NBA PLAYOFFS THREAD

[CGD]

Good bless MSG with the “F you Reggie” chant. Classic

[spurraider21]

Probably.. and if the wolves win media are going to talk about edwards as the face of the nba instead of wemby.
deservedly so, if that happens

[CGD]

Probably.. and if the wolves win media are going to talk about edwards as the face of the nba instead of wemby.

NBA desperately looking for an American face of the league. To be fair, Ant is living up to it and has surpassed Tatum and Booker.

[onechance87]

is hartenstien better then nicholas claxton?...And watching divincenco defend and make big shots shows how much vassell is overpaid and overated.

[skin27]

NBA desperately looking for an American face of the league. To be fair, Ant is living up to it and has surpassed Tatum and Booker.


I think wemby will be the face of the league not edwards

[spurraider21]

I think wemby will be the face of the league not edwards
he'll have to earn it. but he wont be deprived of the opportunity. he's already very marketed, very hyped, etc. he has to take it though

[R. DeMurre]

I do like the fact that the Timberwolves are playing well and suddenly getting people's attention, and they're doing it as the team with the league's #1 Defensive rating and and only the 17th best Offensive rating. For a while now, lots of fans and sportswriters have been going with the narrative that defense isn't as important in this era, because the three point shot introduces too much spacing and variability into the equation, but the Timberwolves are showing that a top notch defense is still a very valuable weapon.

https://www.nba.com/stats/teams/advanced?dir=A&sort=DEF_RATING

[scott]

The Pacers are playing tough here in the the second round with Mathurin injured and out for the season and Jarace Walker unable to crack the rotation. So they've got some extra firepower organically incoming if they can resign Siakam. Obi Toppin is an RFA and I assume they have his bird rights... but bringing back both of those guys plus filling out the roster could put them close (if not over) the 1st apron. Unfortunately Spotrac's new ads are placed in a way that makes the website pretty difficult to use.

[onechance87]

The Pacers are playing tough here in the the second round with Mathurin injured and out for the season and Jarace Walker unable to crack the rotation. So they've got some extra firepower organically incoming if they can resign Siakam. Obi Toppin is an RFA and I assume they have his bird rights... but bringing back both of those guys plus filling out the roster could put them close (if not over) the 1st apron. Unfortunately Spotrac's new ads are placed in a way that makes the website pretty difficult to use.

wonder why jalen smith hasint got any mins...Guess hes the odd man out with toppin and siakam getting the mins.
If we dont resign mamu,Would love to sign smith.

[JPB]

I do like the fact that the Timberwolves are playing well and suddenly getting people's attention, and they're doing it as the team with the league's #1 Defensive rating and and only the 17th best Offensive rating. For a while now, lots of fans and sportswriters have been going with the narrative that defense isn't as important in this era, because the three point shot introduces too much spacing and variability into the equation, but the Timberwolves are showing that a top notch defense is still a very valuable weapon.

https://www.nba.com/stats/teams/advanced?dir=A&sort=DEF_RATING

Probably to some extend but The West has been seriously shaken with Warriors past their prime, Lakers being meh with an aging (but still performing) Lebron, plus teams like Suns or Cilpppers who precisely can't make a team out of their stars.

And at the end of the day; it's still Ant or SGA who make MIN or OKC win. But the NBA is pretty poor these last few years with a generation of stars on their last legs or injured, and with very few impressive teams, so the ones who can find a defensive cohesion take advantage of it. Still waiting to see the rest of the POs to draw definitive conclusions.

[JPB]

. Unfortunately Spotrac's new ads are placed in a way that makes the website pretty difficult to use.

Do you use an adblocker? Looks fine with it.

[MultiTroll]

Rick Carlisle calling out the bullshit reffing.
1788406434104832342
He and Jim Carrey are twins. Sheesh.

[Brazil]

That's a very interesting take, and one that indeed would require to go beyond the frist conclusion that current success is directly linked to the trade, specially that they don't always put Gobert on the floor in the clutch.

We can't rewrite history and you could also argue Rudy helped this team get more confident and embrace defense beyond his inidividual performances, but it's hard not to imagine the possibilties and flexibility MIN would have with the current roster minus Rudy but plus all the draft capital they lost for him and that corresponds to a star/superstar or a couple elite role players.

Interesting take ? thats a weird take to say the least, the impact of Rudy is indeniable during the whole RS but also the POs, I'm pretty sure you will find some great defensive games of the Spurs without Bowen and/or Duncan.

Miny is a very serious contender with their current set up including Rudy who is 31 years and has still some couple of years at elite level in front of him. The what if works both ways

[JPB]

Interesting take ? thats a weird take to say the least, the impact of Rudy is indeniable during the whole RS but also the POs, I'm pretty sure you will find some great defensive games of the Spurs without Bowen and/or Duncan.

Miny is a very serious contender with their current set up including Rudy who is 31 years and has still some couple of years at elite level in front of him. The what if works both ways

MIN defensive rating with Gobert 112.1
MIN defensvce rating without Gobert 113.4.


MIN's emergence is mostly due to Ant's one. And the difference with/without Gobert isn't that great that it's crazy to wonder what if team had another superstar next to Ant and KAT instead of Gobert (and all the assets he cost).

[Brazil]

MIN defensive rating with Gobert 112.1
MIN defensvce rating without Gobert 113.4.


MIN's emergence is mostly due to Ant's one. And the difference with/without Gobert isn't that great that it's crazy to wonder what if team had another superstar next to Ant and KAT instead of Gobert (and all the assets he cost).

if they won it all, what would be your take ? if no Gobert they would have won more easily ? smh

I'm not a Rudy fan but he had a great season, MIN investment has been largely rewarded

[Spurs Homer]

Best thing Pacers ever did was hire Carlisle/Carrey

[heyheymymy]

PHX Suns targeting Coach Bud

[Ef-man]

PHX Suns targeting Coach Bud

Bud would be a fool or offered truck load of money to go to that clown circus.

