warriors and addresses the speculation that Russell Westbrook could eventually come off the bench (49:42).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Only Lakers Wins Are on HBO

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 4 Mar 2022 17:39:14 +0000

E and Jonesy are joined by ESPN’s Tim Bontemps on the Lakers’ latest blowout loss to the Clippers, his low expectations for them even if they sneak into the playoffs, and Ja Morant and the Grizzlies taking the league by storm (16:10). To wrap, author Jeff Pearlman looks ahead to Sunday’s premiere of HBO’s “Winning Time” - HBO’s mini-series on the Showtime Lakers and discusses his book being the basis for the series, how the people portrayed are receiving its release, and if a book or TV show on the LeBron-era Lakers would make for good entertainment (31:40).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Nik Stauskas Opens Up About His NBA Return

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 4 Mar 2022 17:31:22 +0000

Dwane Casey and the Pistons have foiled the Raptors again! Eric Smith and Paul Jones break down the Raptors’ 108-106 loss to Detroit where rookies Cade Cunningham and Scottie Barnes went head-to-head and Nick Nurse found himself getting ejected (0:44). Next, Mississauga’s Nik Stauskas discusses his NBA return with the Boston Celtics after his standout performances in the G-League and opens up about nearly stepping away from basketball and why he didn’t (29:56).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Raptors Face a Familiar Foe + Why Eddie Johnson Isn't Sold on the Nets

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 3 Mar 2022 17:38:14 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look ahead to Scottie Barnes and Cade Cunningham squaring off tonight and give some love to Mississauga’s Nik Stauskas after back-to-back standout performances in the G-League (1:07). Sportsnet’s Michael Grange discusses Dwane Casey’s success coaching against Toronto, the emergence of Precious Achiuwa off the bench, and the wide-open Eastern conference (32:32). Afterwards, NBA Radio host and Suns analyst Eddie Johnson talks about Phoenix being built for success even without Chris Paul and Devin Booker in the lineup and why he’s not sold on Brooklyn (49:51).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Flynn "Staying Ready" in Place of Freddy

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 2 Mar 2022 16:55:45 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones break down the Raptors' latest game over the Nets, a 109-108 victory where they were led by Scottie Barnes, Malachi Flynn, and Gary Trent Jr. down the stretch (0:16). Afterwards, Sportsnet’s Alvin Williams comments on Malachi Flynn staying ready, making the most of his opportunity, and comparing it to situations when he was a young point guard in the NBA (30:37). To wrap, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst discusses his concern for Fred VanVleet’s knee, James Harden being able to play at an even higher level, if Ja Morant should be in the MVP conversation and more (57:10).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Meaningful Minutes for Malachi

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 1 Mar 2022 17:07:39 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the Raptors’ convincing road win over the Brooklyn Nets, where Scottie Barnes led the way with 28 points and 16 rebounds and Malachi Flynn started in place of Fred VanVleet (0:15). Next, the guys welcome Raptors TV voice Matt Devlin to the show to chat about Flynn staying ready when called upon and the viral moment featuring his son Jack that took social media by storm (29:06)! Later, WFAN’s Evan Roberts discusses the current state of the Nets ahead of game two of the back to back vs. Toronto, and sums up the James Harden-era in Brooklyn (49:12).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

A Look at the Lakers' Struggles with Ryan Ruocco + Wayne Embry

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 17:20:15 +0000

ESPN NBA play-by-play broadcaster Ryan Ruocco talks about the Lakers’ struggles after calling their latest loss to the Pelicans, and the new-look Nets as he gets set to call the back-to-back games between Brooklyn and Toronto for YES Network (8:55). Afterwards, Raptors’ Senior Advisor Wayne Embry discusses the importance of increasing diversity and giving opportunities across the NBA and all sports, the Raptors’ recent stretch, and his storied career in the game (30:13).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Opposite Weekends for the Raptors & Canada Basketball

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 17:06:17 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones react to the Raptors' two blowout losses to the Hornets and Hawks coming off the All-Star break and chat about how things could be much worse as the standings in the East haven’t changed (1:05). Later, Sportsnet FIBA analyst Jevohn Shepherd discusses Canada Basketball’s impressive weekend and the evolution of the program as they picked up victories over Dominican Republic and the U.S. Virgin Islands (33:18).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Raps Return and The Beard Debuts!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 17:36:27 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones react to the NBA’s return from the All-Star break, notably another 35+ point performance for DeMar DeRozan for the Bulls before looking ahead to the Raptors game vs Charlotte (1:00). The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Keith Pompey discusses the Sixers ahead of James Harden’s much-anticipated debut and Danny Green’s comments about Ben Simmons following the trade (22:33). To wrap, NBA Radio host Brian Geltzeiler shares his view on the league including if the Bucks are being forgotten about in the East and why he’s still picking Phoenix to come out of the West (55:34).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Goran Dragić Speaks Out

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 17:36:29 +0000

Eric and Paul react to Goran Dragić’s comments about his tenure in Toronto after he officially joined the Nets (0:34). Next, longtime NBA referee and ESPN analyst Steve Javie discusses how officiating has evolved and Dan Hurley’s ejection at the NCAA level (31:54). To finish, the fellas go around the NBA with radio host Mitch Lawrence and discuss James Harden ahead of his Sixers debut and how the Suns will cope without Chris Paul as game action resumes following the All-Star break (54:38)

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Rick Barry & the Legendary Career of Coach K

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 17:14:16 +0000

Hall of Famer Rick Barry joins Eric and Paul for a lengthy chat covering his experience at NBA All-Star Weekend, the NBA 75th anniversary team and ceremony, his proficiency in pickleball, and his reputation of being brutally honest (8:53). NY Post columnist Ian O’Connor discusses his new book on Duke/Team USA Coach Mike Krzyzewski, RJ Barrett, and why he ultimately believes Tom Brady will return to the NFL (30:30).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

JJ Redick vs. Zion Williamson + An Extended Alvin Williams Wednesday

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 16:36:11 +0000

Eric and Paul open with a discussion about JJ Redick's comments ripping former Pelicans teammate Zion Williamson (1:08). Next, they touch on UConn coach Dan Hurley being ejected vs. Villanova for simply hyping up the crowd (15:08). Afterwards, Alvin Williams stops by to give his thoughts on the Dan Hurley situation, handling relationships with officials, how social media has impacted officiating, and whether the handshake line should be eliminated (21:56). To wrap the hour, he talks about his philosophy as a high school coach, the NBA 75 celebration, and whether the Sixers are a championship team (39:48).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Behind the Scenes of NBA 75 with Patrick Ewing

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 17:46:28 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former NCAA coach and Nets analyst Tim Capstraw to discuss Juwan Howard’s suspension and Brooklyn signing Goran Dragić (12:34). Next, Doug Smith of the Toronto Star shares his view on the All-Star Weekend, the Raptors who participated, and looks ahead to Toronto’s remaining schedule (32:11). To wrap, Hall of Famer and Georgetown Head Coach Patrick Ewing discusses being part of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team and the intangibles of what makes a great coach (41:31).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

LeBron’s Future & Patrick Ewing Jr.

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 17:37:16 +0000

Eric and Paul discuss LeBron James' return to Cleveland for All-Star weekend, his relationship with Michael Jordan, his willingness to play with his son Bronny, and Fred VanVleet’s All-Star debut (0:25). Afterwards, they get into the viral incident between Michigan-Wisconsin coaches Juwan Howard and Greg Gard (16:14). Later, Patrick Ewing Jr. discusses the incident from his POV as a fellow coach and his new role as GM/head coach of the CEBL's Newfoundland Growlers (34:31).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

How Can the NBA Improve All-Star Weekend?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 17:05:04 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones reflect on All-Star Weekend after the who’s who of the NBA descended in Cleveland. They discuss the NBA 75 celebration and which players they would remove from the list, before looking back on All-Star Saturday and how it can be improved after it was capped off by a lacklustre dunk contest (0:42). Next, Sports Illustrated’s Howard Beck talks about his experiences in Cleveland, why stars aren’t in the dunk contest, and player empowerment in the NBA (33:55).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

All-Star Break Check-in with Stu Jackson & Michael Grange

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 17:34:10 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former NBA executive and GM Stu Jackson to discuss the league at the All-Star break including the Mavericks and Luka Doncic’s recent run, the Grizzlies breakthrough season led by Ja Morant, and his view on the Raptors (33:07). Later, Eric and Jonesy discuss the NBA All-Star festivities including who they like in the dunk contest and 3-point competition, and Timberwolves guard Patrick Beverley showing up in a Clippers jersey to see his former team play (49:40), before bringing Sportsnet’s Michael Grange in on the conversation (1:01:43).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

3-Point Contest Tips & Tricks with Jason Kapono

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 18:32:46 +0000

Eric and Paul catch up with back-to-back 3-point contest winner and former Raptor Jason Kapono! The NBA sharpshooter talks about life after basketball, the pressure and preparation that goes into the event, and what Fred VanVleet can expect (13:09). Afterwards, E and Jonesy examine the numbers of DeMar DeRozan’s historic run after notching his seventh consecutive 35-point game while shooting better than 50% from the field (39:11).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

How Gary Trent Jr. & Co. Took Down the T-Wolves

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 17 Feb 2022 18:29:25 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the Raptors’ final game before the All-Star break, earning a 103-91 win over the Timberwolves, and focus in on Gary Trent Jr.’s big night in front of family and friends and the key contributions off the bench (00:20). Later on, former NBA Coach Lionel Hollins takes a step back to look at the NBA landscape at the All-Star break and why he feels that the Lakers will still give teams problems if they make the playoffs (31:48).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

James Harden and Ben Simmons Speak

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 17:14:02 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones dissect the comments made by James Harden and Ben Simmons after being introduced in Philadelphia & Brooklyn respectively and delve deeper into Simmons' return after focusing on his mental health (7:20). Next, Sportsnet's Alvin Williams discusses how the Philadelphia fans will treat Harden and talks about when his mental health was tested while in the league (31:38). To wrap, Timberwolves VP of Basketball Development and former Raptors forward John Thomas discusses Minnesota’s improvements as an organization ahead of tonight’s game vs. Toronto (52:54).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Did the Raptors Nearly Acquire Kristaps Porzingis?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 17:22:47 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones examine the Raptors’ blowout loss to the Pelicans, Fred VanVleet leaving the game with a knee injury, and Jarrett Allen (not Pascal Siakam) being named as an All-Star reserve (0:22). Next, ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks recaps the trade deadline and chats about why he thought Kristaps Porzingis could have been dealt to Toronto (30:48). To finish, NBA TV’s Jared Greenberg discusses a busy night in the NBA, including another impressive 40-point performance for DeMar DeRozan (57:12).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Nikola Jokić: The Best Big Man in the NBA?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 16:55:59 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones discuss the news that Ontario is increasing capacity limits for sports arenas to 50%, and recap the Raptors' loss to Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets (12:59). Then Pelicans analyst and NBA champion Antonio Daniels stops by to chat about the voting process for NBA All-Stars, what CJ McCollum can bring to New Orleans, why Jonas Valanciunas is an underrated centre in the league, and how Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich was close to getting fired during Antonio's playing days (34:50). Afterwards, Raptors TV play-by-play voice Matt Devlin joins to give his perspective on the free throw disparity in Toronto's last game, how the team matches up against the Pelicans, and Pascal Siakam's superstar performances (1:02:23).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Hottest Team in the NBA

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 17:31:21 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones discuss Toronto’s addition of Thaddeus Young and recap the Raptors eighth straight win after defeating the Rockets 139-120, including Gary Trent Jr.’s huge 42-point performance and the bizarre ending when Kevin Porter Jr. scored on the Raptors basket (1:28). Then Spurs broadcaster and former Raptors forward Matt Bonner talks about Thad Young, his role on the Spurs and what he’ll bring to the Raptors lineup (30:43). To wrap, The Undefeated’s Marc Spears looks at the trade deadline now that the dust has settled and which moves he liked for certain teams (50:22).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

NBA Rumour Roundup with Avery Johnson + Reaction to Dragić Trade

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 17:39:57 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look ahead to the 3pm ET NBA Trade Deadline: they address the latest rumours involving the Raptors and wonder if James Harden will eventually be dealt to the Philadelphia 76ers (1:48). With the Raptors in Houston tonight, Rockets analyst Ryan Hollins previews the matchup, discusses Eric Gordon as a trade piece, and talks about what trade deadline day was like for him as a player (31:08). CBS Sports analyst and former NBA Coach Avery Johnson comments on the latest rumours, the potential of a Harden-Simmons swap, and coaching players during the hectic time that is the trade deadline (53:31). To finish, Eric and Paul react to the breaking news that the Raptors have traded Goran Dragić to the Spurs (1:14:55).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

What Can the Raptors Get for Goran Dragić? w/ Tim Bontemps

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 9 Feb 2022 17:15:37 +0000

With one day remaining until the deadline, Paul Jones and Eric Smith examine the Kings-Pacers trade and the Kings giving up Tyrese Haliburton so soon (1:19). Later, they discuss the Raptors deadline plans, react to GM Bobby Webster’s media availability, and weigh the pros and cons on if the Sixers should go all-in for James Harden (15:22). Next, Alvin Williams shares trade deadline stories from when he was a player and why neither team got much better in the Indiana-Sacramento swap (28:47). To wrap, ESPN NBA reporter Tim Bontemps talks about the fluidity of talks league-wide, why the Nets should make a James Harden-Ben Simmons deal, the Raptors' hot play, and what Goran Dragić can bring back in a deadline deal (49:20).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Six Straight Wins & Mardi Gras for McCollum

