NBA 2022-23 Part 3: Big Buck Hunters

[Rojo Rijo]

Pop is going to need to stay around more than a few years. Even Lebron didnt make the playoffs until his 3rd year. Last time I looked at this Spurs roster, it needs a lot.

[M2]

I think a lot of us thought that when Pop decided to stay...#rigged

Nah. Second worst record in the league. They've been in the lottery for the previous three years and never had any ping pong luck. They had as good a shot as anyone this time.

[M2]

Charlotte's the interesting team. Brandon Miller or Scoot? Miller fits their team a lot better. Might be the better prospect too. Scoot's got the pedigree.

[Mitri]

Happy the Spurs won this sweepstakes. Not that they “deserve it” so much as it’s a respectable org that will make the NBA better by not being terrible. I like Branham, Sochan is interesting. They have a long way to go but this speeds things up immediately.

[Rojo Rijo]

Gotta think Charlotte goes Miller at #2. So what does Portland do at #3? My guess is they just go clear BPA and take Scoot but man that's having Dame, Simmons, Sharpe, and Scoot which does not seem like a good recipe for success.

I think right now if im Portland I move Dame. He's about to be 33. I think that contract is going to be impossible to move if he doesnt have a strong season.

See if you can pull a deal with Philly. Send them Dame for Tobias Harris and pieces/picks. The money works for that deal.

[KoryMac5]

Nah. Second worst record in the league. They've been in the lottery for the previous three years and never had any ping pong luck. They had as good a shot as anyone this time.

I like the conspiracy theory side of the draft better ever since Ewing went to the Knicks...

I do wonder how well and old school coach in Pop will mesh with Wembanyama...

[Mitri]

Yeah I wonder if this fuel for a Dame exit. If they can land Scoot he’d be a great piece to add to Simons/Sharpe. Add in RJ Barrett, Obi Toppin and picks and you have a bright future :evil:

[KoryMac5]

Gotta think Charlotte goes Miller at #2. So what does Portland do at #3? My guess is they just go clear BPA and take Scoot but man that's having Dame, Simmons, Sharpe, and Scoot which does not seem like a good recipe for success.

I think right now if im Portland I move Dame. He's about to be 33. I think that contract is going to be impossible to move if he doesnt have a strong season.

See if you can pull a deal with Philly. Send them Dame for Tobias Harris and pieces/picks. The money works for that deal.

I think Portland would want Maxey in the deal...Harris, Maxey, and picks for Dame...even that might not be enough.

[M2]

Gotta think Charlotte goes Miller at #2. So what does Portland do at #3? My guess is they just go clear BPA and take Scoot but man that's having Dame, Simmons, Sharpe, and Scoot which does not seem like a good recipe for success.

I think right now if im Portland I move Dame. He's about to be 33. I think that contract is going to be impossible to move if he doesnt have a strong season.

See if you can pull a deal with Philly. Send them Dame for Tobias Harris and pieces/picks. The money works for that deal.

Miami still strikes me as the top Dame suitor. They can do Herro and they've got three 1st rounders they can move.

[M2]

Yeah I wonder if this fuel for a Dame exit. If they can land Scoot he’d be a great piece to add to Simons/Sharpe. Add in RJ Barrett, Obi Toppin and picks and you have a bright future :evil:

Can't believe I'm saying this out loud, but would Dame and Brunson be too small a backcourt?

[Kingspoint]

I told someone yesterday that San Antonio would get the #1 pick becaue Pops didn't hang around during COVID for two-plus years for anything other than this pick.

Happy with the #3 for Portland. Hopefully, Henderson goes 2nd and Miller goes to Portland, thus lifting my hopes that they don't make the mistake they seemed destined to do and overpay for Grant for four years. You have to start Miller from Day 1, right?

Miller and Sharpe and Dame must Start. That gets rid of at least Simons and/or Grant.

Now, if we could only get rid of Chauncey.

Next important day for Portland is Draft Day (before Free Agency). Of course, Portland could screw this whole thing up by trading the #3 pick and/or Sharp and/or signing Grant and/or not trade away Simons...plenty of options to not take advantage of this opportunity and the one given to them last year in Sharpe.

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If they can land Scoot he’d be a great piece to add to Simons/Sharpe.

Horrible idea.

Why not just have five Guards?

[Mitri]

I told someone yesterday that San Antonio would get the #1 pick becaue Pops didn't hang around during COVID for two-plus years for anything other than this pick.

Happy with the #3 for Portland. Hopefully, Henderson goes 2nd and Miller goes to Portland, thus lifting my hopes that they don't make the mistake they seemed destined to do and overpay for Grant for four years. You have to start Miller from Day 1, right?

Miller and Sharpe and Dame must Start. That gets rid of at least Simons and/or Grant.

Now, if we could only get rid of Chauncey.

Next important day for Portland is Draft Day (before Free Agency). Of course, Portland could screw this whole thing up by trading the #3 pick and/or Sharp and/or signing Grant and/or not trade away Simons...plenty of options to not take advantage of this opportunity and the one given to them last year in Sharpe.

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Horrible idea.

Why not just have five Guards?

Hornets will take Miller, so that sort of buries your plan. Sorry but the Blazers probably aren't basing their pick around who will work next year with Dame. They'll probably use this opportunity as an excuse to go young and build around that #3 pick.

[dubc47834]

What did he say?

Basically he sat down face to face with him the 1st time and had promises from Ja that he understood the severity of the situation. Then stated he was shocked once he saw the video this time. His tone and wording was of a man that isn't going to play around with this one.

[Rojo Rijo]

Basically he sat down face to face with him the 1st time and had promises from Ja that he understood the severity of the situation. Then stated he was shocked once he saw the video this time. His tone and wording was of a man that isn't going to play around with this one.

:edit: I just watched the Silver clip. Yea it doesnt sound good for Morant.

Sounds like a year to me. He's going to feel it if that's the case and im not even discussing money, which he will lose a ton of as well between contract and endorsements. A year is long enough to significantly any athletes career.

Here are the NBA players who have been suspended for an entire year or remainder of a season and what happened next:

Gilbert Arenas - Traded next season
Ron Artest - Traded next season
Latrell Sprewell - Traded next season
Joakim Noah - Traded next season
Javaris Crittenton - Never played in the NBA again
OJ Mayo - Never played in the NBA again

[M2]

Horrible idea.

Why not just have five Guards?

Sharpe's a wing, kind of like Jaylen Brown. He's a guard. He's a forward. Depends on who's on the court with him.

The Blazers should assume the Hornets are taking Miller. Charlotte shouldn't turn down that much talent in a 6'9" package. When it works out you've got a Tatum. Plus, they're probably going to max offer LaMelo this summer.

Though, you're right that Dame + Simons + Scoot doesn't make a lot of sense. Seems like the options might be trade one (or both) of the existing guys or draft one of the Thompson Twins instead of Scoot.

[M2]

Nikola Jokic is putting on a basketball clinic so far.

[dubc47834]

Nikola Jokic is putting on a basketball clinic so far.

He's just stat padding. On the real tho, this is one of the greatest playoff performances I've ever witnessed personally!

[texasdave]

Basically he sat down face to face with him the 1st time and had promises from Ja that he understood the severity of the situation. Then stated he was shocked once he saw the video this time. His tone and wording was of a man that isn't going to play around with this one.

When keeping it real goes wrong.

[texasdave]

Sharpe's a wing, kind of like Jaylen Brown. He's a guard. He's a forward. Depends on who's on the court with him.

The Blazers should assume the Hornets are taking Miller. Charlotte shouldn't turn down that much talent in a 6'9" package. When it works out you've got a Tatum. Plus, they're probably going to max offer LaMelo this summer.

Though, you're right that Dame + Simons + Scoot doesn't make a lot of sense. Seems like the options might be trade one (or both) of the existing guys or draft one of the Thompson Twins instead of Scoot.

The Thompson Twins are still touring?

[Rdirtypirates]

Nikola Jokic is putting on a basketball clinic so far.

Should be a three time mvp.

[Rojo Rijo]

Should be a three time mvp.

If Jokic and the Nuggets take it all this year with him having these kind of performances it will be incredible. For all those talking heads who essentially campaigned to have him not win a 3rd straight MVP, if his response is pretty much to cold shoulder the slight then go and win the championship? Absolute legend move in my book. Imagine him at the stand with the O'Brien and Russell trophies. The media has already slowly started their 180 but for some of them, especially ones like Perk who wanted to make it about more than just basketball, that would be about as entertaining as it could get.

[RedTeamGo!]

Jokic is far and away the best player in the NBA right now. not even close.

[M2]

If Jokic and the Nuggets take it all this year with him having these kind of performances it will be incredible. For all those talking heads who essentially campaigned to have him not win a 3rd straight MVP, if his response is pretty much to cold shoulder the slight then go and win the championship? Absolute legend move in my book. Imagine him at the stand with the O'Brien and Russell trophies. The media has already slowly started their 180 but for some of them, especially ones like Perk who wanted to make it about more than just basketball, that would be about as entertaining as it could get.

I thought Jokic pretty clearly took his foot off the pedal for the last month of the season when it became clear Denver had the #1 seed in the West. He shifted to making sure he had plenty in the tank for the playoffs. That was the right call to make, but that's why he didn't win the MVP. It wasn't his priority and it kind of showed. Embiid passed him for the MVP because he kept the hammer down right to the end of the season.

[Rojo Rijo]

I thought Jokic pretty clearly took his foot off the pedal for the last month of the season when it became clear Denver had the #1 seed in the West. He shifted to making sure he had plenty in the tank for the playoffs. That was the right call to make, but that's why he didn't win the MVP. It wasn't his priority and it kind of showed. Embiid passed him for the MVP because he kept the hammer down right to the end of the season.

For March:
Joker 35.5 minutes, 26.3 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 9.4 assists, 0.7 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game. %s FG 64, 3PT 36.4, FT 82.7. Attempts per game - FG 15.8, FT 6.3
Embiid 33.4 minutes, 33.2 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, 2.0 blocks, and 0.9 steals per game. %s FG 58.6, 3PT 33.3, FT 84.9. Attempts per game - FG 18.5, FT 12.4

For March Jokic averaged his highest min per game for any month this season. His PPG was his second highest month of the season.
In April Jokic played 2 games, both mid-20s minutes with low numbers (averaged 10/10/7). Denver had locked up the #1.
In April Embiid had his best game of the season 52/13/6 on 20-25 FG 12-13 FT.

I like Embiid and he was my preseason MVP pick but when you look at things it's clear Jokic is the superior player. I really do think the media discrediting him as a stat padder (which I find crazy considering Embiid is considered one of the top free throw merchants in the game) while pumping up Embiid had a considerable effect on how everyone viewed those two players and the MVP race. Now Jokic is correcting that as Embiid sits at home. Even Perk has stated he was in denial about Jokic and the Nuggets but hey, they accomplished the goal, Embiid won the MVP.

[BuckeyeRed27]

The only guys that have won 3 consecutive MVPs are Wilt, Russell and Bird and hasn’t happened since 1986.

I don’t think voters think Joker is on that level to belong on a list with those guys. That’s why he didn’t win this year. Plus it wasn’t like giving it to Embiid was crazy or anything.

[Rojo Rijo]

The only guys that have won 3 consecutive MVPs are Wilt, Russell and Bird and hasn’t happened since 1986.

I don’t think voters think Joker is on that level to belong on a list with those guys. That’s why he didn’t win this year. Plus it wasn’t like giving it to Embiid was crazy or anything.

I didnt have any issue with Embiid getting it, even Jokic didnt have an issue with Embiid getting it. I just think the media had a mild smear campaign against Joker and I would love to see him turn around and win the NBA title and Finals MVP.

[M2]

For March:
Joker 35.5 minutes, 26.3 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 9.4 assists, 0.7 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game. %s FG 64, 3PT 36.4, FT 82.7. Attempts per game - FG 15.8, FT 6.3
Embiid 33.4 minutes, 33.2 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, 2.0 blocks, and 0.9 steals per game. %s FG 58.6, 3PT 33.3, FT 84.9. Attempts per game - FG 18.5, FT 12.4

For March Jokic averaged his highest min per game for any month this season. His PPG was his second highest month of the season.
In April Jokic played 2 games, both mid-20s minutes with low numbers (averaged 10/10/7). Denver had locked up the #1.
In April Embiid had his best game of the season 52/13/6 on 20-25 FG 12-13 FT.

I like Embiid and he was my preseason MVP pick but when you look at things it's clear Jokic is the superior player. I really do think the media discrediting him as a stat padder (which I find crazy considering Embiid is considered one of the top free throw merchants in the game) while pumping up Embiid had a considerable effect on how everyone viewed those two players and the MVP race. Now Jokic is correcting that as Embiid sits at home. Even Perk has stated he was in denial about Jokic and the Nuggets but hey, they accomplished the goal, Embiid won the MVP.

Jokic drops a little bit if you add in his April games, and he only played two out of the team's final seven games. Even with what you've got there, Jokic came off of binge mode. His average Game Score dropped from 27.5 in the previous three months to 25.4 and his +/- went from +10.8 to +5.2. My guess is his usage rate also took a drop. He was letting his teammates carry more of the load. And wasn't killing himself on defense. We have posts about that in this thread. For the record, I think Jokic is a perfectly fine defender, but he took some nights off on that end toward the end of the season.

I like watching this Nuggets team so I caught some of their March-April contests. It was pretty obvious he was playing in a lower gear. MVP wasn't his priority and it showed. If you want to say Jokic is the better overall player in a galactic sense, totally agreed. But Embiid was dropping 33 a night, playing like his hair was on fire and he had his team on his back. So he won the MVP this season.

[klw]

The Thompson Twins are still touring?

I hope they show up at the draft in these matching outfits:
https://alchetron.com/cdn/thomson-and-thompson-7e60166a-5900-43bb-bed6-3ee5fa87567-resize-750.jpeg

[SteelSD]

For March:
Joker 35.5 minutes, 26.3 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 9.4 assists, 0.7 blocks, and 1.1 steals per game. %s FG 64, 3PT 36.4, FT 82.7. Attempts per game - FG 15.8, FT 6.3
Embiid 33.4 minutes, 33.2 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, 2.0 blocks, and 0.9 steals per game. %s FG 58.6, 3PT 33.3, FT 84.9. Attempts per game - FG 18.5, FT 12.4

For March Jokic averaged his highest min per game for any month this season. His PPG was his second highest month of the season.
In April Jokic played 2 games, both mid-20s minutes with low numbers (averaged 10/10/7). Denver had locked up the #1.
In April Embiid had his best game of the season 52/13/6 on 20-25 FG 12-13 FT.

I like Embiid and he was my preseason MVP pick but when you look at things it's clear Jokic is the superior player. I really do think the media discrediting him as a stat padder (which I find crazy considering Embiid is considered one of the top free throw merchants in the game) while pumping up Embiid had a considerable effect on how everyone viewed those two players and the MVP race. Now Jokic is correcting that as Embiid sits at home. Even Perk has stated he was in denial about Jokic and the Nuggets but hey, they accomplished the goal, Embiid won the MVP.

Thinking that the media, the majority of whom seemed to make it a personal goal to pump up Jokic for multiple years, somehow turned on him for no reason is a take, I guess. The system Jokic plays in absolutely pads his Assist stats, despite being a really good passer. He shies away from contact- a reason he doesn't get to the line as often or play any real defense, which thankfully was a concept voters finally caught onto late this season. Excellent player, but the difference between Denver playing (2023) or sitting at home right now (2022 first round 5-game bounce) is the presence of a healthy Jamaal Murray.

[Rdirtypirates]

Speaking of defense. This was the MVPs defensive performance in a game 7.
Perhaps nothing depicts that better than the fact Tatum scored 24 points of his record-setting 51 points when being guarded by Embiid. Boston’s All-NBA First Team selection shot 80% from the field (8-for-10) and a perfect 100% from long range (4-for-4) when Embiid was the primary defender. Tatum also went to the rack an additional two times in which he was fouled by Embiid, hitting all four of his free throws.
https://nesn.com/2023/05/this-stat-highlights-how-bad-jayson-tatum-roasted-joel-embiid-in-game-7/amp/
There were people telling me Embiid played good. Just another stat showing he doesn’t doesn’t even do what he is known for in big games.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Speaking of defense. This was the MVPs defensive performance in a game 7.
Perhaps nothing depicts that better than the fact Tatum scored 24 points of his record-setting 51 points when being guarded by Embiid. Boston’s All-NBA First Team selection shot 80% from the field (8-for-10) and a perfect 100% from long range (4-for-4) when Embiid was the primary defender. Tatum also went to the rack an additional two times in which he was fouled by Embiid, hitting all four of his free throws.
https://nesn.com/2023/05/this-stat-highlights-how-bad-jayson-tatum-roasted-joel-embiid-in-game-7/amp/
There were people telling me Embiid played good. Just another stat showing he doesn’t doesn’t even do what he is known for in big games.

This was a great coaching adjustment, easily the best (first?) the Boston coaching staff made. They got Embiid out of the lane and out on the perimeter where Tatum had a mismatch. That coupled with Tatums execution opened up the offense and that’s how you get a game 7 blowout.

[SteelSD]

This was a great coaching adjustment, easily the best (first?) the Boston coaching staff made. They got Embiid out of the lane and out on the perimeter where Tatum had a mismatch. That coupled with Tatums execution opened up the offense and that’s how you get a game 7 blowout.

Yup. But he doesn't know what any of it means. He's just attempting to troll. I guarantee that before Sunday night, he had no earthly idea who Tatum or Jokic were. He probably still couldn't pick them out of a lineup including only Tatum and Jokic.

[Fil3232]

The system Jokic plays in absolutely pads his Assist stats, despite being a really good passer.

Jokic is the system. They’ve built it around his passing skills, so I don’t agree the system inflates his assist numbers.

[Rdirtypirates]

So , Boston vs Miami, who do we got. I am going to take the heat with playoff Jimmy having a big game even though I remember some ludicrous slander against him by someone who really knows basketball.

[Kingspoint]

There's probably a 99% chance that the Blazers will trade the #3 pick along with Anfernee Simons to help Lillard win now.

There's also probably a 90% chance that they won't go over the salary cap to help Lillard win now.

There's 0% chance that the Blazers will trade Lillard this Summer.

There's about a 90% chance they will trade Lillard next Summer because of the Blazers refusal to get rid of Chauncey Billups and that Chauncey's inept Coaching leads them to, yet, another lottery appearance, and thus, Lillard's request and approval to find a new team for him to go to.

Jody Allen is still selling the team and won't invest extra money into before the sale.

The Blazers' iron-clad lease arranged by the Portland City Council 25 years ago ends after the 2023-24 season.

Either Jody Allen sells the team to Phil Knight and the team remains in Portland, or Jody Allen sells the team to investors who move the team to Seattle. Brandon Roy's sudden re-emergence into the Portland organization is the latest in a long line of moves made to transition the team to Seattle. Almost everything about the team is now Seattle-based, except for the Arena, and that last hurdle ends 11 months from now.

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So , Boston vs Miami, who do we got. I am going to take the heat with playoff Jimmy having a big game even though I remember some ludicrous slander against him by someone who really knows basketball.

2/3rd's of the nation is going with BOS, a team with a lot more talent and home-court in the pivotal Games 5 & 7, but I'm still going with the short-handed Heat. They have a far Superior Coach and the best player on the floor, and they are a better defending team.

[Kingspoint]

James Harden Intends To Decline Option, Seek Long-Term Deal

May 17th, 2023 at 12:01pm CST by Luke Adams

Sixers guard James Harden plans to turn down his $35.6MM player option for 2023/24 and seek a long-term contract, reports Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report. According to Haynes, Harden hopes to sign a four-year deal in free agency. Harden will turn 34 in August, so this summer could be his last and best opportunity to secure a significant multiyear contract. He took a pay cut a year ago in order to give Philadelphia the cap flexibility necessary to add roster reinforcements. The Rockets have been repeatedly linked to Harden since December, and those rumors have only intensified since the Sixers were eliminated from the playoffs over the weekend. However, sources tell Haynes that the former Arizona State standout will only consider suitors that can provide a “competitive roster and the basketball freedom” for Harden to be himself. That makes Philadelphia the most logical option for now, according to Haynes, who suggests the Rockets would have to retool their roster to some extent if they’re committed to the idea of a reunion with Harden and want to sell the former MVP on the situation in Houston.

Although Harden missed out on All-Star honors this year for the first time since 2012, he still posted strong numbers during the regular season, averaging 21.0 points, a league-leading 10.7 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game with a .441/.385/.867 shooting line in 58 appearances (36.8 MPG). His playoff production was inconsistent — his overall averages of 20.3 PPG, 8.3 APG, and 6.2 RPG were solid, but he shot just 39.3% from the field during the postseason and averaged only 12.5 PPG in four losses to Boston. Asked on Wednesday during his end-of-season media session about the possibility of retaining Harden for next season, Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey told reporters, “We can’t have those discussions yet, but we are interested in bringing him back” (Twitter link via Derek Bodner of The Daily Six). When Morey was asked if that would mean signing Harden to a new contract, he responded, “Well, that’s the only way to do it,” signaling that the 76ers had been planning for the 10-time All-Star to opt out even before Haynes‘ report.

[Kingspoint]

May 17th, 2023 at 11:23am CST by Luke Adams

G League Ignite guard Scoot Henderson has long been considered the top prospect besides Victor Wembanyama in the 2023 draft class, but an inconsistent 2022/23 season and the emergence of Alabama wing Brandon Miller have loosened his hold on that No. 2 spot. The Hornets, who won the second overall pick in Tuesday’s lottery, already have a long-term cornerstone at point guard (LaMelo Ball), further complicating the team’s decision. Although Hornets president of basketball operations Mitch Kupchak didn’t mention either Henderson or Miller by name after the lottery, he strongly hinted that the team will consider both players. As Roderick Boone of The Charlotte Observer writes, Kupchak didn’t rule out the possibility of adding another ball-handling guard to the roster while also indicating that fit will be a consideration. “We are getting a little bit more advanced in putting this team together. I think three years ago or even two, three years ago I would have said that without question that we are going to take the best available player, and that’s been our position the last three or four years when we are trying to accumulate talent,” Kupchak said. “And I don’t think we are where we need to be from a talent level, but we’ve got a lot more talent now than we did two or three years ago. So, I think we can be a little bit picky and take into consideration not only the overall talent, but the position.”

[Kingspoint]

In case someone hasn't seen the Commissioner's comments, here are some of them...

May 17th, 2023 at 7:30am CST by Rory Maher

MAY 17: After Silver spoke to Andrews on Tuesday, Morant issued a statement through his representatives addressing the recent viral video, per Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press. “I know I’ve disappointed a lot of people who have supported me,” Morant said. “This is a journey and I recognize there is more work to do. My words may not mean much right now, but I take full accountability for my actions. I’m committed to continuing to work on myself.”

MAY 16: In a TV appearance at the draft lottery Tuesday evening, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said he was “shocked” by the latest incident of Ja Morant appearing to waive a gun on social media, he told ESPN’s Malika Andrews (Twitter video link). “Honestly, I was shocked when I saw this weekend that video,” Silver said. “Now, we’re in the process of investigating it, and we’ll figure out exactly what happened to the best we can. The video is a bit grainy and all that, but I’m assuming the worst.”

The incident came less than two-and-a-half months after Morant flashed a firearm at a Denver-area strip club while streaming on Instagram Live. That video, which immediately prompted an investigation from the NBA, eventually led to an eight-game suspension.

“We talked directly about the consequences first,” Silver said of his conversation with Morant following the first incident (hat tip to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon). “Before we got to a subsequent potential to have done something wrong, we were very focused on the misconduct that was in front of us at the time. Frankly, most of our conversation was about how incredibly serious the first incident was of waving a firearm on social media. “Again, the consequences there — an eight-game suspension — was pretty serious and something that he, at least to me, seemed to take incredibly seriously in that time. And we spoke for a long time about not just the consequences that could have on his career, but the safety issues around it — (Morant) could’ve injured, maimed, killed himself, someone else with an act like that — and also the acknowledgment that he’s a star. “He has an incredibly huge following, and (we discussed) my concern — and I thought he shared with me — that millions, if not tens of millions, of kids globally would have seen him do something that was celebrating in a way that act of using a firearm in that fashion.”

Morant’s live stream in March was part of a series of troubling off-court incidents allegedly involving the 23-year-old, who punched a 17-year-old during a pickup game last summer, was accused of threatening a security guard at a Memphis mall, and was reportedly involved in a confrontation with members of the Pacers’ traveling party after a January game. Morant didn’t face any criminal charges for the March incident and almost certainly won’t face any for this video either, but the NBA has significant latitude to fine or suspend its players for conduct it deems detrimental to the league. The most recent reporting has indicated that Morant, who was suspended from all team activities by the Grizzlies after the latest video, is likely to face a much harsher punishment this time around.

[SteelSD]

Jokic is the system. They’ve built it around his passing skills, so I don’t agree the system inflates his assist numbers.

High screen hand offs, where the recipient either shoots the three or takes two dribbles and a mid-range is a "system" literally every center on the planet could run. Absolutely inflates his assists. He's a very good passer for cutters, though.

[Fil3232]

High screen hand offs, where the recipient either shoots the three or takes two dribbles and a mid-range is a "system" literally every center on the planet could run. Absolutely inflates his assists. He's a very good passer for cutters, though.

That’s quite reductive, but whatever. I disagree a “system” is inflating his assists. In fact, that strikes me as a silly statement.

[Kingspoint]

Yup. But he doesn't know what any of it means. He's just attempting to troll. I guarantee that before Sunday night, he had no earthly idea who Tatum or Jokic were. He probably still couldn't pick them out of a lineup including only Tatum and Jokic.

A Carlisle/Stotts system will always inflate a Center's Assists because so much of it is done with the Center operating from above the free-throw line with the ball, whether that's Mason Plumlee, Nurkic or whoever is placed at Center under that system. When they go to another system, their assist totals will decrease. One of the reasons DEN traded for Plumlee was becaue he was already used to operating with the ball above the free-throw line and his Assists totals would remain high (for him) in Denver's system, as they like their Centers operating there and having the ball go through the Center at the top of the key.

[Kingspoint]

The Sixers deserved to win that series. Embiid deserves better and he should get it with a much better Head Coach than Doc Rivers.

They're going to get someone of quality like Nick Nurse or Monty Williams.

Embiid will get much better (scary) under a better Head Coach, as will the rest of the team as a whole.

[M2]

This was a great coaching adjustment, easily the best (first?) the Boston coaching staff made. They got Embiid out of the lane and out on the perimeter where Tatum had a mismatch. That coupled with Tatums execution opened up the offense and that’s how you get a game 7 blowout.

Also helped that Embiid's mobility was hampered after he rolled his ankle.

[M2]

So , Boston vs Miami, who do we got. I am going to take the heat with playoff Jimmy having a big game even though I remember some ludicrous slander against him by someone who really knows basketball.

Boston should crush them in 4 or 5, but the Celtics like to make things harder on themselves than they need to be.

[Rojo Rijo]

Thinking that the media, the majority of whom seemed to make it a personal goal to pump up Jokic for multiple years, somehow turned on him for no reason is a take, I guess. The system Jokic plays in absolutely pads his Assist stats, despite being a really good passer. He shies away from contact- a reason he doesn't get to the line as often or play any real defense, which thankfully was a concept voters finally caught onto late this season. Excellent player, but the difference between Denver playing (2023) or sitting at home right now (2022 first round 5-game bounce) is the presence of a healthy Jamaal Murray.

Ok i've been trying to dance around it but once Kendrick Perkins said what he said about voters back in March most of the stuff I read was labeling Jokic a stat padder and that Embiid should be the MVP. With that being said I have no doubt that the play down the stretch was the determining factor here. Embiid played like an MVP. I also probably shouldve worded it better. While it was media it was high volume accounts on social media. So no, it wasnt all of the ones on TV like SAS, JJ, Rose etc. but Perk ignited a flame (one with a clever timeframe involving MVP winners who didnt lead the league in PPG) and a lot of large accounts that discuss the NBA ran with it.

Again, im in no way trying to discredit Embiid, happy for him. I still think Jokic is the overall better player but at the same time Embiid is better on defense. Embiid is elite on the offensive end, Joker is just a cheat code on offense. So its not about Embiid winning it, it's more about those who didnt want Joker to win it again.

[M2]

There's probably a 99% chance that the Blazers will trade the #3 pick along with Anfernee Simons to help Lillard win now.