[skin27]

Cavs skullfucking the 1st seed Celtics

[MultiTroll]

Cavs 118
Celtics 94
https://th.bing.com/th/id/R.394b8e0a675a0f3f281cd68c74ae9477?rik=Tljx34NZR7U nyg&riu=http%3a%2f%2fwww.quickmeme.com%2fimg%2f00%2f00 4a044e1927a979dbf090ba65323894381708169d8592afbb7b 70100f3e244a.jpg&ehk=bATYfkDQtuVEPzdnLk8vmuiua88CES%2fSXSQ2adut%2b3 I%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw&r=0

[heyheymymy]

lol Pat Bev suspended 4 games for throwing ball at fans

After the game, Beverley wouldn't allow Adams to ask him a question in a group interview in the locker room. He said it was because she didn't subscribe to his podcast. Beverley told her to get her microphone out of his face and eventually asked her to leave the interview circle.

[CorrectCrusader]

Dort is what Sochan needs to evolve into.

[skin27]

Washington Jr would be a nice addition if we somehow get that guy

[skin27]

How in the world did SGA got 2nd in MVP and carried thunder into 1st seed when his play style is just slightly better version of Derozan:lol

[MultiTroll]

Dallas good comeback when they were about to blow the lead.

Hardaway with the greasy lucky bounce to get the buzzer beater trey. :lol

[MultiTroll]

How in the world did SGA got 2nd in MVP and carried thunder into 1st seed when his play style is just slightly better version of Derozan:lol
Fairness to SGA and OKC this is not their best game / Dallas is playing well. Doncic playing thru injury is admirable.

SGA has a triple double ffs.

[DAF86]

How in the world did SGA got 2nd in MVP and carried thunder into 1st seed when his play style is just slightly better version of Derozan:lol

SGA is one of the best defensive guards in the league, tbh.

[skin27]

SGA is one of the best defensive guards in the league, tbh.

Oh thats the difference between him and Derozan

[DAF86]

2JV6haU2jkw?si=3RHZ7MS1ECB_yOme

20 seconds mark :lmao

[JPB]

if they won it all, what would be your take ? if no Gobert they would have won more easily ? smh

I'm not a Rudy fan but he had a great season, MIN investment has been largely rewarded

Calling for an unknow future is irrelevant to the point. Works both ways, what if they don't, or don"t even ever make the Finals, what will be your take?

Let's first wait the end of that DEN series, and Let's time say if it was that great of a trade. If Ant is injured or struggling, MIN will badly miss that 3rd scoring star. But I noticed you carefully ignored the small difference in defensive rating with/without Gobert. Here's another one:

Spurs defensive rating with and without wembanyama: 116.7 / 119.6. (twice more than Rudy).

MIN coach first reaction when asked about Rudy's DPOTY was to say it was first the reflect of a collective effort and how dedicated to defense the whole team was, which also shows when Rudy's not on the floor. Sure Gobert may have helped instigating that mentality but considering MIN overall good team defense, wondering the benefits/deficit between Rudy or what you could have with all the assets he cost is indeed interesting.

And yes, spurs had a few good defensive games without Bowen or Duncan but none of them cost a haul of picks. Spurs actually got those 2 for free, which allowed them to keep and pay 2 other future HOFers in their prime (also cos they accepted to leave money on the table). But in a vacuum, imagine the question was Bowen or Manu + Brent Barry on the team.

[Brazil]

And yes, spurs had a few good defensive games without Bowen or Duncan but none of them cost a haul of picks. Spurs actually got those 2 for free, which allowed them to keep and pay 2 other future HOFers in their prime (also cos they accepted to leave money on the table). But in a vacuum, imagine the question was Bowen or Manu + Brent Barry on the team.

You used one game of Min vs. Denver without Rudy to back up an ideia that the DPOTY is not required on the defensive end. One game is not indicative of what Min is without Rudy. As for the what if, you started the game not me tbh..

[Texas_Ranger]

people using these defense ratings and other stats that they have no idea what they mean, need to start watching more games. I am pretty sure no one here watched more than 3 Minnesota regular season games, so your opinion is pretty much irrelevant... And whoever thinks Gobert is not really a great defender and is not helping the Wolves, or did not really deserve the award is retarded.... Also, there should't be players getting any awards, if their team is bellow 50%.

[JPB]

You used one game of Min vs. Denver without Rudy to back up an ideia that the DPOTY is not required on the defensive end. One game is not indicative of what Min is without Rudy. As for the what if, you started the game not me tbh..

Nope, I never did that, not even personnally mentioned that game. I believe you're confusing.

Quite the contrary, I used full seasons stats and overall considerations to explain, whether you agree or not, why it's interesting to wonder what this MIN team could be with the stars/elite role they could have instead of Gobert, considering their great team defense (once again praised by their coach) and Ant's emergence (which are the to main points, not that one game).

Do I believe Rudy is a difference between a ship or not for MIN? No, I probably don't. Do I believe having a star wing next to Ant and Kat, and a good (but not Rudy's level) defensive C instead would give them better chances...I might be wrong but possibly, yes. Rudy has his limits that has to put him on the bench in the clutch sometimes.

As far as "what if game", I was also precisely setting the debate, and wondering, not making definitive assumptions, or dropping the empty "what will you say if if they win!". We're in WCF semis, let's see what happens before drawing conclusions one way or another.

[JPB]

people using these defense ratings and other stats that they have no idea what they mean, need to start watching more games. I am pretty sure no one here watched more than 3 Minnesota regular season games, so your opinion is pretty much irrelevant... And whoever thinks Gobert is not really a great defender and is not helping the Wolves, or did not really deserve the award is retarded.... Also, there should't be players getting any awards, if their team is bellow 50%.
There's worth... People coming evey other day (or weeks for Brazil) to drop a couple aggressive, patronizing posts, not taking the time to really read other members posts, then make them say what they didn't by caricaturizing and insulting them (for you) to look smarter themselves.

