In this episode of the Wine and Gold Talk podcast, Ethan Sands and Chris Fedor react to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ first loss of the road trip, a 126-113 defeat to the Phoenix Suns, and examine what it revealed about the team’s readiness for playoff-level physicality. The conversation begins with Cleveland’s mounting frustration over the officiating and a significant free-throw disparity that ultimately led to head coach Kenny Atkinson’s ejection.

From there, the guys break down how Phoenix’s physical defensive approach disrupted the Cavs’ rhythm, contributing to a season-high 22 turnovers and exposing lingering questions about Cleveland’s on-court identity. The episode also explores the growing urgency surrounding the upcoming trade deadline, the impact of current injuries and how those factors complicate the Cavaliers’ path through a demanding West Coast road trip.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices