The Case For A Pacers Surprise, OKC’s Path To The Finals, And What’s Next For The Knicks The Mismatch podcast

1:24:14

As we enter the dog days of summer, Verno and Jacoby bring 10 questions each about the upcoming NBA season. They go through everything from the recent string of contract extensions, Daryl Morey’s asterisk comments, LeBron James, Klay Thompson’s relationship with Megan Thee Stallion, Target Guy, and so much more. (00:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (01:18) Q1: Rank the recent extensions: Bridges, Luka, and Fox (09:20) Q2: Which team do you think you will like more than others? (12:30) Q3: Who will be the 3-seed in the East? (17:40) Q4: Which rookie (not Flagg) do you want to watch the most? (19:18) Q5: Craziest prediction that probably won't happen (22:49) Q6: Daryl Morey is ____ for saying the people put an asterisk on the bubble title (26:54) Q7: Which is more likely for OKC: 55 or 65 wins? (29:00) Q8: Do you think ESPN pays attention to other broadcasts? (34:43) Q9: How will LeBron's season play out? (40:38) Q10: Could Jacoby's twins work the same job like the Thompson twins? (46:41) Q11: Will Joel Embiid ever be Joel Embiid again? (47:01) Q12: Which team in the West do you think will not be as good as people think? (49:18) Q13: Will Klay and Megan Thee Stallion last until the end of the season? (53:09) Q14: Which player do you want to see in person that you have not? (54:39) Q15: Will the Blazers make the play-in? (01:00:49) Q16: Who would you take the gamble on: Zion Williamson or LaMelo Ball? (01:02:44) Q17: Which NBA players were the most relevant at the National Sports Collectors Convention? (01:12:36) Q18: Who is the biggest football player in New York? (01:14:16) Q19: Will "Target Guy" have a podcast by the end of the season (01:15:18) Q20: Which player looks most wrong in their new uniform (01:16:36) Issues with Verno's stay in New York Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
NBA Summer Storylines: A Motivated Luka, Ja’s Joy, and Is LeBron Really Planning for 2026? 1:28:01

13 days ago1:28:01

1:28:01

Verno and Jacoby discuss the new-look Luka Doncic that is featured in the latest edition of Men’s Health magazine. They debate what kind of impact a healthier Luka will make on the Lakers, the topics were not discussed in the article, as well as his surprise appearance at a Yankees game. Next, they take a deep dive on Nikola Jokic’s agent's cryptic photo with LeBron James and Maverick Carter, Verno explains why he expects a big bounce-back season from Ja Morant, and they debate where the remaining restricted free agents could possibly land. After, they discuss Billy Donovan’s contract extension with the Bulls, the anonymous Nets executive who says Michael Porter Jr. could lead the league in scoring next season, and Verno shares his experience staying at Jacoby’s apartment when he visited New York. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (2:15) Luka Dončić 2.0 Has Entered the Chat (17:40) Reaction to Jokic's Winning Horse (18:35) Breaking: Jokic's Brother is the GM of KK Joker (23:40) Reaction to Jokic's Winning Horse (25:40) LeBron and Maverick Carter's Yacht Meeting (33:15) Ja Morant's Nike World Tour (41:20) Restricted Free Agents Still Unsigned (50:05) Billy Donovan's Extension (54:00) MPJ "Might lead league in scoring" - Nets Executive (56:15) LaMelo Hot Cheeto Feet (58:50) Tyrese Haliburton's Proposal at Iowa St. (1:01:30) Verno's NYC Trip (1:24:05) Thanks for Watching! Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Post-Summer League Watch List: Teams That Deserve Our Attention (and Those That Don’t) 1:13:14

20 days ago1:13:14

1:13:14

Verno and Jacoby congratulate the Charlotte Hornets on winning this year’s Summer League and briefly discuss why Nikola Jokic’s brother was still in Las Vegas watching a random game between the Grizzlies and Clippers. Next, the guys each share two teams that they want to see more of and less of after watching all of Summer League. Lastly, they discuss Chris Paul’s possible last run in a return to the Clippers, Marcus Smart signing with the Lakers, and Damian Lillard’s homecoming. (0:00) Welcome To The Mismatch! (0:20) Kon Knueppel Leads Hornets Winning Summer League (2:15) Was Jokic's Brother Looking for Verno? (8:22) Teams We Want To See MORE (9:45) Verno: Utah Jazz (14:25) Jacoby: Atlanta Hawks (18:05) Verno: Charlotte Hornets (28:05) Jacoby: Dallas Mavericks (36:55) Teams We Want To See LESS (37:10) Verno: Miami Heat (41:55) Jacoby: Sacramento Kings (44:05) Verno: New Orleans Pelicans (48:35) Jacoby: Toronto Raptors (51:15) Chris Paul Returns To The Clippers! (57:00) Marcus Smart Signs with The Lakers (58:30) Dame Returns to Portland (1:03:20) Verno's Going to NYC Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Impressive Summer League Performances and the Legend of ‘Target Guy’ 1:19:38

27 days ago1:19:38

1:19:38

Verno and Jacoby recap this weekend’s action and buzz around Summer League. Verno shares the slights and sounds of being in Las Vegas for the event, from the vibes around Thomas & Mack Center, to watching Kelly Clarkson, and finding the elusive “Target guy” who predicted Cedric Coward will become the best player in this draft class. Next, the guys each share three players who impressed them over the weekend at Summer League. Then, the guys briefly discuss some of the news around the league including what the Lakers will do with LeBron James, Paul George’s latest surgery, Wemby's return, and more. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:25) Verno's Summer League Takeaways (5:05) Verno Met Jokic's Brother (10:05) Verno's Summer League Takeaways (18:15) Target Guy Met Verno In Vegas (Cedric Coward Prophet) (30:28) Verno's Summer League Takeaways (35:40) Favorite Summer League Player: Joan Beringer (42:00) Favorite Summer League Player: Tre Johnson (47:08) Favorite Summer League Player: Kyle Filipowski (52:00) Favorite Summer League Player: Drew Timme (54:40) Favorite Summer League Player: Ron Holland (57:50) Favorite Summer League Player: Yang Hansen (1:02:30) Reaction to The LeBron Drama (1:04:20) Joel Embiid + Paul George Health Updates (1:06:35) Wemby's Back to Training (1:09:10) MPJ: "Well, I'm Traded." (1;11:00) Love Island Finale Reaction Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
The Most Disastrous and Perfect Fits of the Offseason 1:18:36

5 weeks ago1:18:36

1:18:36

Verno and Jacoby recap the latest string of free agency news, including Paolo Banchero’s contract extension, where Jonas Valanciunas will play, and more. Next, they discuss which offseason moves they think will turn out disastrous and which moves are perfect fits. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:50) Summer League Takeaways (4:20) Reaction to the Norm Powell-John Collins Trade (8:55) Expect Jonas Valančiūnas to Play for the Nuggets? (13:53) Paolo Banchero Signs Extension with Magic (17:08) Grizzlies Trade Away Jay Huff, Sign Jock Landale (23:50) Why is Malik Beasley Still Unsigned? (28:15) More Free Agency & Trade Reactions (31:17) Disaster Fit: Pelicans Draft Derik Queen (34:17) Disaster Fit: Deandre Ayton Signs with The Lakers (39:15) Disaster Fit: Jrue Holiday with the Blazers (44:03) Disaster Fit: Bucks Waive Dame to Sign Myles Turner (46:35) Disaster Fit: Spurs Sign Luke Kornet (50:48) Disaster Fit: The Brooklyn Nets (53:12) Perfect Fit: DFS on the Rockets (55:35) Perfect Fit: The Atlanta Hawks (57:48) Perfect Fit: Former Grizzlies on the Magic (59:48) Perfect Fit: Mike Brown Coaching the Knicks (1:02:30) Perfect Fit: Kyle Lowry Signs with the 76ers (1:05:40) What's Next for Chris Paul? (1:07:15) Perfect Fit: Nuggets Offseason Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

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Free Agency Day One: Winners, Bold Moves, and Are the Lakers Going to Trade LeBron? 1:08:22

6 weeks ago1:08:22

1:08:22

Free agency is here! Join Verno and Jacoby as they recap the day-one deals and discuss everything from the Rockets refueling for a championship run with Kevin Durant to their hopes for a competitive Hornets team. They also discuss the Hawks' impressive first day, the Nuggets trading away MPJ and signing Bruce Brown Jr., and the Grizzlies' aggressiveness to start free agency. They also debate whether the Lakers would actually trade LeBron James. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:22) NBA Free Agency Reactions (0:43) Rockets Extensions + Sign DFS and Capela (11:18) Nuggets Trade MPJ for Cam Johnson + Sign Bruce Brown (13:45) Hawks Acquire Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker + Kennard (16:40) BREAKING: Hornets Sign Mason Plumlee (20:38) BREAKING: Bucks Sign Taurean Prince (21:45) Grizzlies: JJJ & Santi Aldama Extension + Sign Ty Jerome (28:42) Lakers: Sign Jake LaRavia + LeBron Rumors (37:43) Blazers Buyout Deandre Ayton (38:20) More Free Agency Reactions (43:48) BREAKING: Jordan Clarkson to Sign with the Knicks (45:32) More Free Agency Reactions (58:05) Biggest Takeaways from Free Agency Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Visit creditkarma.com or download the app today. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Draft Night Winners and Losers. Plus: The Grizzlies Get Their Guy, and Masai Ujiri Out in Toronto. 1:06:41

6 weeks ago1:06:41

1:06:41

Verno and Jacoby recap the NBA draft by discussing their biggest winners and losers from the two-day event, as well as Verno’s excitement for the Grizzlies, who drafted Cedric Coward from Washington State; the odd timing of Masai Ujiri’s departure from the Raptors; and their favorite prospect from the second round. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:28) NBA Draft Recap (2:25) Pick of Destiny: Cedric Coward to the Grizzlies (6:45) Our Draft Winners & Losers (10:45) Masai Ujiri Out As President of Raptors (14:30) Verno's Draft Winner: WINGSPAN (18:40) Jacoby's Draft Winner: Brooklyn Nets (22:08) Verno's Draft Winner: Atlanta Hawks (24:55) Jacoby's Draft Winner: American White Guys (26:20) Verno's Draft Winner: Spike Lee (30:20) Jacoby's Draft Winner: Moms (31:15) Verno's Draft Loser: Ace Bailey (37:05) Jacoby's Draft Loser: Joe Dumars (39:33) Verno's Draft Loser: Milwaukee Bucks (42:35) Jacoby's Draft Loser: Portland Trail Blazers (47:33) Verno's Draft Loser: Girlfriends (51:17) Jacoby's Draft Loser: ME (56:17) Jacoby's Draft Loser: Clarity (59:27) Favorite 2nd Rounder: Alijah Martin (Raptors) (1:01:20) Favorite 2nd Rounder: Johni Broome (76ers) Leave us a message on our Mismatch voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Visit creditkarma.com or download the app today. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

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Young Thunder Defy History, Haliburton’s Injury, Finals Fallout, and Can KD Lead the Rockets to the Finals? 1:19:32

7 weeks ago1:19:32

1:19:32

Verno and Jacoby congratulate the Oklahoma City Thunder on winning Game 7 and defeating the Indiana Pacers, as the guys discuss the sour experience of watching the game after Tyrese Haliburton went down with his injury, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Game 7 performance, lessons learned from these Finals, and what to expect for OKC’s future. They also give kudos to the Pacers for their resilience throughout the playoffs, Rick Carlisle’s influence, expectations for the Pacers next season without Haliburton, and how his injury affects the rest of the Eastern Conference. Next, the guys debate whether Kevin Durant can be the difference maker that Houston is looking for, and if the Suns will trade Jalen Green. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:18) The Thunder Are The 2025 Champs! (0:54) The 2025 Thunder Become 2nd Youngest Champions Ever (4:50) Reaction to Tyrese Haliburton's Injury (13:19) SGA's Game 7 Performance (18:34) Is This The Start of The Thunder Dynasty? (31:00) Rick Carlisle's Masterclass in Playoff Coaching (35:15) Who Are The Eastern Conference Contenders? (42:20) Reaction to the Thunder's "Celebration" (49:45) Rockets Trade for Kevin Durant (1:09:10) Jacoby's Trip to The Original Nathan's Hot Dogs (1:10;55) Mavs Sign Daniel Gafford to Extension (1:11:55) NBA Draft Preview Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Visit creditkarma.com or download the app today. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Pacers Force Game 7, Lakers Sell for $10B, and an NBA Draft Sneak Peek 1:17:37

7 weeks ago1:17:37

1:17:37

The Pacers take Game 6 and force a Game 7 back in OKC, so Verno and Jacoby discuss the Pacers' dominant performance and their expectations for the first Game 7 in the Finals since 2016. They discuss the performances by T.J. McConnell, Obi Toppin, and Tyrese Haliburton; the difference a small-market home crowd makes; which Thunder players they trust to perform; and their overall excitement for a decisive Game 7. Next, the guys discuss the impact of the Lakers being sold, the expected extension of Ime Udoka (and the unexpected extension of Billy Donovan), what’s going on with prospect Ace Bailey, and more on next week’s draft. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:54) Pacers Force Game 7: 108-91 (28:34) Game 7: Pacers vs. Thunder [-8.5] (51:31) Lakers Sell For $10 Billion (54:27) Expect NBA Expansion Teams This Summer? (57:26) Ime Udoka and Billy Donovan Sign Contract Extensions (59:25) NBA Draft Preview (1:11:54) Game 7 Picks Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Visit creditkarma.com or download the app today. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
OKC One Win Away After J-Dub Drops 40, Haliburton’s Dud, KD Lingering, and a Memphis Recalibration 1:10:37

8 weeks ago1:10:37

1:10:37

The Thunder are just one win away from an NBA championship after an all-time performance by Jalen Williams. Verno and Jacoby break down the Game 5 Thunder win and expectations for Game 6 back in Indianapolis. Will Tyrese Haliburton show up after an awful performance in Game 5? Or will OKC lift the trophy on Indy’s home court? Next, the guys discuss the latest trade rumors around Kevin Durant and debate whether he will warm up to playing in Minnesota or go to one of his preferred destinations. Also, Verno passionately explains why the Grizzlies are not going to tank after trading Desmond Bane to the Magic. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:28) Thunder Hold On To Beat Pacers: 120-109 (OKC 3-2) (17:33) Previewing Game 6: Thunder [-5] vs. Pacers (OKC 3-2) (33:00) Kevin Durant's Looming Trade Update (46:48) Reaction to the Desmond Bane Trade Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Visit creditkarma.com or download the app today. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Can the Pacers Repeat Their Defensive Dominance? Plus, KD’s Future and More Knicks Dysfunction. 1:17:14

8 weeks ago1:17:14

1:17:14

Verno and Jacoby discuss the exciting Game 3 that saw the Pacers go up 2-1 on the Thunder. They praise Rick Carlisle’s game plan and the defense versus SGA before discussing the near-perfect performances from the entire Pacers roster, expectations for Game 4, and whether fans on either side should be concerned about their team. Next, Jacoby shares his disappointment with how the Knicks' head coach search is going, and the guys debate whether a Kevin Durant trade would really move the needle anymore. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:25) Pacers Take Game 3: 116-107 (IND 2-1) (32:28) Expect this Series To Go 7 Games?! (36:09) Game 4 Preview: Thunder [-6] vs. Pacers (48:02) What Are The Knicks Doing?! (1:01:23) Where's Kevin Durant Playing Next Season? (1:08:39) Ready To Bet on The Pacers Yet? Leave us a message on our Mismatch voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Visit creditkarma.com or download the app today. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

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Game 3 Keys in Indy and a New Kidd in New York? Plus, Tyrese Haliburton: The Low-Usage Superstar. 1:18:26

9 weeks ago1:18:26

1:18:26

Verno and Jacoby discuss the expected Game 2 Thunder victory and how Game 2 was the best of the best of the Thunder and the worst of the worst of the Pacers. They discuss how the media is viewing Tyrese Haliburton and why the narrative around him might be misconstrued. They then dive into their expectations for Games 3 and 4 in Indianapolis, as well as the series going forward. Next, the guys examine what the injuries to Zach Edey and Darius Garland could mean for the Grizzlies and Cavs, respectively; what Atlanta’s front office changes signal; and whether Jason Kidd might end up coaching the Knicks. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:27) Thunder Take Game 2 Over Pacers: 123-107 (TIED 1-1) (15:28) Expectations for Haliburton at Home (31:18) Is There A Small Market Home Court Advantage? (36:33) Thunder [-5] vs. Pacers (TIED 1-1) (52:00) Zach Edey and Darius Garland Injury Updates (59:00) Hawks Hire New Front Office Execs (1:04:14) Knicks Flirting with Jason Kidd as Next Coach (1:12:13) Wemby: Shaolin Monk?! Leave us a message on our Mismatch voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Visit creditkarma.com or download the app today. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Pacers Pull Off Another Comeback—Is OKC in Trouble? Plus, the Knicks’ Future Without Thibs. 1:08:11

9 weeks ago1:08:11

1:08:11

Verno and Jacoby recap a wild NBA Finals Game 1 that saw the Pacers come back yet again to beat the Thunder and take a 1-0 series lead. They go through all the stats and numbers and try to figure out how the Pacers came back, as well as how they continue to have these impressive wins in the playoffs. Is it time to finally put some respect on the Pacers? What adjustments will OKC make for Game 2? Next, the guys briefly discuss the fallout from the Knicks firing head coach Tom Thibodeau. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (0:23) Pacers Stun Thunder: 111-110 (IND 1-0) (11:17) Finals Odds: Oklahoma City Thunder [-320] Indiana Pacers [+260] (14:15) Breaking Down the Matchup Adjustments (25:20) Can The Pacers Win This Series? (52:25) Knicks Fire Coach Thibs Leave us a message on our Mismatch Voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Visit creditkarma.com or download the app today. The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

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The Case for a Pacers Surprise, OKC’s Path to the Finals, and What’s Next for the Knicks 1:15:00

10 weeks ago1:15:00

1:15:00

The Pacers beat the Knicks over the weekend to reach the Finals, where they will meet the Oklahoma City Thunder! Before discussing the Finals, Verno questions Jacoby regarding the next steps for the Knicks after a disappointing ending to their season. Is it time for Thibs to go? Does this core stay intact for another year? Next, the guys make the case for a Pacers upset and discuss what it'll take to pull that off, as well as their hope for a competitive series. Lastly, the guys discuss Devin Booker's involvement in the Suns' head coaching search and the weird send-off ‘Inside the NBA’ has gotten despite the fact that the show will return next season on ESPN. (0:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (2:23) Why Did the Knicks Lose? (6:00) Would You Bring Back Coach Thibs? (11:50) How Should the Knicks Change their Roster? (18:52) The Pacers Path To The Finals [+530] (27:27) Finals Preview: Oklahoma City Thunder [-750] Indiana Pacers [+530] (50:50) Game 1: Pacers vs. Thunder [-9] (55:17) Suns Nearing Decision to Hire Next Head Coach (56:37) Thoughts on ESPN's Inside The NBA Leave us a message on our Mismatch voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Visit creditkarma.com or download the app today. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Tucker Tashjian Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

1
Can the Knicks Force a Game 7? Plus: the Thunder Are Finals-Bound, and the Missing Playoff Intensity. 1:13:05

10 weeks ago1:13:05