Absolutely no one here was even close to say whay you're mentioning.

[Mr. Body]

Timberwolves are the worst franchise in NBA history, iirc, in terms of winning percentage. Great to see them really going hard.

And they have to go hard now. They're entering a salary cap hell of Phoenix Suns proportions after this year.

[Brazil]

Nope, I never did that, not even personnally mentioned that game. I believe you're confusing.

Quite the contrary, I used full seasons stats and overall considerations to explain, whether you agree or not, why it's interesting to wonder what this MIN team could be with the stars/elite role they could have instead of Gobert, considering their great team defense (once again praised by their coach) and Ant's emergence (which are the to main points, not that one game).

Do I believe Rudy is a difference between a ship or not for MIN? No, I probably don't. Do I believe having a star wing next to Ant and Kat, and a good (but not Rudy's level) defensive C instead would give them better chances...I might be wrong but possibly, yes. Rudy has his limits that has to put him on the bench in the clutch sometimes.

As far as "what if game", I was also precisely setting the debate, and wondering, not making definitive assumptions, or dropping the empty "what will you say if if they win!". We're in WCF semis, let's see what happens before drawing conclusions one way or another.

you replied to a post mentionning it and reinforcing the point. I believe you are low ballin' Rudy impact but that's your opinion I guess. MIN is on the rise of course thanks to Ant becoming a superstar, KAT being healthy.. but also thanks to Rudy making an impact, for the first time he seems to gel nicely with the roster, he is being praised by the organization.. he is the best defender on the best defensive team of the league nuff said

[LeBowen]

Timberwolves are the worst franchise in NBA history, iirc, in terms of winning percentage. Great to see them really going hard.

And they have to go hard now. They're entering a salary cap hell of Phoenix Suns proportions after this year.

They'll keep this rotation for one more season, but after that they'll need to make some difficult decisions because both NAW and Naz Reid will get paid and Conley will be too old.
For about a year my take was that KAT needs to go, but he completely changed his approach and has been great this season. Still, he's on a supermax as the third most important player on the roster.

[Brazil]

There's worth... People coming evey other day (or weeks for Brazil) to drop a couple aggressive, patronizing posts, not taking the time to really read other members posts, then make them say what they didn't by caricaturizing and insulting them (for you) to look smarter themselves.

Absolutely no one here was even close to say whay you're mentioning.

wtf ? where did I make an aggressive or patronizing or insulting post on this topic ?

Own your stuff tbh... a dude posted, MIN does not need Rudy look at that particular game without Rudy, Denver only scored 80, you replied that's an interesting take... it is not an interesting take, it is a dumb take followed by another not interesting take about what ifs... MIN is successful, has a shot to a CF, gave up assets to recruit arguably the best defender of the league having his best season of his career, but but what if. smh

[lefty]

You used one game of Min vs. Denver without Rudy to back up an ideia that the DPOTY is not required on the defensive end. One game is not indicative of what Min is without Rudy. As for the what if, you started the game not me tbh..
If they face Dallas in the WCF, they are gonna need Gobert, Mavs bigs are not all stars but they move well off the ball

[spurs1990]

30 years ago the Rockets lost their first two at home to Phx which led to the appletation Choke City.

Time for the the Nikola Jokic invitational to start anew tonight and repeat

[CGD]

2JV6haU2jkw?si=3RHZ7MS1ECB_yOme

20 seconds mark :lmao

Wtf? lol

[JPB]

If they face Dallas in the WCF, they are gonna need Gobert, Mavs bigs are not all stars but they move well off the ball

Yup they do, and it's interesting you noticing this. Let's put some more oil on the fire:

Considering Dallas got a young Lively with one FRP (their own) under a rookie contract, and MIN got Gobert for 5 FRPs and a swap under a max contract.... Genuinely asking ST highly educated community, what do what would be better for Dallas: Lively + Kyrie + a couple quality role players or... Gobert?

Contexts are obviously different, and the comparison what it is, but the point is, no matter how succesfull the Gobert trade will be (let's wait), 5 FPRS and a swap are still a whole lot for an offensively limited 30 y.o big, all top defenser Rudy is. And when you see Ant's rise to superstardom (big reason MIN is here), and MIN overall great team defense, it's intriguing to imagine the possibilties you could have had with that huge haul of picks to improve the team differently, adding more talent and still finding quality bigs for cheaper.

MIN may just not have anticipated Edwards would be that good that early. Don't know what they would retrospectively do if they did back then when they pulled the trigger with Rudy. Ringing would make the question irrelevant or inaudible obsviously.

[weeks]

2JV6haU2jkw?si=3RHZ7MS1ECB_yOme

20 seconds mark :lmao

Someone forgot to turn off their mic :lol

[LeBowen]

Tatum is Michael Jordan of Tobias Harris-es might be the best analogy in a while. :lol

He's clearly a tier below actual MVP level players and not having anyone to step up when it matters the most will probably cost Celtics the title...unless Derrick can carry, that is.

https://i.imgur.com/HDk2MgF.png

Kobe fan honoring his idol.
Now imagine what will his shooting splits look like when they start playing against actual contenders.

[Mr. Body]

They'll keep this rotation for one more season, but after that they'll need to make some difficult decisions because both NAW and Naz Reid will get paid and Conley will be too old.
For about a year my take was that KAT needs to go, but he completely changed his approach and has been great this season. Still, he's on a supermax as the third most important player on the roster.

They may have to move KAT regardless. That's just a wild amount of money to pay a non-MVP or non-All NBA type player. Those supermaxes are devastating. I'm sure some team will take that kind of salary on for some reason.

