On this episode of Shot Clock Pod, Steve Purciello and Jose Salviati dig into the Los Angeles Clippers' punishment for alleged cap circumvention, the sudden Lakers ownership sale, and what it all says about ownership's role in NBA offseason chaos. They also break down Amen Thompson's massive new contract and Ben Simmons' latest attempt at a comeback with the Sacramento Kings.
In this episode:
02:00 – Clippers penalties and Steve Ballmer's suspension
05:00 – Losing five first-round picks and what it means for the roster
10:00 – Kawhi Leonard's $700,000 fine and whether he really didn't know
17:00 – Lakers ownership sale and the Mark Walter tax fraud rumors
18:30 – The end of the "mom and pop" NBA ownership era
23:30 – Amen Thompson's contract and his 22% three-point shooting problem
25:30 – Ben Simmons signs with the Kings — can he still be a star?
28:30 – Russell Westbrook's retirement gets a quick shout-out
Key takeaways:
• Steve argues Ballmer likely believed his wealth would let him get away with circumventing the cap.
• Jose believes Kawhi had to have known about the uncle's dealings, since similar demands were reportedly made to multiple teams.
• Both hosts agree the Buss family's "mom and pop" ownership model is gone for good in the modern NBA.
• Steve says Amen Thompson's shooting has to improve significantly to justify his contract.
• Jose sees the Ben Simmons signing as Sacramento chasing curiosity over a real plan to win.