Writer and podcaster Zach Lowe joins JJ Redick on The Vertical Podcast to discuss NBA trends, The Vertical's report on a likely labor agreement and the upcoming 2016-'17 NBA season. Here are some key moments: 4:43: Lowe’s transition from covering crime and government to the NBA. 8:49: The people that helped Lowe gain an understanding of NBA lingo and strategy. 13:41: Redick’s reputation as a good team defender. 15:21: The shift away from isolation play and the need for players to adapt. 18:41: Possible emerging trends in the league, including the Magic going bigger as the league goes small. 23:59: Will the Jazz or Timberwolves have a better season? 27:10: The teams that will contend for the final playoff spots in the Western Conference. 28:11: Teams that get stuck in the middle by deciding not to tank. 31:23: How the 76ers switch from tanking to building for the playoffs. 34:42: The positive momentum in the CBA negotiations. 43:31: Which teams will grab home-court advantage in the Eastern Conference? 45:56: The Clippers finishing No. 3 in Lowe’s League Pass rankings. 49:29: Four-on-Four: Favorite sports mascots of all-time.