Tony continues putting the squeeze on David, while Richie discusses the possibility with Junior of removing some competition while 'Big...
Plot
Dave Scatino, an old friend of Tony's who runs a sporting goods store, has a gambling problem and has run up enormous debts with Tony's crew through high-stakes card games. Unable to pay, he has effectively handed Tony control of his business as collateral. Tony and the crew proceed to bust out the store: running up credit with suppliers, selling inventory for cash, and driving the business into bankruptcy while extracting maximum value.
Richie Aprile is growing increasingly resentful of Tony's leadership. He feels Tony disrespects the hierarchy and that he himself should have more authority given his seniority and his history before prison. Richie brings grievances to Junior, who listens sympathetically. Tony is aware that Richie is talking to Junior but has not yet established the full scope of what Richie is planning.
Dave Scatino watches his business disappear. His son is a friend of Meadow's, and the destruction of the Scatino family plays out against the backdrop of normal suburban life. Carmela is uncomfortable with the situation in ways she cannot fully articulate. Tony is doing what the business requires and the personal friendship is an externality he has learned to separate from the work.
Credits
Written by: Frank Renzulli, Robin Green, and Mitchell Burgess
Directed by: John Patterson