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 8 Feb 2022 17:29:59 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones discuss the the rigours of the NBA’s travel schedule before discussing the Raptors six-game win streak, Chris Boucher’s emergence off the bench and the breaking trade that is sending CJ McCollum from the Trail Blazers to the New Orleans Pelicans (1:00). Next, Sportsnet’s Michael Grange offers his analysis on the Pelicans-Blazers deal, Boucher, and looks ahead to what Toronto is looking to accomplish at the deadline (35:30). To wrap, Dan Woike of the LA Times talks about the state of the Blazers franchise, if Damian Lillard is next to be dealt, and the Lakers’ inconsistency (59:48).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Are Goran Dragić’s Days Numbered in "Toronto"?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 7 Feb 2022 17:41:39 +0000

The Raptors sit in sixth place in the East, look to make it six straight wins, and Fred VanVleet capped off a memorable week after his All-Star nod by getting engaged (2:44). NBA Radio host and Celtics analyst Brian Scalabrine talks about the toughest players he’s gone up against and played with before discussing the Celtics improved play, the Nets struggles, and why the Lakers have been inconsistent all year long (6:58). To wrap, Doug Smith of the Toronto Star looks ahead to the NBA trade deadline: why there has to be a trade for the estranged Goran Dragić, how recent NBA trades could impact the market for the Raptors, and what piece Toronto is looking for (29:16).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

NBA Trade Deadline Week Has Arrived

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 7 Feb 2022 17:37:07 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones react to a busy weekend in the NBA as the February 10th trade deadline looms. The guys discuss the Cavaliers acquiring Caris LeVert from the Pacers, if more trades are on the way from Portland, and the week ending with the Raptors sitting sixth in the Eastern Conference (1:17). With Toronto back in action vs Charlotte, Eric and Paul call up Hornets play-by-play voice Eric Collins who discussed the logjam in Eastern conference and the Hornets young core led by LaMelo Ball (33:20).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Fred VanVleet: The All-Star & Max Kerman of Arkells

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 4 Feb 2022 17:18:26 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the Raptors 127-120 win over the Bulls and discuss Fred VanVleet’s All-Star selection and the leaps he’s taken since he first entered the league and became a Raptor (0:23). Next, Arkells frontman and host of 'The Best Hang’ podcast Max Kerman discusses his friendship and admiration for Nick Nurse and being a lifelong fan of the team (31:34). Later, Eric and Jonesy go over the rest of the NBA All-Star reserves and go around the league with NBA Radio host and analyst Frank Isola (58:00).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

E and Jonesy Choose Their All-Star Reserves

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 3 Feb 2022 16:51:41 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by Chicago Bulls radio analyst Bill Wennington who discusses practices with Michael Jordan, if Zach LaVine will join DeMar DeRozan at the All-star Game, and tonight's Bulls-Raptors clash (16:46). What Did I Miss? host and Spurs broadcaster Michelle Beadle joins the guys to share her thoughts on the All-Star reserves and if “The Detective” Fred VanVleet will be making his first appearance (32:08). After teasing it all show, Eric and Paul announce their all-star reserves and how they arrived to their decisions before speaking with ESPN analyst and 10-year NBA veteran Tim Legler who touched on the Raptors run and the parity in the Eastern conference (50:48).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Raptors Culture with Justin Termine

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 2 Feb 2022 17:19:59 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones open by recapping the Raptors' second consecutive win against the Heat in another entertaining game at Scotiabank Arena. Next, Alvin Williams joins the show and comments on Raptors-Heat, Toronto's starters driving the team’s success and Fred VanVleet’s on-court leadership towards Scottie Barnes (12:14). To finish, NBA Radio’s Justin Termine gives some love to the Raptors for clawing back to over .500 after a tough start to the season dealing with COVID-19 protocols, citing standout performances from Gary Trent Jr. and Pascal Siakam (34:54).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Gary Trent Jr: Sharpshooter

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 1 Feb 2022 17:21:39 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones recap the Raptors' 106-100 victory over the Atlanta Hawks where Gary Trent Jr. continued his hot play with 31 points and nine three-pointers, before looking ahead to the rematch against the Heat following Saturday’s overtime thriller (8:55). Afterwards, TrueHoop’s David Thorpe discusses Pascal Siakam’s performance over the last month and how he’s re-established himself as premier player in the Eastern Conference and potentially an All-Star (34:01).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Fred VanVleet's All-Star Case with Howard Beck

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 17:18:12 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look back on the Raptors thrilling triple overtime victory over the Heat and discuss the increased minutes from the starters, a clutch performance from Scottie Barnes, and Fred VanVleet struggling to find his shot but coming up big in the third OT (0:53). The conversation on VanVleet continues with SI's Senior NBA writer Howard Beck who discussed the guard’s standout season as he makes his case for being named an NBA All-Star for the first time (32:33). Later, voice of the Hawks Steve Holman previews tonight’s game between Atlanta and Toronto and talks about why the Hawks have been much-improved (49:22).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

A Deep Dive on All-Star Starters

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 16:47:03 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones examine and debate the Eastern and Western Conference All-Star starters - those who were named and those who weren’t like Chris Paul of the Suns as the reserves are announced next week (0:30). They also discuss Andrew Wiggins making his first All-Star game as starter and share their thoughts on Shaquille O’Neal’s praise of Joel Embiid and criticism of Ben Simmons (16:40). Later, Miami Heat analyst and NBA veteran John Crotty discusses the Heat ahead of the Toronto-Miami matchup and who he thinks will represent the team at the All-Star game (35:45).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Fair or Foul: Gary Trent Jr.’s Controversial Ejection

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 17:03:53 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the Raptors' 111-105 loss to the Chicago Bulls that was highlighted by Raptors’ leading scorer Gary Trent Jr. getting ejected for his second technical foul and DeMar DeRozan starring against his former team (0:45). Later, Raptors play by play voice Matt Devlin checks-in with the guys with his thoughts on Trent’s ejection changing the game and the team fighting and keeping it close no matter the result (32:46). To finish, Bulls broadcaster Adam Amin focuses-in on the Bulls season and another strong performance for DeRozan (1:00:25).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Kevin Weekes: If the Game is Ours, Who Does "Ours" Represent?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 19:20:46 +0000

Eric and Paul open with a talk about Jacob Panetta's racist gesture towards Jordan Subban over the weekend in the ECHL and Panetta's apology, before bringing on NHL Network's Kevin Weekes (5:58) to get his thoughts on the incident, what it will take to teach people empathy, his own experiences with racism on-and-off the ice including an incident that happened Tuesday evening on his way to work, hockey’s exclusionary culture, and the steps that the sport needs to take in order to stop incidents like this from happening and create a more welcoming and open culture.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

