Lakers Are Actually Contenders & Is Expansion Really Needed? (w/ Rachel Nichols)

There’s always another layer to the story in the NBA, a rumor beneath the headline or a strategic gamble that changes everything. Open Floor: SI's NBA Show digs into those details with Chris Mannix, who navigates the entire league landscape from the draft through the playoffs and into the next season’s speculation. This isn’t just a recap of scores; it’s a conversation about the forces shaping the standings, the trades that alter franchises, and the off-court narratives that captivate fans. Each episode unpacks the latest news with the insight you’d expect from Sports Illustrated, while also entertaining the deeper debates and conspiracy theories that make the league so endlessly discussable. You’ll hear clear analysis on team building, playoff pushes, and the evolving legacy of the game’s biggest stars. For anyone who thinks about basketball beyond the highlight reel, this podcast provides a regular, grounded yet engaging look at the real NBA calendar, where the story never actually stops. Tune in for a perspective that’s as much about the why and what’s next as it is about what just happened on the court.