[LeBowen]

They may have to move KAT regardless. That's just a wild amount of money to pay a non-MVP or non-All NBA type player. Those supermaxes are devastating. I'm sure some team will take that kind of salary on for some reason.

Now look at Jaylen Brown's supermax, he can't even dribble with his left, lmao.
I'd rather have KAT than Brown.

But yeah, supermax contracts ruin franchises.
Max to supermax difference shouldn't count against the cap for players drafted by that franchise.

[Seventyniner]

Now look at Jaylen Brown's supermax, he can't even dribble with his left, lmao.
I'd rather have KAT than Brown.

But yeah, supermax contracts ruin franchises.
Max to supermax difference shouldn't count against the cap for players drafted by that franchise.

I totally agree. Teams being forced to decide between the supermax and trading their low-end All-Star (due to that star being disgruntled by being offered less than the supermax) is the opposite of the incentive that the supermax was supposed to create.

Your solution is an elegant way to give both sides what they want: more money for the player and cap-managed control for the team.

[Ef-man]

Bud would be a fool or offered truck load of money to go to that clown circus.

The Suns are throwing money at Bud

Sources: Agreement between Budenholzer, Suns expected soon

https://x.com/ShamsCharania/status/1788934812436508955

[spurraider21]

i mean its a good hire by phoenix. they cant make many changes to that roster, so all they can really do is get a coach that can hopefully make a better product with the same ingredients as his predecessor, and from the available options, i dont think anybody comes close to Bud

do i think it will work? nah. Durant just had his healthiest season in a decade, played as many minutes as anybody in the NBA, and they still were a mid team who folded like a lawn chair in the playoffs. cant bank on that again as he continues to age. will be 36 when the season starts.

imo they run back this team at least 1 more year. if they get up to a top 4 seed or second/third round, then they'll run it back another time. but after that they will by necessity sell off kd and/or booker. if theyre smart, they keep bud around for that long haul

[MultiTroll]

Indys bonehead plays are :bang :lol

Entertaining game for sure.

[lefty20]

This Knicks Pacers game is fucking nuts

[lefty20]

NY with 4 fgs in the 4th. That's some tired legs right there.

[MultiTroll]

:lol Nemblards prayer falls.
Now Indy you cannot lose on a 2 pointer. Instead.....

What an idiotic foul after that. Indy up by 3 and it wasn't called, but looked like Turner(?) tripped Brunson on his 3 point attempt.

FFS Indy has to be one of the lowest IQ teams.

These 2 teams make incredibly great plays and incredibly stoopid ones.
(NY with the uber dumb goaltend when Siakims banker was going to miss by a mile)

[skin27]

I thought jamal murray is suspeded in game 3 and 4?

[Tyronn Lue]

I thought jamal murray is suspeded in game 3 and 4?
No he was fined 100K but not suspended.

[thiste]

Nuggets walking on eggshells rn

[skin27]

Edwards and the t'pups came back to earth:lol

[heyheymymy]

Nembhard Weak, lazy D. Moves, or rather doesn't move his feet.
Don't like it at all.
If you tell me he's playing with a bad injury then understood.

I like the rest of them tho, agree.

he hit that big shot tonight

[MultiTroll]

he hit that big shot tonightPrayer.
Didn't you see the look on Haliburton and Nemblards faces? They knew it was just a shot clock chuck that fell.

Shot clock violation about to go off, plus he fumbled the ball just prior to the shot.

Nice heave anyways. I was pulling for Indy.

[MultiTroll]

No he was fined 100K but not suspended.
Slightly different case, member when Stefina Curry threw his mouthpiece.

I think he got nothing. In fact i think Stern Jr offered to fluff his pampers.

[MultiTroll]

Edwards and the t'pups came back to earth:lol
So he might not be the next Jordan?

[skin27]

So he might not be the next Jordan?

Ofcourse not

[spurs1990]

Nikola Jokic experience. We don't bluff. Just championships

[pgardn]

Yeah the NBA.

Love that the Jokic review allowed the fans to count steps on the shot that was made.
The weird thing is it ain’t even embarrassing anymore. Ahhh… you get 5 steps now.

Christ. There are no rules.

[skin27]

Nikola Jokic experience. We don't bluff. Just championships

Very similar to Duncan Spurs

[skin27]

Nuggets shutting down face of tge NBA talks:lol

[spurs1990]

Very similar to Duncan Spurs

Bro they really are. Easy to root for.
Both ABA teams came through tonight

[pgardn]

Bro they really are. Easy to root for.
Both ABA teams came through tonight

They are easy to root for.

[skin27]

Bro they really are. Easy to root for.
Both ABA teams came through tonight

And also boring to watch:lol

[Tyronn Lue]

Slightly different case, member when Stefina Curry threw his mouthpiece.

I think he got nothing. In fact i think Stern Jr offered to fluff his pampers.
Steph was fined 25K.

[Tyronn Lue]

Mike didn't win every game. He didn't dominate in every game. Give AE a chance.

[MultiTroll]

Steph was fined 25K.
That was the 3rd time the lil bitch threw his mouth piece. 3 separate games. Not sure what happened to him in the first two games but I think his Pampers were fluffed by Stern and he got no fine whatsoever.

https://www.sfexaminer.com/sports/warriors/here-all-of-steph-currys-mouthpiece-throwing-ejections/article_4da6e288-9d9b-11ed-a5a1-038d2eaa3f63.html

[MultiTroll]

Mike didn't win every game. He didn't dominate in every game. Give AE a chance.
Absolutely.

Took Jordan 7 years and Pippen etc to get a ring and be the face.

But Wemby gonna be the real MVP.
I'm hoping for a Duncan like career, only with multiple B2Bs.
Phuck the media and all their phony awards. Let Ant have those.

[Mr. Body]

Don't overreact. The Pacers game was a pride game and the Knicks could have still picked it up.

Denver had to win this one and are still in trouble.

[John B]

So he might not be the next Jordan?

I like the comparison, plus Edwards has that “it” swagger so confident about himself


https://youtu.be/9gdTAcWAKwQ?si=idzXLsdCyvWmpT_r

[LeBowen]

Until I see a guard palming the ball and doing mid-air adjustments like MJ did, noone is a worthy comparison.
Nephew was the closest thing to old man MJ, tbh.

[daslicer]

Until I see a guard palming the ball and doing mid-air adjustments like MJ did, noone is a worthy comparison.
Nephew was the closest thing to old man MJ, tbh.

Agreed when Kawhi was healthy he looked similar to MJ from '95-'98 with the post moves and fadeaway. His fadeaway was identical to MJ's. He had the best imitation of MJ's fadeaway compared to guys like Kobe, Vince. With that being said MJ even from '95-'98 was still more athletic than Kawhi.

[skin27]

Kobe is a better MJ clone than kawhi in my opinion

[skin27]

Doncic bitching on the refs like every posession is like crazy

[heyheymymy]

Doncic reaching Embiid levels of creakiness out there. Holding his body weird from all his wear and tear/injuries

hurts to watch

[Tyronn Lue]

Don't overreact. The Pacers game was a pride game and the Knicks could have still picked it up.

Denver had to win this one and are still in trouble.
True, but they didn't have to win it by 30. The officiating tide shift was in Denver's favor. It allowed them to get into sets and play at their pace. Officiating is going to decide this series.

[John B]

Doncic bitching on the refs like every posession is like crazy

He’s so talented but such a diva. I hated Kobe as competition, and Malone. But Doncic’s smirks are on another level… But he comes to the Spurs I’m sure I’ll be okay with it :lol

[LeBowen]

OKC getting murdered on the glass, Chet is not a center.

Dort is an embarrassment with all these flops. He's built like a tank and just keep falling on every contact.

[MultiTroll]

SMH just lay the ball in the hoop Galfond.

Stupid assed missed dunk followed by two FT brickis.

[heyheymymy]

hack a lively

[heyheymymy]

lol earlier Doncic literally did the toddler tantrum dance when a call didn't go his way

[LeBowen]

The only thing I'm certain about is that I don't want either of these teams making the final.
When Kyrie is the most likeable star on the floor, you know something's wrong.

[heyheymymy]

The only thing I'm certain about is that I don't want either of these teams making the final.
When Kyrie is the most likeable star on the floor, you know something's wrong.

lol agreed but I do like j will

[Leetonidas]

Feels kinda gross rooting for Dallas but fuck OKC

[Mr. Body]

Thunder need to figure out how to get more size in there. Their philosophy of going super small can only go so far. Lucky they didn't get Lakers in the first round, who really hurt them.

[MultiTroll]

That Irving left handed running scoop shot with about 40 seconds to go.

Play of the final 2 minutes for sure.

Props

Dallas needs to stop force feeding injured Doncic. His silly turnover put the W in danger. When all they needed was to let OKC foul.

[baseline bum]

Damn that was playoff basketball, great game and my Dallas title prediction ain't dead yet.

[LeBowen]

Damn that was playoff basketball, great game and my Dallas title prediction ain't dead yet.

I could see Dallas beating the Celtics in the finals, but I can't see them getting past WCF, regardless of the matchup.
Maybe with healthy Luka, but his knee seems to be getting worse with each game.

[Texas_Ranger]

Damn that was playoff basketball, great game and my Dallas title prediction ain't dead yet.

no fucking way they win... If Luka looked at least a little better, then i'd give them a 5% chance, but I just can't see them get past the Wolves, or Denver. Even this series will still be tough.

[baseline bum]

Until I see a guard palming the ball and doing mid-air adjustments like MJ did, noone is a worthy comparison.
Nephew was the closest thing to old man MJ, tbh.


Kobe is a better MJ clone than kawhi in my opinion

Jontay Porter was the best MJ clone I have seen tbh

[baseline bum]

no fucking way they win... If Luka looked at least a little better, then i'd give them a 5% chance, but I just can't see them get past the Wolves, or Denver. Even this series will still be tough.

Looks tough but ain't dead yet

[skin27]

Dallas might win this series as thunder are to young to reach wcf

[heyheymymy]

Jontay Porter was the best MJ clone I have seen tbh

oooof A+

[heyheymymy]

Not counting MIN or OKC out just yet but Nuggets Mavericks would be a cool WCF

Battle of the Balkans

[Ariel]

Dallas overpaid, but it has to be acknowledged they did a great job surrounding Luka in a short amount of time, with the likes of Kyrie, Lively, Gafford and PJ Washington. Went from a joke last season when it seemed like it was only a matter of time until Luka asked for a trade, to serious playoff contender this one.

[TD 21]

OKC getting murdered on the glass, Chet is not a center.

Yeah, he is. His greatest strength is his rim protection, which is maximized playing closer to the basket and his skill/mobility advantage over most fives wouldn't exist over most fours.

They've also proven to have an elite defense with him playing the five.

They need a true four to replace Giddey, so that they can slide Williams and Dort down to the nominal three and two.

[LeBowen]

Yeah, he is. His greatest strength is his rim protection, which is maximized playing closer to the basket and his skill/mobility advantage over most fives wouldn't exist over most fours.

They've also proven to have an elite defense with him playing the five.



But defense is not just rim protection. You got to secure those rebounds after well-contested shots.
He's a good rim protector against penetration from the perimeter, but he can't do much against elite bigs.

Even Valanciunas had stretches of easy buckets every time he got the ball. He obviously got ran off the floor on the other end, but AD or Sabonis would've killed him.
Much like Wemby did in the regular season.
And like Jokic will do if they match up.
Gobert is useless on offense, but I expect him to dominate the glass.

I get that there's a trade off and it works in certain matchups, but it won't work against teams with elite bigs.
Their defense is elite because all of their perimeter defenders are really good.


They need a true four to replace Giddey, so that they can slide Williams and Dort down to the nominal three and two.

Yeah, he's most likely gone in the summer.

[Pero]

Dallas overpaid, but it has to be acknowledged they did a great job surrounding Luka in a short amount of time, with the likes of Kyrie, Lively, Gafford and PJ Washington. Went from a joke last season when it seemed like it was only a matter of time until Luka asked for a trade, to serious playoff contender this one.

Yeah, bringing in DJJ was a good move as well. I thought they were crazy for getting Kyrie but at least for now he seems focused on basketball and it seems to me he was what Luka needed next to him too. I think they're still a piece or two away from being a championship contender. Exum was another nice pick up, and he had a great regular season, but disappeared completely in the playoffs.

[TD 21]

But defense is not just rim protection. You got to secure those rebounds after well-contested shots.
He's a good rim protector against penetration from the perimeter, but he can't do much against elite bigs.

Even Valanciunas had stretches of easy buckets every time he got the ball. He obviously got ran off the floor on the other end, but AD or Sabonis would've killed him.
Much like Wemby did in the regular season.
And like Jokic will do if they match up.
Gobert is useless on offense, but I expect him to dominate the glass.

I get that there's a trade off and it works in certain matchups, but it won't work against teams with elite bigs.
Their defense is elite because all of their perimeter defenders are really good.



Yeah, he's most likely gone in the summer.

I know, but the positives outweigh the negatives and good luck checking every box.

He'll never be a glass cleaner, but they have to hope that his rebounding improves as he gets stronger, similar to Davis and as I alluded to, getting a legit four should help.

[TDMVPDPOY]

seeing these young teams in the playoffs, then you look at the spurs roster...fkn

but anyway...dont they ever call 3 second in the key for the offensive player who does multiple dream shakes? fkn doncic the donkey gets away with alot of shit on offense in the key

[Mr. Body]

Wild that the Thunder worked to get Gafford to Dallas when they really could have used Gafford themselves.

It's amazing the amount of bigs alone that Presti had in his hands but launched in the other direction -- Sabonis and Sengun possibly the worst of his decisions.

[Mr. Body]

seeing these young teams in the playoffs, then you look at the spurs roster...fkn


Yeah, we're rebuilding. That's what rebuilding is.

[Ariel]

Wild that the Thunder worked to get Gafford to Dallas when they really could have used Gafford themselves.

It's amazing the amount of bigs alone that Presti had in his hands but launched in the other direction -- Sabonis and Sengun possibly the worst of his decisions.
Sabonis was traded to get Paul George, who in turn was traded to get SGA + a bunch of picks. That was a pretty good decision. Sengun was a head scratcher though. It seems to me Presti has made up his mind on what kind of player he wants moving forward, and doesn't compromise. And Sengun's post game wasn't a match, regardless of talent.

[Mr. Body]

Sabonis was traded to get Paul George, who in turn was traded to get SGA + a bunch of picks. That was a pretty good decision. Sengun was a head scratcher though. It seems to me Presti has made up his mind on what kind of player he wants moving forward, and doesn't compromise. And Sengun's post game wasn't a match, regardless of talent.

The 'play a thin PF as Center' strategy may cost them, if burly teams are the norm. The Lakers dominate them and they're getting killed on the boards now. As good as they are, it looks like they're still missing a couple of key pieces. Playoff experience will help, and the fading of the old guard in the West, but I don't know how they can deviate from the finesse style they depend on without retooling somewhat.

[rankingtear]

Wild that the Thunder worked to get Gafford to Dallas when they really could have used Gafford themselves.

It's amazing the amount of bigs alone that Presti had in his hands but launched in the other direction -- Sabonis and Sengun possibly the worst of his decisions.

Why? None of those guys work in their offense.

[heyheymymy]

1789414231206477909

[SpursBills]

Just watching this Thunder-Mavs series, I genuinely don't know which hate is going to be stronger in 3 years -

Spurfan for Lu Dort or Thunderfan for Jeremy Sochan

[LeBowen]

Thibs (predictably) ran his team into the ground, they're getting ran over by the Pacers.
If OG doesn't recover for G5, I think Pacers get to ECF.

They're down 40 and Thibs still has his starters playing. What a guy.

[daslicer]

Thibs (predictably) ran his team into the ground, they're getting ran over by the Pacers.
If OG doesn't recover for G5, I think Pacers get to ECF.

They're down 40 and Thibs still has his starters playing. What a guy.

Thibs is like the extreme opposite of Pop when it comes to load management. Pop over does it with load management while Thibs grossly underdoes it.

[ace3g]

That ending of 1st half for the Nuggets!!!

[ace3g]

TIME
PLAY
DEN
MIN


0.0

End of the 2nd Quarter
64
49


0.0

(00:00) [Nuggets] REF-INITIATED REVIEW (CALL STANDS)
64
49


0.0
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/den.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Jamal Murray makes 55-foot three point jumper
64
49


1.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Nickeil Alexander-Walker bad pass (Jamal Murray steals)
61
49


1.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/den.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Michael Porter Jr. makes 2-foot dunk (Nikola Jokic assists)
61
49


4.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Anthony Edwards lost ball turnover (Nikola Jokic steals)
59
49


20.0
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/den.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope makes 25-foot three point jumper (Nikola Jokic assists)
59
49


33.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Rudy Gobert personal foul
56
49


48.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Anthony Edwards makes 27-foot three pointer
56
49

[benefactor]

TIME
PLAY
DEN
MIN


0.0

End of the 2nd Quarter
64
49


0.0

(00:00) [Nuggets] REF-INITIATED REVIEW (CALL STANDS)
64
49


0.0
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/den.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Jamal Murray makes 55-foot three point jumper
64
49


1.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Nickeil Alexander-Walker bad pass (Jamal Murray steals)
61
49


1.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/den.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Michael Porter Jr. makes 2-foot dunk (Nikola Jokic assists)
61
49


4.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Anthony Edwards lost ball turnover (Nikola Jokic steals)
59
49


20.0
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/den.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope makes 25-foot three point jumper (Nikola Jokic assists)
59
49


33.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Rudy Gobert personal foul
56
49


48.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Anthony Edwards makes 27-foot three pointer
56
49


This sequence is the end of the game and the series. Yanked their entire soul from their body.

[timtonymanu]

:lol Towns

[benefactor]

:lol Towns
What a clown ass player. Literally cannot depend on him for anything from game to game.

[ginobilized]

T-Wolves are not ready for the moment here. KAT and Gobert are such low-IQ players. I was pulling for them.

If Denver hangs on tonight, they'll likely complete the fabled backdoor sweep. Dallas/OKC winner probably won't have enough left to beat them.

[skin27]

Defense wont give championship anymore unlike decade ago

[benefactor]

Defense wont give championship anymore unlike decade ago
I don't know if it's necessarily that. The problem is Denver has Joker and they don't. There's also the fact that Towns only shows up half the time.

[skin27]

I don't know if it's necessarily that. The problem is Denver has Joker and they don't. There's also the fact that Towns only shows up half the time.

Yup its true.. nggets isnt a defensive team at all..its better to be a good offensive team than a good defensive team.. also joker isnt good at defense.

[skin27]

Backdoor sweep incoming:lol

[benefactor]

I feel bad for Edwards. He is superstar talented and has to deal with this hodgepodge of good defensive players but limited offensive players. They desperately need a true offensive number two.

[Knoxxx]

Even Towns and Gobert can’t guard the Joker even by double teaming him. DPOY my ass, that’s weak sauce!!!

[spurs1990]

Rockets Spurs 1995 WCF went this way with road team winning first five games.

Seeds wise Denver is the Spurs and Minn the Rockets. But the higher seed looks to take it this time around.

[benefactor]

Yup its true.. nggets isnt a defensive team at all..its better to be a good offensive team than a good defensive team.. also joker isnt good at defense.
That's the league now. You don't want to be a defensive doormat, but you do have to have a dominant offense. Look at the spurs. If they add at least one more plus defender they will be okay. Other than that they need scorers and guys that know how to work within the offense which will work around Wemby and he will allow those guys offensive strengths to flourish because of his dominance.

[lefty20]

Well shit, the rumors of the Nuggets' demise were indeed greatly exaggerated.

[GAustex]

Minni should be rolling but weak minds are getting in the way.
Edwards needs to figure out how to turn his team into winners it’s not enough to ball out

[benefactor]

Well shit, the rumors of the Nuggets' demise were indeed greatly exaggerated.
:lol timvp making his comments about a defensive revival.

Welp

[Tyronn Lue]

Even Towns and Gobert can’t guard the Joker even by double teaming him. DPOY my ass, that’s weak sauce!!!
No one can guard the 3 time MVP. He's smart and patient, big and talented. Dangerous combinations.

[skin27]

That's the league now. You don't want to be a defensive doormat, but you do have to have a dominant offense. Look at the spurs. If they add at least one more plus defender they will be okay. Other than that they need scorers and guys that know how to work within the offense which will work around Wemby and he will allow those guys offensive strengths to flourish because of his dominance.

Imy point is in todays league offense is more important than defense.

[benefactor]

No one can guard the 3 time MVP. He's smart and patient, big and talented. Dangerous combinations.
When he's on your team it doesn't matter if you're a good defensive team. He can take over at any moment. It's just the way it is.

[benefactor]

Imy point is in todays league offense is more important than defense.
Absolutely. I see a lot of guys on here clamoring for guys that are good defenders. More than anything you need smart players who can be taught to play good team defense. That's more important than this league now than individual defenders. The Spurs have Wemby. They need good shooters and playmakers. Being a plus individual defender is a luxury at this point.

[Tyronn Lue]

TIME
PLAY
DEN
MIN


0.0

End of the 2nd Quarter
64
49


0.0

(00:00) [Nuggets] REF-INITIATED REVIEW (CALL STANDS)
64
49


0.0
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/den.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Jamal Murray makes 55-foot three point jumper
64
49


1.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Nickeil Alexander-Walker bad pass (Jamal Murray steals)
61
49


1.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/den.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Michael Porter Jr. makes 2-foot dunk (Nikola Jokic assists)
61
49


4.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Anthony Edwards lost ball turnover (Nikola Jokic steals)
59
49


20.0
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/den.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope makes 25-foot three point jumper (Nikola Jokic assists)
59
49


33.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Rudy Gobert personal foul
56
49


48.1
https://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/nba/500/scoreboard/min.png&scale=crop&cquality=40&location=origin&w=40&h=40
Anthony Edwards makes 27-foot three pointer
56
49



The pups showed their immaturity during that stretch. They played well up to then, relying so much on their 3pt shooting to close the gap, but then just went full retard. Had AE scored 2 vs turning it over, it's an 8 point game at the half, vs a 15 point game.

[Knoxxx]

No one can guard the 3 time MVP. He's smart and patient, big and talented. Dangerous combinations.

