Could the Hawks Thrive Without Trae Young? Analyzing NBA Overreactions with Es Baraheni

by November 17, 2025

The Kevin O’Connor Show: NBA Insights

In the latest episode of The Kevin O’Connor Show, host Kevin O’Connor engages with guest Es Baraheni to explore several intriguing questions concerning the current state of the NBA.

Key Discussions

They dive into whether the Atlanta Hawks are actually better off without star player Trae Young and discuss the Houston Rockets’ claim to having the most formidable offense in the league this season. They also ponder over the value of Lauri Markkanen, with Baraheni suggesting he could be worth an incredible five first-round draft picks.

LeBron James and the Lakers

The conversation later shifts to LeBron James and the newly constructed Los Angeles Lakers, contemplating whether his return will lead to a smooth integration or if it may create complications within the team dynamics.

Early-Season Narratives

Additionally, they speculate on early-season narratives, such as the Denver Nuggets’ defensive capabilities since Nikola Jokic joined the roster, Scottie Barnes’ potential All-Star status, and whether the Philadelphia 76ers have transitioned into Tyrese Maxey’s team instead of Joel Embiid’s.

Controversial Moments

Moreover, they touch on a controversial moment involving Draymond Green, examining if he overreacted during a heated interaction with a fan, further highlighting the passionate atmosphere surrounding the league.

The episode is filled with insights and provocative questions, perfect for basketball enthusiasts looking to dissect current trends as the season progresses.