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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 Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Can the Cavs’ 2025-26 start spark a return to their defense-first identity?

    Can the Cavs’ 2025-26 start spark a return to their defense-first identity?
    Sep 11 2025
    In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins answer Subtext subscriber questions about the Cavs. The conversation delves into the team's defense, concluding that a return to a top-tier defensive identity relies on both player effort and, more importantly, a top-down organizational philosophy that prioritizes defensive-minded lineups and personnel, a shift they believe is reflected in recent offseason acquisitions. The hosts also debate whether mentorship from a quiet but dominant player like Tim Duncan or an intense competitor like Kevin Garnett would be more beneficial to helping Cleveland's soft-spoken front court develop a more aggressive playoff mentality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    31 mins
  • Why the Cavs' clock is ticking on Donovan Mitchell's legacy

    Why the Cavs' clock is ticking on Donovan Mitchell's legacy
    Sep 10 2025
    In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the career of Cavs star Donovan Mitchell as he turns 29. They analyze his impressive individual accolades against his lack of significant team playoff success, framing his career as being at a critical crossroads. The conversation delves into his upcoming contract extension, questioning whether he holds all the power and if the Cavaliers should risk a massive long-term deal. They debate whether Mitchell is a true number-one option on a championship team or an elite second option, comparing his career trajectory to that of Carmelo Anthony. Ultimately, they conclude that the next two seasons are pivotal for Mitchell's legacy and the future of the Cavaliers franchise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 mins
  • Do the Cavs have a leader too valuable to lose besides Donovan Mitchell?

    Do the Cavs have a leader too valuable to lose besides Donovan Mitchell?
    Sep 9 2025
    In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Jimmy Watkins discuss the importance of locker room leadership, particularly from players who aren't superstars. They debate a hypothetical future decision for the Cavaliers between keeping Max Strus for his cultural impact or De'Andre Hunter for his on-court talent. The conversation identifies Donovan Mitchell as the team's clear leader, while questioning the leadership roles of other players like Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, and Evan Mobley, suggesting there is an "open conversation" about who will step up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    16 mins
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