Locked On Celtics With Rainin' J's

Celtics' playoff path under scrutiny: How does it stack up against OKC's run?In a new mailbag episode, John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal breaks down the Boston Celtics' championship journey, comparing it to the Oklahoma City Thunder's recent success. He analyzes Eastern Conference predictions, with Cleveland emerging as a potential frontrunner. Jayson Tatum's injury recovery timeline takes center stage, as Karalis emphasizes the importance of full health. The new CBA's impact on roster construction gets dissected, with a focus on OKC's future challenges. Karalis shares a touching story about fan connections through the podcast, highlighting the show's impact on Celtics fandom.Tune in for expert insights on the Celtics' upcoming season and how recent changes might reshape their championship aspirations.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLI

OKC Thunder take the NBA championship. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal breaks down the Thunder's impressive run, highlighting Boston connections in the organization and their ethical stance on Seattle's history. The discussion covers Tyrese Haliburton's controversial injury, Kevin Durant's unexpected trade to Houston, and its ripple effects across the league. Karalis analyzes the Celtics' "retooling" plans, potential roster changes, and how they aim to stay competitive despite challenges.Tune in for expert insights on the NBA's shifting landscape and what it means for the Boston Celtics' future.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you. SKIMSShop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. OpenPh

Celtics' Future Lineup Shakeup? Jaylen Brown's Fate Hangs in BalanceIt's a Flashcard Friday, with rapid fire random topics! Host John Karalis and guest Tom Westerholm explore the Boston Celtics' potential 2027 starting five, with surprising omissions and bold predictions. The duo breaks down TD Garden's best value seats, unearths forgotten role players like Jordan Crawford and Phil Pressey, and debates the Celtics' lottery chances. Karalis analyzes how Jayson Tatum's injury could reshape the team's transition game, while media perceptions of the franchise come under scrutiny.Will Payton Pritchard emerge as the Celtics' point guard of the future? Tune in for insider takes on Boston's evolving roster and strategy.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.  CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure

NBA mock draft madness! Who's the top pick and where will they land? Nick Angstadt and the Locked On NBA Squad dive into a thrilling mock draft, exploring potential picks and blockbuster trades. From the 76ers eyeing Ace Bailey to the Heat chasing Kevin Durant, every move is dissected. The hosts debate Bradley Beal's impact on the Phoenix Suns and analyze the Magic's bold trade for Desmond Bane. Will these roster shakeups redefine the NBA landscape? Tune in for heated debates on draft strategies, star player valuations, and the art of NBA team building. You won't want to miss the hosts' surprising takes on which moves could make or break a franchise's future. 0:00 Intro: Mock draft surprises and big trades 5:13 Where does the actual draft start? 13:16 Kevin Durant trade in mock draft 18:40 Analyzing the Nets' mock draft moves 27:21 Teams discuss their draft legacies 34:11 Breaking down specific mock draft picks 40:43 Evaluating the Desmond Bane trade to Orlando 47:22 Debating the Bradley Beal trade to Phoe

$10 Billion Lakers Sale Shakes NBA Landscape. Can Celtics Contend Without Tatum?John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal breaks down the record-breaking LA Lakers sale and its implications for the league's financial future. He analyzes the Boston Celtics' outlook for next season, considering Jayson Tatum's injury and potential roster changes. The discussion covers how the new collective bargaining agreement impacts team strategies, Jaylen Brown's expanded role, and Joe Mazzulla's coaching adjustments. Karalis explores the Celtics' path to championship contention despite challenges.Tune in for expert insights on the Lakers' valuation, Celtics' roster dynamics, and the shifting NBA landscape.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.  CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the bes

Celtics trade rumors debunked! Are fans underappreciating the 2022 championship? Boston Celtics insider John Karalis and guest Tom Westerholm dissect the latest NBA buzz.Karalis and Westerholm scrutinize rumors about the Celtics trading up in the draft and San Antonio's alleged interest in Jaylen Brown. They analyze why these speculations likely hold no water, considering Boston's financial constraints and championship aspirations. The duo also reflects on the Celtics' 2024 title run, exploring why this achievement seems overlooked in today's hot-take-driven media landscape.Tune in for expert insights on the Celtics' offseason strategy, potential roster moves, and a passionate discussion on appreciating Boston's recent NBA success.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.  CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarG

Celtics offseason intrigue: Luke Kornet's market value, NBA rumor decoding, and an unexpected Finals rooting guideJohn Karalis breaks down the unpredictable free agency landscape for Boston Celtics big man Luke Kornet. He offers expert analysis on interpreting offseason NBA rumors, separating fact from speculation. The host presents a surprising case for why Celtics fans should cheer for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals, exploring potential long-term benefits for Boston's championship aspirations.Tune in for insider perspectives on Celtics roster moves, league-wide trade buzz, and strategic thinking that could shape Boston's future.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.  CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairGive your home the refresh it

Locked On’s five episode NBA Mock Draft is here. For every episode of the 2025 Locked On NBA Mock Draft search Locked On NBA Draft wherever you get your podcasts.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.  CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best deal. WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.Monarch MoneyTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first yearGametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use codeLOCKEDONNBAfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.FanDuelRight now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLA

NBA Trade Shakeup: How Orlando's Blockbuster Deal Impacts the Boston CelticsIn this mailbag episode, John Karalis breaks down the recent Orlando-Memphis trade, analyzing its ripple effects on the Eastern Conference and the Celtics' playoff prospects. The discussion covers Stephen Adams' Houston signing, Kevin Durant's potential Miami move, and Jayson Tatum's injury recovery timeline. Karalis explores Kristaps Porzingis trade rumors and addresses listener questions about the Celtics' roster strategy. Will Orlando's strengthened lineup pose a greater threat to Boston's championship aspirations?Tune in for expert insights on the Celtics' path forward in a rapidly changing NBA landscape.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.  CarGurusBuy or sell your next car today with CarGurus at CarGurus.comto make sure your big deal is the best de

Celtics coaching conundrum: Can Joe Mazzulla adapt to a less talented roster?Host John Karalis and guest Tom Westerholm tackle burning questions about the Boston Celtics in a new "Flashcard Friday" format where you submit topics and they react to them in real time. They explore what makes an elite playoff coach, speculating on Mazzulla's potential adjustments with a hypothetical roster shake-up. The duo also debates a game-changing rule proposition for fouled teams and dissects Derrick White's reported "loss of joy." Plus, dream pairings for Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown spark an intriguing discussion on team chemistry and star power.Tune in for insider perspectives on the Celtics' coaching strategies, player dynamics, and potential roster moves that could reshape their championship aspirations.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near yo

Jaylen Brown's knee surgery gives us some clarity on the Boston Celtics game plan. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal breaks down the implications of Brown's procedure, from his recovery timeline to potential shifts in the Celtics' offensive strategy. The discussion covers how Joe Mazzulla might adjust tactics, the impact on role players like Derrick White and Kristaps Porzingis, and the latest trade rumors swirling around the team. Karalis also speculates on Jayson Tatum's return timeline and how it could affect Boston's championship aspirations.Tune in for an in-depth analysis of how Brown's surgery could reshape the Celtics' path to NBA glory.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.  WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home.Door DashSign up for Das

NBA playoffs ignite fierce debates. Who's the real superstar? Are the Thunder destined for dynasty status? Matt Moore, Danny Cunningham, Jake Madison, and Ku join Nick Angstadt to dissect memorable playoff moments. They analyze Tyrese Haliburton's breakout and the Pacers' unexpected success. The crew debates Oklahoma City's potential dominance, weighing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren's impact against future roster challenges. Talk shifts to draft predictions. Will Ace Bailey go second or third? Brooklyn's four first-round picks spark trade speculation. The hosts share personal fan experiences, from lottery wins to heartbreaking trades. Tune in for insider takes on NBA's rising stars, draft strategies, and the emotional rollercoaster of fandom. 0:00 Intro: NBA Finals and playoff discussion 5:33 Thunder's potential dynasty and future challenges 11:38 Is Tyrese Haliburton a superstar? 16:30 Don Nelson's protest of Luka trade 24:06 Most frustrating moments for NBA teams 30:50 Draft speculation and

Jrue Holiday trade rumors heat up as Celtics eye first-round pick. Can Brad Stevens pull it off?John Karalis and guest Tom Westerholm analyze potential trade scenarios for Holiday and explore contract extension strategies for Kristaps Porzingis. The duo breaks down the Celtics' salary cap management, discussing how recent NBA rule changes could impact team-building decisions. Key topics include Holiday's value to contenders, Porzingis' injury history, and the ripple effects of new second apron rules on franchises like the Oklahoma City Thunder.Tune in for expert insights on how Brad Stevens might navigate these crucial roster decisions and keep the Celtics in championship contention.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.  WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style.

