Detroit Bad Boys: For Detroit Pistons Fans

On this episode of the Detroit Bad Boys Podcast, Jordan Bellant and Jacob Kuyvenhoven are joined Lazarus (“Laz”) Jackson to discuss the first fifth of the Pistons’ season.  The episode starts with Laz giving his overall impression of the team through the first 18 games (2:30). Jacob discusses how the team has played and what needs to change for the offense (4:30).  Laz picks up on how Reggie can help the ailing offense (5:45). Focusing on the three ball, Laz and Jacob talk about what is the main reason behind the team’s poor shooting (7:05).  One way to improve the offense could be small-ball lineups. Laz and Jacob ponder what lineup would spark the offense (13:10).  Jordan’s concern over rebounding and shooting leads to a question about personnel and fit (18:30). Jacob and Laz calm those fears and then Laz offers one thing that is a positive coming from Reggie’s absence (21:00). Next is a conversation about Marcus Morris and his future role with the team (22:40). If Marcus is moved out of the starting l

Jordan Bellant keeps the podcast rolling this week with Jacob Kuyvenhoven to review the first 10 games of the regular season. While Ben is away on paternity leave from the pod, Jacob fills in and uses the first episode to highlight some of the early season storylines.  Starting with the focus on the last week of basketball (2:45), Jacob offers his big picture understanding of the Pistons. Jordan is nervous about the team still losing winnable games (4:10), but Jacob calms those fears.  After talking about the Nuggets game (6:00), it leads to a conversation about Andre Drummond’s early season play (7:25). After talking about how to hide his deficiencies, Jordan asks about pairing AD with Jon Leuer (10:15).  Jacob offers his biggest concern about the Pistons (12:00), and how that concern is magnified by Ish Smith (13:10).  Moving on to another disappointing player through ten games: is it time to hit the panic button with Stanley Johnson (17:20)? Also, how the return of the other Reggie (Bullock) could impa

Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are joined by Jamie… Delaney? Delancey? We will let him explain. Jamie comes on to talk about one week of Pistons basketball and the team’s roster going forward.  Starting with the Knicks game (3:50), Ben starts with what he liked from the Pistons’ winning effort. Also, what if the Knicks are just bad (6:10). Moving onto the Nets game (15:15), it can really only be described as disappointing and bizarre. Finally for game reviews, the trio talks about the win over the Nuggets (28:05). The Nuggets conversation translates into a talk about KCP, better shooting wing players and the disappearance of Gary Harris (31:50).  Jordan opens up the possibility of trading KCP at the trade deadline. He offers up the situation that could lead to trading a starter (44:50). The trade talk starts with the Denver Nuggets (45:50), with Jamie assuming the role of Jeff Bower and explaining his fanboy moment over seeing the team’s GM (47:25). With Ben as SVG, the trade talks continue! Jordan follo

For the first regular season episode, Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are joined by Ben Quagliata (“Quags”), the notorious Aussie Pistons fan, to talk about some basketball.  The episode talks about the first three games in order and previews the next three games. Starting with the season opener against the Raptors (2:45). Ben starts with his overall impressions after the first game.  Quags picks up on the Raptors (5:50) and talks about what he wants to see while Reggie is out. That in turn brings up a conversation about Ish Smith, his shooting (mIshes), and comfort in the offense (7:05).  Leaving the Raptors game, Jordan wants to discuss what to take away from DeMar DeRozan’s big night (9:00). That leads into the frustrating play of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (10:50).  Moving onto the Orlando game (14:45), an improved team effort helped the Pistons get their first win of the season!  The focus turns to the Magic and trying to evaluate the team thus far (19:15).  Moving onto the Bucks (21:20), and just anot

The Detroit Pistons Podcast Season Preview Series concludes with a look at the team. Sean Corp joins Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker as they go position-by-position to preview the team.  The episode starts with a bit of breaking news (:50) in the form of a new player joining the Pistons. If you’re a little behind, some more “breaking news” on the Pistons back court and Reggie’s Jackson knee injury (3:20).  Staying at the point guard spot, Sean breaks down what to expect from temporary backup PG, Ray McCallum (6:00). Then, expectations for Ish Smith as he begins the season as the starting point guard (9:10). Then, Sean offers some Kool-Aid to soothe the anxiety while Reggie is out (17:15).  Moving onto the wing positions (22:00), is all starts with Caldwell-Pope. Jordan poses this question to Ben: What improvements can KCP make in his game. If he cannot improve his game, are you okay with that (22:35)? Then it’s Sean’s turn: Has KCP’s play justified a max contract (25:20)?  After looking at the trio of young

Jordan and Ben invite a guest to discuss each division in the conference. On for the Central Division is Sean Wheeler, better known as Hypnowheel on DBB.  The Central Division countdown starts with the Indiana Pacers (1:50). One of the three has the Pacers making the playoffs.  The fourth team in the Central is the Milwaukee Bucks (18:25); we all know they can’t shoot but maybe Point Giannis can save them (20:55)? If not, maybe it’s former Piston Greg Monroe (25:45), a player that could be moved if things don’t click this season.  The third place team in our preview is the Chicago Bulls (30:10). The transactions in the offseason left everyone scratching their heads. If it works and “all comes together,” it could be because of Jimmy Butler (34:50).  Then, at number two in the Central, it’s our Detroit Pistons (43:30). Sean quickly provides some Kool-aid (44:00), and Ben gives a more skeptical best case for the team (45:30). Jordan offers his best and worst, further diluting Sean’s Kool-aid (47:40).  The p

For the start of the new season, Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are bringing you a full preview of the Eastern Conference.  Jordan and Ben invite a guest to discuss each division in the conference. On for the Southeast Division is Jacob Kuyvenhoven, frequent contributor on DBB.  The Southeast starts with the Orlando Magic (2:40). Unlike the Atlantic, the bottom teams in the Southeast might actually be competitive and worthy of playoff consideration.  The fourth team in the Southeast is the Miami Heat (20:25). Could the Heat copy what the Blazers did last season (24:00)?  Moving on to the top three teams in the Southeast, it starts with the Wizards (36:05).  The Hawks come in at #2 in the division, with the guys giving them a shot at the top spot (50:20). The Charlotte Hornets check in as the top team in our Southeast Preview (1:06:40). Jacob and Ben share their reasons to be optimistic about the Hornets.  The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes

The NBA season is right around the corner! For the start of the new season, Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are bringing you a full preview of the Eastern Conference.    Jordan and Ben invite a guest to discuss each division in the conference. On for the Atlantic Division is Lazarus “Lazchance” Jackson, frequent contributor on DBB. Each team is discussed in detail: Best and worst case scenarios, most important and most intriguing player, firing up the Trade Machine, “Rank the Coach,” and each franchise’s top storyline. Finally, playoff odds and win totals.    The preview starts with the worst team in the Atlantic, the Philadelphia 76ers (3:50). In fourth place is the Brooklyn Nets (20:20), a team that has nothing to gain (or lose) by losing. Third in the Atlantic is the New York Knicks (32:50). Following the Knicks, it’s a fight for the Atlantic Division crown. Starting with the Celtics (49:10), Ben and Laz agree that Boston is just a step behind the Raptors. After offering up the Celtics, the episode close

This episode will help give you your offseason NBA fix! Jordan and Ben are joined by Jacob Kuyvenhoven to review the Pistons offseason, breakdown the Pistons roster, and look at the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Starting with the NBA Draft, Jacob helps set expectations for rookie Michael Gbinije and his possible early role with the Pistons. Plus, what does signing Jon Leuer mean for Henry Ellenson's future in Detroit. After looking at the rookies, Ben and Jacob talk about the free agents brought in by Van Bower. Starting with Jon Leuer, what do we like and expect from him in Motown. Plus, what his signing means for forwards Marcus Morris and Tobias Harris. Then, the trio swoons over big man Boban! An advanced stats darling, what are the Pistons getting? Having two former Spurs centers on the roster, how do they share time backing up Drummond?  Following Ray McCallum's signing, it seems the roster is set. Everyone talks about what moves in the near future could improve the team. In that discussion, a m

Before the first day of free agency closed, Jordan and Ben Quagliata (aka Quags) got together to discuss all the insanity of the first day. Starting with a look at the market, the conversation quickly turns to the Pistons. Ben discusses both sides of Ish Smith, the good and the bad. Then the guys look at other free agent point guards, their deal and compares it to Ish. Did the Pistons panic? Could our team been in the market for Dellevadova or even Jerryd Bayless? After looking at Ish, the conversation opens up to what (or who) is next for the Pistons. That means talking about the Al Horford rumors, the liklihood and what it would take to land Horford in Detroit. That also means a quick look at the team's cap space and players under contract. Is anyone worth losing for Horford? After looking at Horford, Ben and Jordan break down some less expensive and more realistic power forward options.  Following the focus on the Pistons, Jordan turns to the Eastern Conference and Central Division. Quags talks about wha

