The Bill Simmons Podcast Luka’s Strange L.A. Ride, a New York Sports Drought, Lost NBA Nicknames, and a Big Mailbag With Max Kellerman
188 snips
Feb 27, 2026 
Max Kellerman, TV host and boxing commentator known for sharp debate, joins to break down Luka Doncic’s unusual Lakers stint and how star-building choices shape teams. They dig into New York’s championship drought, roster and ownership decisions, then run a spirited mailbag on NBA nicknames, draft risks, boxing rankings, and nostalgic sports calls.
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Running Quarterback Analogy For Luka's Habits
- Max used a running-quarterback analogy to explain how short-term success can prevent long-term skill development.
- He compared always running for first downs to a QB never developing pocket passing, paralleling Luka always choosing easy shots.
Evaluate Players By Their Impact On Winning
- Evaluate players by how they increase your team's chances to win, not just by raw skill or scoring.
- Bill and Max emphasize transportability: choose players who fit multiple winning systems over ones needing bespoke rosters.
Bernie Williams' Red Sox Tease And Yankee Legacy
- Bill recalls Bernie Williams' signing saga where the Red Sox thought they had him before he re-signed with the Yankees, illustrating classic inter-team rivalry drama.
- He frames Bernie as an underrated Yankee whose postseason heroics justify a retired number argument.