Tip Of The Tower Podcast

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Ryan Greco discuss the NBA Finals, share their opinion on Steph Curry, whether the Warriors lost the series, or if the Cavs won the series, and just how great LeBron James is.They then shift gears to the NBA Draft and discuss a few players from the Greater Toronto Area, including Jamal Murray, Thon Maker and Stefan Jankovic.The two specifically dive into a discussion about Maker and if he's ready for the NBA Draft, whether he should have went the college route, what his ceiling could be, and if he's a fit for the Toronto Raptors.They close out the show by discussing Jamal Murray and what he can bring to an NBA team, and why he will have a long career in the NBA.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us o

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Ryan Greco navigates listeners through the media scrums that took place during the Canada Men's Basketball practice on Wednesday, June 15.Head coach Jay Triano touches on the return of Anthony Bennett, scouting teams overseas, how RJ Barrett is doing, and much more.Team Canada forward Joel Anthony also discusses what it's like to be a veteran on such a young team, what kind of insight he can bring, the NBA Finals, and more.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don't miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review -- if you think we've earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipOfTheTower, and like our Facebook page @Tip of the Tower.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Ryan Greco and Chris Okrainetz discuss the NBA Finals, the Toronto Raptors and Canada Basketball as they prepare for Olympic Qualifications.Ryan shares clips from Team Canada's practice this week, where head coach Jay Triano answered a few questions along with other players, and Chris and Ryan share their opinion on the young Team Canada roster.Special guest Cory Joseph of the Toronto Raptors then joins us to discuss what it means to be playing back at home, Canada basketball, and his love for Caribbean food.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don't miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review -- if you think we've earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipOfTheTower, and like our Facebook page @Tip of the Tower.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/priv

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Ryan Greco looks back at the Toronto Raptors playoff run and reflects on the highs, the lows, and everything else in between.He discusses the Raptors list of accomplishments this season, how people counted them out, how the Raptors fought back against the Cavaliers, and how the Raptors' fans finally got the recognition they deserve.Ryan shares his thought process on how LeBron James' postgame comments following Game 6 were more calculated than people think. It's a controversial, but interesting take on what some describe as one of the better moments of the NBA Playoffs.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipoftheTower, and like our Facebook page @Tip of the Tower.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircl

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz, Ryan Greco and Demar Grant breakdown the Toronto Raptors 105-99 Game 4 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan showed up in a major way during Game 4, combining for 67 points. The Raptors' superstar backcourt has the series all tied up at two games apiece as the action shifts back to Cleveland for Game 5 on Wednesday night.We share our thoughts on the Raptors doing the unexpected and tying this series, how clutch Lowry and DeRozan were tonight, and the play of Bismack Biyombo.We also discuss the Cavs shooting woes, what the Raptors did well against the Cavs offence, the LeBron and the reserves lineup, if LeBron is a difficult player to play with, and if the Raptors can actually win this series.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earne

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Ryan Greco breakdown the Toronto Raptors 108-89 Game 2 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.Propelled by a 16-2 run to close out the second quarter, the Cleveland Cavaliers cruised to another victory on Thursday night and now head to Toronto up 2-0 in the Eastern Conference Finals.We share our thoughts on how this postseason has been a great evaluation tool for general manager Masai Ujiri, the Cavaliers continued domination in the paint, and, of course, LeBron James.We also discuss the Raptors struggles on the perimeter, how they're a difficult team to figure out, why this offseason is important for them, and if they have a shot a winning Game 3 or 4 in Toronto.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant breakdown the Toronto Raptors 115-84 Game 1 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.The night started off well for the Raptors as they secured the No. 9 overall pick in this year's NBA Draft. But, unfortunately, it was all downhill from there.We share our thoughts on the blowout loss that was and discuss how the Raptors struggled to defend the Cavs backdoor cuts, appeared to have lapses in communication, and ultimately got dominated in the paint.Kyle Lowry struggled with his shooting in Game 1, but instead of diving into his woes, we decided to discuss DeMarre Carroll and Bismack Biyombo's struggles on the defensive side of the ball.Once we finish breaking down the massacre that took place at Quicken Loans Arena, we shift gears and discuss the Toronto Raptors upcoming lottery pick (20:32).We share our thoughts on who Toronto might draft, what they need to add to their roster, and the possibility of pursuing Nicolas Batum this offseason.* * *You

