NBA 2021-22: Staring at the Suns

[BuckeyeRed27]

I thought the Jazz were going to manage to blow tonight's game, too. Hopefully actually beating a good team is a step in the right direction headed into the playoffs.

The last play of regulation was a wonderful microcosm of the last month or so of Jazz basketball. Glad they finally overcame fate.

[M2]

Their rim protection is abysmal, to say the least. Nick Richards, who rarely plays, is their only presence there. While I like Kai Jones’s potential as an all around big, they should consider packaging him with Washington to bring in Myles Turner.

I want them to continue to forgo defense and get Christian Wood instead. First to 150 wins.

[texasdave]

Rockets rookie Jalen Green, drafted at No. 2 overall in the 2021 first round, has now joined Allen Iverson (1997) as the only NBA rookies in more than 40 years to score 30-plus points in five straight games.


Kevin Durant did not want to end up on a poster. :laugh: https://rocketswire.usatoday.com/2022/04/05/rockets-rookie-jalen-green-extends-historic-30-point-streak-to-five-games/

[M2]

Matisse Thybulle is ineligible to play in Toronto (no vax is the speculation) - https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/33686020/philadelphia-76ers-list-matisse-thybulle-ineligible-play-thursday-toronto. One of the vets on the roster needs to kick his ass into gear. Dumb stuff like this can lose a team a series. Though it may be too late for him to get his first round completed if Philly and Toronto meet in the 1st round.

[SteelSD]

Matisse Thybulle is ineligible to play in Toronto (no vax is the speculation) - https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/33686020/philadelphia-76ers-list-matisse-thybulle-ineligible-play-thursday-toronto. One of the vets on the roster needs to kick his ass into gear. Dumb stuff like this can lose a team a series. Though it may be too late for him to get his first round completed if Philly and Toronto meet in the 1st round.

What a numbskull. If Philly wins out, they would finish no lower than the 3-slot. But to win out, they'd have to beat Toronto, producing a pretty good chance of them sliding to the 6th seed at the end of the season. Maybe the best thing they could do is beat Toronto and rest everyone for the final two games, possibly locking in the 4th seed while hoping that Chicago wins out in the battle for 5th.

I believe that Keith Pompey reported that Thybulle was vaccinated a while back, making his Toronto-ineligible status a bit of a shock to most Sixer fans.

[Revering4Blue]

I want them to continue to forgo defense and get Christian Wood instead. First to 150 wins.

May be worth a try. It'd be interesting and entertaining if nothing else.

I'll say this much; adding Christian Wood to the picture produces a much, much better roster than the Nuggets failed attempts of installing a Loyola Marymount system with Paul Westhead. It's also fun to imagine a big with Wood's skillset with the Run TMC Warriors back in the day.

[M2]

Today we get the game that begets the funniest chyron in the NBA: POR-NO.

[SteelSD]

I think we got a look at what the Sixers look like in Toronto without Thybulle in the mix. The starters overall outplayed the Raptors group, who was missing both VanVleet and Anunoby. The Raptors bench didn't do much offensively, but the Sixers bench couldn't guard anyone and even though the team shot really well, they handed Toronto 16 extra shots due to turnover margin and what's become a completely unacceptable offensive rebounding deficiency. It looks like Milwaukee's going to beat Boston and as both the Bucks and Celtics hold tiebreakers against Philly, the Sixers might be looking at a really poor first round matchup if Thybulle can't visit Canada.

[M2]

I think we got a look at what the Sixers look like in Toronto without Thybulle in the mix. The starters overall outplayed the Raptors group, who was missing both VanVleet and Anunoby. The Raptors bench didn't do much offensively, but the Sixers bench couldn't guard anyone and even though the team shot really well, they handed Toronto 16 extra shots due to turnover margin and what's become a completely unacceptable offensive rebounding deficiency. It looks like Milwaukee's going to beat Boston and as both the Bucks and Celtics hold tiebreakers against Philly, the Sixers might be looking at a really poor first round matchup if Thybulle can't visit Canada.

Yeah, that 4-5 matchup just about locked in tonight. It boggles my mind Thybulle might not be eligible because of vax reasons.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I think we got a look at what the Sixers look like in Toronto without Thybulle in the mix.

It'll be interesting to see how Philadelphia counters Siakam. Nurse kept picking on Harris and Niang (particularly Niang) with Siakam as the point forward. I'm not sure how Philly counters. Reed wasn't the answer. Embiid's too slow. Green's to small. Might be interesting to see if Harden can take him.

Of course, if Precious Achiuwa hits 5-7 three pointers, there's not much you can do but tip your cap. It'd help if Harden actually guarded him.

On the other end, Tyrese Maxey is fun to watch play. He's the personification of ADHD.

[Bourgeois Zee]

49 for Anthony Edwards tonight.

He's fun to watch.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Nikola Jokic went 16-24 from the floor tonight, with a 35/16/6/5 steal night against Memphis. +37 on the night.

Jokic is in the top 10 in scoring (8th), rebounding (2nd), and assists (8th).

Ridiculous numbers.

[SteelSD]

Yeah, that 4-5 matchup just about locked in tonight. It boggles my mind Thybulle might not be eligible because of vax reasons.

The only halfway-reasonable way I can see them avoiding that matchup is if Boston drops their finale to Memphis and the Sixers win out. I don't see Milwaukee dropping their last two games.


It'll be interesting to see how Philadelphia counters Siakam. Nurse kept picking on Harris and Niang (particularly Niang) with Siakam as the point forward. I'm not sure how Philly counters. Reed wasn't the answer. Embiid's too slow. Green's to small. Might be interesting to see if Harden can take him.

Of course, if Precious Achiuwa hits 5-7 three pointers, there's not much you can do but tip your cap. It'd help if Harden actually guarded him.

On the other end, Tyrese Maxey is fun to watch play. He's the personification of ADHD.

The problem with Toronto is that all the matchups stink, save for one or two. Either go zone or at least match up Embiid's minutes with Siakam's, even if he can't guard him 100% of the time. Thybulle, if/when he plays needs to be on Trent or Barnes at all times. I have no idea who Harden can guard at this point. Ditto for Niang.

The Sixers announcers tonight were talking about how Toronto wasn't as talented as Philly on paper. I completely disagree, and have for a while now. That's a nightmare first round matchup for pretty much anyone.

[Bourgeois Zee]

The problem with Toronto is that all the matchups stink, save for one or two. Either go zone or at least match up Embiid's minutes with Siakam's, even if he can't guard him 100% of the time. Thybulle, if/when he plays needs to be on Trent or Barnes at all times. I have no idea who Harden can guard at this point. Ditto for Niang.

Playoff baskebtall is a different breed. Siakam's struggled in that arena his last time through-- maybe it's in his head. Achiuwa, Barnes, and Trent have little to no experience.

I'd like the idea of moving to a zone, but VanVleet is one of the best deep shooters in the league, and Gary Trent might be even better. Anunoby has turned himself into a good shooter from deep as well. It seems as if all of the Raptors except VanVleet are long-limbed tweeners who can do a lot with the ball. That's a tough matchup for anyone. (Not to mention Nurse is, IMO, one of the best in the league.)

I like Harden bodying Siakam and using his hands to cause TO issues. That'd put Harris on Barnes, which is... okay. Green might be able to run it back on Onunoby. Embiid can stay in the middle and use his length to make the Raps take tough shots. (That asks a lot of Embiid, to be defensive anchor and offensive fulcrum.) Maxey on VanVleet feels not horrible.

How would you feel about trusting Isaiah Joe as a shooting guard/ wing with Maxey and Harden in the backcourt? That might work. Or Philly could go full Furkan and just try to outscore them. (That'd be fun, as a fan.)

[texasdave]

Nikola Jokic went 16-24 from the floor tonight, with a 35/16/6/5 steal night against Memphis. +37 on the night.

Jokic is in the top 10 in scoring (8th), rebounding (2nd), and assists (8th).

Ridiculous numbers.


Jokic became the first player in NBA history with 2,000 points, 1,000 rebounds and 500 assists in a season. He had 35 points, 16 rebounds, six assists and five steals Thursday evening.

[Ohayou]

Obi Toppin dropped a career high 35 points last night, going 14/22 FG with 6/9 3PT.

Ain't no stoppin' Toppin. Well, except Thibs.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Obi Toppin dropped a career high 35 points last night, going 14/22 FG with 6/9 3PT.

Ain't no stoppin' Toppin. Well, except Thibs.

I full well expect the Knicks to deal Randle this off-season, even if it costs them talent to do so.

OKC would do well to be all over that, fwiw. The Suns pick (30th) plus a 2nd rounder likely gets that done.

I'd love to be the OKC GM moving forward. 19 1st rounders and 19 2nd rounders plus an almost unlimited cap space?

[texasdave]

Obi Toppin dropped a career high 35 points last night, going 14/22 FG with 6/9 3PT.

Ain't no stoppin' Toppin. Well, except Thibs.

At least, not when the shots are droppin'.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Playoff seedings look like the following:

Miami faces off against either Brooklyn, Cleveland, Atlanta, or Charlotte. They match up well with all of them except Brooklyn.

Milwaukee gets the tougher assignment of the four teams mentioned above. Brooklyn's a tough first round matchup, but, IMO, Milwaukee matches up with them better than anyone else in the East.

Boston will face Chicago. Easiest matchup in the opening round for any team, IMO. Chicago's moving backward, while Boston is finding its groove. Look for a sweep.

Philadelphia v. Toronto looks like the most fascinating series on either side of the dais. The matchups will be fun to see, especially if Thybulle doesn't/ can't/ won't play in Toronto.

___________

In the West, Phoenix will face one of Minnesota, LA Clippers, NOLA, or San Antonio. The Clippers are going to be a handful, especially if Kawhi and PG are fully back. Doubtful, that. Recent reports are not quite as rosy as Clipper fans would have us believe. The Suns should be set up here.

It'll be Memphis versus the winner of the play-in tournament, and that'll be fun to watch. PG can guard Ja. If Kawhi's back, I like LA to move forward. If not, I'm not sure Stormin' Norman and Playoff P can withstand Memphis's offense.

There's a scrum in the middle of the West still. Everybody's in flux. It'll be Denver versus Golden State or Dallas and Utah versus the other. Health will be key. Steph Curry should be back. Draymond might be at full strength too. Or maybe not. On the other hand, Michael Porter isn't likely to play, but I'm guessing Blue Arrow Jamal Murray will. If he's not too rusty, that team will be a tough out.

[Ohayou]

I full well expect the Knicks to deal Randle this off-season, even if it costs them talent to do so.

OKC would do well to be all over that, fwiw. The Suns pick (30th) plus a 2nd rounder likely gets that done.

I'd love to be the OKC GM moving forward. 19 1st rounders and 19 2nd rounders plus an almost unlimited cap space?

Youngest team in the NBA, too, I believe. I like the duo of SGA and Giddey moving forward.

Obi would be so much fun to watch on a team like Golden State. Also, his former PG at Dayton, Jalen Crutcher, had a great season in the G league playing for the Hornets affiliate (16.3 PPG, 48% FG, 44% 3PT, 6.0 AST, 3.3 REB). Unfortunately, he couldn't get a 10-day contract.

[M2]

I full well expect the Knicks to deal Randle this off-season, even if it costs them talent to do so.

OKC would do well to be all over that, fwiw. The Suns pick (30th) plus a 2nd rounder likely gets that done.

I'd love to be the OKC GM moving forward. 19 1st rounders and 19 2nd rounders plus an almost unlimited cap space?

I think they're about to run into a pretty serious playing time situation. They've got a whole pile of young guys who need minutes, and they've got three 1st rounders incoming (or whatever they trade those first rounders for). At power forward alone they've got Poku, Darius Bazley, Isaiah Roby and Kenrich Williams. And they could be landing Smith or Banchero in the draft. OKC is going to have to make some serious playing time and roster decisions.

FWIW, I think some team out there would do well to pilfer Roby.

[SteelSD]

Pacers again with a valiant effort, moving to within 5 points after being down 21 early on, but there was just too much Joel Embiid- who posted a monster line of 41 points/20 boards, hitting 14 of his 17 shots. He's all but clinched the first scoring title for an NBA center since Moses Malone. Speaking of scoring, Harden came out of his offensive coma in the second half after posting a 2-for-9 start, finishing with 22 points and 14 assists. Even if the Sixers get the latter in the playoffs, they're going to need him to get the first without taking a billion shots. Still, 2-for-9 from three was not good, and Harden looked consistently uncomfortable taking catch-and-shoot threes.

Danny Green was inserted into the starting lineup. With Thybulle available, that's probably a concession that he won't be able to play in Toronto, which will be the Sixers destination unless they win and the Celtics lose tomorrow. Paul Reed was good today- extremely active while throwing in 8 points, grabbing 5 boards (3 offensive), and a career high 4 steals in 11 minutes. Yeah, he picked up 5 fouls too, but that's fine if he can keep up the high-energy and have games that mimic lines like that.

Go Grizzlies!!

[Bourgeois Zee]

I think they're about to run into a pretty serious playing time situation.

I think they have exactly two players I'd consider decent enough to keep-- SGA and Giddey.

Everyone else would be available.

Muscala, Tre Mann, Roby, and Dort are okay, I guess-- solid to average second unit guys. Beyond that? Poku hasn't developed. Maledon hasn't either. Dort tries. So does Bazley. But neither has shown any offensive consistency in the massive amount of minutes they've been given. That's usually a pretty big red flag, even for young guys.

Time to move on, IMO.

[texasdave]

Grizzlies scored 55 points in the third period. :eek::laugh::beerme:

[SteelSD]

Giannis sits, clinching the scoring title for Embiid. That's actually the first Center since Shaq to win it. He's the first center since Moses Malone to average 30+ PPG.

Go Grizzlies!!

[BuckeyeRed27]

Milwaukee sat everyone and Cavs won going away. So it’ll be Cavs at Brooklyn for the 7 seed on Tuesday.

[texasdave]

Jalen Green ends his rookie season with a 41-point effort.

[M2]

Milwaukee sat everyone and Cavs won going away. So it’ll be Cavs at Brooklyn for the 7 seed on Tuesday.

And Boston put their A team on the floor against the Grizz C team, up 23 at the half. Looks like Boston, Milwaukee and Philly in that order for 2, 3, 4 in the East. The Bucks almost hand-picked the Bulls. The Celtics might have punted too, but their choices were maybe the Raptors or maybe the Nets. Their choice, right or wrong is maybe the Nets.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Brooklyn v. Boston should be a lot of fun, assuming Brooklyn gets that far.

Bucks v. Bulls is the only snoozer in the East.

Even the Heat v. one of the Nets, Cavs, Hawks, or Hornets is fun.

[M2]

Most random player to get a start today? I'm going with Isaiah Livers with the Pistons.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Most random player to get a start today? I'm going with Isaiah Livers with the Pistons.

I see your Isaiah Livers and raise you Miami's Haywood Highsmith.

[SteelSD]

And Boston put their A team on the floor against the Grizz C team, up 23 at the half. Looks like Boston, Milwaukee and Philly in that order for 2, 3, 4 in the East. The Bucks almost hand-picked the Bulls. The Celtics might have punted too, but their choices were maybe the Raptors or maybe the Nets. Their choice, right or wrong is maybe the Nets.

I'm shocked that Boston still has their starters in, up by 25 near the end of the third quarter. It makes Philly's decision to rest Embiid and Harden immaterial, but the Celts are winning themselves into a bad position and risking injury at the same time.

[Ohayou]

Obi Toppin dropped a career high 35 points last night, going 14/22 FG with 6/9 3PT.

Ain't no stoppin' Toppin. Well, except Thibs.

He done did it again.

42 points and 10 boards tonight (16-28 FG, 6-14 3PT).

[SteelSD]

Sixers close the season with a win, mostly due to the bench. Observations...

Despite 11 boards, DeAndre Jordan is toast. Got the start and dragged down the entire team on defense. Currently has only a 5-foot by 5-foot square he guards (which is why he pulls boards). Not even a player, just a square.

Paul Reed had himself a night- 25 points on 12-for-14 shooting, 6 boards, and another 4 steals over a 21 minute run- finishing with a team high +30. The ball finds energy. There are ways to get him in the lineup at PF with Embiid in the game, and then slide him to small-ball C when Embiid goes to the bench. Given that Thybulle likely won't play in Toronto, that may be the only way to combat the Raptors' height advantage. I'll be shocked if Rivers can figure that out, given his affinity for vet players, no matter how washed. Fan speculation is that Rivers has been forced to give B-Ball Paul a real look recently, considering that the other options (Milsap, Jordan) stink.

Shake Milton (30 points, 4 boards, 4 dimes tonight) is the head-and-shoulders better choice for playoff rotation minutes versus Korkmaz, if there was ever an actual competition. It's sad to see how far Korkmaz has regressed offensively and tonight's 2-for-10 shooting (1-for-7 from distance) didn't help his cause to get any meaningful playoff minutes. Yeah, he can get hot, I guess. But right now he's just not good at basketball.

Given that both Embiid and Harden were sitting, Tobias Harris had free reign to step up. But other than a few assists early, he completely disappeared (again) and, with the ball, fell back into his pattern of dribbling into a post-up, turning into the lane, and clanking five foot jumpers off the front of the rim. It's quite maddening to see someone who literally wants to play basketball using a style that clearly makes him a worse player. Super inefficient on multiple levels.

Gonna' be a tough first round battle against Toronto. If the Sixers lose one of their first two at home, it could set up an early exit.

[Mutaman]

Never any love lost between Milwaukee/Green Bay-Chicago fans. Buck's fans looking forward to this one.

[M2]

I'm shocked that Boston still has their starters in, up by 25 near the end of the third quarter. It makes Philly's decision to rest Embiid and Harden immaterial, but the Celts are winning themselves into a bad position and risking injury at the same time.

Looks like they pulled them for good in the mid-3rd. I think it was probably the right plan of action. Had Boston lost, they'd have dropped to 4th against the Raptors. My take is the Raptors were the team everybody most should have wanted to miss in the playoffs. The Nets aren't going to play defense, and if you lose to them you weren't going anywhere anyway. Toronto is built to make life miserable to the opposing team. They're a lot of wear and tear for round one, though I know I'm preaching to the choir on that. So Boston gets maybe the Nets and then homecourt advantage in round 2, which could be important. If Miami, whom I am not sold on, stumbles, then Boston could have homecourt through the East finals.

I think I'm leaning toward whoever wins between Boston and Milwaukee beating the Sixers in the ECF. I had been thinking Milwaukee before tonight, but that homecourt advantage has got me thinking Boston has a chance.

[Mutaman]

I think I'm leaning toward whoever wins between Boston and Milwaukee beating the Sixers in the ECF. I had been thinking Milwaukee before tonight, but that homecourt advantage has got me thinking Boston has a chance.

I guess Budd decided that resting everybody today and getting Chicago in round one was worth giving up any potential HC advantage to Boston.

[goreds2]

Tuesday, April 12
East: No. 8 Cleveland Cavaliers at No. 7 Brooklyn Nets, 7 p.m. ET (TNT)
West: No. 8 Los Angeles Clippers at No. 7 Minnesota Timberwolves, 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT)

Wednesday, April 13
East: No. 10 Charlotte Hornets at No. 9 Atlanta Hawks, 7 ET p.m. (ESPN)
West: No. 10 San Antonio Spurs at No. 9 New Orleans Pelicans, 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)

Friday, April 15
East: Winner of Charlotte/Atlanta vs. loser of Cleveland/Brooklyn, TBD (ESPN)
West: Winner of San Antonio/New Orleans vs. loser of Los Angeles/Minnesota, TBD (TNT)

[BuckeyeRed27]

Luka getting an MRI this afternoon. Either way Game 1 is Saturday and that’s pretty fast to be 100% from a calf injury.

[Boston Red]

Luka getting an MRI this afternoon. Either way Game 1 is Saturday and that’s pretty fast to be 100% from a calf injury.

If Doncic is out, the Mavs will just have some no one journeyman pour in 35 in the second half of game 7 to rally from a 20 point deficit and beat the Jazz.

[BuckeyeRed27]

If Doncic is out, the Mavs will just have some no one journeyman pour in 35 in the second half of game 7 to rally from a 20 point deficit and beat the Jazz.

That’s basically the entire Mavs roster after Luka, so plenty of candidates.

[texasdave]

File under knucklehead: Matisse Thybulle will not be eligible to play in any game that takes place in Toronto.

[SteelSD]

File under knucklehead: Matisse Thybulle will not be eligible to play in any game that takes place in Toronto.

The dumbest thing of all is that he actually did recieve the first vaccination dose last year around this time, but didn't get his second shot to complete the series. Thybulle answered questions about this Sunday, and stated, "...As things progressed, as this virus has changed many different ways, it just showed to the science that that wasn’t the case anymore— that even while being vaccinated, you could still spread the disease. So for me, my reasoning, it felt like getting vaccinated was not something that I needed to do to protect other people, and was something that I would have to do to protect myself."

What no one called him on was that nothing "progressed" so far in the few weeks following his initial dose that would have, at that time, supported the rationale he's using using for not receiving the second dose.

Just mind-numbing stupidity.

[KoryMac5]

Doncic in a boot and looked to be in discomfort according to Mike Fisher on Twitter

[Betterread]

Ed Malloy will be Head referee for the Twolves-Clips play-in game. This is terrible news for the Twolves. Malloy has a track record of bias v the Twolves. He is Joe West and Angel Hernandez combined for Minnesota. I estimate this will mean about 5-10 points for the Clips, so the Twolves will have to overcome that hurdle.

[M2]

Ed Malloy will be Head referee for the Twolves-Clips play-in game. This is terrible news for the Twolves. Malloy has a track record of bias v the Twolves. He is Joe West and Angel Hernandez combined for Minnesota. I estimate this will mean about 5-10 points for the Clips, so the Twolves will have to overcome that hurdle.

I'd worry more about Paul George and Norman Powell.

[Betterread]

I'd worry more about Paul George and Norman Powell.
Who? Never heard of them. Are they the progeny of the WWI British PM and USA yellow cake SOS?

Seriously, if good playoff PG shows up, Minny is outclassed talent wise. I am most concerned about how Minny handles the moment. KAT and Beverly have to keep the ref-baiting tendencies locked up deep inside their psyches. And The whole team has to defend with focus and goof communication.
The Clips are 8-9 players deep, with Batum and Covington 8-9. And even they are fully capable of hitting 2-3 threes a game. That team is constructed to win championships, and if they play well, the Twolves will lose.
But if evil playoff PG shows up, and Dlo and Ant step up, and the other things I mentioned are taken care of, the Twolves can win.

[M2]

Who? Never heard of them. Are they the progeny of the WWI British PM and USA yellow cake SOS?

Seriously, if good playoff PG shows up, Minny is outclassed talent wise. I am most concerned about how Minny handles the moment. KAT and Beverly have to keep the ref-baiting tendencies locked up deep inside their psyches. And The whole team has to defend with focus and goof communication.
The Clips are 8-9 players deep, with Batum and Covington 8-9. And even they are fully capable of hitting 2-3 threes a game. That team is constructed to win championships, and if they play well, the Twolves will lose.
But if evil playoff PG shows up, and Dlo and Ant step up, and the other things I mentioned are taken care of, the Twolves can win.

Minnesota's a capable team and it's at home, which helps immensely. But, as you rightly point out, the Clippers are tough. They've got the group that the made the West finals last season (with Powell instead of Beverly) back on the court. And George likely is the wild card. I'm curious to see how Minny defends him.

[Bourgeois Zee]

I'm curious to see how Minny defends him.

Jared Vanderbilt would be my first choice, but Lue will put PG in as many picks and rolls as possible to get the spot they want-- likely with DLo or KAT.

I'd go under every screen and pack the paint until PG hits four 18+ footers, then mix and match. That'd protect Minnesota defenders (likely KAT and DLo, as mentioned) and limit George's willingness to pass (and thereby get others involved). The good news for Minnesota is that the entire team has quick hands and a willingness to be aggressive defensively. That's typically rewarded in the playoffs. Their defensive rating as a team is actually above league average (which is a feat, considering how bad they were previously), and their starting quintet all average a steal or more per game.

If LA starts coughing up the ball (and they might, considering Reggie Jackson's iffy history as a ballhandler and the other guys on the Clipper court), Minnesota has a shot at winning that series.

[Betterread]

Jared Vanderbilt would be my first choice, but Lue will put PG in as many picks and rolls as possible to get the spot they want-- likely with DLo or KAT.

I'd go under every screen and pack the paint until PG hits four 18+ footers, then mix and match. That'd protect Minnesota defenders (likely KAT and DLo, as mentioned) and limit George's willingness to pass (and thereby get others involved). The good news for Minnesota is that the entire team has quick hands and a willingness to be aggressive defensively. That's typically rewarded in the playoffs. Their defensive rating as a team is actually above league average (which is a feat, considering how bad they were previously), and their starting quintet all average a steal or more per game.

If LA starts coughing up the ball (and they might, considering Reggie Jackson's iffy history as a ballhandler and the other guys on the Clipper court), Minnesota has a shot at winning that series.
Vanderbilt will get a chance to guard PG, but he will also be needed to guard Zubac. Clips are very big, with only Regie Jackson under 6’7”” in the starting five. Meanwhile the Wolves start essentially 3 guards. So it will be big and slow vrs small and quick for the start.
Off the bench for the Clips, Terrance Mann and Isaiah hartenstein are very underrated. They would start for most teams and they have killed our second unit in the past.
I know it’s boring but I will mention one last time how bad Scott Foster and Ed Malloy are at fair refereeing. For the year, the Twolves were 8th in Avg FTA per game and the clips were 29th. However for Ed Malloy reffed games, clips were 3, and Twolves 27. For Scott Foster, clips 2, Twolves 29.
I want to see a good team performance from the Twolves, win or lose. Focused defensive effort, good ball movement and playoff intensity without crossing the line into rage or frustration. And I am curious about how Ant responds to playoff intensity. I think he will be “fine” but I am hopeful he may find another level.

[M2]

Jared Vanderbilt would be my first choice, but Lue will put PG in as many picks and rolls as possible to get the spot they want-- likely with DLo or KAT.

I'd go under every screen and pack the paint until PG hits four 18+ footers, then mix and match. That'd protect Minnesota defenders (likely KAT and DLo, as mentioned) and limit George's willingness to pass (and thereby get others involved). The good news for Minnesota is that the entire team has quick hands and a willingness to be aggressive defensively. That's typically rewarded in the playoffs. Their defensive rating as a team is actually above league average (which is a feat, considering how bad they were previously), and their starting quintet all average a steal or more per game.

If LA starts coughing up the ball (and they might, considering Reggie Jackson's iffy history as a ballhandler and the other guys on the Clipper court), Minnesota has a shot at winning that series.

Except PG's probably playing as a de facto PG, which means Vanderbilt is way up the floor, away from the boards (Minny is challenged for defensive rebounding without him) and not available to provide help defense (one of his main values). I suspect PG can go by Vanderbilt and get into the paint, where the help isn't going to be so helpful and PG will have multiple passing options.

I was thinking it might be Beverly to try to make him pick up his dribble.

[SteelSD]

Interesting first half for the Cleveland/Brooklyn game, with Cleveland down by 14 at the end of the half. Really, the difference so far is that Kyrie Irving can't miss (9-for-9) and Caris LaVert is doing his best to shoot the Cavs out of the game (1-for-9). After giving up a 40-spot in the first quarter, Cleveland held Brooklyn to 8 points through the first 10 minutes of the second. Cleveland has a chance if they start hitting the wide-open shots they're currently missing.

When Dumb People get Paid Millions: One of the announcers stated that he asked Ben Simmons if his ridiculous outfit (green matched jacket and shorts suit) was leather. Apparently, Simmons said, "No, it's lamb."

[texasdave]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWIgtcNlwXk


Technically, it's on the lam, but these days you just go with the flow.

[M2]

Wolves-Clippers is pretty lit.

[Betterread]

Now that fourth quarter was about the best defense the Twolves played the whole year. Dlo and Ant outplayed PG and Jackson - 59 pts on 39 shots and 3 turnovers for the Twolves duo to 51 pts on 42 shots and 8 turnovers for the Clips duo.

[Big Red Smokey]

Man, what a fun game for the Wolves. Don't even care about the clowning going on for celebrating. Gonna try to go up to Minny next weekend for Game 4

[goreds2]

To my fellow 76ers fans:

No. 4 Philadelphia 76ers vs. No. 5 Toronto Raptors

Game 1: Saturday, April 16 at 6 p.m. ET (ESPN)
Game 2: April 18 at 7:30 p.m. ET (TNT)
Game 3: April 20 at 8:00 p.m. ET (NBATV)
Game 4: April 23 at 2:00 P.M. ET (TNT)
Game 5: April 25 (if necessary)
Game 6: April 28 (if necessary)
Game 7: April 30 (if necessary)

[M2]

Rando thought on the Wolves win last night. That's the closest thing I've seen in American pro sports to a international soccer club winning promotion.

[15fan]

Hawks got it going in 3Q last night to hammer Hornets. 6 guys in double figures and 40 bench points. That’s the kind of balance they need if they want to keep playing deep into Spring.

Assume Collins is out again Fri vs Cleveland. Lou Williams has also been quietly on sidelines as well.

[Betterread]

Lamelo Ball did not look prepared for the playoffs. Chucking up long 3s early in the shot clock, pathetic defensive effort. Looking more like a better version of Jason Williams than Magic Johnson. P J Washington was the best Hornets player I saw in that game.

[Bourgeois Zee]

P J Washington was the best Hornets player I saw in that game.

Washington's an interesting case in Charlotte.

I like him as a second-division starter/ elite second unit 25 mpg PF glue guy. He's the third Morris twin, but with a bit more playmaker to his game. He gets way more blocks and steals than he ought to and rebounds well. He shouldn't play center, though.

I'm guessing he'll be a payroll casualty.

Speaking of, I heard an interesting rumor from Marc Stein on Gordon Hayward. He, Plumlee, and/or Oubre to LA for the expiring deal of Russell Westbrook and a future pick.

That gets the Hornets out of salary cap hell a couple of seasons earlier than previously thought and provides a way to chase a difference-maker in the 2023 off-season. LA, meanwhile, gets Hayward as a third oft-injured "star" to pair with LeBron and AD to form the league's most brittle front court.

[M2]

Washington's an interesting case in Charlotte.

I like him as a second-division starter/ elite second unit 25 mpg PF glue guy. He's the third Morris twin, but with a bit more playmaker to his game. He gets way more blocks and steals than he ought to and rebounds well. He shouldn't play center, though.

I'm guessing he'll be a payroll casualty.

Speaking of, I heard an interesting rumor from Marc Stein on Gordon Hayward. He, Plumlee, and/or Oubre to LA for the expiring deal of Russell Westbrook and a future pick.

That gets the Hornets out of salary cap hell a couple of seasons earlier than previously thought and provides a way to chase a difference-maker in the 2023 off-season. LA, meanwhile, gets Hayward as a third oft-injured "star" to pair with LeBron and AD to form the league's most brittle front court.

The Hornets are going to be fascinating this summer. Somebody's going to test their spending resolve on Miles Bridges. He could push them up near the penalty. The thing is they need Bridges and another frontcourt guy (because the only thing you can count on with Gordon Hayward is he'll be injured). They really could use a big. Trez fit in pretty well, but can they afford to keep him? They'd be a good Boogie team.

Interestingly, the other team that got eliminated last night, the Spurs, have money to spend. They could be in on Bridges, or Ayton or LaVine. They can add a guy this summer and another next summer and find themselves with a Big Three. They've got the PG to run the show in Murray. It's just a matter of giving him the pieces. They've got the filler with guys like Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Washington's an interesting case in Charlotte.

I like him as a second-division starter/ elite second unit 25 mpg PF glue guy. He's the third Morris twin, but with a bit more playmaker to his game. He gets way more blocks and steals than he ought to and rebounds well. He shouldn't play center, though.

I'm guessing he'll be a payroll casualty.

Speaking of, I heard an interesting rumor from Marc Stein on Gordon Hayward. He, Plumlee, and/or Oubre to LA for the expiring deal of Russell Westbrook and a future pick.

That gets the Hornets out of salary cap hell a couple of seasons earlier than previously thought and provides a way to chase a difference-maker in the 2023 off-season. LA, meanwhile, gets Hayward as a third oft-injured "star" to pair with LeBron and AD to form the league's most brittle front court.

Interesting trade, although if Charlotte wants to cap reset why not just do Hayward and Rozier. A year from now they have no big contracts left.

[M2]

One other San Antonio thought. I'd like to see Dejounte Murray get MIP, though I haven't seen his name getting attached to it all that much. He was 21-8-9 this season. Became a more efficient shooter/scorer even as his volume increased. Led the league in steals too. His PER took a 6-point jump, more than doubled his Win Shares. The advanced stats are screaming about how good a season he had. He had a star season and he was nowhere near that level prior to this. He seems a pretty obvious MIP pick to me.

[Betterread]

Paul George is out of the play-in game tonight after testing positive for COVID-19. Pelicans now have a talent advantage.

[M2]

Paul George is out of the play-in game tonight after testing positive for COVID-19. Pelicans now have a talent advantage.

Oddly, the team most excited about this might be Charlotte. They get Nola's 1st round pick if they win tonight. If Nola loses, the pick goes to Portland.

[SteelSD]

Oddly, the team most excited about this might be Charlotte. They get Nola's 1st round pick if they win tonight. If Nola loses, the pick goes to Portland.

If that happens, I expect Charlotte to ask Gordon Hayward to reveal the pick at the draft, only to have Hayward drop the card on the way to handing it off, trip over it, sustaining an injury that shelves him for the 2022-2023 season.

[Betterread]

C’mon Cleveland. Trae Young and John Collins was last year’s thing. This year it’s Mobley and Garland to show it’s their time.

[texasdave]

Halftime and the Cavs are up 10. It looks like Capela hurt his knee, and may be out for the duration of the second half.

[15fan]

Who on the Cleveland sideline thought it was a good idea to keep switching on the high screen so that Markannen was guarding Trae Young 1-on-1 30 feet from the hoop every possession in the 2nd half?

Hope Capela’s knee gets better in a hurry.

[Betterread]

Why is Levert shooting so much and why is he is given the most difficult defensive assignments? He doesn’t show abilities in either area. Cleveland needs a two way wing.

[M2]

The Pelicans blew a big lead and then came back from a big deficit. That was a wild 2nd half.

[SteelSD]

I'll tell ya'...I've never been a fan of judging a coach based on one game, much less half of one. But Cavs ownership needs to think long and hard about J.B. Bickerstaff's complete lack of anything resembling a plan on both ends of the court in the second half of their loss to the Hawks last night. Having Markannen switch onto Trae Young multiple times (with no defensive help on drives too??) was criminal on the defensive end, as was watching the Cleveland guards dribble out shot clocks while making no attempt to hunt mismatches and post-ups with either/any of their two 7-footers, especially with Capella on the shelf. That team should have been focused on grinding down Atlanta using their size. Instead, it looked more like Bickertstaff was trying to rely on his guards to out street-ball Trae Young while also giving free runs at the basket. What a stupid, stupid thing to do.

[Betterread]

I'll tell ya'...I've never been a fan of judging a coach based on one game, much less half of one. But Cavs ownership needs to think long and hard about J.B. Bickerstaff's complete lack of anything resembling a plan on both ends of the court in the second half of their loss to the Hawks last night. Having Markannen switch onto Trae Young multiple times (with no defensive help on drives too??) was criminal on the defensive end, as was watching the Cleveland guards dribble out shot clocks while making no attempt to hunt mismatches and post-ups with either/any of their two 7-footers, especially with Capella on the shelf. That team should have been focused on grinding down Atlanta using their size. Instead, it looked more like Bickertstaff was trying to rely on his guards to out street-ball Trae Young while also giving free runs at the basket. What a stupid, stupid thing to do.
Good observations. I just don’t understand why teams can’t find a solution to the Hawks offense (including the Twolves). The hawks play only one way, they don’t have a versatile attack. It is Trae Young in isolation all the time.

[M2]

Good observations. I just don’t understand why teams can’t find a solution to the Hawks offense (including the Twolves). The hawks play only one way, they don’t have a versatile attack. It is Trae Young in isolation all the time.

Miami's just about the best there is at taking away one thing. The Hawks definitely are going to need to adjust.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Miami's just about the best there is at taking away one thing. The Hawks definitely are going to need to adjust.

It'll be fun to watch what Miami does defensively, I suspect. I'm not sure Lowry can stick with Young, but he's the only game in town. He'll have to do just that.

The teams are oddly comparable. Duncan Robinson and Danilo Gallinari. Tyler Herro and Bogdan Bogdanovic. Bam and Onyeka Okongwu. Even Jimmy Buckets and De'Andre Hunter. Max Strus and Huerter works too. The Heat just look like they're slightly better across the board at every position.

Excited to see how much the Heat play Dipo-- if at all. Peak Dipo would be a game-changer, and his last game (4/10) was very nearly peak Dipo. If that's a one-off, fine. But if that's what we can expect from him moving forward in this playoffs, Miami has weapons across the board. Dipo, Strus/ Lowry/ Robinson, Herro, Butler, and Bam with Morris a possibility? That's going to be a tough team to beat.

[M2]

If Ant and KAT are going to go off like that, Minnesota is going to be tough to beat. Memphis needs to stop at least one of them.

[Betterread]

Twolves come out playing well and defending well. Got the road win against a great team. Ant with 36 and played with no fear. Jah was a little off, but still had 32. They may not be as efficient as some of the top ten players in the league but their effort and athleticism are unparalleled and non stop. These two guys make this a fun series to watch.

[Betterread]

If Ant and KAT are going to go off like that, Minnesota is going to be tough to beat. Memphis needs to stop at least one of them.

No one can guard Edwards (or Morant) one v one.They are the only ones who can stop themselves with poor shot selection or bad decisions out of double teams.

[M2]

No one can guard Edwards (or Morant) one v one.They are the only ones who can stop themselves with poor shot selection or bad decisions out of double teams.

I have an Ant question. Should his nickname be stylized in all caps like a Japanese strong style wrestler - ANT?

[M2]

When James Harden is primarily a PG, the Sixers are a very good team.

Side note, Thybulle has been banished to the bench. Clearly Doc has made the decision that they need to get used to playing without him for when they go to Toronto.

[Bourgeois Zee]

When James Harden is primarily a PG, the Sixers are a very good team.

This game should be the Tyrese Maxey game.

He's the reason this game is a relative blowout.

Harden was good. Embiid played adequately. Harris balled out.

But Maxey was superhuman.

Without him, that team struggles to win. With him, it wasn't close.

[SteelSD]

When James Harden is primarily a PG, the Sixers are a very good team.

Side note, Thybulle has been banished to the bench. Clearly Doc has made the decision that they need to get used to playing without him for when they go to Toronto.

Yup. A 14-to-1 Assist to Turnover rate is pretty good I hear. I could watch that Harden-to-Maxey bounce pass and reverse finish all weekend long.

Youth was definitely being served in today's playoff games, with Maxey dropping in 38 points after similar performances from both Anthony Edwards and Ja Morant in their game. Toronto completely sold out attempting to stop Embiid and Embiid/Harden pick and rolls, which left Maxey to do his business, all the while grinning like it's his first time every time.

Speaking of the T-Wolves/Grizz game, great win by Minnesota. There is a strong correlation between how annoying Patrick Beverly is and how well the T-Wolves play.

Back to Philly, Rivers changed up the lineup late in the regular season when they learned that Thybulle would be ineligible to play in Toronto. Happened right before he was either ordered or shamed into playing Paul Reed- who finished tonight's game with a +4 in 11 minutes of play, which is really all you need from him.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Edwards and KAT were both outstanding in the first game of the day. I'm low-key shocked at how badly Steven Adams and Jaren Jackson played defensively. The Grizzlies might have to play Brandon Clarke more minutes.

[Revering4Blue]

Edwards and KAT were both outstanding in the first game of the day. I'm low-key shocked at how badly Steven Adams and Jaren Jackson played defensively. The Grizzlies might have to play Brandon Clarke more minutes.

Dealing away Valanciunas may come back to haunt the Grizzlies. Granted, Valanciunas may not be much of an improvement over Adams defensively on the average - and Adams, to his credit, seals off his man offensively, allowing others (Morant) to drive to the hole - but Val can at least force KAT to exert more energy defensively, unlike Adams.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Bourgeois Zee]

Dealing away Valanciunas may come back to haunt the Grizzlies. Granted, Valanciunas may not be much of an improvement over Adams defensively on the average - and Adams, to his credit, seals off his man offensively, allowing others (Morant) to drive to the hole - but Val can at least force KAT to exert more energy defensively, unlike Adams.


It wasn't just Adams-- although he was bad. Jackson sucked. KAT abused him both inside and, surprisingly, on the perimeter. So did Jaden McDaniels, who went for 15/7 with 3 blocks(!). He looked a step slow-- even when laying well off his opposing number-- and perpetually befuddled at the intensity.

First game jitters, perhaps?

[Betterread]

It wasn't just Adams-- although he was bad. Jackson sucked. KAT abused him both inside and, surprisingly, on the perimeter. So did Jaden McDaniels, who went for 15/7 with 3 blocks(!). He looked a step slow-- even when laying well off his opposing number-- and perpetually befuddled at the intensity.

First game jitters, perhaps?
Good call on McDaniels. He played really well. Finchy really likes him, which bodes well for future development. But while Jackson had an off game, he still blocked 7 shots and Memphis really needs his weak side rim protection. So with 7 blocks, I am would not say he sucked.

[Betterread]

I have an Ant question. Should his nickname be stylized in all caps like a Japanese strong style wrestler - ANT?

Sure. That’s a good idea. I think of the Atomic Ant cartoon figure, but I tuned into the ESPN half time show (I watched the game with the local announcers) and Steven Smith compared him to Bam Bam from the Flintstones (remember Barney trying to parent Bam Bam?) that seemed like an apt comparison as well.
Remember Jerry Stackhouse? He may not have lived up to expectations, but I still think of him as having the fastest first step ever. Until Ant.

[M2]

This game should be the Tyrese Maxey game.

He's the reason this game is a relative blowout.

Harden was good. Embiid played adequately. Harris balled out.

But Maxey was superhuman.

Without him, that team struggles to win. With him, it wasn't close.

Sure, but that's part of what I'm saying. Harden needs to dish to those other guys and not be the focal point of the offense. Facilitate, facilitate, facilitate.

[Boston Red]

Nm. Wrong thread!

[M2]

Playoff Draymond showed up in Game 1. 12-6-9, 3 blocks, +21 in 29 minutes.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Remember Jerry Stackhouse? He may not have lived up to expectations, but I still think of him as having the fastest first step ever. Until Ant.

Latrell Sprewell had the quickest first step I ever saw.

[Betterread]

Maxey had the stat line of the night. 38 points on 21 shots and 0 turnover. In fact Philly had only 3 turnovers the whole game. wow!

[M2]

Latrell Sprewell had the quickest first step I ever saw.

I was trying to think of who I'd pick, and, yeah, Spree.

[Betterread]

How is what Embiid did to Barnes not a foul? He took a strong step right onto his ankle. In soccer, it’s a red card.

[SteelSD]

How is what Embiid did to Barnes not a foul? He took a strong step right onto his ankle. In soccer, it’s a red card.

Huh? That was 100% inadvertent. What usually happens when someone steps on someone else's foot is that they end up injuring their own ankle.

Thank goodness that initial x-rays came back negative for Barnes.

[goreds2]

We had a blast watching the 76ers game at the campground last night. Maxes was on fire. Great overall team win.

[Bourgeois Zee]

First Round Hot Takes:

- Philadelphia just shot 50% from three on 32 shots and 51.2% overall. Everyone on the team except for washed Danny Green and Joel Embiid shot 60% from deep or better. They were given 34 free throws (to the Rap's 23), were called for 8 less fouls, and had more blocks (4) than turnovers (3).

The question is whether that type of production is sustainable. In looking at the game film, the Raps were beaten by relatively easy cuts away from the basket. Harris and especially Maxey hit everything. (Maxey hit one from the logo on a heat check moment that was particularly ridiculous.) Stopping those cuts is easier said than done, however. If Toronto doesn't hedge to the inside shoulder, Harden drives around Barnes one-on-one for scores or fouls, or he throws over the top to a posting Embiid. It's an interesting cat-and-mouse game.

- Fred ValVleet had a decent game statistically. When you watch the game, however, you're struck by how little impact he actually had until the game was well in hand by Philly. VanVleet has to outplay Maxey for Toronto to win. That goes for Pascal Siakam as well.

- Denver lost to Golden State. Jokic was suprisingly on the struggle bus. (Part of that was a swarming Dub D that sought to get the ball out of his hands as soon as he caught it. Part of it was just missed shots. He needs Jamal Murray to help out with ball handling. I was low-key shocked Murray didn't play last night. I expect him to suit up this series. And make no mistake, the Nuggets need him badly. Denver just doesn't shoot well enough without him.

- Draymond Green totally outplayed Aaron Gordon, who had perhaps the worst game of any first-division starter so far. How far has Gordon's star fallen this year? I can get 20 players in before I think of him as a PF I'd like to have on my team. At least.

- The Boogie technicals were totally bush league examples of poor officiating by Scott Foster. A really bad no-call, compounded by the quick whistle, a lack of control on the court, then another whistle after everyone was moving to the other end. Textbook way of not knowing how to referee a big game. Inexcusable, really. All of it. Officiating has been universally poor for at least a decade now, but it's so bad now. There's no use in complaining, of course, because it's equally poor for all teams, but the NBA has to do a better job. (The NCAA has the same issues, fwiw. Worse, IMO.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6VzSnoCHNU

- The Mavs - Jazz Game One was a rock fight. Ugly. Not just in terms of bricks, but execution. I'm not sure how many times Donovan Mitchell was tasked with going one-on-one against whomever was guarding him, but it had to be high. Bogdanovic in the post? Why not? But no one came at him defensively-- it was one-on-one over and over. Just zero creativity. From both squads both ways. And considering the coaches, I'm a little surprised by that. Maybe Kidd is hampered by the athletic limitations of Brunson (which were apparent) and Dinwiddie? Even so, they should be able to get to their spots against Utah's defense. And Utah has no reason not to kill Dallas with pick and rolls between Bogdanovic and Mitchell, yet they only went to that particular well twice (and got two wide open threes for Bojan both times).

- I want Bojan Bogdanovic on my team. He plays quality team defense (best help defender on the floor-- and that includes Gobert) and is unafraid to take big shots. He plays long minutes and works the entire time. As a shooter or in the post, he's a load for opposing teams. He's the type of guy who could play until he's 40 just through being smarter and tougher than his opponents.

- I cannot understand why opposing teams don't just go five out against Gobert and make him play in space against quicker guards. Then I watch Dallas's guards struggle to get around him. Gobert is so long and has such the reputation that opposing guards don't even try him anymore. He swallowed Brunson and Dinwiddie several times, limiting their effectiveness as both scorers and passers. Dallas has to, then, lob over the top of cut back door. That'll come assuming Doncic is at all healthy. Speaking of, Dallas has to feel pretty good that they were close even without their do-everything star.

- Is there any would-be star with less of a shooting conscience than Anthony Edwards? He's got the World B. Free/ Swaggy P/ JR Smith philosophy of never having met a shot he didn't want to take. Thing is, that's kind of what you need in the playoffs-- a guy to take (and make) those tough shots. He hit more tough shots than anyone on any team last night. And the kid's 20. Not sure if that's good or bad.

- The Minnesota - Memphis series is all about athleticism. Jaren Jackson, Malik Beasley, KAT, Brandon Clarke, and, of course, Ja and Ant-- it's a video game come to life. The only thing Game One was missing was "He's on fire!" So much fun. This is the 3rd best dunk of the game:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxfPqV_4W4g
Ridiculous.

[M2]

Denver lost to Golden State. Jokic was suprisingly on the struggle bus. (Part of that was a swarming Dub D that sought to get the ball out of his hands as soon as he caught it. Part of it was just missed shots. He needs Jamal Murray to help out with ball handling. I was low-key shocked Murray didn't play last night. I expect him to suit up this series. And make no mistake, the Nuggets need him badly. Denver just doesn't shoot well enough without him.

We probably ought to assume Murray and Porter aren't coming back at this point. They've got layers of rust to shake off and probably won't be able to make any sort of positive difference. For Denver there's only about three games left in their season. The cavalry didn't arrive in time. I suspect they're going to be a monster next season, but it's not happening for them in 2022.

[Bourgeois Zee]

How is what Embiid did to Barnes not a foul? He took a strong step right onto his ankle. In soccer, it’s a red card.

Nick Nurse:


“The counter is, we’ve got to believe that, if we’re legal defensively, that they’re going to call those. Like, we had a couple of times where we beat him to the spot and he bowled us right over, and they just let him lay it in.

“I don’t care if you’re 5-foot-11 and 160 pounds, if you beat him to the spot and he runs over, it’s a foul. I thought he threw three or four elbows to the face. He got called for one. OK. I mean, we’re gonna stand in there. We just need, if we’re legal defensively, then we’ve got to have them called or we don’t have a chance, period. Nobody can guard that guy if they’re just gonna let him run you over time and time again. We’re gonna stand in there, and we’ll see if we don’t get a few more elbow to the face calls and a few more beat them to the spot calls.”

[M2]

To Toronto's credit, they did a good job against Embiid. The big guy wasn't why they lost that game in a walk. Maxey and Toby went off. Harden put feeding his teammates above pounding the ball into the floor while he hunts his own shot, so they had an offensive flow. The bench played well. Nurse obviously wants to get some calls as the series progresses, so that's smart politicking on his part. Yet his team's problem in Game 1 was everyone not named Joel Embiid.

What that game might be indicating is that taking away Embiid as much as possible (and 19 points on 5-15 shooting probably qualifies as the best case scenario) isn't the way to defend the Sixers. The other guys can beat you. Maybe take away Maxey and Toby and force Harden and Embiid into a two-man game that ices the rest of the team.

[M2]

We haven't really delved into who we think is going to win this whole thing or how we expect the playoffs to shake out.

In the West the question is can anyone give Phoenix a problem? Based on what we've seen, I think it's Golden State or nobody. Memphis might beat the Wolves, but they showed how young they are in Game 1. Steph will play his way back into game mode against Denver, fine tune it in the next round and should be full Steph by the time the conference finals get here. I don't think Phoenix will get any real resistance until then.

Miami currently is having its way against Atlanta in the first half of Game 1. They've erased Trae. He'll adjust a bit, but (as noted the other day) Atlanta seems to one-dimensional to pose a threat. However, I still think the Heat are 4th best in the East. I don't think they can hang with teams that have multiple threats. So I'm still leaning toward this being their feel-good round and the next round being where they run in a Philly team that's got too much firepower for them to match. We're going to find out about Boston against the Nets. If they win that series easy, then they are fully for real. If they struggle, then it's hard to imagine them beating the Bucks. I don't think the Nets are a top team. They don't play defense.

That's my general set of expectations for where we're headed. A Suns-Bucks rematch seems the most likely scenario. The Warriors, Celtics and Sixers are the only teams I can see upsetting that apple cart. I'm hoping Stray rolls in with his thoughts. He's made good playoff calls on the Heat and Suns the past two years.

[SteelSD]

To Toronto's credit, they did a good job against Embiid. The big guy wasn't why they lost that game in a walk. Maxey and Toby went off. Harden put feeding his teammates above pounding the ball into the floor while he hunts his own shot, so they had an offensive flow. The bench played well. Nurse obviously wants to get some calls as the series progresses, so that's smart politicking on his part. Yet his team's problem in Game 1 was everyone not named Joel Embiid.

What that game might be indicating is that taking away Embiid as much as possible (and 19 points on 5-15 shooting probably qualifies as the best case scenario) isn't the way to defend the Sixers. The other guys can beat you. Maybe take away Maxey and Toby and force Harden and Embiid into a two-man game that ices the rest of the team.

Yup. Nurse can whine all he likes, but the Raptors probably did as well as they're going to against Embiid defensively, throwing double and triple teams at him all game long. That limited his shooting efficiency, but the issue became that Embiid was often aleady too deep in the lane when they did that, resulting in fouls, or Embiid kicked the ball out after waiting for the man doubling him to get close enough to free up the shooters (and Embiid on the offensive glass). While I'd like to see better than 5-for-15 from the floor, it's probably the smartest I've seen Embiid play when being swarmed like that.

As an aside, I'm not sure what the Raptors were trying to do with VanVleet defensively yesterday. He's isn't bothersome enough to throw anything but fouls at Embiid as a double-team partner and couldn't stay in front of Maxey at all, much less swing back out to effectively contest a three. They'd better figure out what to do with him in a hurry, because as I typed this, Toronto announced they'll likely be without Thaddeus Young, Scottie Barnes, and Gary Trent Jr. for game two.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I’ll take 7 of those please. What a game in Boston.

[M2]

I’ll take 7 of those please. What a game in Boston.

I just got back and saw the final shot. The spin-o-rama Tatum put on the Pylon Formerly Known As Kyrie Irving was epic.

[SteelSD]

I just got back and saw the final shot. The spin-o-rama Tatum put on the Pylon Formerly Known As Kyrie Irving was epic.

Well, in Irving's defense, he was probably too busy preparing his postgame middle finger salute to the crowd to notice Tatum was flying toward the hoop.

I'm trying to figure out if Kyrie has gone full Kanye or if Kanye actually went full Kyrie before Irving got there himeself. If the Nets don't win the finals, I half expect Irving to show up during the trophy ceremony, screaming that he and Durant clearly were the NBA champs.

[Mutaman]

I'd like to think some of that miserable shooting in Milwaukee was due to good defense but i don't know. DeRozan 6-25?

[M2]

I'd like to think some of that miserable shooting in Milwaukee was due to good defense but i don't know. DeRozan 6-25?

I didn't see it, but the box score reads like they played in a dark closet and everybody was allowed to bring a weapon.

[SteelSD]

I'd like to think some of that miserable shooting in Milwaukee was due to good defense but i don't know. DeRozan 6-25?

The only thing DeRozan might be able to say after that performance was, "Well, at least I wasn't Trae Young", who went 1-for-12 from the floor in the Hawks loss to Miami. Young tried a tough-chihuahua act against Jimmy Butler early in the game after a Hawks turnover. The video...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhRaFk3xB54&ab_channel=CatersClips

[M2]

The only thing DeRozan might be able to say after that performance was, "Well, at least I wasn't Trae Young", who went 1-for-12 from the floor in the Hawks loss to Miami. Young tried a tough-chihuahua act against Jimmy Butler early in the game after a Hawks turnover. The video...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhRaFk3xB54&ab_channel=CatersClips

Butler absolutely nullified Trae. Somebody should get ahold of the floor mic recordings from these games to transcribe the trash talking that's going to take place between those two.

[SteelSD]

Butler absolutely nullified Trae. Somebody should get ahold of the floor mic recordings from these games to transcribe the trash talking that's going to take place between those two.

That's fine as long as folks understand that the audio will likely only be available on pornhub.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Well, in Irving's defense, he was probably too busy preparing his postgame middle finger salute to the crowd to notice Tatum was flying toward the hoop.

I'm trying to figure out if Kyrie has gone full Kanye or if Kanye actually went full Kyrie before Irving got there himeself. If the Nets don't win the finals, I half expect Irving to show up during the trophy ceremony, screaming that he and Durant clearly were the NBA champs.

I'm here for Kyrie going full-on villain.

He's got all the classic villain markers you could ask for:

1. He comes from a group well known for their arrogance (Dukies).
2. He didn't graduate from that program (the first indication he's a "quitter").
3. He lucked into working with the greatest player of his generation-- and complained about not getting enough touches.
4. He won, but wasn't a gracious winner.
5. He lost on the big stage, but wasn't a gracious loser.
6. He tried to bandwagon a championship stable to win the belts.
7. He said some crazy things, then walked them back.
8. He said some more crazy things.
9. He chose not to follow the rules others have to, largely because he can.
10. He escaped "punishment" because of talent and riches.

Pretty sure I saw this episode of Raw is War when I was 19. Kyrie is Randy Orton.

[dubc47834]

I'm here for Kyrie going full-on villain.

He's got all the classic villain markers you could ask for:

1. He comes from a group well known for their arrogance (Dukies).
2. He didn't graduate from that program (the first indication he's a "quitter").
3. He lucked into working with the greatest player of his generation-- and complained about not getting enough touches.
4. He won, but wasn't a gracious winner.
5. He lost on the big stage, but wasn't a gracious loser.
6. He tried to bandwagon a championship stable to win the belts.
7. He said some crazy things, then walked them back.
8. He said some more crazy things.
9. He chose not to follow the rules others have to, largely because he can.
10. He escaped "punishment" because of talent and riches.

Pretty sure I saw this episode of Raw is War when I was 19. Kyrie is Randy Orton.

This comp is spot on...well done!

[15fan]

Butler absolutely nullified Trae. Somebody should get ahold of the floor mic recordings from these games to transcribe the trash talking that's going to take place between those two.

Rotten day for Trae. Good to see Collins back on floor.

Also: Duncan Robinson 8-9 on 3s??? In 23 minutes? He can play another decade in the League and he’ll never have another game like that from deep.

[M2]

I'm here for Kyrie going full-on villain.

He's got all the classic villain markers you could ask for:

1. He comes from a group well known for their arrogance (Dukies).
2. He didn't graduate from that program (the first indication he's a "quitter").
3. He lucked into working with the greatest player of his generation-- and complained about not getting enough touches.
4. He won, but wasn't a gracious winner.
5. He lost on the big stage, but wasn't a gracious loser.
6. He tried to bandwagon a championship stable to win the belts.
7. He said some crazy things, then walked them back.
8. He said some more crazy things.
9. He chose not to follow the rules others have to, largely because he can.
10. He escaped "punishment" because of talent and riches.

Pretty sure I saw this episode of Raw is War when I was 19. Kyrie is Randy Orton.

And in this most recent game he thought he hit the dagger 3, then screwed up his team's final possession trying to play hero ball, and ended up getting scorched for the winning bucket. That is classic heel work right there.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Rotten day for Trae. Good to see Collins back on floor.

Also: Duncan Robinson 8-9 on 3s??? In 23 minutes? He can play another decade in the League and he’ll never have another game like that from deep.

If the Hawks continue to let him have good looks, he just might do it again this series.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uo4eE4IZpvY

Bogdan Bogdanovic can't guard him. Nor can Tomothe Luwawu-Cabarrot. Were I Hawk coach Nate McMillan, I'd consider putting De'Andre Hunter on him and Bogie on Butler. Bogdanovic is mean and fiesty enough to maybe bully Butler a bit, while Hunter won't have to worry about getting abused on post-ups (as he was against Butler). I'd also consider Danilo Gallinari (who's used to Robinson's European-style perimeter movement) or Delon Wright (who's lanky and quick enough to beat Robinson to his spots).

But that's the problem in playing the Heat. All of them are relative matchup problems. IMO, the Heat are for real and could be an issue for any team left. They match up well with Philadelphia, Boston (especially), Brooklyn, and are close(ish) to Milwaukee.

[goreds2]

Monday, April 18
3 Games

7:30 PM ET
TNT
LOCAL TV
NBC Sports PhiladelphiaTSN
RADIO
ESPN Radio97.5 The FanaticSportsnet 590
Toronto Raptors
Philadelphia 76ers
Game 2: PHI leads series 1-0


8:30 PM ET
NBA TV
LOCAL TV
Bally Sports SW-DALATTSN-RM
RADIO
97.1 FM / S: 99.1 FMKZNS / S: KTUB
Utah Jazz
Dallas Mavericks
Game 2: UTA leads series 1-0


10:00 PM ET
TNT
LOCAL TV
NBC Sports Bay AreaAltitude
RADIO
95.7 The GameKKSE 92.5FM
Denver Nuggets
Golden State Warriors
Game 2: GSW leads series 1-0

[SteelSD]

I'm here for Kyrie going full-on villain.

He's got all the classic villain markers you could ask for:

1. He comes from a group well known for their arrogance (Dukies).
2. He didn't graduate from that program (the first indication he's a "quitter").
3. He lucked into working with the greatest player of his generation-- and complained about not getting enough touches.
4. He won, but wasn't a gracious winner.
5. He lost on the big stage, but wasn't a gracious loser.
6. He tried to bandwagon a championship stable to win the belts.
7. He said some crazy things, then walked them back.
8. He said some more crazy things.
9. He chose not to follow the rules others have to, largely because he can.
10. He escaped "punishment" because of talent and riches.

Pretty sure I saw this episode of Raw is War when I was 19. Kyrie is Randy Orton.

If only Irving's heel turn could have been broadcast like they do in wrestling, ratings would have been huge. Problem is that it was probably only captured on ultrasound.

[Bourgeois Zee]

If only Irving's heel turn could have been broadcast like they do in wrestling, ratings would have been huge. Problem is that it was probably only captured on ultrasound.

(I see what you did there.)

I'm imagining an 80s-era promo with Grayson Allen (complete with tennis racket) and Coach K as his co-managers.

All three of them crowd around Mean Gene Okerlund, who glances first at Kyrie, then at Allen (rolls his eyes) then at Coach K (bigger eye roll), then meaningfully at the camera.

Kyrie stares down at Mean Gene, and whispers, “Nobody is gonna hijack my voice. Nobody is gonna take the power away from me that I have for speaking on these things. Don’t believe that I’m retiring. Don’t believe that I’m gonna give up this game for a vaccine mandate or staying unvaccinated. Don’t believe any of that s---, man. Be aware of what’s being said before I even get a chance to be on the podium and speak for myself.”

He then just walks away.

Mean Gene stares after him. He looks at Grayson Allen, then at Coach K. Allen kicks Okerlund in the shin and tries-- unsuccessfully-- to trip him on the way out of the studio. (Mean Gene wasn't born yesterday.) Coach K begins to cry, then curses out a Girl Scout trying to sell him cookies on the way out the door.

Kyrie buys all the cookies with a ten thousand dollar bill, then crushes them all beneath his heel while screaming about a flat earth.

[SteelSD]

(I see what you did there.)

I'm imagining an 80s-era promo with Grayson Allen (complete with tennis racket) and Coach K as his co-managers.

All three of them crowd around Mean Gene Okerlund, who glances first at Kyrie, then at Allen (rolls his eyes) then at Coach K (bigger eye roll), then meaningfully at the camera.

Kyrie stares down at Mean Gene, and whispers, “Nobody is gonna hijack my voice. Nobody is gonna take the power away from me that I have for speaking on these things. Don’t believe that I’m retiring. Don’t believe that I’m gonna give up this game for a vaccine mandate or staying unvaccinated. Don’t believe any of that s---, man. Be aware of what’s being said before I even get a chance to be on the podium and speak for myself.”

He then just walks away.

Mean Gene stares after him. He looks at Grayson Allen, then at Coach K. Allen kicks Okerlund in the shin and tries-- unsuccessfully-- to trip him on the way out of the studio. (Mean Gene wasn't born yesterday.) Coach K begins to cry, then curses out a Girl Scout trying to sell him cookies on the way out the door.

Kyrie buys all the cookies with a ten thousand dollar bill, then crushes them all beneath his heel while screaming about a flat earth.

I'll buy that, but only if Captain Lou Albano was somehow involved on Kyrie's side, because Irving seems like someone Albano would have connected with.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Luka is out for Game 2.

[goreds2]

Embiid 19 points first qtr. Raptors have adjusted thus far in shutting down Maxey.

[Kingspoint]

Would be nice to see if the Sixers could win a game not handed to them by the refs.

[SteelSD]

Embiid 19 points first qtr. Raptors have adjusted thus far in shutting down Maxey.

Just as you said that, he went off for 11 points. Seems like the Raptors came out thinking they could just hack away and play tough. Unfortunately, that's not their game, they're not the Bucks or the Celtics, so they just look really amateurish and out of control.

And right now Gary Trent Jr. looks like a corpse. I get that Toronto really wants to win a road game, but that guy shouldn't be on the court right now.

And Bball Paul didn't put up any stats (except two fouls) in his six-minute run while giving Embiid a rest. But he looked great on switches and posted a +12.

[M2]

Embiid 19 points first qtr. Raptors have adjusted thus far in shutting down Maxey.

Toronto has a balloon problem. Push on one part of it, it pops up somewhere else. Slow Maxey down and Embiid pounces. Philly's shooting 57% overall and 53% from 3. Unless these guys start bricking, it's too much firepower for the Raps to defend.

[M2]

Would be nice to see if the Sixers could win a game not handed to them by the refs.

That's your takeaway from this game? Toronto's completely overwhelmed out there.

[Betterread]

Congratulations Marcus Smart on winninng DPOY. And he looked good shooting the ball in game 1.

[M2]

Congratulations Marcus Smart on winninng DPOY. And he looked good shooting the ball in game 1.

I'm the idiot who spent the early part of the season thinking Boston ought to trade him.

[goreds2]

Nice win by Philly. Wish Embiid could have sat most of the 4th qtr but oh well. Will take the win and 2-0 game lead.

[M2]

Jalen Brunson with a 41-8-5 night. Back up the Brink's truck.

[Betterread]

Would be nice to see if the Sixers could win a game not handed to them by the refs.

You could say the same thing about Toronto. They hack constantly, and in some games the refs allow it, and they win. Fred Van Vleet is the main offender. If he can’t get away with hacking away, he can’t guard anyone. I can’t stand that guy. Makes me root against the Raptors.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Jalen Brunson with a 41-8-5 night. Back up the Brink's truck.

Utah has turned making league average guys looks like all NBA guys into a freaking art.

[M2]

The Warriors might have a death lineup with Steph-Poole-Klay-Wiggins-Dray.

[M2]

You could say the same thing about Toronto. They hack constantly, and in some games the refs allow it, and they win. Fred Van Vleet is the main offender. If he can’t get away with hacking away, he can’t guard anyone. I can’t stand that guy. Makes me root against the Raptors.

I like FVV, but you are correct that Toronto does everything the refs allow.

[M2]

Utah has turned making league average guys looks like all NBA guys into a freaking art.

Has splitting the first two road games of a playoff series ever felt like more like impending doom than it does for Utah? They had the chance to go 2-0 on the road while Dallas was without Luka. This was Utah's chance to erect a bulwark in case Luka returns in the next game. Now it's a best-of-5.

[KoryMac5]

Utah has turned making league average guys looks like all NBA guys into a freaking art.

I get what you are saying but Brunson is not league average he was terribly underutilized by Carlisle and is set to make probably around 20-25 mil per season his next contract. 41 pts though for him was superhuman...Kleber was definitely hoisted from below league average though going 8 for 11 from 3.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Has splitting the first two road games of a playoff series ever felt like more like impending doom than it does for Utah? They had the chance to go 2-0 on the road while Dallas was without Luka. This was Utah's chance to erect a bulwark in case Luka returns in the next game. Now it's a best-of-5.

Yeah it’s annoying. This is the second year in a row Utah has gotten extraordinary injury luck in the playoffs, only to get 3 pointed to death by a less talented team.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I get what you are saying but Brunson is not league average he was terribly underutilized by Carlisle and is set to make probably around 20-25 mil per season his next contract. 41 pts though for him was superhuman...Kleber was definitely hoisted from below league average though going 8 for 11 from 3.

Yeah the Kleber part is just…whatever.

Brunson is definitely good, but I’m pretty sure we can come up with 15-20 guards that you’d take before him.

[KoryMac5]

Yeah the Kleber part is just…whatever.

Brunson is definitely good, but I’m pretty sure we can come up with 15-20 guards that you’d take before him.

Absolutely but those 15 or 20 are stars...Brunson is a good smart player who has really improved under Kidd. Carlisle suffocated him...

Lost in his game last night 0 turnovers...The Knicks and Detroit will definitely overpay for his services...I could see a sign and trade happening.

As far as the series goes Doncic looks to be out again on Thursday...

[BuckeyeRed27]

Absolutely but those 15 or 20 are stars...Brunson is a good smart player who has really improved under Kidd. Carlisle suffocated him...

Lost in his game last night 0 turnovers...The Knicks and Detroit will definitely overpay for his services...I could see a sign and trade happening.

As far as the series goes Doncic looks to be out again on Thursday...

Yeah calf injuries are brutal. If he comes back, he’s still gonna be limited. But the longer Utah messes around…these first round series take like a month it seems.

[dubc47834]

That's your takeaway from this game? Toronto's completely overwhelmed out there.

Yeah...I guess Portland couldn't buy the refs all year, so they moved over to Philly!

[M2]

Here I'm thinking Miami lacks an ace and then Jimmy Butler goes off for 45.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Here I'm thinking Miami lacks an ace and then Jimmy Butler goes off for 45.

Booker might have that some time in the 3rd quarter.

[Kingspoint]

Booker might have that some time in the 3rd quarter.

...and be behind in the team score.

[Kingspoint]

That's your takeaway from this game? Toronto's completely overwhelmed out there.

"this game"?

No. Every Philly game since Harden arrived.

[M2]

"this game"?

No. Every Philly game since Harden arrived.

So you didn't realize what was going to happen when the 5th most fouled player in the NBA joined the most fouled player in the NBA?

[SteelSD]

"this game"?

No. Every Philly game since Harden arrived.

Don't you have some player smiles profiles to go study to prepare for Portland's draft lottery party, or something else that's more productive than trolling the NBA thread while folks with teams actually IN the playoffs talk about the games?

[SteelSD]

As much fun as it was the watch the first Minnesota/Memphis tilt, that's exactly how non-fun it was to watch the second one. Hopefully Morant is ok after taking an inadvertent knee to his thigh. I was a bit worried as the Grizzlies pulled away that things would get well past the point of chippy. Way too many turnovers from the T-wolves, and there's really no way for them to compete if Towns gets off only seven shots.

[Kingspoint]

Great win for the Pelicans!

Completely expected even after Booker (who plays worse Defense than Steph Curry) had 31 in the 1st Half.

[Kingspoint]

Don't you have some player smiles profiles to go study to prepare for Portland's draft lottery party, or something else that's more productive than trolling the NBA thread while folks with teams actually IN the playoffs talk about the games?

Expected response from a Steelers' fan who understands nothing about officials influencing games.

Definitely rooting for C.J. and the Pelicans (though I was rooting for Batum and RoCo (and for Powell not to play) when they faced the Clippers so the Blazers could get their 1st Rd pick, but it wasn't meant to be. Blazers will just have to get back to the Western Conference Finals next season, which they will, with only the additions of Keegan Murray and Jeremi Grant as core pieces to join Nurk, Winslow, Hart, Simons, Dame and Little).

[Kingspoint]

As much fun as it was the watch the first Minnesota/Memphis tilt, that's exactly how non-fun it was to watch the second one. Hopefully Morant is ok after taking an inadvertent knee to his thigh. I was a bit worried as the Grizzlies pulled away that things would get well past the point of chippy. Way too many turnovers from the T-wolves, and there's really no way for them to compete if Towns gets off only seven shots.

MEM is bigger than Morant. They can win any game no matter who puts on their uniform.

That said, this MIN team has brought the franchise into a new era. Can they win this series? Not a chance. But, they will win at least another game before bowing out in the 1st Rd and setting the franchise up for new goals for next season. They already exceeded this year's goals.

[Betterread]

Twolves did not play with the focus they had in the two previous games. Missed a lot of open shots.
Conversely, Memphis defended much better, the switching was pretty much seamless. They shot it well. When a bricklayer like JJJ goes 4-7 from three point range, it’s not your night.
Coach was visibly disgusted in the third Q, which I have not seen in a while. Towns and Dlo have to not suck, which they did tonight, and they need to show some “grinta” which they did not show tonight.

[SteelSD]

Expected response from a Steelers' fan who understands nothing about officials influencing games.

Definitely rooting for C.J. and the Pelicans (though I was rooting for Batum and RoCo (and for Powell not to play) when they faced the Clippers so the Blazers could get their 1st Rd pick, but it wasn't meant to be. Blazers will just have to get back to the Western Conference Finals next season, which they will, with only the additions of Keegan Murray and Jeremi Grant as core pieces to join Nurk, Winslow, Hart, Simons, Dame and Little).

Ah, the magic beans plan.

Portland has no draft capital to trade and Blazers have nothing on their roster that they can afford to lose in a deal that might entice the Pistons to trade Grant.

And given that Lillard has recently stated that he wouldn't oppose being traded, it smells like it's only a matter of time.

[dubc47834]

Great win for the Pelicans!

Completely expected even after Booker (who plays worse Defense than Steph Curry) had 31 in the 1st Half.

Who expected the Pels to win last night...nobody that I heard!

[dubc47834]

Expected response from a Steelers' fan who understands nothing about officials influencing games.

Definitely rooting for C.J. and the Pelicans (though I was rooting for Batum and RoCo (and for Powell not to play) when they faced the Clippers so the Blazers could get their 1st Rd pick, but it wasn't meant to be. Blazers will just have to get back to the Western Conference Finals next season, which they will, with only the additions of Keegan Murray and Jeremi Grant as core pieces to join Nurk, Winslow, Hart, Simons, Dame and Little).

I told you before this season started, and I'll tell you before this one ends...THE BLAZERS ARE NOT MAKING THE WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS...PERIOD! Let me give you another hot take...they'll never make it back to the Western Conference Finals during Dame's time in Portland...book it!!!

[M2]

Blazers will just have to get back to the Western Conference Finals next season, which they will, with only the additions of Keegan Murray and Jeremi Grant as core pieces to join Nurk, Winslow, Hart, Simons, Dame and Little).

Murray will be a nice draft pick if they get him. Lots of interesting wings on the board where the Blazers are picking and they desperately need one. Have for years. Though you're huffing glue on the WCF part. They're nowhere close. Even before they went full tank they were getting pasted. You just listed Justise Winslow like he's a good player. He's not. They should not pay Nurkic. He's a below average center who needs to come off the court against smaller, high tempo lineups. For instance, is he better than Jakob Poetl, who's making $9.4M next year? I would argue he isn't because Poetl's a superior rim protector. But it looks like Portland's going to pay Nurk and not have much money for anything else, especially once you factor in the payday Simons is about to get.

Grant is a pipe dream unless they're parting with their draft pick or Simons. I suspect the bigger topic in Portland this summer will be whether another team can dislodge Dame. I fully expect the Lakers to put Russ and three future #1s (2027, 2029 and they might be able to do something conditional around their 2025 pick, which the Pels could take instead of their 2024 pick) on the table. Plenty of others will be knocking too.

[M2]

MEM is bigger than Morant. They can win any game no matter who puts on their uniform.

That said, this MIN team has brought the franchise into a new era. Can they win this series? Not a chance. But, they will win at least another game before bowing out in the 1st Rd and setting the franchise up for new goals for next season. They already exceeded this year's goals.

Without Morant I question whether Memphis can win a series. A game or two without him they can survive, but they'll be a far lesser team if he's gone. Star power matters in the playoffs. Brooks, Bane and JJJ strike me as not up to specifications on being a leading man.

[M2]

We never really kicked around what Cleveland and the Clippers might do next year when they got eliminated. Both have the potential to vault up the standings next season. Curious to see what ideas others have on them.

For Cleveland, it seems like a scoring wing (either a guard or a forward) is the big thing. Love and LeVert have expiring deals. Could they get in on Bradley Beal? The Clippers will have their full roster. I could see them keeping their powder dry and looking to move at the deadline instead. Their goal is finals or bust, so they might figure good health and then a killer deadline move is their best course of action.

[BuckeyeRed27]

We never really kicked around what Cleveland and the Clippers might do next year when they got eliminated. Both have the potential to vault up the standings next season. Curious to see what ideas others have on them.

For Cleveland, it seems like a scoring wing (either a guard or a forward) is the big thing. Love and LeVert have expiring deals. Could they get in on Bradley Beal? The Clippers will have their full roster. I could see them keeping their powder dry and looking to move at the deadline instead. Their goal is finals or bust, so they might figure good health and then a killer deadline move is their best course of action.

Cleveland has the assets to make a splash if they want to. They have Sexton, they’ll have a mid first round pick and they have a big expiring in Love.

Probably too early to see who targets are because we have to see who blows up in the playoffs, but I don’t see any way they just run it back and hope that being healthy and adding Sexton will be enough.

[M2]

Cleveland has the assets to make a splash if they want to. They have Sexton, they’ll have a mid first round pick and they have a big expiring in Love.

Probably too early to see who targets are because we have to see who blows up in the playoffs, but I don’t see any way they just run it back and hope that being healthy and adding Sexton will be enough.

Agreed they'll be making a move. Markkanen is a prime suspect for a trade too. Random list of players who'd be a salary fit for Love + Sexton (sign-and-trade, cap hold currently at $19M):

Beal & KCP
Dame
Norman Powell, Marcus Morris & Luke Kennard
Michael Porter and Will Barton
Malcolm Brogdon & Buddy Hield
Julius Randle & Evan Fournier

...and because it would be high intrigue - Kyrie Irving on a re-worked deal.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Agreed they'll be making a move. Markkanen is a prime suspect for a trade too. Random list of players who'd be a salary fit for Love + Sexton (sign-and-trade, cap hold currently at $19M):

Beal & KCP
Dame
Norman Powell, Marcus Morris & Luke Kennard
Michael Porter and Will Barton
Malcolm Brogdon & Buddy Hield
Julius Randle & Evan Fournier

...and because it would be high intrigue - Kyrie Irving on a re-worked deal.

Oh god, please no Kyrie. Same trade with Lebron….I’m listening.

[M2]

Oh god, please no Kyrie. Same trade with Lebron….I’m listening.

I didn't say those were all good ideas. My general take is they should play a bigger guard with Garland. A Jaylen Brown type would be amazing. They want Okoro to be that guy, but his offensive chops are limited.

However, the circus aspect to Kyrie would be spectacular for us neutrals. That's high drama.

Another thing to keep in mind with Cleveland is they're spectacular with ping pong balls. Would anybody be stunned if they ended up in the top 4? And is there a better Jaden Ivey fit?

[Betterread]

We never really kicked around what Cleveland and the Clippers might do next year when they got eliminated. Both have the potential to vault up the standings next season. Curious to see what ideas others have on them.

For Cleveland, it seems like a scoring wing (either a guard or a forward) is the big thing. Love and LeVert have expiring deals. Could they get in on Bradley Beal? The Clippers will have their full roster. I could see them keeping their powder dry and looking to move at the deadline instead. Their goal is finals or bust, so they might figure good health and then a killer deadline move is their best course of action.
I think Cleveland needs another creative scorer to help Garland out. I think they can take a chance with some young talented wing who might only need more playing time to score a lot (Fultz, Pritchard, Kenyon Marion Jr, Josh Cristopher, Jaylen Nowell, Terrance Mann).

[M2]

I think Cleveland needs another creative scorer to help Garland out. I think they can take a chance with some young talented wing who might only need more playing time to score a lot (Fultz, Pritchard, Kenyon Marion Jr, Josh Cristopher, Jaylen Nowell, Terrance Mann).

I agree about going young for a creative scorer, outside of Mann none of those guys would be my pick. I would stay away from Fultz as if my life depended on it (no shooting range). Maybe Christopher if you believe his shot will develop. So, Sexton and some pocket change (e.g. Dylan Windler) for Christopher and Eric Gordon?

[BuckeyeRed27]

Love and Sexton for Tobias Harris?

[M2]

Love and Sexton for Tobias Harris?

The knock-on trade possibilities there are fascinating. Like, Philly's just passing Sexton along for something else, right? And Markkanen's 100% getting dealt in that scenario.

[BuckeyeRed27]

The knock-on trade possibilities there are fascinating. Like, Philly's just passing Sexton along for something else, right? And Markkanen's 100% getting dealt in that scenario.

Maybe. Garland, Harris, Makkanen, Mobley, Allen with Okoro, Lavert and Rubio as the rotation guys?

I also think Utah is gonna do stuff. A Gobert for Allen and Sexton trade is fun to kick around too.

[SteelSD]

The knock-on trade possibilities there are fascinating. Like, Philly's just passing Sexton along for something else, right? And Markkanen's 100% getting dealt in that scenario.

Given that Sexton is an RFA, I doubt that Philly would be willing (or able) to absorb both salaries. I'm all for dealing Tobias Harris, but if they do that, they need pieces that will improve their team athleticism, not reduce it (see: Love, Kevin).

[M2]

Given that Sexton is an RFA, I doubt that Philly would be willing (or able) to absorb both salaries. I'm all for dealing Tobias Harris, but if they do that, they need pieces that will improve their team athleticism, not reduce it (see: Love, Kevin).

I was assuming Philly would be moving Sexton to get approximately $19M worth of bouncy forwards. Don't see any room for him given their current backcourt. Love would just be an expensive backup big who allows them to get off the Harris contract a year early, though (and this may be the first time these words have been typed) the Harris contract isn't large enough to make the money work.

[goreds2]

Gary Trent Jr. is playing well against the 76ers thus far. Darn it!!

[M2]

Did Ime Udoka play some Erasure for the Celtics before the 4th quarter? Because they nullified the Nets.

Also, watching the Bucks-Bulls game and I just can't get behind Coby White's haircut.

[goreds2]

Overtime In Toronto.

[M2]

Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown may have just turned Smart's left hand into a quasi-religious object in Boston - https://twitter.com/NBCSCeltics/status/1516955741126549504.

[M2]

Embiid just daggered the Raptors - inbounds with 0.9 left on the shot clock and he buried a game-winning three.

[Kingspoint]

Well, that's justice for the bad call on Embiid's block 25 seconds earlier.

[Betterread]

Jaylen Brown was fantastic in the fourth quarter for Boston. He was the only player who could operate under the corrosive defensive pressure being played by both teams. Why is one Marcus Smart basket, when the game was already decided, the highlight?

[SteelSD]

On Monday night, Joel Embiid respectfully asked Nick Nurse to shut up.

Tonight, Joel Embiid wasn't asking.

[M2]

Jaylen Brown was fantastic in the fourth quarter for Boston. He was the only player who could operate under the corrosive defensive pressure being played by both teams. Why is one Marcus Smart basket, when the game was already decided, the highlight?

Because his left hand instantly became a religious symbol. I expect local pardoners to be selling holy objects touched by the left hand of Marcus Smart. As far as the basketball game is concerned, wholly irrelevant. As far as sports-related mysticism, it's like Fatima.

[Betterread]

Watching the TV show winning time and Magic and the Showtime Lakers walk into Boston Garden while the louvin brothers song “satan is Real” is playing. Entertainment Zen! Hilarious and totally righteous at the same time.

[Betterread]

Because his left hand instantly became a religious symbol. I expect local pardoners to be selling holy objects touched by the left hand of Marcus Smart. As far as the basketball game is concerned, wholly irrelevant. As far as sports-related mysticism, it's like Fatima.

The Smart version of “What if the breath that kindled those grim fires, / Awaked, should blow them into sevenfold rage, / And plunge us in the flames; or from above / Should intermitted vengeance arm again / His red right hand to plague us?” (The vengeful hand of god - john Milton Paradise Lost)?

[RiverRat13]

I understand why we have review, but there was zero need to look at Embiid's shot. If had review 40 years ago, we wouldn't have the image of Jim Valvano running around looking for someone to hug.

/random rant

[KoryMac5]

Doncic out tonight should return game 4…

[Big Red Smokey]

Ja ain't chirping so far tonight. Great start Minny

[Kingspoint]

Because his left hand instantly became a religious symbol. I expect local pardoners to be selling holy objects touched by the left hand of Marcus Smart. As far as the basketball game is concerned, wholly irrelevant. As far as sports-related mysticism, it's like Fatima.

He only made 3 baskets all night long. He was probably shocked to see that it still worked.

[Kingspoint]

What a halftime response by MIN!

I think they have the best fans in the NBA right now.

[Kingspoint]

MIN hasn't made a FG from the 1:04 mark of the 3rd Qtr. There's 6:44 left in the 4th. TO MIN.

Ja Morant left the game to get a rest. This should give MIN an opportunity. Both big men with 5 fouls, Jaren Jackson and Towns.

Beverly has been a demon in the 4th, but it hasn't resulted into any points for MIN.

[membengal]

Ja ain't chirping so far tonight. Great start Minny

how'd that end up???

Eff yes, Grizz.

[Mutaman]

I think they have the best fans in the NBA right now.

Are we talking about the same people who are Viking fans?

[membengal]

Peter Edmiston
@peteredmiston
Grizzlies outscored the Timberwolves 50-16 in the last 15 minutes. On the road. With key guys playing poorly. Insane.

[membengal]

Gregg Rosenthal
@greggrosenthal
Grizz finished the game on a 42-12 run my god

[M2]

That MEM-MIN game went through some of the wildest swings ever.

[membengal]

That MEM-MIN game went through some of the wildest swings ever.

I am stunned in all the best ways.

[Kingspoint]

Are we talking about the same people who are Viking fans?

I don't think so.

- - - Updated - - -




That's Grizzlie basketball. They can really put the hammer down in the 4th Quarter when it matters most.

[Betterread]

Bad loss for the Twolves. Wasted two 20 point leads. Jenkins outcoached Finch. Towns is done in Minny. Fans have lost patience with his excuses. I am done with him. Teams mess with him over and over because he can’t adjust. He is super talented but also really dumb. Bane was POG. He hit a lot of contested threes the whole game. Showed he can be a team centerpiece.
Jah is good but also good at flopping/fakery. I have no idea what a charge is anymore and no idea when an elbow to the face is a tech.
The nba refereeing is at an all time low. The association deserves all the deception and simulation every good team is throwing out there (no good teams are good unless they have mastered the flopping/fakery). Twolves must learn to play this way. They don’t know how right now, and they won’t win without that ability.
In this environment, I think it’s Memphis v Philly in the finals. With at least 80+ free throws total game after game.

[M2]

Towns is done in Minny.

He definitely needs to show proof of life and get his team back into this series, or I suspect you're 100% correct.

[Kingspoint]

Bad loss for the Twolves. Wasted two 20 point leads. Jenkins outcoached Finch. Towns is done in Minny. Fans have lost patience with his excuses. I am done with him. Teams mess with him over and over because he can’t adjust. He is super talented but also really dumb. Bane was POG. He hit a lot of contested threes the whole game. Showed he can be a team centerpiece.
Jah is good but also good at flopping/fakery. I have no idea what a charge is anymore and no idea when an elbow to the face is a tech.
The nba refereeing is at an all time low. The association deserves all the deception and simulation every good team is throwing out there (no good teams are good unless they have mastered the flopping/fakery). Twolves must learn to play this way. They don’t know how right now, and they won’t win without that ability.
In this environment, I think it’s Memphis v Philly in the finals. With at least 80+ free throws total game after game.

This MIN team has a lot of heart and should win the next game.

[membengal]

Shawn Coleman
@StatsSAC
·
45m
This is only the 8th time a team has won a playoff game when being down by 16 or more points entering the 4th quarter in NBA Playoffs history.

This is only the 6th time a team has outscored an opponent by 25+points in a 4th quarter in NBA Playoffs history.

[Betterread]

This MIN team has a lot of heart and should win the next game.
I truly appreciate the kind words.

[M2]

I know Poole, Steph and Klay all scored 80 between them, but Draymond Green constantly affects the game without scoring much. I think he's the most unique player I've ever seen. There's not even a category for what he does.

[Kingspoint]

Aaron Gordon could have been replaced by anyone since the Nuggets acquired him. He does nothing for them when it comes to stepping up his game in important series, moments, 4th Quarters, or any other impactful moments.

This was the first time he scored in double-figures in his last six playoff games. That's disgusting.

[KoryMac5]

Dallas with a huge win in Utah

1st win in Utah since 2016.

The Knicks and Pistons are getting the Brinks truck ready for Brunson. 31 pts 5 assists and just 1 turnover.

[Boston Red]

Overall, I think Quinn Snyder has done a great job, but if the Jazz lose this series I think it will be time for Quinn and the Jazz to part ways. The Jazz underperformed in the regular season, and this series has pretty much been a disaster to date. Combine that with the ridiculous end to last year's playoff series against the Clips and pretty limited postseason success overall in the Mitchell/Gobert era, and it's time for some significant changes.

By the way, I was in the car for the entire second half (ironically driving to Dallas), and the Jazz radio broadcast is just awful. The play by play guy seemed to forget at times that his audience couldn't actually see the game. Very spotty whether he would actually descibe the action. Half the time he wouldn't bother to say if FTs went in. Brutal to listen to. So actually kind of appropriate given the Jazz's level of play!

[BuckeyeRed27]

Overall, I think Quinn Snyder has done a great job, but if the Jazz lose this series I think it will be time for Quinn and the Jazz to part ways. The Jazz underperformed in the regular season, and this series has pretty much been a disaster to date. Combine that with the ridiculous end to last year's playoff series against the Clips and pretty limited postseason success overall in the Mitchell/Gobert era, and it's time for some significant changes.

By the way, I was in the car for the entire second half (ironically driving to Dallas), and the Jazz radio broadcast is just awful. The play by play guy seemed to forget at times that his audience couldn't actually see the game. Very spotty whether he would actually descibe the action. Half the time he wouldn't bother to say if FTs went in. Brutal to listen to. So actually kind of appropriate given the Jazz's level of play!

I also like Quinn, but at some point this year the league figured out the Jazz and they have not adjusted. If this flame out continues I think you blow the whole thing up. Maybe keep Mitchell and build around, but no one is untouchable.

[M2]

Aaron Gordon could have been replaced by anyone since the Nuggets acquired him. He does nothing for them when it comes to stepping up his game in important series, moments, 4th Quarters, or any other impactful moments.

This was the first time he scored in double-figures in his last six playoff games. That's disgusting.

His job is to be an energy guy in the dunker's spot and as the roll guy. Problem is they don't have Murray and Porter, so Gordon's playing off the wing. Last season when those two were healthy he looked great in a clearly defined role. You might remember him giving Portland all kinds of problems. Now he's being asked to do a bunch of tricks that aren't in his bag. When Denver gets its full team he can get back to being the #4 guy.

[M2]

I also like Quinn, but at some point this year the league figured out the Jazz and they have not adjusted. If this flame out continues I think you blow the whole thing up. Maybe keep Mitchell and build around, but no one is untouchable.

If they're blowing it up, might it make more sense to trade Mitchell? For instance, I assume the Knicks would part with every young asset they've got minus RJ and include their lottery pick. Atlanta might do something similar. I would think Spida could be the guy who lets them restock the shelves.

[Chip R]

I've heard some complaints from my peeps back in Iowa that the MIN game was blacked out there on NBA TV. Same from Dallas and Utah. Blacked out playoff games? I don't think MLB would even do that. I don't think MLB's blackout policy is the one the NBA wants to emulate.

[Kingspoint]

His job is to be an energy guy in the dunker's spot and as the roll guy. Problem is they don't have Murray and Porter, so Gordon's playing off the wing. Last season when those two were healthy he looked great in a clearly defined role. You might remember him giving Portland all kinds of problems. Now he's being asked to do a bunch of tricks that aren't in his bag. When Denver gets its full team he can get back to being the #4 guy.


He was never meant to be an energy guy. They could have resigned Jeremi Grant, but they let him go because they thought Gordon could produce more wins and be a #2 scorer if needed because of injuries/foul trouble to Murray. He was supposed to be the #3, not Porter. His game was already disintegrating in Orlando, and it completely disappeared in Denver. He never had a skillset other than to be able to jump really high, and while that was disappearing, other aspects to his game should have been improving. But, it just wasn't there. He doesn't make the right play at the right time and doesn't do what's needed to win.

Some players' names are much bigger than their game (as far as producing wins and making those around you better). He's always been among the leaders in that category.

Gordon hasn't even been the 6th best player on the team since he's been in Denver.

[BuckeyeRed27]

If they're blowing it up, might it make more sense to trade Mitchell? For instance, I assume the Knicks would part with every young asset they've got minus RJ and include their lottery pick. Atlanta might do something similar. I would think Spida could be the guy who lets them restock the shelves.

Yeah it might. You could probably do a decent rebuild on the fly around him though. Conley and Bogey are expiring and valuable. Gobert will get something.

Ainge isn’t going to sit on this though.

[SteelSD]

If they're blowing it up, might it make more sense to trade Mitchell? For instance, I assume the Knicks would part with every young asset they've got minus RJ and include their lottery pick. Atlanta might do something similar. I would think Spida could be the guy who lets them restock the shelves.

I think the Jazz would be wise to first figure out what they could get for Gobert and/or Conley. I have to believe there are teams, especially in the East, who'd be interested in Gobert, despite the fact that he's looked near-useless defensively against a Dallas offense that's strung him out by pulling the game to the perimeter. It'd probably require Utah taking back some salary (like a Clint Capela + John Collins trade- the money works), but that's where I'd start.

Or they could include a couple first rounders and angle for something completely crazy like this...

18235

[M2]

He was never meant to be an energy guy. They could have resigned Jeremi Grant, but they let him go because they thought Gordon could produce more wins and be a #2 scorer if needed because of injuries/foul trouble to Murray. He was supposed to be the #3, not Porter. His game was already disintegrating in Orlando, and it completely disappeared in Denver. He never had a skillset other than to be able to jump really high, and while that was disappearing, other aspects to his game should have been improving. But, it just wasn't there. He doesn't make the right play at the right time and doesn't do what's needed to win.

Some players' names are much bigger than their game (as far as producing wins and making those around you better). He's always been among the leaders in that category.

Gordon hasn't even been the 6th best player on the team since he's been in Denver.

Grant left months before they acquired Gordon. They'll be paying Jokic, Murray and Porter far more than they're paying Gordon. Gordon was 5th on the team in shots in 2021 after they acquired him, behind their top 3 and their 6th man, Will Barton. Porter scored almost double Gordon's output with the Nuggets and he'll make $10M more than Gordon next season. Simply put, you're spinning a false narrative.

Gordon's there to give them a presence around the net and to play defense. When they had a full roster, he did that job very well. He's become a much more efficient scorer (.500 eFG during his time in Orlando, .566 with Denver) because his job no longer is to try to be a volume scorer.

[M2]

I think the Jazz would be wise to first figure out what they could get for Gobert and/or Conley. I have to believe there are teams, especially in the East, who'd be interested in Gobert, despite the fact that he's looked near-useless defensively against a Dallas offense that's strung him out by pulling the game to the perimeter. It'd probably require Utah taking back some salary (like a Clint Capela + John Collins trade- the money works), but that's where I'd start.

Or they could include a couple first rounders and angle for something completely crazy like this...

18235

Now that is a big swing.

[M2]

Miami eliminated Trae until the very end of the game. Then he beat them. Sneaky good game for Delon Wright too.

[15fan]

On Sunday 4/24

Inter Miami CF at Atlanta United 1:00 pm

Miami Marlins at Atlanta Braves 1:35 pm

Miami Heat at Atlanta Hawks 7:00 pm

[Kingspoint]

NO/PHO is fun to watch.

[Mutaman]

Huge game by Grayson Allen tonite. Also Bobby with glasses.

[M2]

NO/PHO is fun to watch.

I think Jose Alvarado might become everybody's favorite player.

[M2]

Miami note: Max Strus has stolen Duncan Robinson's minutes.

[Kingspoint]

I think Jose Alvarado might become everybody's favorite player.

Reggie Miller sure loves him.

- - - Updated - - -


Miami note: Max Strus has stolen Duncan Robinson's minutes.

Doesn't take long to get into Spoelstra's doghouse.

[Bourgeois Zee]

28 and 17 for Ayton (plus a three).

Phoenix royally screwed up in not signing him earlier.

That's going to make for some hurt feelings, I suspect.

If I'm OKC, New York, Charlotte, et al, I'm coming up with my best poison pill, all-max contract for the guy.

Especially OKC.

[Kingspoint]

These refs are horrible in the UTA/DAL game.

The announcers have their noses so far stuck up the NBA's butt that they support them, and then New Jersey and Monty McCutcheon isn't giving any credibility at all to the officials.

Doncic is hooking and flopping, call on Bogdanovic. Gobert throws a helluva lead block, jump ball.

Just a bunch of crap.

DAL has the name (Doncic) the NBA wants to sell tickets. UTA has nobody that inspires ticket sales. DAL gets the favortism in this one from the refs and the NBA.

- - - Updated - - -


28 and 17 for Ayton (plus a three).

Phoenix royally screwed up in not signing him earlier.

That's going to make for some hurt feelings, I suspect.

If I'm OKC, New York, Charlotte, et al, I'm coming up with my best poison pill, all-max contract for the guy.

Especially OKC.

Monty Williams is too much loved. Ayton isn't going anywhere.

[Kingspoint]

Mitchell: "Screw YOU, NBA!!!"

[Kingspoint]

Jordan Clarkson should have been the post-game interview. He was easily the MVP of this game.

[KoryMac5]

Utah somehow got to the line 42 times…unreal.

[Mutaman]

Boy if only the Nets were healthy blah, blah, blah.

[M2]

Nets on the verge of getting the broom. It's not Bruce Brown's fault (26-8-3).

[Mutaman]

Not the 2021 KD. Irving had a great first game (offensively) and then decided to call it a year.

[Mutaman]

Maybe Simmons will play in game 4 and turn it all around. Or maybe the Nets can sign an aging superstar tomorrow.

[M2]

Not the 2021 KD. Irving had a great first game (offensively) and then decided to call it a year.

I don't think Kyrie's built up any stamina to play multiple games in a week. And Boston's just hunting him on defense.

[Betterread]

Boston’s defense has been focused, intense and effective. They know Durant and Irving want the ball all the time, so let Bruce Brown do as he pleases. Well-coached team.

[Mutaman]

Couldn't play much better defense on Durant than PJ Tucker did last year and Durant acted like he wasn't there. KD has aged significantly in the last 12 months.

[Betterread]

Twolves win, leading from wire to wire. Very well played game. Both teams defended pretty hard, despite the score, and shot the ball very well. KAT and Ant played well, and Jordan McLaughlin provided 16 points off the bench. Memphis never quit and was in the game to the very end. Desmond Bane was unstoppable (when he got the ball) 8-12 from 3 for 34 points.

[KoryMac5]

These refs are horrible in the UTA/DAL game.

The announcers have their noses so far stuck up the NBA's butt that they support them, and then New Jersey and Monty McCutcheon isn't giving any credibility at all to the officials.

Doncic is hooking and flopping, call on Bogdanovic. Gobert throws a helluva lead block, jump ball.

Just a bunch of crap.

DAL has the name (Doncic) the NBA wants to sell tickets. UTA has nobody that inspires ticket sales. DAL gets the favortism in this one from the refs and the NBA.

- - - Updated - - -



Monty Williams is too much loved. Ayton isn't going anywhere.

Your thoughts on the game are comedy gold...

The NBA wants Doncic to win so bad they put him on the FT line a total of 4 times...

Game 5 should be interesting though as Dallas hacked Gobert in the 4th quarter of this game and he went 3-8 he got bailed out by Dallas falling asleep in the last 30 seconds of the game.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Your thoughts on the game are comedy gold...

The NBA wants Doncic to win so bad they put him on the FT line a total of 4 times...

Game 5 should be interesting though as Dallas hacked Gobert in the 4th quarter of this game and he went 3-8 he got bailed out by Dallas falling asleep in the last 30 seconds of the game.

The refs were pretty bad in that game. They didn’t get involved much in the fourth quarter and down the stretch but I thought they gave Dallas all the 50/50 calls early on.

[M2]

Rando thought on the Boston-Brooklyn series. A year ago the Nets were taking a gentlemen's sweep over the Celtics in the 1st round (kind of let them win game 4 to save face). A year later the Celtics are up 3-0 on the Nets and looking like the vastly superior team. The thing is the Celtics didn't change all that much, they just figured themselves out and, perhaps, grew up a bit. These are the same guys who went to the Eastern Conference Finals twice in a row then totally lost their way for a season and a half. Their big changes were they added Al Horford and handed the PG job to Marcus Smart. I suspect 100% of everybody would have called that a garbage plan had you told it to them a year ago. Now they're a juggernaut.

It's kind of a lesson in self-actualization. They stopped looking for a guy to put them over the top and put it on their players to do it themselves. Obviously, still a long way to go, but the reversal of fortunes with the Nets deserves notice. Makes you wonder which other NBA teams are a lightbulb moment away from being a very dangerous crew (Memphis and Minnesota were similar cases this season).

[KoryMac5]

The refs were pretty bad in that game. They didn’t get involved much in the fourth quarter and down the stretch but I thought they gave Dallas all the 50/50 calls early on.

Utah went to the line 42 times...Dallas went 23 times granted that number for Utah is a bit higher as they hacked Gobert in the 4th...

Utah got plenty of calls and the refs swallowed the whistle at the right time for Mitchell as he elbowed Powell in the chin on his offensive put back that got Utah back within one...

Either way Powelll has to make his FT's and didn't I would expect this series to get chippy real soon as Gobert is starting to boil.

[Kingspoint]

Your thoughts on the game are comedy gold...

The NBA wants Doncic to win so bad they put him on the FT line a total of 4 times...

Game 5 should be interesting though as Dallas hacked Gobert in the 4th quarter of this game and he went 3-8 he got bailed out by Dallas falling asleep in the last 30 seconds of the game.

The art of throwing games by refs are the calls that are not made. Gambling 101.

[M2]

Embiid has a torn ligament in his right thumb. He's going to play through it for as long as they're in the playoffs. Damn shame, though I suspect Embiid will adapt to it and still be a menace.

[Bourgeois Zee]

Warriors can end it tonight. Jokic already has 22 and 6 with 4 minutes left in the 2nd.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Utah went to the line 42 times...Dallas went 23 times granted that number for Utah is a bit higher as they hacked Gobert in the 4th...

Utah got plenty of calls and the refs swallowed the whistle at the right time for Mitchell as he elbowed Powell in the chin on his offensive put back that got Utah back within one...

Either way Powelll has to make his FT's and didn't I would expect this series to get chippy real soon as Gobert is starting to boil.

Free throw disparity is more about style of play than if the refs are calling the game square, so I don’t care about that.

Couple of the Gobert fouls were ridiculous, they missed two traveling calls that led to 5 Dallas points, Luka got away with two offensive fouls that both led to points. There were a few other things. The refs were bad. It’s fine they usually are.

[M2]

Jimmy Butler went off for 36 tonight. He's averaging 30.5 for the series. He's also eating Trae Young (9 points tonight) alive when he's playing defense. I feel like Nate McMillan's game plan should be -

https://c.tenor.com/gb9Qj9IYiDsAAAAC/scott-pilgrim-wallace-wells.gif

[Mutaman]

Giannis has had better games but I doubt he has ever played with more intelligence.

[M2]

Herb Jones is a joy to watch on a basketball court. He covers the whole arena. Somewhere up in the stands he's selling hot dogs during timeouts.

[M2]

Also, Herb Jones and Jose Alvarado do NOT like Chris Paul. They have been pouring salt on the Point God.

[SteelSD]

Embiid has a torn ligament in his right thumb. He's going to play through it for as long as they're in the playoffs. Damn shame, though I suspect Embiid will adapt to it and still be a menace.

MRI shows that it's not worst-case scenario, but he'll have to have surgery after the season. Embiid was visibly bothered by the injury during Saturday's game, and the pain level is constant given the amount of hacking the Raptors do. Hopefully, that's just a first step in him having to learn how to play with it, but it looked like it took most of the first half to get off a normal shot. That being said, I am not thrilled about another postseason compromised by injury for the guy, particularly since Harden is still playing as if his hammy is bothering him.

In other news, Ben Simmons is again having back issues that will sideline him for the Brooklyn/Milwaukee Game 4. I can only imagine that he's now telling the Nets that his debut needs to be pushed back to Game 8 of that series.

[KoryMac5]

I was shocked when Simmons thought he could play...a disc herniation can be really painful and even with an epidural injection would severely limit Simmons.

[M2]

In other news, Ben Simmons is again having back issues that will sideline him for the Brooklyn/Milwaukee Game 4. I can only imagine that he's now telling the Nets that his debut needs to be pushed back to Game 8 of that series.

Kyrie has got to be mad jealous of Simmons finding a way not to play.

[goreds2]

Monday, April 25, 2022


2 Boston @
7 Brooklyn
7:00 pm
TNT
Barclays Center


5 Toronto @
4 Philadelphia
8:00 pm
NBAt
Wells Fargo Center


5 Utah @
4 Dallas
9:30 pm
TNT
American Airlines Center

[SteelSD]

I was shocked when Simmons thought he could play...a disc herniation can be really painful and even with an epidural injection would severely limit Simmons.

I have to give mad props to the Nets medical staff for figuring out how to give an epidural without being able to locate a spine.

[Chip R]

I was shocked when Simmons thought he could play...a disc herniation can be really painful and even with an epidural injection would severely limit Simmons.

No doubt. So why was everyone teasing a return for this round of the playoffs? If his back was so bad, why is he even entertaining coming back? And what exactly has he done to get these back problems? He hasn't played all season.

[M2]

No doubt. So why was everyone teasing a return for this round of the playoffs? If his back was so bad, why is he even entertaining coming back? And what exactly has he done to get these back problems? He hasn't played all season.

Cowboy Bob Orton had a broken arm for three years.

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/FNlOYsRG89k/hqdefault.jpg