No Fred VanVleet, No Scottie Barnes ... No Problem

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 26 Jan 2022 17:29:51 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones reflect on the Raptors’ 125-113 win over the Charlotte Hornets where Pascal Siakam and Gary Trent Jr. stepped up without Fred VanVleet and Scottie Barnes in the lineup (0:27). Later, friend of the show Alvin Williams joins for his weekly segment to remember Kobe Bryant and discuss facing him on the court before reflecting back to his time entering the league learning and relying on veterans like Muggsy Bogues, Doug Christie, and Dee Brown (33:00).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Memory Lane with Muggsy Bogues

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 17:27:18 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look ahead to the Raptors' matchup against the Hornets, and look back to Chauncey Billups’ comments on Fred VanVleet after the Blazers game as he makes his bid for an All-Star selection (0:38). Afterwards, ESPN’s Bobby Marks looks ahead to the trade deadline: the thought process for teams on the bubble of making the playoffs, and which sleeper team he’s looking at to make moves (31:01). To finish, former Hornets and Raptors point guard Muggsy Bogues reminisces with the fellas about his Raptors days and discusses his ties to the Hornets franchise and his favourite point guards to watch in the league today including Ja Morant & Lamelo Ball (51:35).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Scottie Barnes Earning League-Wide Respect

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 17:04:12 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones discuss an up-and-down weekend for the Raptors that featured an impressive win over the Wizards and a bad 114-105 loss to the Trail Blazers. E and Jonesy focus on Toronto’s poor first-half against Portland, the team returning to an empty arena after playing on the road, and Scottie Barnes’ standout game against Washington (4:38). Afterwards, NBA insider Brian Windhorst talks about league discipline following Grayson Allen’s suspension before sharing his view on the Raptors and the chatter surrounding Barnes and the respect he’s earning league-wide in his rookie season (31:45).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Penny Hardaway Sounds Off + Reflecting on the Westbrook Trade

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 17:11:58 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones look ahead to the Raptors next game against the Washington Wizards, where the team will hope to have Gary Trent Jr. back in the lineup after nursing his ankle injury (0:39). The fellas also delve into the Pacers shocking upset over the Warriors and Memphis Tigers head coach Penny Hardway’s comments towards the media as he stuck up for his young team (19:20). Later, 14-year NBA veteran and Wizards analyst Drew Gooden discusses both sides of being a player and now broadcaster, previews the Wizards matchup, and how beneficial the Russell Westbrook deal has been for Washington (32:26).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Minutes Continue to Rise for the Raptors’ Starters

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 16:23:39 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the Raptors' 102-98 loss to the Mavericks - another hard-fought battle against one of the league’s hottest teams. Eric and Jonesy discuss the minutes that are being distributed and why Nick Nurse is relying on a six or seven man rotation, the defence on Luka Dončić down the stretch, and a tough night shooting the ball for Fred VanVleet (0:27). To wrap, former Philadelphia 76ers GM Billy King comments on Joel Embiid’s dominant play of late, if Ben Simmons will play at all this season, and how much better Philly can be if they can get assets in return in a deal for Simmons (32:55).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Don’t Write Off Frank Vogel ... Yet

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 17:12:01 +0000

Eric and Paul catch up with 16-year NBA vet & Mavericks analyst Derek Harper to preview Raps-Mavs and also discuss how detail and preparation has evolved in the NBA, playing for Pat Riley, the next steps for star Luka Dončić working alongside his head coach and former All-Star PG Jason Kidd (0:30). Afterwards, Dan Woike of the LA Times talks about why he feels Frank Vogel’s job as Lakers’ head coach is safe for now amid reports that he is on the hot seat, the lack of flexibility the team has when it comes to improving the roster, and how they’ll have to resort to the buy-out market after the deadline (29:03).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Raptors' Rotation & Cardigan Talk with Gary Trent Sr.

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 16:58:02 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by former NBA vet Gary Trent Sr. to discuss how scouting has evolved from his playing days until now, the Raptors recent rotation as they overcome injuries, and Gary Trent Jr’s showing off his love for fashion as he supports his team on the sidelines (14:43). Later, Alvin Williams joins the show for his view on the Raptors after traveling to cover the team on the road in Miami, Luke Dončić's style of play, the lure of offence in MVP voting, the evolution of scouting, and more (30:59).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

José Calderón & Buyers Or Sellers?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 17:23:11 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones discuss the Raptors 104-99 loss to the Heat with a focus on Nick Nurse’s rotation and the hard foul on Scottie Barnes which ultimately wasn’t ruled a flagrant (1:19). Next, Raptors fan favourite José Calderón discusses his new endeavour - joining the Cleveland Cavaliers front office - and looks back on his time with Toronto (31:38). Afterwards, Sportsnet’s Michael Grange joins the guys to assess the Raptors at the halfway point of the season and if the team will be a buyer or seller at the deadline (48:06).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Heat and Raptors Roll On Without Kyle Lowry

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 17:27:48 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look ahead to the Raptors game against the Heat - one that was supposed to feature Kyle Lowry going against his former teammates for the first time (9:13). Next, ESPN’s Tim Bontemps goes around the NBA and shares his thoughts on the Raptors-Heat matchup, Kevin Durant’s injured knee, the ongoing situation with Kyrie Iriving & the Nets, and why the Lakers’ second half schedule won’t be doing them any favours (30:01).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Posters and Pistons with Dwane Casey & Rick Mahorn

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 17:38:52 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones get nostalgic as they reminisce over the iconic NBA posters from the 80s & 90s before looking ahead to the Raptors matchup versus Detroit with original 'Bad Boy' and Pistons analyst Rick Mahorn (16:05). Afterwards, senior NBA writer Howard Beck discusses the direction of the Knicks and Hawks after their swap yesterday that sent Cam Reddish to New York to be reunited with Duke teammate RJ Barrett (36:40). Later, Detroit Pistons head coach Dwane Casey discusses the development of his young squad, number one pick Cade Cunningham’s game, and reuniting with DeMar DeRozan earlier in the week and his maturity as a player (50:02).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Bulls Talk with Chuck Swirsky + Breaking Down RJ Barrett's Hot Streak

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 16:56:04 +0000

Paul Jones and Eric Smith chat with Chicago Bulls play-by-play voice Chuck Swirsky after calling Wednesday’s marquee matchup between the Nets and Bulls, where Kevin Durant and the Nets pulled way in the third quarter to secure the 138-112 win (19:04). To wrap, former NBA assistant Roy Rana discusses his new role as Head Coach of Egypt’s men’s national team and comments on RJ Barrett’s strong play of late knowing him well from his time coaching Canada’s U-19 National team at the World Championships (37:29).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Bismack Biyombo & Devin Booker vs. The Raptor

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 16:45:46 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap Tuesday’s hard-fought Raptors-Suns game as Phoenix escaped with a 99-95 win. The guys reflect on a few pivotal plays, Phoenix playing “old school” down the stretch, and Devin Booker asking that The Raptor mascot be banished from the free-throw area (1:25). On Alvin Williams Wednesday, Al talks about how despite the loss, the Raptors have to be encouraged after going toe-to-toe with Phoenix and his friendship with A-list actor Bradley Cooper (29:19). Next, Suns center and Raptors fan favourite Bismack Biyombo discusses taking time away from the game, his role with Phoenix, and returning to Scotiabank Arena without fans (49:25). To wrap, Eric and Paul answer your Midweek Mailbag questions (1:01:43).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Can the Raptors Keep Rolling Against the Suns?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 17:36:43 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look ahead to the Raptors and Suns fresh off of Fred VanVleet being named Eastern Conference Player of the Week (1:02). Next, The Undefeated’s Marc Spears reflects on the Raptors' win streak, Klay Thompson’s return to the Warriors, and why not to read too much into All-Star Game voting (25:31). To wrap, ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne goes into depth on the Lakers and their seeding in the Western Conference, and looks ahead to the trade deadline and which players could be shopped like Ben Simmons (1:03:12).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Raptors Turn an Empty Arena Into an Advantage

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 17:10:49 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones react to the Toronto Raptors 105-101 win over the New Orleans Pelicans - the team’s sixth straight before they welcome the Phoenix Suns to Scotiabank Arena. E and Jonesy reflect on another big-time performance from Fred VanVleet with a game-high 32 points, Pascal Siakam’s recent dominance, and old friend Jonas Valanciunas returning to his old stomping grounds (0:35). Later NBA TV’s Jared Greenberg discusses the latest news around the NBA notably Klay Thompson returning to the Warriors after his long layoff, his authenticity and likability across the sport, and the Lakers inconsistency after another loss to at home to Memphis (30:10).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Discrepancies with NBA All-Star Voting

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 7 Jan 2022 16:36:02 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look ahead to the Raptors matchup against the Jazz who will be without Rudy Gobert after testing positive for COVID-19 (0:17). Afterwards, they discuss the latest around the NBA including RJ Barrett’s heroics in the Knicks win over the Celtics and the problems with the NBA All-Star vote as many undeserving players are some of the leading vote getters (5:46). Later, Doug Smith of the Toronto Star checks-in with his view on the Raptors recent win streak and the emergence of Justin Champagnie (30:51).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Raptors Get the Win, But Bench Issues Persist

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 6 Jan 2022 17:20:26 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones comment on the strong play of Pascal Siakam and the Raptors as his 33 points propelled the team to a 117-111 road win over the Milwaukee Bucks (0:12). Afterwards, the guys shift their focus to an eventful Wednesday night in the NBA as they discuss Kyle Lowry getting ejected and Dirk Nowitzki’s number retirement in Dallas (17:39). To finish, Brooklyn Nets radio voice Chris Carrino breaks down Kyrie Irving’s midseason debut against the Pacers where he finished with 22 points and was reunited with stars Kevin Durant and James Harden (35:57).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Fred VanVleet Showing No Signs of Slowing Down

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 5 Jan 2022 17:47:22 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the Raptors win over the Spurs where they were led by Fred VanVleet’s 33 points and discuss the effect an empty arena is having on both the Raptors and opposing teams (1:03). Next, Sportsnet’s Alvin Williams comments on the Raptors recent play and says that while VanVleet definitely deserves credit, Pascal Siakam has also risen to another level over this stretch (30:30). Later, NBA Radio’s Justin Termine joins the fellas to discuss all the news and notes around from around the association (56:08).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Talking Spurs with Matt Bonner & Michelle Beadle

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 4 Jan 2022 17:31:30 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones open the show discussing the changes to the Raptors' schedule and wonder if fans will be able to see Kyle Lowry’s return to Scotiabank Arena (0:35). Then former Raptors forward and Spurs broadcaster Matt Bonner previews tonight’s clash between Toronto and San Antonio and talks about how long he believes Gregg Popovich will continue to coach (13:52). Next, Dan Woike of the LA Times checks-in with the latest on the west coast and why he believes the hot seat has cooled for Frank Vogel (46:28). To finish, “What Did I Miss?” host Michelle Beadle catches up with the guys to discuss being a lifelong Spurs fan and returning to Texas to work with the team (59:25).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Picking up Wins in an Empty Arena

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 3 Jan 2022 17:22:09 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the recent play of the Raptors, notably the team’s 120-105 win against the New York Knicks (0:55). As the team starts to get more healthy and exit health and safety protocols, Eric and Paul wonder if we will now start to see a true representation of the Raptors and discuss the team and bench creating energy for themselves as they now play in an empty Scotiabank Arena (10:19). To wrap, Chicago Bulls insider K.C. Johnson reflects on his wild night being thrust into NBA play-by-play action and DeMar DeRozan taking the NBA world by storm with his back-to-back game-winning shots (36:15).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

NBA Contenders Heading Into the New Year

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 16:05:24 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones take a look at the top of the Eastern Conference, including the Chicago Bulls who have won five straight games with the help of old pal DeMar DeRozan. Michael Grange stops by to discuss where the Raptors are in terms of momentum, and what he thinks will happen with Goran Dragic by the end of the season (10:06). Next up, ESPN's Bobby Marks takes a look at some of the recent roster moves made by teams, how front offices evaluate these ten-day contracts, and shares the latest on the Kyrie Irving saga (28:43).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Raptors Get Reinforcements, Lose a Tough Battle vs. Sixers

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 16:09:44 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones return after a holiday hiatus to break down the Raptors' 114-109 loss to the 76ers and how, despite a hard fight, moral victories always ring somewhat hollow (00:04). They're then joined by Sportsnet's Alvin Williams to discuss the tough loss even with the terrific outing by Chris Boucher, and share some insight into how veteran players mesh with younger guys on a roster based on his own experience as a player with the Raptors (21:44). To wrap up, Smith & Jones welcome in Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an Infectious Diseases Physician & Scientist at the University of Toronto, to discuss how Ontario and Canada have progressed during the pandemic, the guidance on masking and social distancing, and when we'll get back to a relatively 'normal' world. (49:42).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Happy Holidays from Smith & Jones!