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris, Demar and Ryan breakdown the Toronto Raptors upcoming Eastern Conference Finals series against the Cleveland Cavaliers.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipoftheTower, and like our Facebook page @Tip of the Tower.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Ryan Greco shares his experience at Jurassic Park and chats with a Raptors' fan known as "Raptin' North".* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipoftheTower, and like our Facebook page @Tip of the Tower.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant breakdown the Toronto Raptors 103-91 Game 6 loss where the Raptors' supporting cast was non-existent.Outside of Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan, it wasn't a great game for the Raptors. We sink our teeth into the loss and discuss the Toronto Raptors new nemesis Goran Dragic, who stood out for us in Game 6, our thoughts on the officiating, the Raptors defence on Dragic, and the importance of Lowry staying out of foul trouble.We also discuss the Heat more and their decision to go extra small, isolating Dragic and Dwyane Wade, the usage of Luol Deng, and share our thoughts on a few ways the Raptors might be able to defend this extra small unit.Other topics we discuss discuss during the show are: why DeMar DeRozan needs to develop a three-point shot, the Bebe and Jason Thompson experiment, how much Biyombo might get paid this offseason, and our expectations for Game 7 on Sunday.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our web

Chris Okrainetz and Demar Grant breakdown the Toronto Raptors 99-91 Game 5 victory where we saw the long-awaited return of DeMar DeRozan.They also discuss the play of Bismack Biyombo and Kyle Lowry, what the potential loss of DeMarre Carroll could mean for the Raptors, and their thoughts on Game 6 in Miami on Friday.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipoftheTower, and like our Facebook page @Tip of the Tower.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the ToT-cast, Chris Okrainetz and Ryan Greco look back and share their thoughts on the Toronto Raptors 102-96 overtime loss to the Miami Heat in Game 1 on Tuesday.From there they preview Game 2 and discuss what they would like to see from the Raptors going forward.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

With the second annual BioSteel All-Canadian Game in the books, Ryan Greco reviews the game (2:00), discusses what's next for it, and questions whether a game like this could exist at the CIS level?From there he transitions into the Toronto Raptors and discusses their upcoming postseason (10:47). He discusses why getting out round-one is a crucial step the franchise must take, and what's possibly at stake for the Raptors' future during this upcoming NBA Playoff.Of course, he doesn't forget to mention Kobe Bryant's last game (16:35). The "Black Mamba" exited the Association in true Kobe-like fashion. Ryan's shares his thoughts on Kobe and his legacy.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipoftheTower, and like our Fac

With the second annual BioSteel All-Canadian Game set to take place on Monday April 11, Ryan Greco previews the game by interviewing Tony McIntyre of CIA Bounce, Jaelin Llewellyn of Orangeville Prep, and Leo Rautins of TSN.McIntyre shares insight towards how the selection process works, what goes into planning the game, players to keep an eye on, and much more. He also shares a story about him and Carmelo Anthony from the Jordan Brand Classic that took place in Toronto during NBA All-Star Weekend (3:10).Orangeville Prep guard Jaelin Llewelyn then joins the show to discuss the BioSteel All-Canadian Game, what fans can expect from him, and what he might have in store for the dunk contest (26:11).Ryan closes the show out by having a discussion with TSN's Leo Rautins (38:30). The two discuss the growth of Canadian basketball, Thon Maker's decision to turn pro, who to keep an eye on during the BioSteel All-Canadian Game, and much more.* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundClo

In the first Toronto Blue Jays ToT-cast of the year, Chris Okrainetz and Ryan Greco briefly discuss their expectations for the team this season (1:42), and then share their thoughts on everything to do with the team's opening series against the Tampa Bay Rays.The two discuss a number of topics, including: how the bullpen struggled on back-to-back days (4:53), the performances of Marcus Stroman and Aaron Sanchez (7:32), Jose Bautista's slide (11:33), the Blue Jays 46 strike outs this series (15:28), Josh Donaldson's injury (19:50), and our thoughts on what we did and didn't like from this series (22:07).* * *You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @TipoftheTower, and like our Facebook page @Tip of the Tower.Advertising Inquiries: https://red

