Waiting for the Butler Trade, LeBron’s Lakers, and Doncic’s Debut | Heat Check (Ep. 313)

The Ringer’s John Gonzalez is joined by Shea Serrano to assess the ongoing Jimmy Butler trade saga and new additions to the Eastern Conference elite (3:49).

Then, comedian Ian Karmel comes on discuss the start of the LeBron James–era Lakers, J.R. Smith’s tattoo violation, and the Portland Trail Blazers’ season prospects (25:08).

Finally, Jonathan Tjarks joins to examine Luka Doncic’s promising preseason debut, the return of Markelle Fultz, and the potential for Karl-Anthony Towns to elevate this season (53:02).