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Wine and Gold Talk Podcast

Wine and Gold Talk Podcast

By: cleveland.com - Advance Local
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Get the latest news and analysis about the Cleveland Cavaliers from Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and special guests on cleveland.com.Advance Local LLC Basketball Daily Politics & Government
Episodes
  • What would it take to bring LeBron James home for one last title run — and would the cost be worth it?

    What would it take to bring LeBron James home for one last title run — and would the cost be worth it?
    Jun 26 2026
    In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, host Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor, and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' crucial offseason strategies as they aim to build a true championship contender. The conversation centers on the team's restricted flexibility, emphasizing the necessity of retaining James Harden on a team-friendly deal and prioritizing a versatile, two-way wing over a backup center. The guys also explore the complex financial maneuvers that would be required to facilitate a LeBron James homecoming. Finally, they debate the ultimate direction of the franchise, arguing that to capitalize on Donovan Mitchell's timeline, the Cavaliers must seriously consider trading young cornerstone Evan Mobley for an established, win-now superstar like Jaylen Brown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    52 mins
  • Why fit flew out the window when the Cavs saw Meleek Thomas still on the board

    Why fit flew out the window when the Cavs saw Meleek Thomas still on the board
    Jun 25 2026
    In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins discuss the Cleveland Cavaliers' decision to trade out of the first round and select Arkansas guard Meleek Thomas with the 34th overall pick. The front office's strategy was heavily influenced by the restrictive financial constraints of the NBA's second apron, as moving into the second round allowed the team to save money while still securing a player with a first-round grade. While Thomas is highly praised for his elite shooting ability and competitive pedigree, his immediate path to playing time is complicated by a crowded backcourt. The guys also note that trading down provided the Cavaliers with essential cap relief to help re-sign forward Dean Wade, while Thomas's team-friendly rookie contract could serve as a valuable trade asset down the line since the team currently lacks draft capital. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    37 mins
  • Can the Cavs get better with their newly acquired 34th overall pick on Day 2 of the 2026 NBA Draft?

    Can the Cavs get better with their newly acquired 34th overall pick on Day 2 of the 2026 NBA Draft?
    Jun 24 2026
    In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands, Chris Fedor and Jimmy Watkins analyze the Cleveland Cavaliers' decision to trade their 29th overall NBA Draft pick for the 34th selection and a future second-round pick. This strategic move helps the franchise navigate the heavy financial penalties of the NBA's "second apron" by avoiding a guaranteed first-round rookie contract. The guys discuss how the Cavaliers no longer rely on the draft for foundational pieces and notes that head coach Kenny Atkinson strongly favors prioritizing seasoned, reliable veterans over developing rookies in his rotation. Lastly, the conversation turns to evaluating the broader draft landscape and which team might have had the best Day 1 — praising franchises like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Utah Jazz for their forward-thinking acquisitions and capital management. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 mins
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