Will LeBron Retire at the End of the Season? Plus, Trae’s Future, Tanking Teams, and More 2026 Predictions!

Verno and Jacoby return with the last episode of 2025 as they recap the action from Monday night, including Nikola Jokic’s injury (ESPN’s Shams Charania reported after the recording that Jokic has been diagnosed with a hyperextension in his left knee and will miss at least the next four weeks), the Raptors getting it done by committee against the Warriors and Magic, the Cavs getting back on track against the Spurs, Deni Avdija’s continued success for the Blazers, and how the Mavs are handling Cooper Flagg's development. Next, the guys give out their predictions for 2026. (00:00) Welcome to The Mismatch! (00:26) Nuggets fall to the Heat after Nikola Jokic goes down with injury (05:30) Raptors bounce back after losing to the Wizards with comeback wins against the Warriors and Magic (12:51) Cavs end two-game skid with win over Spurs in San Antonio (16:34) Deni Avdija continues his quietly great season in Blazers win against Mavs (18:53) Will Cooper Flagg ever play with Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving? (24:45) Verno and Jacoby's prediction no. 1 (37:13) Verno and Jacoby's prediction no. 2 (41:44) Verno and Jacoby's prediction no. 3 (51:20) Verno and Jacoby's prediction no. 4 (58:59) Verno and Jacoby's prediction no. 5 The Ringer is committed to responsible gaming. Please visit www.rg-help.com to learn more about the resources and helplines available. Leave us a message on our Mismatch voicemail line! (323) 389-5091 Hosts: Chris Vernon and David Jacoby Producers: Jessie Lopez and Stefan Anderson Social: Keith Fujimoto Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices