NBA Identity Changers (with Mike Shearer)

In this episode of RealGM Radio, host Wes Goldberg is joined by Mike Shearer, author of Basketball Poetry on Substack, to discuss the NBA’s most impactful offseason additions and how they’ll reshape team identities across the league. From Norm Powell’s role in Miami and Kristaps Porzingis’ impact on Atlanta, to Al Horford’s fit in Golden State, they break down the players redefining their teams’ styles and expectations. Wes and Mike analyze how Kevin Durant brings instant offense to Houston, how Deandre Ayton could finally fill a crucial need for the Lakers, and how rookie VJ Edgecombe’s movement might unlock the Sixers’ offense. They even dive into coaching shifts like Mike Brown with the Knicks and the ripple effects of new ownership in Boston. 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – What “Identity Changers” Means in the NBA 02:15 – Norm Powell Revamps Miami Heat’s Offense 06:00 – Kristaps Porzingis Unlocks Trae Young & the Hawks 13:30 – Al Horford’s Impact on the Golden State Warriors 17:30 – Are the Warriors Still Contenders? 20:30 – Dylan Brooks Brings Toughness to the Phoenix Suns 25:30 – Mike Brown’s Coaching Shift for the Knicks 30:00 – Rookie VJ Edgecombe Gives the 76ers a New Look 34:40 – Tyus Jones & Desmond Bane Elevate the Orlando Magic 41:00 – Chris Paul & Brook Lopez in the Clippers’ Offense 45:00 – Deandre Ayton’s Redemption with the Lakers 48:40 – Luke Kornet Boosts the Spurs’ Defense 52:30 – Kevin Durant Changes the Houston Rockets’ Identity 56:40 – Cam Johnson Replaces Michael Porter Jr. in Denver 01:00:10 – Celtics’ Ownership Change and Future Outlook 01:03:00 – Final Thoughts: Teams Poised for Transformation RealGM Radio is powered in part by North Station Media (CLNS). For advertising or media inquiries, contact [e-mail] 🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe for more NBA insights and analysis! Follow RealGM Twitter: https://x.com/RealGM Follow Wes Goldberg Twitter: https://x.com/wcgoldberg PrizePicks: PrizePicks is the best place to get real money sports action. With over 10 million members and billions of dollars in awarded winnings, PrizePicks has made daily fantasy sports accessible to all. You just pick MORE or LESS on at least two players for a shot to win up to 1000x your cash! Run Your Game all season long on PrizePicks. Download the app today and use code CLNS to get $50 instantly after you play your first $5 lineup! Gametime: Take the guesswork out of buying tickets with Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code CLNS for $20 off your first purchase. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices