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Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.

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Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.

Read More

In this young NBA season, the Chicago Bulls are still trying to figure out who they are without Lonzo Ball — and it’s been a difficult road to travel.

But, with the emergence of Ayo Dosunmu taking a second-year leap, the future looks bright. Still, this team has lacked the defensive intensity that Ball brought, and they’ll have to continue working through that.

Speaking of defense, the Bulls were down throughout the entirety of their matchup with the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night. Finally, towards the end of the third quarter, Chicago started to come alive. The Bulls outscored the Nets by three in the third quarter, but saved their best for last.

The story, so far, has been starting slow, picking it up and not being able to close it out. Billy Donovan’s crew changed that narrative Tuesday night, in large part due to a clutch performance by Zach LaVine.

Zach LaVine is polarizing in terms of his superstar capabilities, but the Chicago Bulls saw him come alive in this game against Brooklyn.

LaVine was given the bag this offseason — but what other choice did the Bulls have? Did everyone think he was worth that contract? Of course not — and the truth is, he wasn’t worth it. But, in today’s league, there was no other option.

Many times over, LaVine has proven he cannot be “the guy” for the Bulls. We have seen flashes, and he’s been a very good player in Chicago. Yet, he has not become the superstar he needs to be if the Bulls are going to truly compete for a championship.

In the fourth quarter Tuesday night, though, LaVine completely took over. Through three quarters, LaVine had just nine points and looked utterly deflated. He looked like, once again, a guy who wasn’t capable of taking over a game when the Bulls needed someone.

But then, something dazzling happened.

LaVine went off for 20 fourth quarter points.

The Bulls pulled away thanks to LaVine’s explosion in the final quarter and won the game by a score of 108-99.

LaVine was able to overshadow a strong performance by Kevin Durant, who ended with 32 himself.

This was an encouraging performance from LaVine, who we’ve seen do this from time to time. But, the question has always been, when will it get to the point where we see this more often? Will it ever happen?

LaVine’s days as an above-the-rim guy might be behind him due to all of his knee trouble, therefore it might be time for him to focus solely on being the scorer the Bulls need. As he did in this one, LaVine is capable of taking over the ball game. But, the consistency has yet to show up behind that characteristic.

For now, we can savor the victory and know that LaVine does have that ‘dog’ in him. Hopefully, we see it let loose more often down the line.

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This article was originally published by City Bureau, a nonprofit civic media organization based on the South Side.

For the last century, housing cooperatives have provided residents of major American cities increased opportunities for homeownership—especially for low-income and lower-middle-class residents for whom homeownership may not be financially feasible. 

Some of Chicago’s first co-ops were created in South Shore, a community that in recent years has seen a sharp uptick in evictions. Community members have pushed for an increase in affordable housing as well as policies and programs to help South Shore residents remain in the neighborhood. In July, the City approved a pilot program that will provide loans and grants to condo and co-op owners living at a multiunit building in South Shore and whose homes need repairs. The pilot was created after years of pressure from local leaders, housing advocates, and residents who feared displacement and wanted housing protections ahead of the Barack Obama Presidential Center’s opening. Though the program is a welcome resource, many of the organizers’ demands have yet to be fulfilled.

City Bureau reporters surveyed more than a dozen South Shore residents about their views and feelings of housing co-ops, as we explore whether they could play a bigger role as an affordable housing solution. We learned that there is a lot of confusion about what co-ops are. Below, we are answering some of the most common questions about them. Later this year, we’ll publish a beefier report on co-ops in Chicago.

What is a housing cooperative? 

Internally, housing co-ops may look different. The financial structure and agreements between residents regarding responsibilities, building maintenance, and use of common areas can be targeted to the needs of the members. Some co-ops are organized to support people based on their income level, background, political ideology, or immigration status. 

From the outside, they look like any other home in Chicago. They can be townhouses, a collection of buildings, or a large apartment complex with hundreds of units. A housing cooperative is essentially an entity that “owns real estate, consisting of one or more residential buildings,” according to the International Cooperative Alliance, an organization that helps to organize cooperatives around the world. 

The obstacles that many co-ops face can stem from different members having different visions for the space, different needs, or financial challenges with addressing needed renovations and updates. 

How are cooperatives financed? 

While there are several different financial models for establishing a housing co-op, zero equity, limited equity, and market rate co-ops are some of the most common models in Chicago.

Zero equity: Individual members of the co-op do not have any ownership in the property. Instead, ownership is handled by a group usually outside of the actual co-op building. So typically the members will not make a profit if they decide to leave the co-op. Limited equity: Individual members only own a portion of their unit in the building where the co-op is located. The other portion is owned by the cooperative as a whole. This structure is typically seen as an option for people of limited income to reach a form of home ownership, while also helping them build wealth through that limited ownership.   Market rate: The units in the co-op can be sold at market value, with each member owning the entirety of the unit instead of a portion. Therefore when selling the unit, members receive full market value. This model provides an alternative route to home ownership for those that cannot go the traditional route. 

Limited and zero equity co-ops were created to make housing co-ops more accessible to lower income people and families. By limiting or eliminating the value increase on the property, the co-op members ensure that their cost of living remains the same or nearly the same. 

Is a cooperative open to people of diverse incomes? 

Chicago’s first housing cooperatives were built in the 1920s, situated along the shores of Lake Michigan on the city’s north and south sides. Many were owned by upper-middle-class white residents, who wanted to enjoy home ownership at a cheaper price and wanted to “handpick” their neighbors, as a 1927 Tribune article states. In contrast, one of the biggest selling points for cooperatives in recent decades is their potential to accommodate residents of a variety of economic standings (zero equity and limited equity co-ops in particular meet this need).  

The down payment, or “initial share” payment, varies depending on the co-op and whether they are market-rate, limited-equity, or zero equity. Co-op members do pay monthly fees, which are used to pay the mortgage, property taxes, shared utilities, and repairs. But those fees tend to be lower than those incurred by homeowners. The average, initial-share fee for a one-bedroom affordable housing co-op is roughly $4,600, and about $12,000 for two- or three-bedroom units, according to a Chicago Mutual Housing Network 2004 report, the most recent available. However, some co-ops receiving federal subsidies may require the equivalent of a deposit or a month’s rent. 

What decisions can you make in a cooperative? How much say do you have? 

Housing cooperatives embody democratic principles, according to “Cooperative Housing Toolbox: A Practical Guide for Cooperative Success” by the Northcountry Cooperative Foundation. Co-ops might use different governance models, but most have individual members, a board of directors, and committees, and they primarily use the one member, one vote model.

In most housing co-ops, members collectively decide on the co-op’s policies, approve new members, or choose whether they want a management company. Members also work on their budget together and might divide maintenance work. Every decision also takes both individual and collective benefits into account, and each member has an equal say in the co-op’s housing guidelines. There are also opportunities for members to take part in leadership positions, such as on a committee or the board of directors. 

How are co-ops different from communes? 

Similarities: They are similar in that both a commune and housing cooperatives are types of communal living where a group of individuals typically live in a shared house or property. 

According to the Foundation for Intentional Community, both communes and housing cooperatives may use a cohousing model. Chapeltown Cohousing explains that in this approach, communities often include both private dwellings and shared facilities like a common house or garden, and they foster neighborly connections. Some housing co-ops operate with shared living spaces whereas others only have separate, private units. 

Differences: Unlike housing cooperatives, communes may combine each member’s income for additional shared expenses like groceries. People who live in a commune may also share work responsibilities like cleaning, cooking meals, and childcare.

A cooperative is an ownership and management model. This means that the property is owned by the cooperative and all members have an equal say in the management of the housing, regardless of their share in the property. People in housing co-ops must be able to work together as fellow shareholders and as neighbors in the same building, but they are not required to share income, meals, or childcare responsibilities as many communes do. 

Who are cooperatives for? 

People who have a trusted network of friends: Investing into a cooperative with an established network could help mitigate the challenge of building trust with a new group of people. It may be easier to make shared decisions like choosing a location, allocating funds, etc., with folks you already know.People who do not want to deal with a landlord: In a co-op you own a share of the building and have decision-making power. Co-op owners may collectively decide to outsource a building manager to handle administrative work or other duties around maintaining the space. But you are their boss. People looking for lower cost ownership options: Co-op buyers purchase shares of a property, rather than an entire house or building, which could make it a more affordable option than purchasing an entire property on your own. Owners are responsible for paying mortgage, utilities, maintenance fees, and property taxes, but because costs are shared, they might be lower than for individually owned homes.People looking for a sense of community: You do not need to approach a co-op with an established network. Shared decision-making and living in close proximity to others may provide a sense of community, though this will vary by group.People who are undocumented: There is no law that prohibits non-U.S. citizens from purchasing property. In fact, about a quarter of undocumented people in the U.S. own a home, according to the Washington-based Migration Policy Institute, a nonpartisan think tank. Undocumented people can purchase homes by paying with cash or through special mortgages for people who only possess an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

Can a formerly incarcerated person be able to move into a cooperative? 

Legally, yes. Formerly incarcerated people can legally purchase homes, though barriers to accessing loans might make it difficult, or impossible, for some.  

They might also face barriers when applying to already established co-ops. The ownership board may review an applicant’s personal history, then vote to accept or reject potential new owners. While owners do have the right to deny an application, a 2016 Guidance on the Fair Housing Act to Cooperatives notes that denying housing to anyone with a prior arrest or criminal conviction is not justified and violates the Fair Housing Act.

Jhaylin Benson, Grace Del Vecchio, Annabel Rocha, and Sonal Soni are City Bureau 2022 Fall Civic Reporting Fellows. Jerrel Floyd is City Bureau’s engagement reporter covering development and segregation in Chicago. You can reach him with tips at [email protected].

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This article was originally published by City Bureau, a nonprofit civic media organization based on the South Side.

For the last century, housing cooperatives have provided residents of major American cities increased opportunities for homeownership—especially for low-income and lower-middle-class residents for whom homeownership may not be financially feasible. 

Some of Chicago’s first co-ops were created in South Shore, a community that in recent years has seen a sharp uptick in evictions. Community members have pushed for an increase in affordable housing as well as policies and programs to help South Shore residents remain in the neighborhood. In July, the City approved a pilot program that will provide loans and grants to condo and co-op owners living at a multiunit building in South Shore and whose homes need repairs. The pilot was created after years of pressure from local leaders, housing advocates, and residents who feared displacement and wanted housing protections ahead of the Barack Obama Presidential Center’s opening. Though the program is a welcome resource, many of the organizers’ demands have yet to be fulfilled.

City Bureau reporters surveyed more than a dozen South Shore residents about their views and feelings of housing co-ops, as we explore whether they could play a bigger role as an affordable housing solution. We learned that there is a lot of confusion about what co-ops are. Below, we are answering some of the most common questions about them. Later this year, we’ll publish a beefier report on co-ops in Chicago.

What is a housing cooperative? 

Internally, housing co-ops may look different. The financial structure and agreements between residents regarding responsibilities, building maintenance, and use of common areas can be targeted to the needs of the members. Some co-ops are organized to support people based on their income level, background, political ideology, or immigration status. 

From the outside, they look like any other home in Chicago. They can be townhouses, a collection of buildings, or a large apartment complex with hundreds of units. A housing cooperative is essentially an entity that “owns real estate, consisting of one or more residential buildings,” according to the International Cooperative Alliance, an organization that helps to organize cooperatives around the world. 

The obstacles that many co-ops face can stem from different members having different visions for the space, different needs, or financial challenges with addressing needed renovations and updates. 

How are cooperatives financed? 

While there are several different financial models for establishing a housing co-op, zero equity, limited equity, and market rate co-ops are some of the most common models in Chicago.

Zero equity: Individual members of the co-op do not have any ownership in the property. Instead, ownership is handled by a group usually outside of the actual co-op building. So typically the members will not make a profit if they decide to leave the co-op. Limited equity: Individual members only own a portion of their unit in the building where the co-op is located. The other portion is owned by the cooperative as a whole. This structure is typically seen as an option for people of limited income to reach a form of home ownership, while also helping them build wealth through that limited ownership.   Market rate: The units in the co-op can be sold at market value, with each member owning the entirety of the unit instead of a portion. Therefore when selling the unit, members receive full market value. This model provides an alternative route to home ownership for those that cannot go the traditional route. 

Limited and zero equity co-ops were created to make housing co-ops more accessible to lower income people and families. By limiting or eliminating the value increase on the property, the co-op members ensure that their cost of living remains the same or nearly the same. 

Is a cooperative open to people of diverse incomes? 

Chicago’s first housing cooperatives were built in the 1920s, situated along the shores of Lake Michigan on the city’s north and south sides. Many were owned by upper-middle-class white residents, who wanted to enjoy home ownership at a cheaper price and wanted to “handpick” their neighbors, as a 1927 Tribune article states. In contrast, one of the biggest selling points for cooperatives in recent decades is their potential to accommodate residents of a variety of economic standings (zero equity and limited equity co-ops in particular meet this need).  

The down payment, or “initial share” payment, varies depending on the co-op and whether they are market-rate, limited-equity, or zero equity. Co-op members do pay monthly fees, which are used to pay the mortgage, property taxes, shared utilities, and repairs. But those fees tend to be lower than those incurred by homeowners. The average, initial-share fee for a one-bedroom affordable housing co-op is roughly $4,600, and about $12,000 for two- or three-bedroom units, according to a Chicago Mutual Housing Network 2004 report, the most recent available. However, some co-ops receiving federal subsidies may require the equivalent of a deposit or a month’s rent. 

What decisions can you make in a cooperative? How much say do you have? 

Housing cooperatives embody democratic principles, according to “Cooperative Housing Toolbox: A Practical Guide for Cooperative Success” by the Northcountry Cooperative Foundation. Co-ops might use different governance models, but most have individual members, a board of directors, and committees, and they primarily use the one member, one vote model.

In most housing co-ops, members collectively decide on the co-op’s policies, approve new members, or choose whether they want a management company. Members also work on their budget together and might divide maintenance work. Every decision also takes both individual and collective benefits into account, and each member has an equal say in the co-op’s housing guidelines. There are also opportunities for members to take part in leadership positions, such as on a committee or the board of directors. 

How are co-ops different from communes? 

Similarities: They are similar in that both a commune and housing cooperatives are types of communal living where a group of individuals typically live in a shared house or property. 

According to the Foundation for Intentional Community, both communes and housing cooperatives may use a cohousing model. Chapeltown Cohousing explains that in this approach, communities often include both private dwellings and shared facilities like a common house or garden, and they foster neighborly connections. Some housing co-ops operate with shared living spaces whereas others only have separate, private units. 

Differences: Unlike housing cooperatives, communes may combine each member’s income for additional shared expenses like groceries. People who live in a commune may also share work responsibilities like cleaning, cooking meals, and childcare.

A cooperative is an ownership and management model. This means that the property is owned by the cooperative and all members have an equal say in the management of the housing, regardless of their share in the property. People in housing co-ops must be able to work together as fellow shareholders and as neighbors in the same building, but they are not required to share income, meals, or childcare responsibilities as many communes do. 

Who are cooperatives for? 

People who have a trusted network of friends: Investing into a cooperative with an established network could help mitigate the challenge of building trust with a new group of people. It may be easier to make shared decisions like choosing a location, allocating funds, etc., with folks you already know.People who do not want to deal with a landlord: In a co-op you own a share of the building and have decision-making power. Co-op owners may collectively decide to outsource a building manager to handle administrative work or other duties around maintaining the space. But you are their boss. People looking for lower cost ownership options: Co-op buyers purchase shares of a property, rather than an entire house or building, which could make it a more affordable option than purchasing an entire property on your own. Owners are responsible for paying mortgage, utilities, maintenance fees, and property taxes, but because costs are shared, they might be lower than for individually owned homes.People looking for a sense of community: You do not need to approach a co-op with an established network. Shared decision-making and living in close proximity to others may provide a sense of community, though this will vary by group.People who are undocumented: There is no law that prohibits non-U.S. citizens from purchasing property. In fact, about a quarter of undocumented people in the U.S. own a home, according to the Washington-based Migration Policy Institute, a nonpartisan think tank. Undocumented people can purchase homes by paying with cash or through special mortgages for people who only possess an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

Can a formerly incarcerated person be able to move into a cooperative? 

Legally, yes. Formerly incarcerated people can legally purchase homes, though barriers to accessing loans might make it difficult, or impossible, for some.  

They might also face barriers when applying to already established co-ops. The ownership board may review an applicant’s personal history, then vote to accept or reject potential new owners. While owners do have the right to deny an application, a 2016 Guidance on the Fair Housing Act to Cooperatives notes that denying housing to anyone with a prior arrest or criminal conviction is not justified and violates the Fair Housing Act.

Jhaylin Benson, Grace Del Vecchio, Annabel Rocha, and Sonal Soni are City Bureau 2022 Fall Civic Reporting Fellows. Jerrel Floyd is City Bureau’s engagement reporter covering development and segregation in Chicago. You can reach him with tips at [email protected].

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The Chicago Cubs were an exciting team at times during the 2022 season but they were mostly bad. There is a lot of optimism surrounding certain players in the organization but they have a long way to go before they are as good as they were during the mid-2010s.

Speaking of the mid-2010s, they had some really good teams during that time. One of the better hitters on those teams was Kyle Schwarber. We all know about how he came back from injury in the 2016 World Series and was one of the best players in the entire series for either side.

Now, all these years later, he is in the World Series again. The Cubs let him go after the 2020 season because they felt that three months of Joc Pederson was more worth the money. That didn’t go as planned.

Schwarber has only gotten better since leaving town. As mentioned before, he is now dominating in the World Series with a new squad. His amazing bat is a big reason that the Philadelphia Phillies are where they are.

Kyle Schwarber has played a big part in the Philadelphia Phillies going deep.

Of course, big stars like Bryce Harper, JT Realmuto, Rhys Hoskins, and Zach Wheeler are doing their part as well but Schwarber deserves a lot of credit. He has fit in amazingly there and now they lead the World Series 2-1.

This is after a dominant 7-0 win in Game Three on Tuesday night. After some Halloween rain pushed this third game back a day, the Phillies were ready. In game one, Schwarber had a hit, a walk, and a run scored to help them come back from a 5-0 deficit. He knew he could do more.

The Phillies were just dominated in game two so they came into this one angry. With Schwarber on first base in the first inning, Bryce Harper hit a monster two-run home run to give them a 2-0 lead. They didn’t look back from there.

Later in the game, Schwarber hit a two-run home run of his own to give himself another run scored and two World Series RBIs. This is Schwarber’s first career World Series home run. It is fair to say that he was a huge part of getting this win.

Now, Schwarber and the Phillies are two wins away from taking down these Houston Astros for a World Series championship. There is still a long way to go so a few more big Schwarber performances would be appreciated. After all, it is great to see him succeed no matter where it is.

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The surprises continue across the NBA as the third week of the 2022-23 season gets underway.

The 6-0 Milwaukee Bucks stand alone as the last undefeated team, and get appropriate placement at the top of this week’s power rankings. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Co. haven’t had the toughest schedule so far but clutched out important wins against other top Eastern Conference contenders, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets and Atlanta Hawks.

The Cleveland Cavaliers currently sit right behind Milwaukee in the East, as the offseason addition of Donovan Mitchell has helped jumpstart Cleveland’s return to serious postseason contention this year.

Meanwhile in the West, the Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers sit atop the conference, but the surprising 6-2 Utah Jazz haven’t faltered like many expected them to, so far. Utah notched back-to-back home wins against the Memphis Grizzlies. Whether the Jazz can keep it up has yet to be determined, but their early success is still recognized in this week’s rankings.

The Miami Heat have surprisingly underperformed so far, joining the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Lakers on a list of teams built to be win-now contenders on paper but haven’t lived up to expectations on the court yet. However, Miami’s outlook for the rest of the year is still much more positive compared to Brooklyn and Los Angeles.

Note: Throughout the regular season, our panel (Kendra Andrews, Tim Bontemps, Jamal Collier, Nick Friedell, Andrew Lopez, Tim MacMahon, Dave McMenamin and Ohm Youngmisuk) is ranking all 30 teams from top to bottom, taking stock of which teams are playing the best basketball now and which teams are looking most like title contenders.

Previous rankings: Week 1

1. Milwaukee Bucks2022-23 record: 6-0Previous week’s ranking: 1

The Bucks are 6-0 for the third time in franchise history. In the previous two instances (1971-72 and 2018-19), they finished with 60 wins and the league’s MVP (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Giannis Antetokounmpo, respectively). It’s still early, but Antetokounmpo is showing signs of asserting himself into contention for that award again, racking up at least 30 points in five straight games, the second-longest streak of his career (six straight in November 2019). — Collier

2. Phoenix Suns2022-23 record: 6-1Previous week’s ranking: 3

It has been a week full of history for the Point God. On Saturday against the Rockets, Chris Paul finished with 15 assists and zero turnovers. It was the ninth time he has had at least 15 assists in a game with no turnovers, which is second all time in NBA history behind only John Stockton (14) since individual turnovers were first tracked in 1977-78. Paul is also the oldest player to have a 15-assist game since a 38-year-old Steve Nash did it for the Suns on March 28, 2012. And on Tuesday against the Wolves, Paul joined LeBron James as the only players in NBA history with 21,000 points and 10,000 assists.

— Lopez

3. Cleveland Cavaliers2022-23 record: 5-1Previous week’s ranking: 6

2 Related

Kevin Love was hotter than fish grease in Sunday’s win against the Knicks, scoring 29 points in 22 minutes. He did his damage with eight 3s and eight rebounds to extend the Cavs’ winning streak to five. Just wait until Darius Garland gets back from his eye injury. Cleveland looks like the real deal.

— McMenamin

4. Boston Celtics2022-23 record: 4-2Previous week’s ranking: 2

Predictably, the Celtics are struggling without big man Robert Williams III on the glass. They currently rank 24th in rebounding rate, per NBA.com advanced stats. In the meantime, they’re cobbling together a big-man rotation of Noah Vonleh, Blake Griffin and Luke Kornet behind starter Al Horford.

— Bontemps

5. Portland Trail Blazers2022-23 record: 5-1Previous week’s ranking: 8

Damian Lillard suffered a strained calf and will be reevaluated in one to two weeks. Without the team’s franchise player, Anfernee Simons went for 30 points against Houston, sliding back into the role he had last season when Lillard was out and CJ McCollum was traded. Jusuf Nurkic had his best game of the season against the Rockets with 27 points, 15 rebounds and 3 blocks. Portland will soon find out whether it is for real: Six of its next seven games are on the road, while its next three games are against Memphis and a back-to-back at Phoenix.

— Youngmisuk

6. New Orleans Pelicans2022-23 record: 4-2Previous week’s ranking: 9

The Pelicans were without Zion Williamson for two games and have been without Herb Jones and Brandon Ingram for three each. Naji Marshall is the reason they’ve made it through those games. Starting in place of Jones, Marshall has averaged 17.7 points on 57.1% shooting (6-of-14 from deep) while drawing Jones’ typical assignment of guarding the opposing team’s top perimeter player.

–– Lopez

7. Memphis Grizzlies2022-23 record: 4-3Previous week’s ranking: 4

How much does Memphis miss Jaren Jackson Jr., who is recovering from surgery after breaking his foot this summer? The Grizzlies rank dead last in defensive rating, allowing 119.5 points per 100 possessions. Memphis had a 106.0 defensive rating with Jackson on the floor last season, when he led the league with 2.3 blocks per game and earned first-team All-Defensive recognition.

— MacMahon

8. Toronto Raptors2022-23 record: 4-3Previous week’s ranking: 15

Pascal Siakam has played as well as anyone to start this season. Averaging 26.1 points, 9.6 rebounds and 7.4 assists — all of which would be career highs — Siakam has helped Toronto go 4-3 through a brutal opening stretch full of playoff contenders.

— Bontemps

9. Denver Nuggets2022-23 record: 4-3Previous week’s ranking: 10

The Nuggets are shooting nearly 39.4% from deep — fifth-best in the league — but are in the middle of the pack in offensive efficiency. On the other end of the floor, the Nuggets are struggling with the fifth-worst defensive efficiency. Nuggets coach Michael Malone said his team has defended especially poorly in every road game this year.

— Andrews

10. Golden State Warriors2022-23 record: 3-5Previous week’s ranking: 5

The Warriors are now 0-3 on their current five-game road trip, are winless on the road and are off to their worst eight-game start since 2019-20. That year, they went 15-50. After their loss to the Heat, Warriors coach Steve Kerr said he was starting to feel a sense of urgency from his team, something he said he was previously lacking. But the Warriors’ defense and bench continue to cost them games.

— Andrews

11. Utah Jazz2022-23 record: 6-2Previous week’s ranking: 13

Malik Beasley declared after Monday’s win over the Grizzlies that Lauri Markkanen is an All-Star. Markkanen appreciatively acknowledged that the first eight games is a bit early for such discussion, but there’s no doubt he’s performing at that level, averaging career bests of 22.6 points, 9.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game for one of the NBA’s most surprising teams.

— MacMahon

12. Dallas Mavericks2022-23 record: 3-3Previous week’s ranking: 11

WednesdayCeltics-Cavs, 7:30 p.m.Grizzlies-Blazers, 10 p.m.

FridayBulls-Celtics, 7:30 p.m.Bucks-Wolves, 10 p.m.

*All times Eastern

The Mavs have blown double-digit leads in the fourth quarter in two of their three losses. The home overtime loss to Oklahoma City on Saturday night was especially egregious. According to ESPN Stats & Information research, teams that led by at least 16 in the final four minutes of regulation over the past 25 years had been 9,975-1 before the Mavs’ meltdown, which coach Jason Kidd attributed to an experiment with the closing lineup that went awry. “We left [Christian] Wood out there with that group, and it didn’t go well on either end,” Kidd said.

— MacMahon

13. Atlanta Hawks2022-23 record: 4-3Previous week’s ranking: 16

Atlanta started their five-game road trip with back-to-back wins over the Pistons before falling to the Bucks and Raptors. In Friday’s game against the Pistons, Trae Young finished with 36 points and 12 assists while playing just 30:07. According to ESPN Stats & Information research, the only players to play fewer minutes in a 35-point, 10-assist performance are Luka Doncic (once) and James Harden (three times).

— Lopez

14. Philadelphia 76ers2022-23 record: 4-4Previous week’s ranking: 19

After falling to 1-4, it looked like the 76ers were potentially entering a tailspin. But Philadelphia has responded with three straight wins — two without All-NBA center Joel Embiid — to get back to .500 and stabilize things.

— Bontemps

15. Minnesota Timberwolves2022-23 record: 4-4Previous week’s ranking: 17

The Timberwolves have a top-five defense, which is what they should have with the roster they’ve constructed. However, their first week was against teams near the bottom of the league (or thought to be, in the Jazz’s case). So how exactly will that defense hold up against better offensive teams, such as the Suns — to whom Minnesota lost on Tuesday — Bucks and Grizzlies, who are all coming up on the schedule. — Andrews

16. San Antonio Spurs2022-23 record: 5-2Previous week’s ranking: 18

During his first two NBA seasons, Keldon Johnson made 73 3-pointers in 86 games. In his second season, he was shooting 33.1% beyond the arc on 3.3 attempts per game. Johnson upped both his efficiency and volume last season, shooting 39.8% on six attempts per game, and he has taken it even further this year. In seven games, Johnson is shooting 43.5% from deep. Heading into Tuesday’s play, only Stephen Curry, Buddy Hield and Bojan Bogdanovic had made more 3s than Johnson’s 27. Also, he has hit at least three 3s in six of the Spurs’ seven games.

— Lopez

17. New York Knicks2022-23 record: 3-3Previous week’s ranking: 14

The Knicks have had a reality check after a 3-1 start, dropping back-to-back road games to the Cavaliers and Bucks over the weekend — the start of a stretch of seven straight games against projected playoff teams for New York.

— Bontemps

18. LA Clippers2022-23 record: 3-4Previous week’s ranking: 7

The Clippers might be front-runners for most disappointing start to the season. They were hyped as championship contenders with perhaps the deepest roster in the NBA but now look completely out of sync. Even if Kawhi Leonard has had a flare-up with his surgically repaired right knee that will keep him out through this week, the Clippers have more than enough talent and the coaching to win. They were outplayed twice in OKC and needed Paul George to rack up 35 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists, 6 steals and 2 massively clutch shots in the final 40 seconds just to escape at home against Houston. With the next two games at Houston and San Antonio, perhaps the Clippers can finally get going.

— Youngmisuk

19. Washington Wizards2022-23 record: 3-4Previous week’s ranking: 16

The Wizards’ 3-1 start has been wiped away after losing four of their past five. Washington’s three-game slide is in danger of continuing with games against Philadelphia, Brooklyn and Memphis up next. On the bright side, Kristaps Porzingis had his best game of the season with 32 points and nine rebounds against the Sixers.

— Youngmisuk

20. Chicago Bulls2022-23 record: 4-4Previous week’s ranking: 23

After struggling defensively at the end of last season, the Bulls have been in the top half of the league (13th entering Tuesday) on defense to start the season thanks to the pesky contributions of Alex Caruso and Javonte Green. Both Caruso and Green rank in the top five in the NBA in deflections, and Green leads the NBA in deflections per 36 minutes.

— Collier

21. Miami Heat2022-23 record: 3-5Previous week’s ranking: 21

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Miami has struggled out of the gate, but it picked up a comeback win over the Warriors on Tuesday night. Max Strus has found a good rhythm, averaging 16.3 points over his past four games. Jimmy Butler had 23 points, eight assists and six rebounds against the Warriors and is going to have to carry Miami through its rough early stretch as the group continues to find its way. — Friedell

22. Charlotte Hornets2022-23 record: 3-4Previous week’s ranking: 20

Charlotte has dropped three of its past four, giving up 118.8 points per game in the process. P.J. Washington is in the midst of a nice stretch, however; he has recorded 59 points and 12 rebounds over his past two games.

— Friedell

23. Brooklyn Nets2022-23 record: 2-6Previous week’s ranking: 22

It was a heck of a week for Brooklyn — even judged against the high standards the Nets have created for themselves in recent years. They’ve lost four of five, Kyrie Irving remains embroiled in controversy and coach Steve Nash and the Nets decided to part ways. It’s never a dull day in Netsland.

— Friedell

24. Oklahoma City Thunder2022-23 record: 4-3Previous week’s ranking: 29

Despite trailing Dallas by 16 points with under four minutes to play Saturday, the Thunder stormed back to win 117-111 in overtime. According to ESPN Stats & Information research, this was the 9,977th time in the past 25 seasons a team led by 16 or more with four minutes remaining in regulation. This was only the second time a team in that scenario came back to win, with OKC’s effort joining the Kings’ comeback against Minnesota on Jan. 27, 2020.

— Lopez

25. Indiana Pacers2022-23 record: 3-5Previous week’s ranking: 26

Myles Turner made headlines for his comments on “The Woj Pod” this week when said the Lakers should “take a hard look” at making a trade with the Pacers: “I know what I can provide for a team,” he said. However, Turner is off to a slow start since returning from an ankle injury, averaging 13.0 points and seven rebounds on 34% shooting (27% from 3).

— Collier

26. Los Angeles Lakers2022-23 record: 1-5Previous week’s ranking: 25

Has Russell Westbrook finally found a functional role in Los Angeles? While at first reluctant to assume the bench role that Darvin Ham envisioned, Westbrook looked mighty effective as the Lakers’ primary playmaker in the second unit. He averaged 18 points, 8.0 rebounds and 5.5 assists in two games as a reserve, including in the Lakers’ first win of the season against Denver.

— McMenamin

27. Sacramento Kings2022-23 record: 2-4Previous week’s ranking: 28

De’Aaron Fox left midway through the Kings’ game against the Hornets because of right knee soreness. It’s the last thing Sacramento needs right now. The Kings managed to squeak out that win, but if the injury persists, they would be losing one of their few bright spots on the floor this season.

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— McMenamin

28. Detroit Pistons2022-23 record: 2-6Previous week’s ranking: 24

Cade Cunningham is shooting 49.5% while putting up 25-5-5 in his past four games, the only Piston not named Grant Hill to do so in the past 30 seasons. Overall, Cunningham put up 27.8 points, 8.3 rebounds and 7.5 assists during that span.

— Collier

29. Houston Rockets2022-23 record: 1-7Previous week’s ranking: 27

The Rockets’ winless four-game road trip was especially rough for Jalen Green. He shot only 25.7% from the floor and 22.6% from 3-point range on the trip, and Houston was outscored by 44 points with him on the floor in the four losses.

— MacMahon

30. Orlando Magic2022-23 record: 1-7Previous week’s ranking: 30

Aside from No. 1 pick Paolo Banchero‘s hot start to his career, the Magic have gotten a nice lift from Wendell Carter Jr. He’s averaging 20 points and 8.7 rebounds over his past three games. Both continue to put up solid numbers and big minutes for a team that needs more from its young core. — Friedell

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Brutus have entered their “ambitious third album” phase, and it sounds like it’s really working for them. The Belgian trio made waves with their second record, 2019’s Nest, which showcased their posthardcore-meets-postrock chops. Anchored by the soaring vocals and complex rhythms of singer and drummer Stefanie Mannaerts, their dynamic, aggressive songs swerved between emo introspection and over-the-top epic climaxes. All the elements that made Brutus so irresistible on their first two albums are back on the brand-new Unison Life—and this time they’re dialed up to 11. The hooks are bigger, the guitar riffs are more surgical, the bass is heavier than hell, and the songs feel louder and more layered than ever. Brutus have always had a flair for the dramatic, which can be felt in their heart-wrenching vocals and expansive arrangements, but here Mannaerts has unquestionably stepped into her position in the spotlight. She’s more than just a singing drummer—she’s an emotional powerhouse with a massive set of pipes. With Unison Life, Brutus are clearly operating on a new level. It’s catchy, it’s heavy, it’s fun, and the combination has me coming back to it over and over.

Brutus’s Unison Life is available through the band’s webstore.

Read More

Brutus have entered their “ambitious third album” phase, and it sounds like it’s really working for them. The Belgian trio made waves with their second record, 2019’s Nest, which showcased their posthardcore-meets-postrock chops. Anchored by the soaring vocals and complex rhythms of singer and drummer Stefanie Mannaerts, their dynamic, aggressive songs swerved between emo introspection and over-the-top epic climaxes. All the elements that made Brutus so irresistible on their first two albums are back on the brand-new Unison Life—and this time they’re dialed up to 11. The hooks are bigger, the guitar riffs are more surgical, the bass is heavier than hell, and the songs feel louder and more layered than ever. Brutus have always had a flair for the dramatic, which can be felt in their heart-wrenching vocals and expansive arrangements, but here Mannaerts has unquestionably stepped into her position in the spotlight. She’s more than just a singing drummer—she’s an emotional powerhouse with a massive set of pipes. With Unison Life, Brutus are clearly operating on a new level. It’s catchy, it’s heavy, it’s fun, and the combination has me coming back to it over and over.

Brutus’s Unison Life is available through the band’s webstore.

Read More