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 16:54:35 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones invite friends and colleagues Michael Grange (18:08), Matt Devlin (25:51), Doug Smith (36:46), and Amy Audibert (44:22) on for a Raptors and NBA holiday party for their last show before Christmas.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Raptors-Bulls Postponed, What’s Next?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 17:23:47 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones react to NBA commissioner Adam Silver saying there are no plans to currently pause the season. Sportsnet’s Alvin Williams joins to discuss life as a 10-day contract in the NBA and catching up with his old friend and teammate Vince Carter (31:19). Amidst news that today’s CHI-TOR game could be postponed, Bulls TV voice Adam Amin discusses how COVID-19 has impacted his life travelling around North America and DeMar DeRozan's amazing season in Chicago. Afterwards, they react to the game officially being postponed and that OG Anunoby has been added to the health and safety protocols (53:08).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Nik Stauskas Gets His Opportunity

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 16:53:28 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap Monday night in the NBA and mention the standout performances by DeMar DeRozan and Joel Embiid. Afterwards, they turn to the Raptors signing Canadian shooting guard Nik Staukas (along with Brandon Goodwin and Juwan Morgan) to help round out their roster. Longtime NBA Head Coach George Karl discusses which teams have impressed him in the East, if the classic 'big man' will ever return to the game, and how the Lakers and Clippers have been mired in mediocrity (29:54). ESPN NBA Insider Tim Bontemps talks about if there is any hesitation for US-based teams to send their star players to Canada, and why he feels Milwaukee is still the class of the East (51:45).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

COVID-19 Continues to Push NBA Games Back

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 17:11:30 +0000

Eric and Paul discuss the Raptors' Saturday win over the Warriors and get into the mounting postponements across the NBA. ESPN's Brian Windhorst discusses the COVID-19 issues, including the Raptors-Magic cancellation, and also chats about covering LeBron James since he entered the league (31:17). Afterwards, they're joined by Warriors assistant coach (and former Raptors 905 head coach) Jama Mahlalela on bringing some Raptors development magic to San Francisco (54:35).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Charles Oakley Speaks the Truth

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 17:21:29 +0000

Eric and Paul chat with NBA legend Charles Oakley and cover all aspects of life and basketball: leadership in the NBA and why not all coaches are leaders, learning the importance of giving back at a young age, his philosophy on tipping, and his prowess in the kitchen on his show “Chopping it Up with Oakley” (18:52). To wrap, the fellas catch up with Raptors TV play by play voice Matt Devlin to discuss the NBA’s COVID-19 protocols and the unity between the Raptors broadcasters that was shown this past week when he had to step away from the mic (39:16).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

NBA Surprises and the State of the Suns

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 16:55:20 +0000

Eric and Paul chat about the attendance restrictions in Ontario amid rising COVID-19 cases (3:36). Next, the guys take a look at NBA standings and chat about the surprising Cavs who are fourth in the East, the sixth place Hornets, whether we're seeing some teams being more discreet with three-point shooting, before pivoting and talking about some Charles Oakley memories (12:10). To wrap, Eddie Johnson, co-host of “NBA Today" on Sirius XM Radio & Phoenix Suns TV analyst, gives his thoughts on the Suns' incredible play this season and success without shooting a ton of threes, how past playoff experience has helped the team, Chris Paul's leadership and talent on the court, and the state of the Lakers (30:30).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

3-Point Shooting Tips with Tracy Murray

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 17:36:44 +0000

Eric and Paul start listing their favourite shooters in NBA history coming off of Steph Curry breaking the three-point record at Madison Square Garden (0:20). Next, Sports Illustrated’s Howard Beck discusses what it was like to witness history at the Garden, catching up with Curry post-game, and how Curry’s volume and efficiency is what separates him from all other shooters (12:00). To wrap, former Raptors sharpshooter Tracy Murray talks about the best shooters of his era and what goes into becoming a lethal shooter from beyond the arc (28:43).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Missed Opportunities and Silver Linings in Brooklyn

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 15 Dec 2021 16:47:59 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones recap Tuesday night’s 131-129 Raptors loss to the Nets on a night where Brooklyn only dressed 8 players, before reacting to audio from Nick Nurse on the loss and Steve Nash about the rash of COVID-related issues within the Nets' organization (0:20). Next, Eric and Paul also discuss Steph Curry’s history-making night at Madison Square Garden (26:45) and then bring in Alvin Williams who shared his thoughts on the Raptors' recent play and the best shooters in NBA history that he played with and against (34:07).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Fred VanVleet Leads On and Off the Court

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 17:06:28 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones look back on the Raptors' blowout win over the Kings, particularly the play of Scottie Barnes alongside the bench unit (0:13). Next, Nets & NBA analyst Frank Isola previews tonight’s Brooklyn-Toronto tilt and discusses whether Kyrie Irving is close to returning to the lineup and the job Steve Nash has done as head coach (14:40). Then Chicago Bulls radio voice Chuck Swirsky talks about the COVID-19 outbreak that forced Thursday’s game against the Raptors to be postponed and how Billy Donovan, DeMar DeRozan and others have propelled Chicago this season (31:18). To finish, The Undefeated’s Marc Spears breaks down his profile on Raptors guard Fred VanVleet, how Fred has become a leader beyond basketball in the community, and the NBA’s handling of COVID-19 from the 2020 bubble until now (49:33).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Will NBA Games Be Postponed?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 16:46:01 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones open the show discussing Kevin Durant’s big 51-point night against the Pistons and the COVID-19 complications around the NBA with positive tests plaguing teams like the Pacers and Bulls (0:30). Next, Eric and Paul invite Michael Grange in on the conversation and wonder if the Raptors’ schedule might be affected as they are set to play the Bulls this week, and preview tonight’s game as Toronto hosts the Kings (17:09). To end the show, E and Jonesy talk about at the Suns’ impressive season atop the Western conference and go down memory lane re-visiting Chris Paul’s vetoed trade to the Lakers (33:33).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Future Is Bright for Canada Basketball

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 16:53:49 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones open the show by discussing how Canadian NBA players get up to play the Raptors when they return home ahead of the RJ Barrett and the Knicks coming to Scotiabank Arena. Next, SNY’s Knicks and Nets Reporter Ian Begley talks about Knicks inconsistent play, RJ Barrett’s work ethic, and if the Nets will ultimately be forced to trade Kyrie Irving (11:16). To finish, Canada Basketball GM Rowan Barrett talks about his son RJ’s progression, the success of the Canadians in the NBA so far this season, the deeper talent pool to choose from for the national team, and the importance of getting players to commit to Canada Basketball for multiple years (28:17).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Inconsistency Plagues Raptors in Loss to Thunder

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 9 Dec 2021 17:05:45 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones look back at the Toronto Raptors 110-109 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder and the difficult third quarter that led to the loss (0:49). Later the fellas address the breaking news of the Raptors canceling their practice out of an abundance of caution due to health and safety protocols (21:27). Jared Greenberg of the NBA on TNT discusses how the NBA has handled their protocols throughout the season, if the Bulls' success is sustainable, why Frank Vogel being on the hot seat in LA is unfair, and if Utah can reach another level (32:52).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Is Nick Nurse the NBA’s Best Coach?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 8 Dec 2021 16:37:41 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by 'NBA Today’ host Justin Termine to look at the storied rivalry between the Celtics and Lakers (12:50). The guys also discuss the concerns about Luka Dončić’s fitness, the Pacers reportedly making their top players available, and Justin shares high-praise for Raptors coach Nick Nurse (20:34). Alvin Williams joins the show to list his favourite rivalries in the NBA as a fan and player before continuing the conversation on Nick Nurse: is he the best head coach in the NBA today (32:05)?

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

A Deep Dive Into DeMar DeRozan's Work Ethic With C.J. Miles

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 7 Dec 2021 19:42:15 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones open the show briefly recapping the Bills' 14-10 loss to the Patriots (0:15). Next, former Raptors guard C.J. Miles talks about the differences in the game from when he broke into the league until now, DeMar DeRozan’s work ethic and impressive season, and staying ready to get back into the NBA (16:55). To wrap, Eric and Jonesy welcome NBA Champion and CBS Sports HQ Analyst Avery Johnson to the show to discuss the problems in Portland and how he believes the organization missed its best opportunity to trade Damian Lillard (32:47).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

Should the Blazers Trade for Ben Simmons?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 6 Dec 2021 16:51:43 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones recap the Raptors' 102-90 victory over the Washington Wizards, where they focused in on Toronto executing their offense, Pascal Siakam’s big 31-point night, and Chris Boucher finding his game (0:30). Next, ESPN’s Bobby Marks shares his thoughts on the Raptors and Scottie Barnes, the market for Portland’s top players, and whether trading for Ben Simmons makes sense for the Blazers (28:49).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Raptors Get Back in the Win Column

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 3 Dec 2021 16:23:23 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones discuss the huge 97-93 Raptors win over the Giannis-less Bucks at Scotiabank Arena, including the scorching play of Fred VanVleet down the stretch. Afterwards, they bring on Wizards Radio Analyst Glenn Consor to break down Washington's play ahead of their game vs. Toronto on Sunday (16:03).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Where Does Canada Basketball Go From Here?

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 2 Dec 2021 18:53:11 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones bring on basketball analyst Jevohn Shepard to discuss where Canada's men's national program is at - a program he was once a part of as a player - including the culture now instilled within the team, how players are buying in, and the explosion of the sport of basketball itself within Canada as a whole (0:33).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

The Raptors Struggles Continue at Scotiabank Arena

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 1 Dec 2021 19:35:10 +0000

Eric Smith, Paul Jones and Alvin Williams talk about the Raptors need to turn around their poor home record with eight of their next nine games at Scotiabank Arena. They break down last night's loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. Then they talk about the Raptors teams that Alvin played with and their impact in Canada and what impacted Alvin on his journey to the NBA.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Checking in With Oshae Brissett

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 17:27:38 +0000

Pacers forward Oshae Brissett joins the show to look ahead to tonight's matchup against the Raptors, and discuss the parity in the Eastern Conference, what it's been like playing under Rick Carlisle, playing fewer minutes this season compared to last, his relationship with his former Raptors teammates, and where the Canadian men's national program is at (0:22). To close out the show, Eric and Paul touch on Oshae's minutes, before briefly chatting about the Raptors' upcoming schedule (8:57).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Getting Back to .500 in Indy

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 16:24:18 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by Toronto Raptors play by play voice Matt Devlin as the team’s lengthy road trip comes to end in Indiana (12:55). Next, Raptors Superfan Nav Bhatia discusses his new documentary "Superfan: The Nav Bhatia Story", his moving to Canada, and Toronto’s season to this point (30:05).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

A Gritty Raptors Win in Memphis

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 25 Nov 2021 16:36:40 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones share their thoughts on the Raptors’ 126-113 win against the Memphis Grizzlies, particularly Gary Trent Jr. and his big game with 26 points (0:44). Next, The Toronto Star’s Doug Smith talks about the team’s season to this point as they near the twenty-game mark and discusses the level of concern with Chris Boucher as he seems uninvolved when he does see the floor (16:28). Then Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times weighs in on the NBA’s Western Conference and the Lakers’ inconsistent play as they hover around the .500 mark (34:21).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

A Grizzlies Preview on Alvin Williams Wednesday

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 16:44:14 +0000

Memphis Grizzlies TV analyst and 12-year NBA point guard Brevin Knight weighs-in on the state of the Western Conference before previewing Wednesday night’s clash between the Grizzlies and Raptors (17:30). Sportsnet analyst and former Raptors’ point guard Alvin Williams discusses how much Lenny Wilkens meant to him as a coach and what he’s observed from a young Raptors team on their lengthy road-trip (32:10).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Assessing Scottie Barnes One Month In

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 18:35:57 +0000

David Thorpe, analyst at TrueHoop & co-host of the 'Bring It In’ podcast, joins Smith & Jones to assess Scottie Barnes one month into his NBA career, and chats about the Raptors' decision to draft Barnes, the Florida State program that Barnes came from, how the Raptors have built their team, and weighs athletic abilities vs. basketball IQ (4:59).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Catching up With Lenny Wilkens

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 16:37:49 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones open the show with their final thoughts on the Lakers-Pistons skirmish now that punishment has been handed down with a one-game suspension for LeBron James and a two-game suspension for Isaiah Stewart (1:18). Hall of Fame player and coach Lenny Wilkens joins the show to reflect on his time with the Raptors and the team’s 2019 championship, the NBA’s bubble setup during the pandemic and Black Lives Matter movement, how the game is officiated today, the future of the NBA in Seattle, and coaching Vince Carter (18:21).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.

A Look at Kyle Lowry’s Tenure in Toronto

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:57:46 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones open the show reacting to last night’s skirmish in the the Lakers-Pistons game between LeBron James and Isaiah Stewart and ex-NBA guard Gilbert Arenas’ thoughts on the incident (1:11). Following that, the guys share their thoughts on the Raptors 119-104 loss to the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center (23:05). The Undefeated’s Senior NBA writer Marc Spears talks about his latest story on Kyle Lowry, his decision to play in Miami, his anticipated return to Toronto, and Lowry claiming once again that he will sign a one-day contract to retire a Toronto Raptor (29:20).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Raptors Lick Their Wounds on the West Coast

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 16:53:58 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones turn back time to discuss the last time the Raptors were in Utah to take on the Jazz: a few days before the pandemic shut down the NBA season (0:48). They bring on Sports Illustrated' Howard Beck, who remembers the 17-year anniversary of Malice at the Palace and breaks down the Kyrie Irving situation in Brooklyn (13:44). Afterwards, ESPN's Mark Jones joins to take a look at the Kings ahead of their game vs. the Raptors, including what's left for Marvin Bagley, the strides Tyrese Haliburton has taken, and whether or not Luke Walton will take the fall if the team keeps losing (33:52).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Raptors Arrive in Salt Lake City

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:30:35 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones get into Tristan Thompson's comments, as he goes on a profanity-laced answer to media after a tough Kings loss to the Timberwolves last night (5:23). ESPN and SiriusXM's Frank Isola joins to take a look around the NBA, including Thompson being a potential buyout candidate this season, Steph Curry getting load managed this weekend, the under-the-radar job Ty Lue is doing with the Clippers, and quickly looks ahead to the highly anticipated Canada-USA soccer game in January (7:46). Afterwards, Jazz analyst Thurl Bailey previews tonight's game between Toronto and Utah (35:47).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

The Continuing Evolution of the NBA

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 17 Nov 2021 16:26:47 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones discuss the otherworldly play of Steph Curry to start the season, and discuss the rate of three-point shooting in today's NBA (1:15). The Associated Press' Tim Reynolds notes how many young players in today's college game are taking threes in large part thanks to Curry and wonders why he's so darn likeable, before taking a look at some surprising teams around the league - including DeMar DeRozan and the Bulls (12:10). Sportsnet's Alvin Williams discusses the current era of basketball and how the attitude between players has changed since he last played, before turning an eye to the Raptors and how Nick Nurse has been allocating the minutes as of late (32:55).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Blazers Burn Raptors to Begin Road Trip

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 16:46:55 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the Raptors' 118-113 loss to the Trail Blazers, and discuss how the game was somewhat a tale of two halves (0:46). They break down how they've now lost two straight games against two of the worst offences in the NBA, how the Blazers got deep into the paint early and often, and how there's still a lot opportunity for growth for Scottie Barnes after two late mistakes (4:53). Afterwards, Sportsnet's Michael Grange discusses the cracks beginning to show in the defence, how there isn't a very large margin for error with this young team, and examines the play of guys like Dalano Banton and Malachi Flynn (23:04).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Berríos Here to Stay Long Term

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 16:11:52 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones chat with Sportsnet's Shi Davidi about the José Berríos extension, and how the 27-year-old pitcher left some money on the table to stay in Toronto long-term (0:27). Shi also discusses what the deal could mean for free agents around MLB, how it might reverberate out to other free agents like Robbie Ray, and which of Ray or Semien are more likely to return (4:22). To wrap up, they discuss the hot shortstop market, if the Blue Jays would be in on any of the top options, and if Bo Bichette would possibly move to a different infield position (17:32).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Slow Starts at the Quarter Mark

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 16:28:49 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones re-examine the loss to Dwane Casey's Pistons, and how Cade Cunningham has been playing since being drafted No. 1 overall by Detroit (1:05). Next, ESPN's Bobby Marks joins to discuss the slow starts in the Eastern Conference including the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks, how the Brooklyn Nets - without Kyrie Irving - have started to gel, and what big names could be trade candidates by the deadline (15:27). Afterwards, they discuss the idea of tampering in the modern NBA after ESPN's report on the league probe into free agent deals for Lonzo Ball and Kyle Lowry (36:22).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Raptors Rebound in the City of Brotherly Love

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 16:53:47 +0000

Eric and Paul discuss the Raptors’ impressive road win against the Philadelphia 76ers on the second night of a back-to-back, with the officiating being a main talking point (0:35). Next, The Toronto Star’s Doug Smith joins the fellas with his thoughts on Raptors-Sixers, Fred VanVleet’s Sam Cassell impression, the team’s upcoming road-heavy schedule, and how shot selection and minutes will be a work in progress as the team gets healthier (15:40).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

A Beantown Beatdown & Sixers Preview

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 17:31:30 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones recap the Raptors 104-88 loss to the Celtics in Boston, before focusing their attention on Thursday’s opponent: the Philadelphia 76ers (01:08) Former Sixers GM Billy King talks about navigating the Ben Simmons saga from a front office perspective and shares his thoughts on Doc Rivers comments about the point guard after last season’s playoff exit (17:40). Eric and Paul catch up with radio voice of the Sixers Tom McGinnis to preview the PHI-TOR matchup from a Sixers point of view, and the keys to the team’s resiliency with an 8-4 record despite playing shorthanded (32:02).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

The Raptors Ship up to Boston

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 17:01:51 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by ESPN’s Tim Bontemps who discussed Nikola Jokić’s one-game suspension, punishment being less severe in Adam Silver’s NBA, covering the Bucks at the White House, Cleveland as an early season surprise, and Scottie Barnes being in the mix for rookie of the year (14:57). Next, it’s Alvin Williams Wednesday! The Sportsnet TV analyst joins the guys from Boston to discuss the Raptors ahead of their Eastern conference clash against the Celtics (34:11).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Jokić-Morris Incident

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Tue, 9 Nov 2021 17:04:02 +0000

Eric Smith and Paul Jones weigh-in on the Nikola Jokić-Markieff Morris incident that overshadowed play in the NBA on Monday night and the post-game comments from Jokic and Miami Heat coach Erik Spolestra (0:26). Then NBA Radio host and Boston Celtics analyst Brian Scalabrine gives his take on the antics in the DEN-MIA game and discusses the Boston Celtics ahead of their upcoming game against Toronto (16:11). Next, Eric and Paul check-in with Toronto Raptors TV voice Matt Devlin on the current state of the team after 11 games, the current foundational pieces of the roster, and the high-praise from league executives on Raptors rookie Dalano Banton (36:43).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

Gary Trent Sr. on Jr.’s Defensive Reinvention

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Mon, 8 Nov 2021 16:59:22 +0000

Eric Smith & Paul Jones break down the Toronto Raptors’ start to the season, their impressive record on the road, what they noticed to in Sunday’s loss to the Nets, and discuss Kevin Durant being complimentary of Scottie Barnes’ play (0:35). ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst joins the guys to talk about the Celtics standing in the East and Marcus Smart criticizing his teammates, the Sixers “bad business” with Ben Simmons, Russell Westbrook’s fit on the Lakers, and his view on Toronto (15:10). Former Raptor Gary Trent Sr. joins Eric & Paul after taking in Toronto’s games over the weekend to discuss the team and his favourite buildings to play in back when he was a player (32:42).

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Media Inc. or any affiliate.

July 30: The Final Smith & Jones

Sportsnet.Podcasts@rci.rogers.com (Sportsnet) — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 18:07:10 +0000

It’s All Happening! Eric Smith and Paul Jones are joined by Sportsnet’s Ben Nicholson Smith to react to the breaking news of the Blue Jays trading for pitcher Jose Berrios from Minnesota. Alvin Williams weighs in on the Raptors selecting Scottie Barnes over Jalen Suggs, how Barnes reminds him of Jerome “JYD” Williams, and Russell Westbrook joining Lebron James and company in LA. Next, we play Nick Nurse’s one on one with Eric following round one of the draft where he discusses why the team selected Barnes. Finally, the guys sign off as “Smith & Jones” comes to a close after 14 months.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.