Game Over with Max Kellerman and Rich Paul The NBA Trade Deadline Heats Up, and a Star Will Be Born at the Super Bowl
22 snips
Feb 4, 2026 A rapid breakdown of the Harden-for-Garland swap and why Cleveland and the Clippers think they won. Insider talk on how deadline deals start and the behind-the-scenes hustle. Rundown of other deadline moves, from Boston’s Vucevic pick-up to Utah and Memphis transactions. A Super Bowl preview that wonders whether a new star will be born on the biggest stage.
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Agents Work Deals Weeks In Advance
- Rich Paul recounts pre-deadline conversations where he and Harden's rep discussed Garland as a possible piece a month earlier.
- He explains these trades often gestate long before public reporting and involve agent-to-agent groundwork.
Tell Players The Roster Reality Early
- Be candid with clients about roster timelines and trade likelihoods; Rich says he told Garland this would likely be his last Cavs year.
- Communicate early to align expectations and prepare players for potential moves.
Younger Playmakers Change Team Identity
- The Clippers traded an older playmaker for a younger, more athletic floor-runner to change roster age and style immediately.
- Both hosts stress health and fit determine whether such midseason swaps pay off long term.