The 12 biggest questions entering the NBA season with Grant Liffmann

About this episode

Kevin O'Connor is joined by Grant Liffmann of NBC Sports ahead of NBA opening night to break down their biggest questions before the 2026-27 season. They dive into the brutal East playoff race, players who look like future All-Stars, Wembanyama's outlook for the season, the Knicks' contract concerns and more. The duo also spotlights breakout candidates, debates which stars are under the most pressure and asks which franchises are most likely to blow up their core by season’s end. (0:49) Cason Wallace re-signs with OKC (6:15) Ben Simmons torn achilles (7:52) Franz Wagner right shoulder injury (18:43) Which East teams miss the playoffs? (22:58) Which team confuses you the most? (31:48) Which coach is on the hottest seat? (35:34) Will Knicks contract situation hurt the team? (43:54) Which star is under the most pressure? (51:01) Which team is most likely to blow it up? (54:00) Which preseason development are you buying? (59:50) Who will be a future All-Star? (1:04:22) Will the majority consider Wemby the best player in the world by April? (1:07:06) NBA Finals predictions (1:11:29) What opinion will you walk back by Christmas? Subscribe to The Kevin O’Connor Show on the your favori