The trio of Jordan Bellant, Steve Hinson, and Jacob Kuyvenhoven join forces to preview the NBA Draft! Focusing on the Pistons' picks at #18 and #49, the conversation starts with Steve explaining the team's strategy heading into the draft. It seems "Best Player Available" is Van Gundy's idea, Jacob explains why that might be best for the Pistons.  Starting with the first round pick, Steve and Jacob each share the player they 'expect' the Pistons to take. Then, a conversation about the team's needs, including at the back-up point guard spot. If the Pistons look at making an immediate impact, what prospects should they target? Then, all three share their favorite players for the Pistons in the first round. Including a few sleepers, international players and guys that might catch the attention of the Pistons' brass.  After further dissecting specific players, Jordan asks the group "If the Pistons had the 3rd pick in the draft, who do you take?" Find this episode and all past episodes of this podcast on BlogTa

One day after the NBA Finals, Ben and Jordan get together to break down the Finals and World Champion Cavaliers. After working through 'how' the Cavaliers were able to beat the Warriors; Ben discusses how the Cavaliers can do it again. Jordan brings up Kevin Love's future, chemistry and the offseason for the Cavs.  After talking about the Finals, the attention turns to the Pistons and free agency. Since free agency opens less than two weeks from now, Ben looks at the big needs for Detroit and what free agents fit those needs. Starting at the point guard position, Ben has targeted certain players that could fill the minutes behind Reggie Jackson.  The conversation starts to evaluate the Pistons bench and roster heading into next season. What will it take for the Pistons to take "the next step?" Jordan mentions the Detroit Bad Boys Offseason Plan Project and his personal plan for the Pistons. Ben and Jordan examine the salary cap and what types of contracts the Pistons can afford. After looking at wing playe

Jordan and Ben reunite right before Game 1 of the NBA Finals! Ben and Jordan each make their predictions for the Finals, with both giving their main storylines for the series. Then, Ben breaks down the Cavaliers and both take a chance to give credit to LeBron James.  Then, the focus turns to the Pistons. After watching the Cavaliers dominate the Eastern Conference, should the Pistons feel better or worse after their series sweep? Even following the sweep, are the Pistons the top contenders next season to dethrone the Cavs?  Ben mixes some cautious optimism about the Pistons future with pointed critiques of the curent roster. Jordan dives into some roster building, looking at what players need to do this off-season to help the team. Starting with Andre Drummond, a conversation on his game starts with a recent article by Drew Sharp. Questions remain about Drummond's game, but Ben comes to Andre's defense.  The conversation turns to the off-season with more discussion on the team's needs. This is the perfect

Jordan is joined by Ben Gulker and Ben Quagliata for the last Detroit Bad Boys podcast before the end of the regular season! The Pistons sit at 42-37, only needing one win to secure their spot in the post-season. There are reasons to celebrate and to be cautious in Piston's optimism.  The episode starts by discussing the team's recent play and preparing for the final three games of the season. Ben talks about the bench play; both Bens talk about Reggie Bullock over Stanley Johnson in the rotation. More than that, looking at how the team has played with only three games left on the season.  Then the trio goes right into the mailbag. Answering a wide range of questions, from Stan Van as a Shakespearean character, to off-season free agent targets. Listen for the question we have all asked ourselves: Which way does the water flush in Australia? Is it really counter-clockwise? Our resident Aussie Ben Quagliata (did you know the 'G' is silent?) helps answer this and other hard-hitting questions.  Finally, the ep

Jordan and Ben are joined by renowned DBB'er Sean Wheeler, better known as Hypnowheel! Sean helps the guys discuss the Pistons as the team nears the finish line of the regular season! The Pistons seem comfortable in the 8th seed, ahead of the Bulls and Wizards. Sean discusses the Bull's issues down the stretch, Ben focuses on the Wizards and Jordan reminds everyone of the playoff tie-breakers! The conversation turns to the team's recent play. The Pistons have played well, post-trade deadline, and took advantage of their extended home stand. Is it enough to get into the playoffs? Sean breaks down the team's perceived up-and-down performance.  Andre Drummond becomes the topic of conversation; Sean helps us understand the complexities of Drummond's trouble at the free throw line. The hypnotherapist applies his knowledge to Drummond's (sometimes literal) shortcomings at the line. Ben and Sean dive into some sports psychology, helping us all better understand the pressures of the game.  Looking into the future,

Start your St. Patrick's Day off right... With the Detroit Bad Boys podcast! Recorded on Selection Sunday and delivered on the fist day of the "Second Round;" this podcast covers all your big Pistons questions. Jordan and Ben are joined by Jacob Kuybenhoven to explore numerous Pistons topics.  Starting with the team's playoff position, the guys review their recent stretch of play. From there, a conversation about the 8th seed, holding off Chicago and what a series with Cleveland might look like.  Then, Jordan brings up some questions regarding a healthy Pistons squad. What changes when the team is healthy? Some of those changes might mean less time for certain payers in the rotation. Jacob and Ben dissect the current rotation and it's effects on the team's performance heading into the playoffs.  The podcast covers the rest of the Eastern Conference "bubble teams." From there, Jacob also talks about players in the NCAA tournament to watch. Maybe there's a future Piston playing? Find this and all your Pisto

Jordan and Ben are back to talk all things Pistons! Jordan starts by previewing the future schedule, and Ben breaks down the bizarre future stretch of games. The Pistons are preparing for four straight road games, then nine at home, before three more straight on the road! What stretch means the most to the team's playoff chances? Looking at the playoff odds, Ben discusses the team's recent play. How did they lose to New York and then beat Portland?! The up-and-down continues and Ben tries to determine what will be the team's strength and weakness moving forward. Some of those strengths rest on the team's health, so Jordan and Ben update everyone on the injuries of Jodie Meeks and Stanley Johnson.  Meeks and Johnson also spark a conversation about the bench play. From there, the guys look at the Eastern Conference playoff race. While the Pistons are on the outside, Ben takes aim at the Bulls' spot and also talks about the Hornets and Pacers.  If the Pistons can make the post-season, Jordan asks Ben about th

Listen to this special Leap Day edition of the Detroit Bad Boys Podcast. Jordan and Ben are joined by Jacob Kuyvenhoven right after the Pistons beat the Raptors, marking the team's fourth straight win! There's some optimism in the air, with most of it centering around the newest Piston: Tobias Harris. The trio debate the trade and how Harris effects the Pistons' current playoff odds.  The playoff conversation extends into a look at the Eastern Conference. From potential matchups to the Cavaliers or Raptors, Ben and Jacob argue on the odds of a first round playoff series win. Then a look at the teams fighting for the last playoffs spots in the East. What teams are the Pistons likely to jump? Which teams look ready to fight the Pistons for playoff position?  When thinking about the playoffs, Jordan brings up the future schedule. Finally, the conversation circles back to Tobias. Ben has some quick hits on the newest Piston and what it means for the team's future. Jacob mentions how the team is being built and

Recorded at the start of the All Star Break, this episode is the perfect way to get ready for the second half of the NBA Season! Jordan and Ben are joined by Detroit Bad Boys contributor, Gabe FB. Gabe brings his expertise on all things Pistons.  The episode starts by talking about the 'Goin to Work' Pistons, the recent retirement cermonies and what other Pistons may deserve the same treatment (Hint: Yes sir, we are talking about Rip Hamilton). Then the conversation moves into the team's recent struggles and Ben breaks down what he has seen so far. Gabe mentions the recent play of the team's forwards and that leads into the opening of the #AskDBB mailbag! Is the 8th seed good enough for this season? Jordan mentions the current landscape of the Eastern Conference, and gets the opinion from everyone on this year's expectations. Gabe and Ben go back-and-forth on Stan Van's plan and his long game. What can we decipher from recent moves made by SVG?  Next, we look into the off-season. It seems inevitable, but t

Jordan and Ben bring on Jacob Kuyvenhoven to talk all things Pistons as the team heads for the All Star Break. We know about one All Star (Andre Drummond), but the crew talks about Reggie Jackson being left out as an All Star. The guys talk about a recent stretch of disappointing games, and reviewing the month of January.  After looking back, the guys look forward. Even past this season, Jacob talks about the value of KCP to the future of this team. Ben talks about what the Pistons need to become contenders. Jacob mentions the current roster compared to the Memphis Grizzlies, and Ben and Jordan discuss the Pistons as the future Grizzlies of the East.  Beyond the current roster, it's time to think about how the Pistons can add a superstar. Jordan and Jacob each have a trade to propose to Ben. What would it take to bring Kevin Love to Detroit? Is he even available? Jordan gets on his soapbox about the Cleveland Cavaliers, hoping better things for Mr. Love.  Finally, Jordan helps to break down the Kuyvenhoven