Does Simons have positive trade value at the moment? He might, but we're in the playoffs right now and I feel like this is the high season for "but that guy plays no defense." Though maybe closer to draft there'll be more "but he scores 20."

Moving the #3 pick in the hopes you land a guy who can take the team from the upper lottery to a title is insane. So Portland probably will do it. They should be collecting a kid who can form their next core with Sharpe.

[Fil3232]

Does Simons have positive trade value at the moment? He might, but we're in the playoffs right now and I feel like this is the high season for "but that guy plays no defense." Though maybe closer to draft there'll be more "but he scores 20."

Moving the #3 pick in the hopes you land a guy who can take the team from the upper lottery to a title is insane. So Portland probably will do it. They should be collecting a kid who can form their next core with Sharpe.

Exactly. Try to replicate the Paul George or Donovan Mitchell trades and look forward.

[SteelSD]

That’s quite reductive, but whatever. I disagree a “system” is inflating his assists. In fact, that strikes me as a silly statement.

It's actually been studied. Based on the research I've seen, I'd estimate that between 25% and 30% of his assists are straight hand-offs, and I have no doubt that he gets a bonus at home past the normal 2-dribble assist range. Add on the fact that advanced metrics dramatically overvalue assists for Centers- counting them up to double what they're worth for guards- and you have a mess of sportswriters who probably finally figured out how stupid that is, and righted their voting ships, so to speak. Then combine an overvalued offensive game with substandard defense (to be kind) on his best day and almost no rim protection worth speaking of. And I like Jokic. He's very good at what he does. It's just that what he does isn't worth what you seem to think it's worth. MVP voters finally caught on. A year late. Good for them I guess?

Additionally, the Nuggets ranked 2nd in the NBA this season in back-cuts per game; one of only two teams (Golden State the other) to run 10+ back cuts per game. That's absolutely a system-driven propensity. While Jokic passing helps the cut game, you need the personnel for it to finish, which is where guys like Aaron Gordon come in. Prior to hitting the Nuggets, that dude was an underachieving top five draft pick. But his length and ability to finish at the rim slot perfectly into Denver's system. The only thing that's "silly" here is that you're looking a system smack dab in the face, but not identifying it as a system.

[SteelSD]

Ok i've been trying to dance around it but once Kendrick Perkins said what he said about voters back in March most of the stuff I read was labeling Jokic a stat padder and that Embiid should be the MVP. With that being said I have no doubt that the play down the stretch was the determining factor here. Embiid played like an MVP. I also probably shouldve worded it better. While it was media it was high volume accounts on social media. So no, it wasnt all of the ones on TV like SAS, JJ, Rose etc. but Perk ignited a flame (one with a clever timeframe involving MVP winners who didnt lead the league in PPG) and a lot of large accounts that discuss the NBA ran with it.

Again, im in no way trying to discredit Embiid, happy for him. I still think Jokic is the overall better player but at the same time Embiid is better on defense. Embiid is elite on the offensive end, Joker is just a cheat code on offense. So its not about Embiid winning it, it's more about those who didnt want Joker to win it again.

Perkins shouldn't have said that. It was a poor way to say what he was thinking. I don't think Jokic is a "stat-padder", for goodness sake, nor do I honestly believe all the voters got together and suddenly believed it either. I'm sure there was some last-season shifting of ballots, but I still believe that's simply because voters just ran out of excuses to keep filling them out for Jokic. And it probably didn't help that in their one matchup this season, Embidd just throttled Jokic. In the end, you're free to feel how you feel, but I don't believe there's any way Jokic' 5.7 more assists per game than Embiid makes up for the points gap and dramatic defensive advantage Embiid held.

In the end, you're going to see if your way, and that's fine. But the way I see it, Jokic already won one more MVP than he really deserved.

[SteelSD]

Also helped that Embiid's mobility was hampered after he rolled his ankle.

As soon as they started forcing switches of Embiid onto Tatum, I knew exactly what the Celtics were doing and why they were doing it. Embiid just didn't have his normal lateral quickness, and couldn't even recover properly on drives.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Haha this stupid Miami team

It’s really hard to not like Jimmy Butler.

[RedTeamGo!]

It’s too bad we won’t get an Embiid vs Jokic matchup in the nba finals to decide this. Jokic is going to get his first ship this year.

[Kingspoint]

A very deep analysis from the Philly Voice on the six likely candidates to be the Sixers' next head coach.

https://www.phillyvoice.com/sixers-head-coach-candidates-sam-cassell-nick-nurse-mike-dantoni/

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Does Simons have positive trade value at the moment? He might, but we're in the playoffs right now and I feel like this is the high season for "but that guy plays no defense." Though maybe closer to draft there'll be more "but he scores 20."

Moving the #3 pick in the hopes you land a guy who can take the team from the upper lottery to a title is insane. So Portland probably will do it. They should be collecting a kid who can form their next core with Sharpe.


Could not agree more.

....and, analytics are finally exposing guys like Trey Young (and Simons) and G. M.'s are finally catching on that you don't win with these guys. You can try to hide one on a team, but if he's on the court for 38 minutes, you better have the best Defensive System in the World (see Golden State) and elite Defenders who can also score (See Golden State), otherwise, the playoffs will expose their glaring weakness (it's never just their individual Defense, but the effect they have on their teammates mentally who have to make up for their poor Defense and then not see the ball get into their hands on the other end...which makes you not want to play Defense). Portland has Dame, Simons, and Grant. That's two, too many (and a rookie in Sharpe, but I think he's going to be good if he doesn't get ruined by being mentored by Dame, Simons, Grant and Chauncey).

Cronin is an idiot. Bert Kolde, who probably runs things when it comes to major decisions regarding player personnel, is the dumbest person involved in decision-making in the entire NBA. Portland has a beautiful opportunity here to pair the #3 pick with Sharpe, trade Simons, eventually trade Dame, the sooner the better, and move on from there. Unfortunately, they are in the same position as the Cincinnati REDS.....nothing will improve until Ownership changes. It is what it is, and until this happens, the bumbling will continue.

You predict with 100% certainty that Cronin and Kolde will screw up this Summer (they've already gauranteed it with Chauncey still Coaching the team). They'll likely lose their only real Coach in Brooks this Summer, and then they'll have a bunch of nobody's as Assistants.

There's another lottery in Portland's future for 2024.

[Kingspoint]

Hornets will take Miller, so that sort of buries your plan. Sorry but the Blazers probably aren't basing their pick around who will work next year with Dame. They'll probably use this opportunity as an excuse to go young and build around that #3 pick.

My plan doesn't matter. I gaurantee you that Cronin and Kolde trade away the #3 pick AND trade away Simons. This is written in stone. The Blazers are going to push their chips all-in to try one last time to build an immediate contender for Dame. It will fail because Chauncey is the Coach, while it's also the wrong thing to do.

[Kingspoint]

Sharpe's a wing, kind of like Jaylen Brown. He's a guard. He's a forward. Depends on who's on the court with him.

The Blazers should assume the Hornets are taking Miller. Charlotte shouldn't turn down that much talent in a 6'9" package. When it works out you've got a Tatum. Plus, they're probably going to max offer LaMelo this summer.

Though, you're right that Dame + Simons + Scoot doesn't make a lot of sense. Seems like the options might be trade one (or both) of the existing guys or draft one of the Thompson Twins instead of Scoot.

Sharpe is not a Wing. Don't know where you get that idea. I guess because a guy can fly he's automatically a wing. Sharpe has an array of scoring abilities...everything that can possibly be done on the planet. He's a "2", and Cronin emphatically said at the end of the season that he's going to be one of the best "2's" in the league, which basically signaled the exit sign for Simons.

[Kingspoint]

Boston should crush them in 4 or 5, but the Celtics like to make things harder on themselves than they need to be.

Ain't gonna be 4.

Try again.

[KoryMac5]

Haha this stupid Miami team

It’s really hard to not like Jimmy Butler.

Exactly...never doubt the power of playoff Jimmy Butler...he is going to will that team to the finals.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Exactly...never doubt the power of playoff Jimmy Butler...he is going to will that team to the finals.

I’m not sure he has the stamina to do it for 4 wins…but I wouldn’t hate it

[WVRed]

I’m not sure he has the stamina to do it for 4 wins…but I wouldn’t hate itI grew up liking the Celtics from the Pitino days. Ron Mercer, Tony Delk, Antoine Walker and Walter McCarty playing there and being a UK fan it was an easy decision even though they weren't local.

Two UK players from the Heat in Herro and Adebayo plus Pat Riley. I'm kinda conflicted on who to pull for.

That said Joe Mazzulla is in over his head. Maybe if he flops this season and next he will probably be a candidate at WVU when Huggins contract is up. Longshot but who knows.



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[M2]

Sharpe is not a Wing. Don't know where you get that idea. I guess because a guy can fly he's automatically a wing. Sharpe has an array of scoring abilities...everything that can possibly be done on the planet. He's a "2", and Cronin emphatically said at the end of the season that he's going to be one of the best "2's" in the league, which basically signaled the exit sign for Simons.

I got that idea because he plays on the wing, he's 6'6", he can shoot and drive, and he's not a primary ball handler. In the world of positionless basketball there are three positions - point, wing and big. Sometimes they blend. Sometimes they don't. In Sharpe's case, they don't. I'm not sure how much easier it can be explained than to compare him to Brown, who is theoretically a 2, but just made the All-NBA 2nd team as a forward. When Brown's on the floor with two of Smart, White and Brogdon, he's the 3. And when he's on the court with all three of those guys (which happens sometimes), he's the 4. Sharpe fits the same profile. He's a bouncy wing, doesn't matter if he's technically the 2 or the 3 at a given moment. The target modern lineup is a point, a big and three wings (the more versatile, the better). Not really any question where Sharpe fits in that equation.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I grew up liking the Celtics from the Pitino days. Ron Mercer, Tony Delk, Antoine Walker and Walter McCarty playing there and being a UK fan it was an easy decision even though they weren't local.

Two UK players from the Heat in Herro and Adebayo plus Pat Riley. I'm kinda conflicted on who to pull for.

That said Joe Mazzulla is in over his head. Maybe if he flops this season and next he will probably be a candidate at WVU when Huggins contract is up. Longshot but who knows.



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Maz being completely over his head is the only reason this could be close. The Celtics are so much better talent wise than Miami it’s silly.

[M2]

Maz being completely over his head is the only reason this could be close. The Celtics are so much better talent wise than Miami it’s silly.

I'll give Mazz credit. He's correctly diagnosed the key to the series - it's a mentality series. If the Celtics are going miss free throws, turn the ball over repeatedly and play sloppy defense, they're going to give the Heat games like they did last night. Whether he can get them to lock in for 48 minutes remains to be seen. He's also going to need to find the right combination night-to-night with his closing group. Spo will constantly adjust, so Mazz is going to need figure out what the team needs in real time.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I'll give Mazz credit. He's correctly diagnosed the key to the series - it's a mentality series. If the Celtics are going miss free throws, turn the ball over repeatedly and play sloppy defense, they're going to give the Heat games like they did last night. Whether he can get them to lock in for 48 minutes remains to be seen. He's also going to need to find the right combination night-to-night with his closing group. Spo will constantly adjust, so Mazz is going to need figure out what the team needs in real time.

Perhaps the third quarter wasn’t entirely coaching and just Miami going on a heater. But when a better coached team comes out of the locker room and does that, my inclination is, well they figured something out and Boston didn’t seem to do much to stop it.

It’s one game and the adjustments between games are just as important in them, but if this truly becomes a coaching adjustment series because Boston can’t exploit their talent advantage…well Miami is going to win.

[M2]

Perhaps the third quarter wasn’t entirely coaching and just Miami going on a heater. But when a better coached team comes out of the locker room and does that, my inclination is, well they figured something out and Boston didn’t seem to do much to stop it.

It’s one game and the adjustments between games are just as important in them, but if this truly becomes a coaching adjustment series because Boston can’t exploit their talent advantage…well Miami is going to win.

The Heat definitely came out on fire and they definitely made adjustments (e.g. Bam started to attack the rim). But if Boston had hit its free throws and not been a turnover machine (Tatum had three consecutive TO's coming down the stretch), they still would have won the game. The Heat's main plan is to get Boston to self-destruct. Last night the plan worked.

[BuckeyeRed27]

The Heat definitely came out on fire and they definitely made adjustments (e.g. Bam started to attack the rim). But if Boston had hit its free throws and not been a turnover machine (Tatum had three consecutive TO's coming down the stretch), they still would have won the game. The Heat's main plan is to get Boston to self-destruct. Last night the plan worked.

Yeah you could see Tatum thinking, which is never good.

[M2]

Yeah you could see Tatum thinking, which is never good.

There was a lot of this.

https://media.tenor.com/T5msAYIo6EcAAAAM/hamster-wheel.gif

[Kingspoint]

I got that idea because he plays on the wing, he's 6'6", he can shoot and drive, and he's not a primary ball handler. In the world of positionless basketball there are three positions - point, wing and big. Sometimes they blend. Sometimes they don't. In Sharpe's case, they don't. I'm not sure how much easier it can be explained than to compare him to Brown, who is theoretically a 2, but just made the All-NBA 2nd team as a forward. When Brown's on the floor with two of Smart, White and Brogdon, he's the 3. And when he's on the court with all three of those guys (which happens sometimes), he's the 4. Sharpe fits the same profile. He's a bouncy wing, doesn't matter if he's technically the 2 or the 3 at a given moment. The target modern lineup is a point, a big and three wings (the more versatile, the better). Not really any question where Sharpe fits in that equation.

I've typed this exact same paragraph before many times, just not used the word Sharpe. Brown is a good comparison, and I hope he becomes as good Defensively. Speaking of a Guard as a "3" around Portland is met with crosses and burning stakes because of their idiocy of using players like Norman Powell and Josh Hart at the "3" in 3-Guard lineups that have Simons and Dame in at the same time. With two taller Wings in a 3-Wing design, Sharpe is a Wing, but he can't be one of the "taller" Wings if you have a shorter one than him. Same goes with Brown, Hart and Powell.

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Yeah you could see Tatum thinking, which is never good.

I was going to type before the series that Tatum has some Westbrook in him....self-destructing at end of games trying to be the hero.

When the announcer kept clamoring that BOS is losing because Tatum isn't touching the ball, I immediately thought,...this is why you aren't a Head Coach anymore.

[Kingspoint]

Ime Udoka was such a brilliant decision by Houston as a Head Coach. He's everything Chauncey isn't. I'm jealous (since Ime went to Portland State, and we let San Antonio nab him as an Assistant just because he made some headlines for smoking pot).

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The Heat definitely came out on fire and they definitely made adjustments (e.g. Bam started to attack the rim). But if Boston had hit its free throws and not been a turnover machine (Tatum had three consecutive TO's coming down the stretch), they still would have won the game. The Heat's main plan is to get Boston to self-destruct. Last night the plan worked.

It was going to be hard for BOS to win Game 1, just as it's going to hard for Miami to win Game 2.

[Kingspoint]

The Heat definitely came out on fire and they definitely made adjustments (e.g. Bam started to attack the rim). But if Boston had hit its free throws and not been a turnover machine (Tatum had three consecutive TO's coming down the stretch), they still would have won the game. The Heat's main plan is to get Boston to self-destruct. Last night the plan worked.

Miami played much better Defense than BOS. There wasn't a chance BOS was going to win that game no matter how many opportunities the refs gave to them at the free throw line.

Coming out of halftime, when the home team is supposed to have a huge advantage as far as making adjustments, Boston's Defense gave up 45 points in the 3rd Quarter. A team that does that isn't going to the NBA Finals. They've had weaknesses like that Defensively all season long.

Miami cut down their turnovers four-fold in the 2nd Half. Those are great halftime adjustments. Spoelstra, I believe, is the best Head Coach in the NBA, and definitely the most under-rated over the last seven seasons.

[M2]

Boston's Defense gave up 45 points in the 3rd Quarter. A team that does that isn't going to the NBA Finals. They've had weaknesses like that Defensively all season long.

Boston ranked 5th in scoring defense this season and 3rd in team D rating.

[Puffy]

Spurs win the Wembanyama sweepstakes.

Someone called that. Forget who it was.

Sent from my SM-S911U using Tapatalk

That was me

[M2]

I can't read lips, but Bruce Brown and Austin Reaves are trash talking each other something fierce.

[Kingspoint]

Boston ranked 5th in scoring defense this season and 3rd in team D rating.

Not talking about regular season. Talking about now.

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That was me

...and me. I had it pegged two years ago.

[Kingspoint]

Easy predictions going into Games 1 & 2 of the Lakers/Nuggets.

LeBron and A.D. would not perform well in the 4th Quarters due to their age and being incredibly tired.

Lebron didn't score a basket in the 4th Qtr of Game 1. A. D. only score two after scoring 12 the first three quarters.

Murray would take over the 4th Quarter of Game 2 and put it away.

[dubc47834]

Easy predictions going into Games 1 & 2 of the Lakers/Nuggets.

LeBron and A.D. would not perform well in the 4th Quarters due to their age and being incredibly tired.

Lebron didn't score a basket in the 4th Qtr of Game 1. A. D. only score two after scoring 12 the first three quarters.

Murray would take over the 4th Quarter of Game 2 and put it away.

I must have missed your post with those predictions!

[SteelSD]

Good lord, I heart Jimmy Butler.

[Kingspoint]

Like I said, over and over,...

"The Road in the East goes through Miami!!!"

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Good lord, I heart Jimmy Butler.

He doesn't whine. He doesn't complain. He just beats your ass.

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I must have missed your post with those predictions!

I don't give you the gift of all of them, especially the easy ones.

[RedTeamGo!]

Lmao what was Grant Williams thinking

[Revering4Blue]

You don’t tug on Superman’s cape…
You don’t spit into the wind…
You don’t pull the mask off that old Lone Ranger…
And you don’t mess around with Jim…


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[Mutaman]

. He doesn't complain. He just beats your ass.



I've been following Butler since his first game at Marquette so long ago. He sure does a lot of complaining about teammates who don't give 100%.

[klw]

The Celtics are like a MLB team that wins 95 games a year but has a bad pen and no real closer. They get pretty far but no lead is safe though occasionally JJ Hoover will close out the game for them.

[WVRed]

The Celtics are like a MLB team that wins 95 games a year but has a bad pen and no real closer. They get pretty far but no lead is safe though occasionally JJ Hoover will close out the game for them.They have a rookie coach who is in over his head vs a veteran coach who is exposing the Celtics at every turn.



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[klw]

They have a rookie coach who is in over his head vs a veteran coach who is exposing the Celtics at every turn.



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Other than the 2nd half of last season, it has been this way for the better part of 5 years. No lead is safe either for or against them but their ability to blow double-digit leads through stagnant offensive periods is astounding.

[Mutaman]

Bear in mind, this Celtics team won on the road down three games to two against Milwaukee last year and against Philly this year. I think the series has a long way to go, and I agree with Barkley that game three is pretty significant.
That being said, I suspect Riley, Spoelstra, and Butler realize this and have not opened the champagne yet.

[M2]

The Nuggets do no play with their food.

[Rdirtypirates]

Good lord, I heart Jimmy Butler.

Imagine how good they would be with him. We wouldn’t have to keep hearing the excuses of why Embiid chokes every year in the playoffs. Imagine an organization being so inept of picking Ben Simmons over Jimmy Butler. Gosh I would hate being a fan of this team. Bad decision after bad decision. Also, if I recall you had about three pages on why Jimmy Butler wasn’t good correct me ifnI am wrong.

[Boston Red]

I hate the Lakers.

[SteelSD]

Imagine how good they would be with him. We wouldn’t have to keep hearing the excuses of why Embiid chokes every year in the playoffs. Imagine an organization being so inept of picking Ben Simmons over Jimmy Butler. Gosh I would hate being a fan of this team. Bad decision after bad decision. Also, if I recall you had about three pages on why Jimmy Butler wasn’t good correct me ifnI am wrong.

Good lord. If I had to correct you every time you're wrong, it'd be a second career for me.

Grow up.

[Rdirtypirates]

Good lord. If I had to correct you every time you're wrong, it'd be a second career for me.

Grow up.

What is wrong with what I said? Do you not agree that giving up Butler for Simmons was stupid? Yes, you argued with Bz for at least three pages why Jimmy Butler wasn’t good. I am the one that needs to grow up, but I have ignored shot after shot from you, just because your butt hurt you live through ground hogs day every year, you take me as having a opinion against the 76ers and go on your usual rant just like you do with people who know much more about basketball than me. It is funny how you attacked Sea Ray for months and other posters, but now you are lecturing other posters how to behave. Nothing in my post was false it I know for a fact a narcissist who keeps files on redszone posters would point it out.

[SteelSD]

What is wrong with what I said?

Everything.

[Rdirtypirates]

Everything.

So, you are admitting you would take Simmons over Butler. That is certainly a take. Yes, you said Butler wasn’t a top player and you know you did. If I was like you I would dig through 100s of posts, but we both know what was said as well as anyone who read that thread. At least with that statement we know you are either lying or infact my post was factually correct and hurt your little feelings.

[Rdirtypirates]

With Jimmy Butler being the big game player he is and killer instinct I was thinking who else you could put on that list. With how the NBA has changed there aren’t many that come to mind. Jimmy Butler basically does it with whoever he has. Luka and Booker come to mind. Anybody else jump out to anybody.

[KoryMac5]

Boston hitting the self destruct button tonight...

[M2]

Boston hitting the self destruct button tonight...

They should call this series now. It's cruel to make a team having a nervous breakdown continue to play.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Brad should fire Mazz and coach game 4 himself.

[SteelSD]

Brad should fire Mazz and coach game 4 himself.

Just when they think they have Butler covered, Gabe Vincent, Duncan Robinson, and Caleb Martin combine to hit 70% of their shots.

Boston had 21 offensive boards to Miami's 1, and lost. I don't think I've ever seen that before. Grant Williams should have kept his big mouth shut.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Just when they think they have Butler covered, Gabe Vincent, Duncan Robinson, and Caleb Martin combine to hit 70% of their shots.

Boston had 21 offensive boards to Miami's 1, and lost. I don't think I've ever seen that before. Grant Williams should have kept his big mouth shut.

Grant Williams is the only one that even remotely looks like he cares. I guess Rob Williams too.

I wonder how much of that offensive rebounding stat was a garbage time function.

[M2]

Grant Williams is the only one that even remotely looks like he cares. I guess Rob Williams too.

Marcus Smart has utterly disappeared.

[Mutaman]

Just when they think they have Butler covered, Gabe Vincent, Duncan Robinson, and Caleb Martin combine to hit 70% of their shots.


I'm beginning to think that Vincent and Martin are really good.

[RedTeamGo!]

Well, Lebron isn’t going out quietly. 31 points on 11-13 FG and 4-4 3PT in first half. Goodness gracious.

[M2]

Denver just made their first finals since the final ABA finals. David Thompson, Dan Issel, Alex English and Fat Lever couldn't get to the NBA finals. They were the best franchise never to make it to the finals (Clippers, Kings, Grizzlies, Timberwolves, Pelicans, Hawks and Hornets are the others). One more step to immortality.

[Rojo Rijo]

Reports out that Lebron is considering retirement. I would assume if he's going to go that route he would take a year off then return in '24/'25 to play with Bronny wherever he lands.

I'm pretty sure he's inked to LA through at least next season so im not sure how that would work if he sits out next year. Does that year of the contract just go null/void? or would LA still retain 1 year of rights? or maybe the Lakers say "thanks for the 5 years" and let him loose.

[Sea Ray]

Reports out that Lebron is considering retirement. I would assume if he's going to go that route he would take a year off then return in '24/'25 to play with Bronny wherever he lands.

I'm pretty sure he's inked to LA through at least next season so im not sure how that would work if he sits out next year. Does that year of the contract just go null/void? or would LA still retain 1 year of rights? or maybe the Lakers say "thanks for the 5 years" and let him loose.

Looks like he's under contract to LA Lakers for 2 more years

https://www.spotrac.com/nba/los-angeles-lakers/lebron-james-2257/

[KoryMac5]

This is gold right here...

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/0d7Qmj37rqc

Barkley roasting Gabe Vincent after the game.

[WVRed]

LeBron needs to retire. He isn't Tom Brady although in this sport he is probably the closest thing to it. Father Time is catching up to him as we saw this season and this series with Denver. The Lakers were gassed by the 4th quarter and the Nuggets capitalized.

With the way the Lakers roster is currently constructed it's going to be extremely difficult for them to build a competitive team. It's not as bad as the teams Kobe was on right before he retired but it's pretty close especially if Anthony Davis leaves or is traded.

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[KoryMac5]

Leverage move by Lebron to get Kyrie on the Lakers...

Only way for that to happen is a sign and trade with Dallas....

Reports were Lakers were not interested...I think Lebron is trying to force the issue a bit.

Doubtful Dallas would be interested in a D'Lo for Kyrie swap as reported in Bleacher Report.

[RedTeamGo!]

LeBron needs to retire. He isn't Tom Brady although in this sport he is probably the closest thing to it. Father Time is catching up to him as we saw this season and this series with Denver. The Lakers were gassed by the 4th quarter and the Nuggets capitalized.

With the way the Lakers roster is currently constructed it's going to be extremely difficult for them to build a competitive team. It's not as bad as the teams Kobe was on right before he retired but it's pretty close especially if Anthony Davis leaves or is traded.

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Lebron had 31 points in the first half on 11-14 shooting and 4-4 from 3. Yeah, he is toast. They went to the conference finals and beat the Warriors and Grizzlies. The Lakers had a great season.

[WVRed]

Lebron had 31 points in the first half on 11-14 shooting and 4-4 from 3. Yeah, he is toast. They went to the conference finals and beat the Warriors and Grizzlies. The Lakers had a great season.How'd he do in the 4th?

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[Rojo Rijo]

Looks like he's under contract to LA Lakers for 2 more years

https://www.spotrac.com/nba/los-angeles-lakers/lebron-james-2257/

'24/'25 is a player option which he will opt out of to sign wherever Bronny is drafted.

[Boston Red]

How'd he do in the 4th?


Lebron played 48 minutes yesterday. You think he should retire because he struggled in the fourth quarter of a playoff game where he played 48 minutes and was one assist away from a triple double instead of finding a situation where maybe the expectation is for him to play 30 (or 35) minutes? OK.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Yeah this is a weird take. Lebron isn’t 2013 Lebron anymore, but he’s still an elite player that can be the best player on a contender.

There’s absolutely no shame in losing to Denver. They have the best player in the league, a core that’s been together for several seasons and are extremely well coached. Yeah it was a sweep, but LA could have easily won 3 of those games.

I don’t think Lebron wants to stay too long and have the old guy that clearly doesn’t have it anymore season, but I doubt that’s next year and once he gets over the disappointment he will come back.

[RedTeamGo!]

How'd he do in the 4th?

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This is just a horrible take on your part. Your hate for Lebron is showing.

[RedTeamGo!]

Lebron's 2022-2023 numbers:

28.9 PPG (over career avg) 8.3 RPG (over career avg) 6.8 APG (slightly below career avg)

Yeah that guy is cooked!

[KoryMac5]

How'd he do in the 4th?

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Is that you Skip?

[Rdirtypirates]

This is just a horrible take on your part. Your hate for Lebron is showing.

It is a fair question? Yeah you can say he was tired, but the announcers even mentioned it. At a little over the six minute mark they say Lebron is just standing they’re not moving or trying to get the ball and asked what is he doing. This has happened in other series and then he left for Miami. That should not of surprised anyone.

[M2]

Leverage move by Lebron to get Kyrie on the Lakers...

Only way for that to happen is a sign and trade with Dallas....

Reports were Lakers were not interested...I think Lebron is trying to force the issue a bit.

Doubtful Dallas would be interested in a D'Lo for Kyrie swap as reported in Bleacher Report.

Depends on the number it will take to land Kyrie. It will require a cash swap. The Lakers can exercise the Bamba and Vanderbilt options to get to $15M. They also have Reaves, Hachimura and Walker who could be signed and traded. I suspect Reaves is going to get paid a moderate sum (something like Buddy Hield money), and he'd fit nicely with Luka. So, if the Lakers want to make a bad decision, there might be a way for the Mavs to turn Kyrie into some functional players.

[WVRed]

It is a fair question? Yeah you can say he was tired, but the announcers even mentioned it. At a little over the six minute mark they say Lebron is just standing they’re not moving or trying to get the ball and asked what is he doing. This has happened in other series and then he left for Miami. That should not of surprised anyone.It's not a fair question when it involves LeBron. You could tell though something was always off in the second half. Either Mike Malone made great adjustments to where the Nuggets came roaring back or the Lakers simply ran out of gas.

Maybe minute management is the answer like Boston Red suggested but with the issues the Lakers have he isn't going to get it there nor is Kyrie the answer to the problems. Trae Young might be though.

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[dubc47834]

It's not a fair question when it involves LeBron. You could tell though something was always off in the second half. Either Mike Malone made great adjustments to where the Nuggets came roaring back or the Lakers simply ran out of gas.

Maybe minute management is the answer like Boston Red suggested but with the issues the Lakers have he isn't going to get it there nor is Kyrie the answer to the problems. Trae Young might be though.

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Sooooo...Kyrie is a better player than Trae Young and is more accomplished, but Trae Young is the answer...LOL.

That game was over after 3 QTRS. He wasn't going to score 31 in the second half. AD failed the Lakers last night. AD needs to go as he's unreliable. My opinion, the Lakers need to trade AD, let Lebron play out his last year, and start fresh from a salary cap perspective.

[WVRed]

Sooooo...Kyrie is a better player than Trae Young and is more accomplished, but Trae Young is the answer...LOL.

That game was over after 3 QTRS. He wasn't going to score 31 in the second half. AD failed the Lakers last night. AD needs to go as he's unreliable. My opinion, the Lakers need to trade AD, let Lebron play out his last year, and start fresh from a salary cap perspective.Trae Young is also younger than Kyrie and would be someone to build a franchise around.

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[Fil3232]

Trae Young is also younger than Kyrie and would be someone to build a franchise around.

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Omg no

[M2]

It's not a fair question when it involves LeBron. You could tell though something was always off in the second half. Either Mike Malone made great adjustments to where the Nuggets came roaring back or the Lakers simply ran out of gas.

Maybe minute management is the answer like Boston Red suggested but with the issues the Lakers have he isn't going to get it there nor is Kyrie the answer to the problems. Trae Young might be though.

I don't think Trae is the answer to anything other than "how do you linger in the play-in zone?" As for LeBron, he can't dominate a series like he used to or thrash the other team for 48 minutes. His candle burns quicker. He stole two games to win the Warriors series (who also were having trouble keeping the hammer down), but Denver's got a stronger chin. The Nuggets took his best shots and fired back harder.

Actually, you know where he'd fit great? The Celtics. They've got two younger guys to carry the scoring and who can play off-ball. Bron could direct traffic and pick his spots.

[dubc47834]

Trae Young is also younger than Kyrie and would be someone to build a franchise around.

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Trae Young is not someone you build a franchise around. He isn't even a solid piece on a championship team!

[Revering4Blue]

Denver just made their first finals since the final ABA finals. David Thompson, Dan Issel, Alex English and Fat Lever couldn't get to the NBA finals. They were the best franchise never to make it to the finals (Clippers, Kings, Grizzlies, Timberwolves, Pelicans, Hawks and Hornets are the others). One more step to immortality.

Certainly.

And many have forgotten just how good the ‘85 - with a healthy Calvin Natt and Issel’s swan-song - and ‘88 team - a Fat Lever injury away from reaching the conference finals - were. I’m too lazy to look it up, but I’m certain they reached the conference Finals in ‘78 before they traded Bobby Jones to Philly.


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[Revering4Blue]

I'm beginning to think that Vincent and Martin are really good.

More importantly, the production of such players raises a pertinent question:

Just how valuable are Tyler Herro’s contributions to this team from a postseason standpoint?

At the very least, they are certainly more locked In defensively as a team without him.


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[M2]

Certainly.

And many have forgotten just how good the ‘85 - with a healthy Calvin Natt and Issel’s swan-song - and ‘88 team - a Fat Lever injury away from reaching the conference finals - were. I’m too lazy to look it up, but I’m certain they reached the conference Finals in ‘78 before they traded Bobby Jones to Philly.

Yep, they went down 4-2 to the Sonics in the 1978 WCF. That was before the Sixers swindled them with the Bobby Jones for George McGinnis swap. They got undone during the season when the vastly underrated Brian Taylor (two-time ABA champion with the Nets) got injured. It left the Nuggets with Bob Wilkerson, a second-year small forward, running the point. Needless to say, he turned into a Lunchable against Dennis Johnson and Gus Williams. The even bigger sin is the previous summer they'd picked Anthony Roberts one slot before the Lakers selected Norm Nixon. Nixon + David Thompson would have been something to behold.

[M2]

The Celtics live to fight another day, but it is WAY too early to start invoking the 2004 Red Sox. Jaylen Brown needs to spend the next two days practicing free throws (1-5 tonight, 3-9 in the series, 40-62 in the playoffs).

[BuckeyeRed27]

It took 3 games, but they finally figured out the zone and made some shots (and Miami finally didn’t). I’m assuming Spo will make another adjustment and Boston will melt, but it does get a little interesting if they win Thursday.

[KoryMac5]

Bill Plaschke surmised last night on ESPN that the Lakers may put AD on the block...he still has value throughout the league for multiple teams.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Bill Plaschke surmised last night on ESPN that the Lakers may put AD on the block...he still has value throughout the league for multiple teams.

Makes $40M next year and $43M the year after unless he opts out. Not impossible to trade $40M but it’s not a deep pool.

[M2]

Makes $40M next year and $43M the year after unless he opts out. Not impossible to trade $40M but it’s not a deep pool.

Could be a lot of salary swapping this summer. I could see Atlanta getting in on AD. Murray, Okongwu and Hunter would just about fit his cost. Chicago (AD's hometown) is another one I could see jumping in. A Vuce sign-and-trade, Caruso and Coby White on an extension?

[RiverRat13]

How would Laker fans react to the last days of LeBron playing out as a mediocre team where he forces the organization's hand to draft Bronny? I don't see that working out well.

[BuckeyeRed27]

How would Laker fans react to the last days of LeBron playing out as a mediocre team where he forces the organization's hand to draft Bronny? I don't see that working out well.

If the Lakers run it back they’ll still be pretty good and most of us the other west teams have major question marks except Denver and they have a lot of injury history.

[WVRed]

How would Laker fans react to the last days of LeBron playing out as a mediocre team where he forces the organization's hand to draft Bronny? I don't see that working out well.Considering they went through the Ball family, probably not.

Yes I understand there is a difference but there are some similarities as well. Local kid going through the grinder in LA with a famous (or in Lonzos case, infamous) father.

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[M2]

If the Lakers run it back they’ll still be pretty good and most of us the other west teams have major question marks except Denver and they have a lot of injury history.

Injuries are an issue for the Lakers too. LeBron has lost his legendary durability and AD is a good bet to break down 2-3 times a season. I wouldn't be shocked if either of those two missed half the season next year. They've got a money decision to make on Russell, who dropped way down the pecking order in the Nuggets series. Reaves and Rui will cost money to keep, and they may not be able to match offers for both depending on what they do with Russell. From their UFAs, Lonnie Walker might get a decent payday just from that one game against the Warriors and Schroder became sort of vital for them on the defensive end. Maybe they'll have an MLE to keep one of those two.

There's also decisions on Beasley and Bamba to be made (trade, keep, cut). Beasley is probably a cut (though he did give them bench scoring during the season), but Bamba could be useful if he can get healthy (or someone they can package in a trade to match salaries).

So I'm not sure how much they can bring back or how well it all works if they do. Seems like a lot will hinge on how they handle Russell and how real Reaves is if they can keep him.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Injuries are an issue for the Lakers too. LeBron has lost his legendary durability and AD is a good bet to break down 2-3 times a season. I wouldn't be shocked if either of those two missed half the season next year. They've got a money decision to make on Russell, who dropped way down the pecking order in the Nuggets series. Reaves and Rui will cost money to keep, and they may not be able to match offers for both depending on what they do with Russell. From their UFAs, Lonnie Walker might get a decent payday just from that one game against the Warriors and Schroder became sort of vital for them on the defensive end. Maybe they'll have an MLE to keep one of those two.

There's also decisions on Beasley and Bamba to be made (trade, keep, cut). Beasley is probably a cut (though he did give them bench scoring during the season), but Bamba could be useful if he can get healthy (or someone they can package in a trade to match salaries).

So I'm not sure how much they can bring back or how well it all works if they do. Seems like a lot will hinge on how they handle Russell and how real Reaves is if they can keep him.

I’m not sure Lebron should play more than 50ish games. Davis is obviously a huge injury risk, but he did just play 73 games including the playoffs so fingers crossed.

Even if they play around the edges and use DLos salary for something else or swap Rui for whatever, they should still be able to bring back a comparable team to what they just had. They probably can’t win the title without injury luck, but they can be in the conversation.

Also it’s not at all a forgone conclusion that Bronny is a one and done.

[klw]

Lets say the Celtics decide to blow things up or realize that Jaylen Brown won't want to stay. Would a sign and trade of Brown to LA for Davis plus X work? What would X have to consist of? Likely not a good fit for many reasons but just curious what others think.

[M2]

Lets say the Celtics decide to blow things up or realize that Jaylen Brown won't want to stay. Would a sign and trade of Brown to LA for Davis plus X work? What would X have to consist of? Likely not a good fit for many reasons but just curious what others think.

I think that would be a disaster of a trade for Boston. Not saying it wouldn't happen, but I'd think a guy who could play with the ball and create for himself/others (e.g. Dame) would be a better fit.

[RichRed]

Michael Winger to run the Wiz. Good luck to you, sir.

https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2023/05/winger-to-have-carte-blanche-over-wizards-roster.html

[M2]

Michael Winger to run the Wiz. Good luck to you, sir.

https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2023/05/winger-to-have-carte-blanche-over-wizards-roster.html


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIpRdbi9pYw

[M2]

Well, the ECF just got interesting.

[KoryMac5]

Well, the ECF just got interesting.

Yep that 1st quarter Boston came out and punched Miami in the mouth and they never recovered...momentum is a hell of a drug for any sports team.

[dubc47834]

Yep that 1st quarter Boston came out and punched Miami in the mouth and they never recovered...momentum is a hell of a drug for any sports team.

Game 6 is basically Game 7 for Miami. No way would Boston lose a Game 7 in Boston, not after fighting back down 0-3

[M2]

Game 6 is basically Game 7 for Miami. No way would Boston lose a Game 7 in Boston, not after fighting back down 0-3

The Celtics have such a weird team psychology that it's hard to know what they'll do in a given situation. So Boston could win Game 6, get happy with itself and then bottle a Game 7. Though Miami is up against it as Game 6 is a must-win, but they can't say that out loud, even among themselves. Also, Miami can't chalk up last night to a bad game. Overall they shot pretty well last night. They also got after it on defense. Didn't make any difference. They got beat by a better team.

The Heat are still holding the advantage. They've got two shots at closing this series. Their formula will be to keep to it close with their defense, frustrate the Celtics and get on a heater. It worked three times already. Yet Boston has remembered it's got better players.

[KoryMac5]

The Celtics have such a weird team psychology that it's hard to know what they'll do in a given situation. So Boston could win Game 6, get happy with itself and then bottle a Game 7. Though Miami is up against it as Game 6 is a must-win, but they can't say that out loud, even among themselves. Also, Miami can't chalk up last night to a bad game. Overall they shot pretty well last night. They also got after on defense. Didn't make any difference. They got beat by a better team.

The Hear are still holding the advantage. They've got two shots at closing this series. Their formula will be to keep to it close with their defense, frustrate the Celtics and get on a heater. It worked three times already. Yet Boston has remembered it's got better players.

If I am Spoelstra I really try and get under the skin of the Celtics in the first quarter force (Smart, Tatum, and Brown) into a highly emotional game as the Celtics can only ride the wave of good emotions for so long. They start making bad decisions when faced with adversity and forget who there most reliable scorers are...

[M2]

If I am Spoelstra I really try and get under the skin of the Celtics in the first quarter force (Smart, Tatum, and Brown) into a highly emotional game as the Celtics can only ride the wave of good emotions for so long. They start making bad decisions when faced with adversity and forget who there most reliable scorers are...

Even more than that, Boston gets in trouble when it stops moving the ball. Sometimes it reverts to one guy pounding the ball into the court for 15 seconds and then charging at the defense to take on off-balance shot. When the ball touches a lot of hands and finds the open man, they're deadly. And it opens up space for Tatum and Brown to operate.

[elrojo]

Even more than that, Boston gets in trouble when it stops moving the ball. Sometimes it reverts to one guy pounding the ball into the court for 15 seconds and then charging at the defense to take on off-balance shot. When the ball touches a lot of hands and finds the open man, they're deadly. And it opens up space for Tatum and Brown to operate.

It's the same old story. Keep the ball moving and the players moving and you win basketball games.

[M2]

Interesting to see the odds calculation on Game 6 - https://nbarankings.theringer.com/odds-machine.

The Ringer odds machine is giving Miami a 60% chance to win the series, but that's because it has two remaining chances to win it. It has the Celtics favored 59-41 for Game 6. Should Boston win, it's odds would jump to 81-19 for Game 7.

So Miami is favored in the series, but Boston is the solid favorite in each game.

[M2]

OMG, Derrick White!

[kaldaniels]

Wow. Terrible look on the desperate 3…almost went in…but the tip-in!

[BuckeyeRed27]

Sports!

[M2]

And if the ball didn't land in White's hands, it was going to Tatum.

[westofyou]

The ending of that game reminded me of the time in Band of Brothers when a guy got shot in the helmet, took it off and exclaimed "Wow, lucky me" then got shot in the head

[goreds2]

If the Celtics win game 7, they will become the first NBA team (out of 151) to win a seven-game playoff series after losing the first three games. The Celtics' record in decisive seventh games is 27-9 overall and 22-5 at home.

[plantmanky]

If the Celtics win game 7, they will become the first NBA team (out of 151) to win a seven-game playoff series after losing the first three games. The Celtics' record in decisive seventh games is 27-9 overall and 22-5 at home.

Just the way the NBA planned it.

[M2]

If the Celtics win game 7, they will become the first NBA team (out of 151) to win a seven-game playoff series after losing the first three games. The Celtics' record in decisive seventh games is 27-9 overall and 22-5 at home.

That last sentence is a testament to why home-court advantage matters, and why Miami really need needed to win Game 6. Same logic applied to Philly in the last round.

[Revering4Blue]

Just the way the NBA planned it.

Nah. The David Stern era ended years ago. If anything, the Celtics we’re getting hosed with questionable calls and non-calls down the stretch.

This wasn’t another Lakers/Kings 2002 WCF scenario.


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[M2]

Sixers are hiring Nick Nurse. Good move.

[SteelSD]

Sixers are hiring Nick Nurse. Good move.

I hated Nick Nurse on the Raptors, but in that way you like a guy if he's playing or coaching for you. The one thing I really never liked is that his Raptors teams always seemed to be playing out of control defensively. Maybe that's just the body type that team acquires, or maybe it's time to fight fire with fire. The things I do like about Nurse is that he always seemed to get the most out of his roster and that he's an out of the box guy. The latter will be a breath of fresh air, given that the Sixers just fired a guy who pretty much defines "the box".

[RedTeamGo!]

Nah. The David Stern era ended years ago. If anything, the Celtics we’re getting hosed with questionable calls and non-calls down the stretch.

This wasn’t another Lakers/Kings 2002 WCF scenario.


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I’ll never forget the 2002 WCF. Stained the NBA in my eyes to a point it will never go away.

[WVRed]

Miami up by 17 entering the 4th quarter.

Stranger things have happened but this looks like a chokejob.

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[M2]

All credit to Miami, they're playing defense and making their shots. Meanwhile, the Celtics are in full meltdown.

[WVRed]

All credit to Miami, they're playing defense and making their shots. Meanwhile, the Celtics are in full meltdown.Jaylen Brown has more turnovers by himself than the Miami Heat as a team.

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[Rojo Rijo]

Jaylen Brown has more turnovers by himself than the Miami Heat as a team.

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Tatum is hobbled and Miami is pushing it down their throats every chance they get. Boston looks like a boxer who’s taken a few hard shots and can’t find his bearings. Brown does not look like a guy who deserves the chance to have his own team.

[SteelSD]

21 points now. It's over. Caleb Martin had himself a night, while Butler is having a solid game. Adebayo still can't hit a shot, but has been really good defensively. For Boston, Tatum can't get any shots off and Brown has 8 turnovers so far.

[Ky Fried Redleg]

Six losses IN Boston for the Celtics during the playoffs. That's kinda unheard of.

[Mutaman]

If the Celtics win game 7, they will become the first NBA team (out of 151) to win a seven-game playoff series after losing the first three games. The Celtics' record in decisive seventh games is 27-9 overall and 22-5 at home.


Now their record is 27-10.

[goreds2]

Yahoo sports article said that Reds players India, Greene and Diaz were at Boston/Miami game 7.

[Kingspoint]

Game 6 is basically Game 7 for Miami. No way would Boston lose a Game 7 in Boston, not after fighting back down 0-3

Thnk again.

[BuckeyeRed27]

This is gonna be a sweep. Denver has so much more length.

[M2]

This is gonna be a sweep. Denver has so much more length.

I heard it argued on a podcast that Denver might be the best team since the dynasty Warriors with KD. With each passing game, I believe that more firmly.

[SteelSD]

Two free throws? A team with Jimmy Butler on it got two free throws? NBA record.

[KoryMac5]

Two free throws? A team with Jimmy Butler on it got two free throws? NBA record.

I don't think I can remember a playoff game where a team only got to the line 2 times...after searching the web the Heat set a record for lowest number of attempts in post season hx...

The Heat shot a ton of jumpers but man do better NBA...

[BuckeyeRed27]

I don't think I can remember a playoff game where a team only got to the line 2 times...after searching the web the Heat set a record for lowest number of attempts in post season hx...

The Heat shot a ton of jumpers but man do better NBA...

I don’t remember many missed calls. Miami isn’t tall enough so they didn’t go inside and Denver forced the ball to Bam on pick and roll and he scored a lot of short jumpers.

[BuckeyeRed27]

I heard it argued on a podcast that Denver might be the best team since the dynasty Warriors with KD. With each passing game, I believe that more firmly.

Jokic is operating at such a high level. He can just take over the game and stop any run. Honestly Denver didn’t even play that well. Porter missed a ton of shots, it was an ok Murray game and Jokic didn’t really attack except when he had to to kill off Miami runs. And they still killed them.

[M2]

I don’t remember many missed calls. Miami isn’t tall enough so they didn’t go inside and Denver forced the ball to Bam on pick and roll and he scored a lot of short jumpers.

Aaron Gordon is a real problem. As long as Gordon plays disciplined defense like last night, his size, speed and spring are elite. You can't go through, around or over him. Even if you switch him, he plays really good help defense. I expect Jimmy is just going to start plowing into Gordon and hoping to get a call.

Yet on the interior, Denver's guys were holding their position, not reaching and letting their size do the work. Wasn't really anything to call. Miami's going to need to hit 3's like they're a team full of Stephs.

[RedTeamGo!]

The idea Jokic isnt the best player in the league right now is a joke-ic

[M2]

The idea Jokic isnt the best player in the league right now is a joke-ic

He's definitely the best player (though I suppose Giannis is in that argument). He just came off the gas toward the end of the season to gear up for this playoff run. Basically he traded the MVP for what might be a title.

[KoryMac5]

The idea Jokic isnt the best player in the league right now is a joke-ic

I love Luka but if i had the choice I would start my franchise with Joker...

[BuckeyeRed27]

I love Luka but if i had the choice I would start my franchise with Joker...

I’m not out on Luka, but I hope he used this season as motivation, let’s say that.

[KoryMac5]

I’m not out on Luka, but I hope he used this season as motivation, let’s say that.

I saw some recent video and it does appear he has lost weight...his issue is he doesn't maintain that weight throughout the season.

[KoryMac5]

I am underwhelmed by the Vogel hiring in Phx...

[Kingspoint]

Heck of a move by Detroit hiring Williams for the next six seasons. That's a perfect match.

[M2]

Heck of a move by Detroit hiring Williams for the next six seasons. That's a perfect match.

He's a good coach, but I'm not sure what kind of team he's got. I like Cade and Duren, but that's about it. Ivey did not impress me. They'll need to nail that #5 pick and score big in free agency (might be 2024 where they take their shot). Might take 3-4 years to turn that ship around.

[Kingspoint]

He's a good coach, but I'm not sure what kind of team he's got. I like Cade and Duren, but that's about it. Ivey did not impress me. They'll need to nail that #5 pick and score big in free agency (might be 2024 where they take their shot). Might take 3-4 years to turn that ship around.

They are unbalanced. Yeah, Duren was a good pick. I was hoping the Blazers would take him (they could have gotten a later 1st Rd pick to do so).

I don't think Detroit has had any direction. They should be focusing on Defense and they will with Williams. The Offense will take care of itself if they do.

[dubc47834]

Thnk again.

Yup, I was wrong. Woulda never thought that fighting back from being down 0-3, that they woulda layed an egg like they did.

[Kingspoint]

Yup, I was wrong. Woulda never thought that fighting back from being down 0-3, that they woulda layed an egg like they did.

Weaker minds led to that.

[Kingspoint]

Bill Oram: Phil Knight still wants to buy the Trail Blazers. Why won’t Jody Allen play ball?

Updated: Jun. 05, 2023, 7:53 a.m

By Bill Oram | The Oregonian/OregonLive

The year is 2023, a summer of franchise-altering decisions awaits, and Jody Allen has not sold the Portland Trail Blazers. The year is 2025, the Blazers’ lease on the land at Moda Center expires, and Jody Allen has not sold the Trail Blazers. The year is 2027, the last year of Damian Lillard’s contract … It’s 2030 … 2035 … Could Blazers fans really be left flapping in the wind for another dozen years? Longer? Such is life in purgatory, where Jody Allen and her Vulcan Inc. brethren roost, presiding over the paradoxical inanity of two opposing truths: The Blazers must be sold. The Blazers are not for sale. What is this, a riddle? If it is, Phil Knight, bless him, continues to try to solve it. Along with entrepreneur Alan Smolinisky, Knight has continued to pursue buying the Blazers from Allen, even though she has said it could take up to 20 years to resolve her brother’s estate.

We know this thanks to reporting in the Wall Street Journal by Rachel Bachman, a former reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive. According to the story that ran over the weekend, Allen has not only resisted all overtures, she has not even spoken directly with Knight. A Vulcan Inc. spokesperson told the Journal, “Interested parties can engage when we establish a sales process at some point in the future.” At some point in the future? This is no way for Blazers fans to live. But unless Jody Allen finds a way to build a bond with a city that has never been her home, then this is just how it’s going to be for an indeterminate number of years. And that feels excruciating. I have never been one to lead the charge for Allen selling the Blazers. This is private enterprise, after all. And over three decades, the Blazers benefited from Paul Allen’s wealth and passion. Allen also does not have any strategic incentive to give a timeline that could hurt a sales price, especially before the NBA’s new television contract kicks in after the 2025 season. In the year since Knight and Smolinisky first bid on the Blazers, sports team values have multiplied. Earlier this year, the Phoenix Suns sold for $4 billion — double what the duo offered for the Blazers. That’s a win for Allen — and all the charities Paul Allen’s trust is designed to benefit — whether you believe she has outmaneuvered Knight or is simply being obstinate.

The Journal reported Knight and Smolinisky have shown a willingness to increase their offer. I’d love to see what a good faith negotiation could yield. The problem here is looking at the Trail Blazers — and the Seattle Seahawks, also owned by Allen — as simply another asset in her brother’s vast trove of assets. I walked away from the Journal story feeling like that’s what Vulcan wants you to believe. That the Blazers are no different than the Manhattan penthouses or the billion-dollar art collection and they, too, will be sold whenever the accountants get to that line item. We all know the team was more than that to Paul Allen. And it certainly is to everyone else who loves the Blazers, too. That’s what makes Knight such an appealing successor to Allen. It’s easy to get swept up in the romance of the 85-year-old adding the crown jewel of Oregon’s sports landscape to his legacy.

Knight will not be the last billionaire who wants to buy the Trail Blazers. But he will almost certainly be the last who also brings such a deep sense of civic responsibility to Portland. The Journal reported that Knight’s motivation stems from a desire to keep the team here. And the longer Jody Allen drags out the process, the more likely someone who does not share that ambition gets involved in the bidding process. The $400 million investment Knight and his wife Penny made to form the 1803 Fund to benefit Portland’s historically Black neighborhoods felt like a precursor to another run at the Trail Blazers. It is also evidence of just how much of his fortune he is willing to invest in his hometown. And Portland needs it. Blazers President Dewayne Hankins has talked about needed renovations at Moda Center and the Rose Quarter, and the way the rebirth of that district could tie into other revitalization efforts in the area. That needs to be true under any owner. And if that’s Jody Allen’s passion, then let’s see it.

Because right now, it feels like the Blazers give Jody Allen and Blazers vice chair Bert Kolde something to do until they have to eventually step away. Kolde, the hands-on executive who was a former roommate of Paul Allen, was an invested observer at Scoot Henderson’s predraft workout on Saturday and is known to have significant influence on team decisions. And you know what? It sounds fun. Especially if selling off the assets of a billionaire is your day job. Running an NBA team, while not easy, is a high-stakes challenge that gives Allen and Kolde a seat at the table with some of the wealthiest figures in American industry. When they sell the remaining assets, including the Blazers, they’ll be left all alone in their mansions. Major “Succession” vibes here. So, hey, I might not be in a huge hurry to sell my NBA team either.

But if Allen refuses to engage with Knight’s overtures, then she must at least explain what Portland fans are getting instead. Because they’re investors, too.

[M2]

The Suns have waived Chris Paul, though they're still over the cap and have only 6 guys on the roster.

Meanwhile, Dame says Miami would be his first choice for a trade - https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1666472146065842176. Yeah, I've been saying that, and damned if Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson aren't a perfect salary fit for Dame.

[M2]

Bruce Brown, closer.

I think Miami has run into a team tougher than they are.

[M2]

The second half of this game has been mayhem. Both teams are defending like demons and too gassed to execute on offense.

[M2]

The Nuggets' two big moves last summer were for Bruce Brown and KCP. The two guys who closed out the game for them were Bruce Brown and KCP. That's GMing.

[M2]

Stan Kroenke doesn't know how microphones work.

[Revering4Blue]

The Nuggets' two big moves last summer were for Bruce Brown and KCP. The two guys who closed out the game for them were Bruce Brown and KCP. That's GMing.

Calvin Booth obviously knows what he’s doing.

I will voluntarily stand in the corner with a Dunce hat due to the fact that I initially questioned the trade of Morris and Barton for KCP and Smith last June, mainly because I am a huge Monte Morris fan. The Lakers are still paying for letting KCP go. Brown seemed like a no-brainer, though. Heck of a player.

Last years draftees - Braun and Watson - look like keepers.


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[Revering4Blue]

The Suns have waived Chris Paul, though they're still over the cap and have only 6 guys on the roster.

Meanwhile, Dame says Miami would be his first choice for a trade - https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1666472146065842176. Yeah, I've been saying that, and damned if Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson aren't a perfect salary fit for Dame.

FWIW, the latest rumor circulating Chicago Sports radio is Herro, Robinson, Jovic and this year’s 1st rounder for LaVine.


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[M2]

FWIW, the latest rumor circulating Chicago Sports radio is Herro, Robinson, Jovic and this year’s 1st rounder for LaVine.

My guess is they make that offer to the Blazers for Dame first.

[Revering4Blue]

My guess is they make that offer to the Blazers for Dame first.

I suspect so. But the price for Dame will be assuredly higher draft pick- wise. Such as multiple 1sts and multiple 1st swap options.

Frankly, neither Herro nor Robinson should be headlining any potential deal for a superstar. Unlike Dame, I wouldn’t refer to LaVine as such for the sake of argument. The picks would be the most enticing pieces.


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[M2]

I suspect so. But the price for Dame will be assuredly higher draft pick- wise. Such as multiple 1sts and multiple 1st swap options.

Frankly, neither Herro nor Robinson should be headlining any potential deal for a superstar. Unlike Dame, I wouldn’t refer to LaVine as such for the sake of argument. The picks would be the most enticing pieces.

Herro's young, good-sized for a guard and scores 20+ a game. That's better than most draft top draft picks (even if he gets roasted on defense). He's also locked up for four years. That's a pretty good return piece for a star player. I operate under the assumption that a team looking to acquire a star player isn't trading a star player in return. It's almost invariably a good-but-not-great guy like Lauri Markkanen for Gobert last year (and then you hope the younger guy steps up like Markkanen).

Add two draft picks (max Miami can move) and Jovic (intriguing upside) and I'm not sure who'd beat that offer (assuming most teams that will want Dame need to send salary back to acquire him). Maybe New Orleans can jump in front of that with a package involving Zion. I also think Dame might be able to call his shot a bit, and he's made it known he likes Miami. Seems like a perfect fit for him - a team that defends like crazy, plays responsible ball and can hit open 3's.

[M2]

Here's one to chew on: there are rumors the Pelicans love Scoot Henderson and want to jump into the top three in the draft to get him. Would you trade Zion Williamson to Charlotte for the #2 pick? Attached to that, is there any way Charlotte (which has a perpetual chubby for former ACC stars) would say no?

[Boston Red]

NM

[Rojo Rijo]

Sounds like Beal may be looking for a new team. Only problem is his deal is about as unfriendly for a team as it can get.

Full NTC
Can decide where and what he is traded for.
On the books for 46, 50, and 53 with a PO for 57 in '26/'27.

Age isnt that bad 30-33, could be worse like some of the players making 40-50 million a year in their mid to late 30s.

As a Florida fan i've always been a big Beal fan but he went from back to back 30 ppg seasons to 23 ppg, though this year he did so at a 50/36/84 clip, one of the best he's ever produced. On the other hand he's missed over 1/3 of his teams games over the past 3 seasons.

Not sure where he'd fit best. Reports (Windhorst) are the price is going to be shockingly low because of the unattractiveness of his contract.

[Revering4Blue]

Sounds like Beal may be looking for a new team. Only problem is his deal is about as unfriendly for a team as it can get.

Full NTC
Can decide where and what he is traded for.
On the books for 46, 50, and 53 with a PO for 57 in '26/'27.

Age isnt that bad 30-33, could be worse like some of the players making 40-50 million a year in their mid to late 30s.

As a Florida fan i've always been a big Beal fan but he went from back to back 30 ppg seasons to 23 ppg, though this year he did so at a 50/36/84 clip, one of the best he's ever produced. On the other hand he's missed over 1/3 of his teams games over the past 3 seasons.

Not sure where he'd fit best. Reports (Windhorst) are the price is going to be shockingly low because of the unattractiveness of his contract.

IMHO, much depends upon the decisions of Porzingis and Kuzma to opt-in or out, although both could opt in with the intention of agreed upon trades. As it stands today, should Porzingis exercise his 36 million option, I'd be inclined to bring Beal back regardless of Kuzma's decision and expore dealing Beal if/when Porzingis eventually departs.

Anyway, operating under the following assumptions -- 1)New Orleans, with a package based around Zion or Ingram and this years 1st, manages to acquire pick #2 and proceeds to draft Scoot. 2)Portland then lands Miller at #3. -- Here's an interesting Beal trade idea:

To Portland

Beal
Gafford
Pick #42

To Washington
Simons
Nurkic
K.Johnson OR Little
Pick #23

The Wizards could then move on from Porzingis.

[Revering4Blue]

Herro's young, good-sized for a guard and scores 20+ a game. That's better than most draft top draft picks (even if he gets roasted on defense). He's also locked up for four years. That's a pretty good return piece for a star player. I operate under the assumption that a team looking to acquire a star player isn't trading a star player in return. It's almost invariably a good-but-not-great guy like Lauri Markkanen for Gobert last year (and then you hope the younger guy steps up like Markkanen).

Add two draft picks (max Miami can move) and Jovic (intriguing upside) and I'm not sure who'd beat that offer (assuming most teams that will want Dame need to send salary back to acquire him). Maybe New Orleans can jump in front of that with a package involving Zion. I also think Dame might be able to call his shot a bit, and he's made it known he likes Miami. Seems like a perfect fit for him - a team that defends like crazy, plays responsible ball and can hit open 3's.

It goes without saying that a team trading away a Superstar, more often than not, is fortunate (when the smoke eventually clears) to receive one All Star caliber player in return; current or eventual. Indiana receiving two All Stars for PG13 in Oladipo and Sabonis is/was the outlier, and I'm likely forgetting other examples.

Restricting this argument to a potential package based around Herro, Jovic and picks, which scenario is more likely to produce/emerge as a future All Star? Herro or Jovic and/or the
picks? It's a fair question.

Right now, Herro is what some - mainly the Kings' brass - expected Nik Stauskas to become. A sharp-shooting, solid rotational player, likely better suited for a sixth man role. That said, given Herro's age, wingspan and BBall IQ, he's certainly not a finished product by any means. If his playmaking and defense - particularly the latter - improve, his ceiling, IMO, is a modern day Jeff Hornacek, which is no knock at all as Hornacek was an All Star as Phoenix Sun. Hornacek could have easily averaged over 20 ppg if given the freedom to fire away from three point land like Herro today and was a solid defender. Even past his prime as a member of the Utah Jazz, Hornacek was solid win share wise.

So, yes, if Herro and Jovic become All Star level players AND the Blazers land either future stars and/or solid rotational players with picks acquired from Miami, that would be a nice return for Dame. The question is whether or not New Orleans - which apparently covets Scoot - would up their game with a package centered around Ingram, Daniels and picks/pick swaps (as they own several picks moving forward),top Miami's potential offer and go after Dame themselves.

[Revering4Blue]

Here's one to chew on: there are rumors the Pelicans love Scoot Henderson and want to jump into the top three in the draft to get him. Would you trade Zion Williamson to Charlotte for the #2 pick? Attached to that, is there any way Charlotte (which has a perpetual chubby for former ACC stars) would say no?

Given Miller's projected ceiling as another Brandon Ingram, were I Charlotte, I'd gladly accept a package based around Ingram (with Trey Murphy III in the fold in New Orleans) and pick #14 for the 2nd overall pick, even if I have to surrender one of Charlotte's second rounders from this year's draft in the process.

[M2]

Given Miller's projected ceiling as another Brandon Ingram, were I Charlotte, I'd gladly accept a package based around Ingram (with Trey Murphy III in the fold in New Orleans) and pick #14 for the 2nd overall pick, even if I have to surrender one of Charlotte's second rounders from this year's draft in the process.

I doubt New Orleans is moving Ingram and betting on Zion. I can see them putting the #14 on the table along with Zion (though they're probably asking for something extra in return - no idea who/what) or just a package of picks. But it's sounding like they're reaching the conclusion that Zion needs a change of scenery.

[M2]

nm

[Kingspoint]

I doubt New Orleans is moving Ingram and betting on Zion. I can see them putting the #14 on the table along with Zion (though they're probably asking for something extra in return - no idea who/what) or just a package of picks. But it's sounding like they're reaching the conclusion that Zion needs a change of scenery.

They've given up trying to reach his immature mind.

[KoryMac5]

I feel like Atlanta is going to reset their team a bit...Collins has been mentioned a few times as a draft night trade.

[Boston Red]

25 games for Morant. Seems about right? Encourages him to stop being such an idiot without being TOO punitive.

[dubc47834]

Jordan selling his share of the Hornets...

https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/37863644/sources-michael-jordan-finalizing-charlotte-hornets-sale

[klw]

Q- slobberknocker idea- who says no?

Jaylen Brown to Portland for the #3 pick and Anfernee Simons?

[plantmanky]

25 games for Morant. Seems about right? Encourages him to stop being such an idiot without being TOO punitive.

Too light IMO, should have been minimum a full season.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Too light IMO, should have been minimum a full season.

That’s too much. Full year stuff has to be for breaking laws and not for this is a bad look that we don’t want stuff.

[plantmanky]

That’s too much. Full year stuff has to be for breaking laws and not for this is a bad look that we don’t want stuff.

Disagree, Comish said dont do this again, and it was done again in just a few months, send the message.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Disagree, Comish said dont do this again, and it was done again in just a few months, send the message.

Right, but he still didn’t break the law, he was just being a moron. A quarter of the season for being a moron about right.

[plantmanky]

Right, but he still didn’t break the law, he was just being a moron. A quarter of the season for being a moron about right.

Bauer didnt break the law, got how many seasons? NFL players are getting suspended for a season for legal gambling, not breaking the law.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Bauer didnt break the law, got how many seasons? NFL players are getting suspended for a season for legal gambling, not breaking the law.

I’m not going to equate Bauer and Ja. He might not technically have broken the law, but we are in different galaxies of conduct.

I think the only people that have gotten season long suspensions for gambling are people that have bet on their own teams, which gets into integrity of the game issues (although I didn’t agree with the Ridley one).

[WVRed]

Saw a trade proposal somewhere (might have been here) I liked.

Ja Morant for Bradley Beal.

Memphis would have a nice marketing strategy (Beal Street) and Washington has strict gun laws. Didn't stop Gilbert Arenas though.

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[KoryMac5]

Saw a trade proposal somewhere (might have been here) I liked.

Ja Morant for Bradley Beal.

Memphis would have a nice marketing strategy (Beal Street) and Washington has strict gun laws. Didn't stop Gilbert Arenas though.

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Memphis is ride or die with Ja…no way he gets traded and not for Beal they would want younger players and picks.

[Kingspoint]

Q- slobberknocker idea- who says no?

Jaylen Brown to Portland for the #3 pick and Anfernee Simons?

Boston says, "No."

I'd love it, of course.

Brown is eligible for the Super Max contract thanks to his receiving All-NBA status. BOS says they are going to give it to him (as they should as he's their best player).

[plantmanky]

I’m not going to equate Bauer and Ja. He might not technically have broken the law, but we are in different galaxies of conduct.

I think the only people that have gotten season long suspensions for gambling are people that have bet on their own teams, which gets into integrity of the game issues (although I didn’t agree with the Ridley one).

So flashing guns around doesnt tarnish the integrity of the game? I thought the NBA was trying to get away from Thug Life? Deliver the message to stop it from happening in the future.

Being honest, I think JA is just a punk wanna be and honestly shouldnt be in the NBA at all anymore, but I doubt that will be an issue, he will be dead soon do to his actions.

[WVRed]

Beal to Phoenix for Paul, Shamet, and a bunch of second round picks and a pick swap.

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[Kingspoint]

Beal to Phoenix for Paul, Shamet, and a bunch of second round picks and a pick swap.

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Wow! That was quick!

https://www.hoopsrumors.com/

[Kingspoint]

Wizards are immediately fielding offers to re-route Chris Paul to a contender. Chris Haynes says that the Clippers are looking to bring Chris Paul back to LA.

[Kingspoint]

The Wizards could actually sign off on the original two-team deal but they have incentive to wait, John Hollinger of The Athletic tweets. A three-team swap could create a larger trade exception for Washington, particularly if one of the players they receive fits into the $6,263,188 trade exception they possess as a result of trading Rui Hachimura to the Lakers last season.

[Rojo Rijo]

Suns - Interested to see Beal play with other elite scoring options. He's never played with one. Both Russ and Wall could score but have never been elite scoring options like KD/Book, and neither was KP. Phoenix needs to deal Ayton for a handful of useful role players.

Wiz - Rebuild. Trade CP3 (if not already rerouted in current Beal deal), trade KP, make sure Kuz walks. Start Monte/Nunn, Davis/Wright, Kispert, Avdija, and Gafford. Take the lumps. Grab a top pick in 2024. Depending on results/picks they could get into the market next summer with almost 100 million to spend. Players like Dejonte, Jaylen B, Klay, Kawhi, PG, AD, Jrue, Siakim, and Sabonis are all potentially available.

[Kingspoint]

June 19th, 2023 at 4:34pm CST by Dana Gauruder

Chris Paul believes Hall of Famer and former NBA executive Isiah Thomas played a role in the Wizards’ unofficial blockbuster trade with the Suns. Paul repeatedly told Sopan Deb of the New York Times that Suns owner Mat Ishbia and Thomas “wanted to go in a different direction.” Thomas is good friends with Ishbia but doesn’t have an official role with Phoenix. Paul. mainly due to his salary, was included in the trade that sent Bradley Beal to the Suns. The Wizards are reportedly looking to involve a third team and re-direct Paul to a contending club. Paul said he learned of the trade via a text from his 14-year-old son while he was flying to New York, where he’s embarking on a promotional tour for his new book. Even though the Suns had been mulling their options regarding Paul and his partially guaranteed contract, the trade “surprised” him.

“I really haven’t had enough time to process it yet. Like seriously, because these things that happen affect more than just me,” said Paul, who had been in contact with Suns president of basketball operations James Jones the previous day. Paul added, “Like I said, Mat and Isiah, they want to go in a different direction. But my time there has been amazing.” Paul’s comments suggest that not only did Ishbia push to acquire Beal but that Thomas has a major influence on his thinking, with his voice counting more than anyone in the front office. In early February, a report surfaced that Ishbia planned to hire Thomas for a prominent role in the front office. Thomas is on the board of directors of United Wholesale Mortgage, Ishbia’s company.

https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2023/06/chris-paul-claims-isiah-thomas-influenced-beal-blockbuster.html

[M2]

Suns - Interested to see Beal play with other elite scoring options. He's never played with one. Both Russ and Wall could score but have never been elite scoring options like KD/Book, and neither was KP. Phoenix needs to deal Ayton for a handful of useful role players.

Wiz - Rebuild. Trade CP3 (if not already rerouted in current Beal deal), trade KP, make sure Kuz walks. Start Monte/Nunn, Davis/Wright, Kispert, Avdija, and Gafford. Take the lumps. Grab a top pick in 2024. Depending on results/picks they could get into the market next summer with almost 100 million to spend. Players like Dejonte, Jaylen B, Klay, Kawhi, PG, AD, Jrue, Siakim, and Sabonis are all potentially available.

Unless someone overpays for Ayton (e.g. Dejounte Murray, Onyeka Okongwu and A.J. Griffin from the Hawks), I think the Suns just albatrossed their team. They're crazy expensive and nowhere near good enough.

I think you're right about the Wiz setting themselves up for free agency next year. Though they tend to shoot themselves in the foot. So maybe they'll blow it all on getting Zack LaVine. One thing they could do is ball up Chris Paul and the #8 pick to move up in this year's draft. Houston at #4 and Orlando at #6 both could use Chris Paul's floor generalship (I'd probably ask for the #11 pick too from Orlando).

[Kingspoint]

Well, it's official.

Woj said that Jordan likes Miller over Henderson and that Charlotte will be taking Miller.

That leaves Henderson for the Blazers, who will probably try to get the best deal they can by trading Ant+#23 (+future 1st) for a Frontcourt player. Dame moves to the 2-spot, Sharpe to the 3-spot (he was supposed to take Ant's place, but will have to wait until Dame leaves for that to happen to place him alongside of Henderson in the backcourt).

Less than 48 hours to go.

[M2]

Well, it's official.

Woj said that Jordan likes Miller over Henderson and that Charlotte will be taking Miller.

That leaves Henderson for the Blazers, who will probably try to get the best deal they can by trading Ant+#23 (+future 1st) for a Frontcourt player. Dame moves to the 2-spot, Sharpe to the 3-spot (he was supposed to take Ant's place, but will have to wait until Dame leaves for that to happen to place him alongside of Henderson in the backcourt).

Less than 48 hours to go.

Who's trading a good forward for Simons? Somebody who moves the needle is almost invariably going to cost Sharpe and/or the #3 pick (e.g. Siakam). Best guy I can figure for less than that is Porzingis, but that would require a 3rd team to swallow Nurk's contract.

Or they could admit this is a rebuild and move Dame, but that's a level of self-awareness they don't possess.

[RiverfrontRed]

Portland doesn't have a very good track record near the top of the draft, so whatever they do, I wouldn't expect it to be the right thing. I'm sure their scouting department is looking at injury prone 7 footers as we speak.

[Revering4Blue]

Suns - Interested to see Beal play with other elite scoring options. He's never played with one. Both Russ and Wall could score but have never been elite scoring options like KD/Book, and neither was KP. Phoenix needs to deal Ayton for a handful of useful role players.

Wiz - Rebuild. Trade CP3 (if not already rerouted in current Beal deal), trade KP, make sure Kuz walks. Start Monte/Nunn, Davis/Wright, Kispert, Avdija, and Gafford. Take the lumps. Grab a top pick in 2024. Depending on results/picks they could get into the market next summer with almost 100 million to spend. Players like Dejonte, Jaylen B, Klay, Kawhi, PG, AD, Jrue, Siakim, and Sabonis are all potentially available.

Just a hunch; but I suspect Dallas will send the 10th pick and salary ballast to Phoenix for Ayton. The Suns could then draft Lively II, or Dallas will make the selection on their behalf.

As for the Wiz, while I totally get the ‘they should have started the rebuild at least two off-seasons ago, it’s understandable that the held off in doing so. After all, they fleeced the Lakers and Mavs in the Westbrooks and Porzingis deals, respectively, so it was worth a shot to pursue a playoff berth. We weren’t talking about fundamentally flawed Charlotte teams here.


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[Revering4Blue]

Well, it's official.

Woj said that Jordan likes Miller over Henderson and that Charlotte will be taking Miller.

That leaves Henderson for the Blazers, who will probably try to get the best deal they can by trading Ant+#23 (+future 1st) for a Frontcourt player. Dame moves to the 2-spot, Sharpe to the 3-spot (he was supposed to take Ant's place, but will have to wait until Dame leaves for that to happen to place him alongside of Henderson in the backcourt).

Less than 48 hours to go.

My two cents..

If Charlotte selects Miller because they believe he’s the BPA, that’s fine. If they’re passing on Scoot due to ‘fit’ issues, even though they view him as BPA, that’s a mistake.

They’re not close to completing for championships either way and rather consistently drafting for need heavily contributed to the failed Kemba Walker era.


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[M2]

Just a hunch; but I suspect Dallas will send the 10th pick and salary ballast to Phoenix for Ayton. The Suns could then draft Lively II, or Dallas will make the selection on their behalf.

As for the Wiz, while I totally get the ‘they should have started the rebuild at least two off-seasons ago, it’s understandable that the held off in doing so. After all, they fleeced the Lakers and Mavs in the Westbrooks and Porzingis deals, respectively, so it was worth a shot to pursue a playoff berth. We weren’t talking about fundamentally flawed Charlotte teams here.

There's got to be some salary coming back from Dallas too. Would Kleber, Bertans and the #10 pick get it done?

[M2]

Wow.


Shams Charania
@ShamsCharania

4h
Breaking: Celtics, Wizards, Clippers are closing in on a trade sending Kristaps Porzingis to Boston, Malcolm Brogdon to L.A., and Marcus Morris and draft compensation to Washington, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Wow.

And nevermind it fell apart

[M2]

And nevermind it fell apart

Sounds like it's alive again. Though it's Smart heading out to the Grizz, Tyus Jones going to DC and 2 1st round picks plus Porzingis heading to Boston. I assume there's got to be other salary moves on the Celtics' part (Gallinari plus maybe Grant Williams in a sign-and-trade in there).

[Kingspoint]

Who's trading a good forward for Simons? Somebody who moves the needle is almost invariably going to cost Sharpe and/or the #3 pick (e.g. Siakam). Best guy I can figure for less than that is Porzingis, but that would require a 3rd team to swallow Nurk's contract.

Or they could admit this is a rebuild and move Dame, but that's a level of self-awareness they don't possess.

Nobody is trading a good forward for Simons. Nobody is trading an average forward for Simons. The Blazers will take the best player they can get for Simons + the #23 pick (plus a future protected 1st, if necessary).

- - - Updated - - -

Smart was the only player that could replace what Dillon brought to the Grizzlies. I could see why they targeted him and were willing to give up Tyus Jones, this year's #25 pick and next year's 1st Round pick for him.

[Kingspoint]

Portland doesn't have a very good track record near the top of the draft, so whatever they do, I wouldn't expect it to be the right thing. I'm sure their scouting department is looking at injury prone 7 footers as we speak.

When Kevin Pritchard was in charge they did extremely well. When Petrie was in charge, they did very well. Their scouting department was always one of the best in the NBA their first three decades.

They brought in the former head of the Houston Oilers to be their decision-maker after the JailBlazers and Whitsitt exited, and that led to Oden over Durant.

They made two mistakes in Wally Walker and LaRue Martin early on, but more than made up for it by acquiring both Maurice Lucas and Moses Malone in the ABA supplemental draft (both had hefty price-tags).

They, of course had bad luck calling tails instead of heads and losing out on Hakeem, and following that up by not taking Jordan (never mind that Barkley was also available).

If you look at what they did further down the 1st Round and into 2nd Rounds, they killed it regularly. Drafting Sabonis in the mid-80's was genius. They just couldn't convince him to not be a big fish in a little pond. Drexler with the 14th pick. Kersey and Porter from small schools in the 2nd Round. Genius scouting.

Pritchard trading with Chicago so they could grab Roy, while they also got Aldridge in the same draft. Grabbing Batum from overseas was excellent.

Drafting Lillard was luck. I think had they had the 5th pick they wouldn't have taken him. If they had the 9th pick, he wouldn't have been there and they wouldn't have traded up for him.

Olshey was terrible. Taking McCollum was dumb (because you can't have two short Guards together in the playoffs...it doesn't work) when I'm screaming for Gobert to add another Frenchman with the emotional Batum or for Adams, and with Gobert they could have traded down and still got him, but would have needed to not risk losing Adams by trading down (if he was their choice).

At the draft party, I'm actually walking up to the Blazers' personnel and telling them that they traded for Zach Collins, and it took them about 90 seconds to confirm it. I was screaming loudly here that I wanted them to use #15 for Adebayo and then #20 and #26 to leapfrog Atlanta, who I know wanted John Collins, and to move up to #17 or #18 and grab John Collins, because we needed two bigs (Adebayo and John Collins) and to not put all our eggs in one basket by grabbing only one big.

The last two months I haven't been excited to find out what we will do on draft day, but I've been more in fear of how we'll screw it up.

We got amazingly lucky last year with Shaedon Sharpe. He fell into our laps, and he's everything and more we could hope for. We have an opportunity here for Henderson, and there's only one thing to do, and that's to draft him and his low salary and we'll have his control for the next 8 seasons, while having 7 more with Sharpe. That's a new window that needs to be opened with whatever assets we get back from Dame when he decides to leave added to that. Get rid of Simons immediately and try to couple it with the #23 pick to get as good of a player that we can for that, and toss in a future 1st or even two future 1sts (we'll get at least two back from a Dame trade, probably 3 future 1st's) if some team is willing to offer us a veteran worthy of that much in return (something with the Clippers in a trade as they have many pieces that would work here).

[klw]

https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/37896379/grizzlies-acquire-marcus-smart-celtics-3-team-deal-involving-kristaps-porzingis-tyus-jones-sources-say

The Boston Celtics, Washington Wizards and Memphis Grizzlies agreed to a three-team trade late Wednesday night that sent center Kristaps Porzingis to the Celtics, guard Marcus Smart to the Grizzlies and guard Tyus Jones to the Wizards, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

As part of the deal, Memphis is sending Boston its first-round pick in Thursday's draft -- the 25th overall selection -- as well as the Golden State Warriors' top-four-protected first-round pick in 2024, sources said, while the Celtics are sending the 35th pick in Thursday's draft to Washington. The Celtics are also sending forward Danilo Gallinari and center Mike Muscala to Washington as part of the deal, sources said.

[KoryMac5]

Just a hunch; but I suspect Dallas will send the 10th pick and salary ballast to Phoenix for Ayton. The Suns could then draft Lively II, or Dallas will make the selection on their behalf.

As for the Wiz, while I totally get the ‘they should have started the rebuild at least two off-seasons ago, it’s understandable that the held off in doing so. After all, they fleeced the Lakers and Mavs in the Westbrooks and Porzingis deals, respectively, so it was worth a shot to pursue a playoff berth. We weren’t talking about fundamentally flawed Charlotte teams here.


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Dallas wants no part of Ayton and that contract...I know they were in on Capela for a bit but Atl only wanted to give up Collins.

I do know that Dallas is all in on the Grant Williams sign and trade...so maybe that is the other shoe to drop here on the Boston deal.

[M2]

Nobody is trading a good forward for Simons. Nobody is trading an average forward for Simons. The Blazers will take the best player they can get for Simons + the #23 pick (plus a future protected 1st, if necessary).

What's the point of that? Won't make them anywhere close to good. If they can't add a couple of impact players around Dame, then they'll be wasting Dame's best remaining years.

[BuckeyeRed27]

Sounds like it's alive again. Though it's Smart heading out to the Grizz, Tyus Jones going to DC and 2 1st round picks plus Porzingis heading to Boston. I assume there's got to be other salary moves on the Celtics' part (Gallinari plus maybe Grant Williams in a sign-and-trade in there).

I’m not sure how Boston got 2 firsts out of the deal but good for them.

That’s a nice trade for Boston if KP can stay healthy. Gives them a lot of lineup flexibility and I think Smart is close to cooked so good time to sell. That said they are now banking on KP and Brogdan to be major contributors and they aren’t exactly the vision of health and Horford is super old and still has to play a lot too.

[KoryMac5]

I’m not sure how Boston got 2 firsts out of the deal but good for them.

That’s a nice trade for Boston if KP can stay healthy. Gives them a lot of lineup flexibility and I think Smart is close to cooked so good time to sell. That said they are now banking on KP and Brogdan to be major contributors and they aren’t exactly the vision of health and Horford is super old and still has to play a lot too.

Problem is he is only good for 60-65 games per season though which by load mgmt. standards isn't awful. My concern is he had a tough time fitting as a 2nd option in Dallas as Luka is so ball dominant how is he going to fit in with Brown and Tatum. Also odd to see him opt in to the 36 million 1 yr deal given his injury history, makes me wonder if another deal is going to happen.

[Revering4Blue]

Dallas wants no part of Ayton and that contract...I know they were in on Capela for a bit but Atl only wanted to give up Collins.

I do know that Dallas is all in on the Grant Williams sign and trade...so maybe that is the other shoe to drop here on the Boston deal.

FWIW, the other proposed deal floating around doesn’t require the Mavs to give up their 1st round pick: THJ Jr, Bullock and McGee for Ayton.

Either way, I am not sure that I would deplete their depth to land Ayton, intriguing pick-and-roll partner for Luka that he is. It just sounds like a Cuban type move.


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[klw]

What's the point of that? Won't make them anywhere close to good. If they can't add a couple of impact players around Dame, then they'll be wasting Dame's best remaining years.

I found John Hollinger's take on Portland amusing:

https://theathletic.com/4626572/2023/06/21/nba-mock-draft-2023-hollinger/


The Blazers staying stuck in the Win It For Dame Twilight Zone remains one of the league’s most bizarre sub-plots. The obvious move for years now has been to trade Damian Lillard for a pile of assets and move forward, but the Blazers seem determined to learn absolutely nothing from the Bradley Beal Experience in Washington.

Instead, they’re watching a potentially Paul Georgian trade return steadily shrivel while they pursue another year of competing for the first 60 games and tanking the last 20. Maybe they’ll wait a couple more years, until Lillard is 35 and has two years left at $60 million a pop, then trade him for two seconds and the rights to the fourth-best player in the Greek second division.

[M2]

I found John Hollinger's take on Portland amusing:

https://theathletic.com/4626572/2023/06/21/nba-mock-draft-2023-hollinger/

That is exactly the direction they're heading.

They blew any chance they had of rebuilding around Dame when they signed the Simons and Nurkic extensions. Now they've got two albatross contracts on guys nobody really wants (at least at their current prices). And they'll probably throw money at some combination of Grant, Reddish, Thybulle and Winslow, and then wonder why they keep getting the same results. Unless Sharpe goes supernova, none of what they're doing makes any sense.

[Puffy]

CP3 to Warriors for Jordan Poole seems to be a thing

[M2]

CP3 to Warriors for Jordan Poole seems to be a thing

With the Warriors sending out picks too (2030 protected 1st and 2027 2nd). Good for the Wiz to kick the tires on Poole. Somebody's got to score for that team. Paul could be a sneaky good fit on the Dubs, and maybe playing only 20-25 minutes a night will keep him healthy.

[Mitri]

Word is Portland will draft Scoot and trade Lillard. I think it’s the right direction for them.

I like that CP3-Poole trade for both teams. Warriors moving Poole’s salary gives them a lot more flex in the next few years.

[Rdirtypirates]

So flashing guns around doesnt tarnish the integrity of the game? I thought the NBA was trying to get away from Thug Life? Deliver the message to stop it from happening in the future.

Being honest, I think JA is just a punk wanna be and honestly shouldnt be in the NBA at all anymore, but I doubt that will be an issue, he will be dead soon do to his actions.

So this is your opinion. Are we sure you want to stick with that. You the proclaimed gun nut says a quarter of a season isn’t enough for having a legal handgun in his position. I don’t want to make it political as I I will stop there , but you brag about all your AR15s but a legal handgun should get him kicked out of the nba. Wow.