Wemby Ejected, Thunder Dominance & Lakers at a Crossroads

On this May 12, 2026 episode of Little Column A, Little Column B, hosts Will Alimonos and Zach Bishop break down a packed week of NBA playoff drama, draft intrigue, trade speculation and the changing future of college sports media. The show opens with LeBron James and the Lakers after their playoff exit — debating whether this was LeBron’s final game in Los Angeles, what Luka’s future availability means for the franchise, and whether the Lakers should retool or fully reset. The hosts also react to Oklahoma City’s dominant playoff run, the Jared McCain addition and the growing debate over who the Thunder’s true cornerstone is between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren and OKC’s rising young core. Will and Zach dive into the controversial Spurs–Timberwolves series, including Victor Wembanyama’s ejection, playoff officiating inconsistencies and how physicality changes in postseason basketball. They debate Minnesota’s health concerns, De’Aaron Fox’s late-game decisions and which team is better equipped to survive a long series. The conversation shifts to the Pistons–Cavs matchup, where Cleveland’s huge third quarter swing, Donovan Mitchell’s aggressiveness and James Harden’s impact become central themes. The hosts discuss Detroit’s turnovers, free-throw disparity and the strategic adjustments needed for both teams moving forward. Later, the episode turns toward the NBA Draft Lottery and top prospects including A.J., Darren Peterson and Cameron Boozer. Will and Zach examine team fits, organizational timelines and how stars like Trae Young, Anthony Davis and Tyrese Haliburton could impact draft decisions around the league. The combine, late risers and scouting movement are all part of the discussion. The episode wraps with a larger conversation about Duke’s new Amazon streaming partnership, NIL’s continued growth and what the fragmentation of sports media means for fans trying to follow college basketball, the WNBA and major sports moving forward. Timecodes: (00:00:43) LeBron’s Last Game in LA (00:02:40) The Thunder’s Rise (00:05:03) OKC Player Controversies (00:06:44) OKC’s Future and Decisions (00:09:22) Ejection Controversy (00:10:41) NBA Playoff Dynamics (00:13:43) The Lakers’ Future (00:19:39) Philadelphia’s Dilemma (00:23:54) The Clippers’ Luck (00:30:02) NBA Draft Lottery Insights (00:43:06) Duke’s Amazon Deal (00:55:07) Summer Sports Content