After a brief hiatus, Chris Okrainetz and Ryan Greco are back to discuss everything Toronto Raptors. We open up the show with the issue on every Raptors' fans mind: Kyle Lowry's elbow (0:50). Considering how important Lowry is to this team, we mull the idea of resting him more (2:50).From there we discuss the other injured Raptor, DeMarre Carroll. We debate whether he will come back this season (5:32) and share our thoughts on Norman Powell's play (6:18). We also wonder how much of an impact Carroll can have with the Raptors if he's not 100 percent (9:39), and how would the Raptors use Carroll if he were to come back (14:29)?With the regular season almost over, we debate whether Dwane Casey is coaching for his job this upcoming playoff (15:50). Ryan then shares his experience after attending a Raptors905 game, which had both DeMar DeRozan and James Johnson in attendance (21:24).We then close out the show by discussing the NCAA tournament and how Canadian players like Dillon Brooks and Jamal Mu

Chris Okrainetz and Ryan Greco open the show by discussing the Toronto Raptors huge victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers last week (1:39). We then debate about Charles Barkley's recent comments on how the majority of the NBA is "unwatchable" (4:02), plus we revisit the idea of the Raptors finishing first overall in the Eastern Conference (8:11).We then get into a spirited discussion about recently waived Raptor, and former No. 1 overall pick, Anthony Bennett (10:42). We discuss whether he was put into a bad situation in Toronto (12:06), and if he can follow a similar path to that of DeMarre Carroll (17:37).Ryan welcomes Meghan McPeak back to the show and the two chat about a number of Raptors 905 related topics (19:27), including: her experience during All-Star Weekend (20:26), Sim Bhullar's recent stretch of play (22:23), the development of Scott Suggs (24:29), the release of Anthony Bennett (27:17), the play of Bruno Caboclo (28:39), and things fans should look for during Thursday's game

Chris Okrainetz, David Morassutti, and Jake Middleton share their thoughts on the recent trades made by the Toronto Maple Leafs (1:12). They discuss what could be next for the team, including trade rumours surrounding Joffrey Lupul and Nazem Kadri (3:24), what kind of contract Kadri might be in line for, if the Leafs keep him (5:31), and we throw out a group of players making between $5 to $6 million a year and discuss whether Kadri belongs in that group (6:18).From there we move into prospect talk and discuss whether any of the players recently called up from the Marlies have impressed us (8:35). With six of their next nine games being played at home, we discuss if any other Marlies' players, like William Nylander, will be called up by the Leafs (11:08). We also share our thoughts on what the Leafs should do with Mitch Marner next year (14:44).Jake then shares with us his hate for the Edmonton Oilers, and collectively we vent about our frustration with them being a candidate for the No. 1 pick... Again (

Chris Okrainetz and Ryan Greco sink their teeth into the recent Toronto Blue Jays news, specifically the Jose Bautista contract situation and his comments (1:51). We discuss what Bautista is worth (13:04), what he means to the Blue Jays (15:15), and why these negotiations matter for the future of the team (17:00).From there we share our thoughts on the Jay Bruce trade rumours (19:15) and what bulking up could mean for Drew Hutchison (29:06).We then discuss the Toronto Maple Leafs recent trades (33:21) and share our thoughts on "what could be", or "who could be", coming to the Leafs (36:21). We then close the show out by discussing the developments at BMO Field, which has Ryan all fired up (44:21).You can listen to every episode of the ToT-cast on iTunes, SoundCloud, or stream it from our website. Make sure you not only subscribe to the show so you don’t miss any new episodes, but leave us a nice review — if you think we’ve earned it!Thanks for listening and be sure to follow us on Twitter @Ti

Chris Okrainetz and Ryan Greco sort through all the Toronto Raptors rumours as we approach the NBA Trade Deadline. We open up the show by briefly sharing our thoughts on the NBA All-Star Game (0:15), and then jump right into trade discussions by wondering if the Raptors should go all in (2:30).We then break down the Raptors' roster from both a financial and a trade value standpoint (3:44). From there we share some love for Raptors general manager Masai Ujiri, where we gently remind fans that he operates a very tight ship and how the rumours we usually hear about him and the Raptors are often false (7:20).[recentposts align="right" thiscategory="no"]We then look at who the Raptors could take back in a trade (9:18), discuss the idea of acquiring a package from the Atlanta Hawks that includes Al Horford (10:05), share our thoughts on the Markieff Morris and Thaddeus Young rumours (16:38), why the Raptors should tailor any trade they make to compete with the Cavs (24:14), and Chris discusses w