Boston Celtics face a crucial decision on Kristaps Porzingis' future. John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal breaks down the pros and cons of trading or retaining the 7-foot-3 Latvian center. The analysis covers Porzingis' injury history, disappointing playoff performance, and potential impact on the team's financial strategy.Key topics include Porzingis' $30.7 million salary, his unique skill set, and how his presence affects the Celtics' roster construction. Karalis examines potential trade scenarios, including the possibility of moving Jrue Holiday or Sam Hauser. The discussion also touches on Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown's roles in the team's long-term plans.Tune in for an in-depth look at the Celtics' options and how they might shape the team's future in the competitive Eastern Conference.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you

Celtics' salary cap crunch looms large. Will Boston make a blockbuster trade to avoid a quarter-billion-dollar tax bill? Or could they run it back?John Karalis breaks down potential roster moves for the Boston Celtics in this mailbag episode, analyzing trade scenarios involving Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis. The discussion covers Jayson Tatum's injury recovery, Anthony Simons as a possible trade target, and the NBA's plans for a USA vs. World All-Star format. Karalis also shares insights on WNBA fandom and Aaron Nesmith's development with the Pacers.Tune in for expert analysis on the Celtics' financial tightrope walk and how it could reshape their championship aspirations.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OLIPOPGet a free can of OLIPOP! Just buy any two cans in store and they’ll reimburse you for one. Head to drinkolipop.com/LOCKEDONNBA to claim your free can and find OLIPOP near you.  WayFairGive your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every

NBA coaching under the microscope: Tom Thibodeau's firing sparks debate. Are fans missing the bigger picture when it comes to coaching decisions?John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal breaks down the complexities of NBA coaching, challenging common misconceptions. The discussion explores the nuanced world of timeouts, rotations, and in-game strategy, with insights from conversations with Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla. Guest Tom Westerholm joins to analyze the upcoming NBA Finals matchup between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers, offering valuable lessons for the Celtics' future success.Tune in for an eye-opening look at the hidden aspects of NBA coaching and what it means for your favorite team's performance on the court.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp

CELTICS TRADE RUMORS HEAT UP: Houston Rockets eyeing Boston's stars?John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and Tom Westerholm of Boston.com dissect swirling trade rumors surrounding the Boston Celtics. They analyze the Houston Rockets' potential interest in key Celtics players and debate the tradability of Jrue Holiday versus Kristaps Porzingis. The duo explores how Jayson Tatum's recent surgery might impact Boston's offseason moves, including calls about Derrick White that Boston has been rejecting, and speculate on seismic shifts in the Eastern Conference landscape.Tune in for insider perspectives on the Celtics' roster decisions and their implications for the upcoming NBA season.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Mona

Austin Ainge's move to Utah's front office sparks intriguing trade possibilities for the Boston Celtics.John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal explores potential Boston Celtics trades with the Utah Jazz, focusing on Jrue Holiday's fit and impact. Key discussions include Holiday's mentorship value, Walker Kessler's importance to Utah, and how players like Collin Sexton or Jordan Clarkson could factor into deals. Leif Thulin of Locked On Jazz provides insider perspective on the Jazz's priorities and potential trade pieces. The episode analyzes various scenarios, considering salary implications and the Celtics' cost-cutting goals.Tune in for expert insights on how these potential moves could alter both teams' futures and the broader NBA landscape.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterH

Payton Pritchard's breakout season reshapes the Boston Celtics' future. Can his stellar performance alter Brad Stevens' off-season strategy?John Karalis of Boston Sports Journal and NBC Sports Boston's Chris Forsberg analyze Pritchard's impact on the Celtics' roster decisions. They explore his offensive improvements, potential defensive growth, and how his development affects the team's salary cap considerations. The discussion covers Pritchard's journey from trade request to key player, his fit alongside stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, and speculations on his expanded role next season.Tune in for expert insights on how Pritchard's rise could influence the Celtics' championship aspirations and roster moves.Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get

Celtics' roster shakeup looms as CBA impact hits hard. Will Al Horford join the Knicks?John Karalis tackles burning mailbag questions about the Boston Celtics' future. From Al Horford's potential departure to Jaylen Brown's uncertain status, Karalis breaks down the team's options. The new NBA collective bargaining agreement forces tough decisions, with Jrue Holiday's situation highlighting the challenges ahead. Karalis explores creative salary cap strategies and potential trades that could reshape the Celtics' roster.Tune in for expert analysis on how the Celtics can navigate these crucial roster decisions and maintain their championship aspirations. Submit questions at JohnKaralis.com/mailbagSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!OpenPhoneStreamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at www.openphone.com/lockedonnba BetterhelpThis episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first