You trippin!


https://youtu.be/lObdZ0IodRk?si=RxuYwn1yR2Hk_bMA


https://www.google.com/search?q=wemby+blocks+jokic&client=safari&sca_esv= 95704d94b5931a97&sca_upv=1&hl=en-us&biw=393&bih=659&tbm=vid&sxsrf=ADLYWIL3vHQcmXWI k aGpGKs9icgh6pgwUA%3A1715568135594&ei=B35BZqfnI9CGp tQPjZqt6Ac&udm=&oq=wemby+blocks+jo&gs_lp=EhBtb2Jpb GUtZ3dzLXZpZGVvIg93ZW1ieSBibG9ja3Mgam8qAggBMgoQABi ABBgUGIcCMgUQABiABDIFECEYoAEyBRAhGKABMgUQIRigAUjij AFQ8EhYh3dwCHgAkAEAmAGDAqABjwyqAQYxMi4yLjG4AQHIAQD 4AQGKAhBtb2JpbGUtZ3dzLXZpZGVvmAIXoAL7DKgCD8ICBxAjG CcY6gLCAgQQIxgnwgIKEAAYgAQYQxiKBcICCxAAGIAEGJECGIo FwgIIEAAYgAQYsQPCAg0QABiABBixAxhDGIoFwgIOEAAYgAQYk QIYsQMYigXCAhAQABiABBixAxhDGIMBGIoFwgILEAAYgAQYsQM YgwHCAgYQABgWGB6YAweSBwYxOC40LjGgB7pX&sclient=mobi le-gws-video#

[JPB]

Interesting developments in these POs. Let's see what the future holds.

[Tyronn Lue]

You trippin!


https://youtu.be/lObdZ0IodRk?si=RxuYwn1yR2Hk_bMA


https://www.google.com/search?q=wemby+blocks+jokic&client=safari&sca_esv= 95704d94b5931a97&sca_upv=1&hl=en-us&biw=393&bih=659&tbm=vid&sxsrf=ADLYWIL3vHQcmXWI k aGpGKs9icgh6pgwUA%3A1715568135594&ei=B35BZqfnI9CGp tQPjZqt6Ac&udm=&oq=wemby+blocks+jo&gs_lp=EhBtb2Jpb GUtZ3dzLXZpZGVvIg93ZW1ieSBibG9ja3Mgam8qAggBMgoQABi ABBgUGIcCMgUQABiABDIFECEYoAEyBRAhGKABMgUQIRigAUjij AFQ8EhYh3dwCHgAkAEAmAGDAqABjwyqAQYxMi4yLjG4AQHIAQD 4AQGKAhBtb2JpbGUtZ3dzLXZpZGVvmAIXoAL7DKgCD8ICBxAjG CcY6gLCAgQQIxgnwgIKEAAYgAQYQxiKBcICCxAAGIAEGJECGIo FwgIIEAAYgAQYsQPCAg0QABiABBixAxhDGIoFwgIOEAAYgAQYk QIYsQMYigXCAhAQABiABBixAxhDGIMBGIoFwgILEAAYgAQYsQM YgwHCAgYQABgWGB6YAweSBwYxOC40LjGgB7pX&sclient=mobi le-gws-video#
Didn't Joker have like 42 that night?

[Tyronn Lue]

Interesting developments in these POs. Let's see what the future holds.
The East playoffs feel like regular season ball. The West feels like playoffs. Teams have ratcheted up the intensity in the West, but it's still a lot of loose defense in the East.

[exstatic]

I feel bad for Edwards. He is superstar talented and has to deal with this hodgepodge of good defensive players but limited offensive players. They desperately need a true offensive number two.

Wait. I thought he was Jordan?

[Knoxxx]

Didn't Joker have like 42 that night?

One thing I like about you is how easily you take the bait. The next game Wemby went 34-12 and Joker 22-7. After the 9 block game, Joker barely tried Wemby who was now living rent free in his mind. Meanwhile Joker knows he can simultaneously dismantle KAT and Gobert. Massive difference, though fairly disingenuous of you not to admit that massive difference and truth.

Oh yeah Wemby also put up 17 in 3 minutes as SPURS WIN!!!! Knocking DEN from 1st to 3rd in the West.

[daslicer]

Rockets Spurs 1995 WCF went this way with road team winning first five games.

Seeds wise Denver is the Spurs and Minn the Rockets. But the higher seed looks to take it this time around.

It reminds more of Suns vs Rockets in '94. Suns were the 3 seed while the Rockets were the 2 seed. Rockets end up losing the first 2 games at home and then end up winning the next two on the road in Phoenix and would go on to win the series in 7 games.

[JPB]

Wait. I thought he was Jordan?

MJ had Pippen.

[Pauleta14]

Didn't Joker have like 42 that night?

That was their penultimate meeting

Wemby has gotten better and better all year long and during their last meeting Jokic avoided him all game long or posted him to always end up passing the ball, until clutch time where he went, tried and got rejected.

[Pauleta14]

MJ had Pippen.

Ant is clearly not MJ and it's a great thing for him. He seems to be a great human being, protecting his teammates and doesn't seem to carry any trauma

MJ was MJ bc he had a big brother and a dad who bullied him, because he was on the bench in highschool etc

The "I took it personnal" is more than a meme, it's a symptom of a trauma that make you a dickhead that Ant isn't

Ant will be Ant and I can't wait to see what kind of man and player he'll become.

He's by far my favorite player to watch (after Victor of course)

[offset formation]

Absolutely. I see a lot of guys on here clamoring for guys that are good defenders. More than anything you need smart players who can be taught to play good team defense. That's more important than this league now than individual defenders. The Spurs have Wemby. They need good shooters and playmakers. Being a plus individual defender is a luxury at this point.

I've been one of those guys. Weve had historically awful defenses at a time that coincided with our amongst the worst team records. Good individual defenders are not mutually exclusive from good team defenders but the inverse cannot be said. Good team defenders are most definitely not always good individual defenders. I think it's clear this team's biggest shortcoming over the past 3 or so years has been the abomination of not being able to stay in front of their man in individual defense.

You'll notice that started to change at the tail end of last season with the insertion of better skilled defenders like Wesley, Sandro, and especially Champagnie getting some more minutes. Getting Keldon off the court makes a huge difference.

[MultiTroll]

CelticRef stepping up big at the end of the 3rd qtr on Cleveland 3 point attempt.

Obvious hack by Celtics.

This "You can only challenge twice a game" is such bullshit.

[LeBowen]

Celtics have no sense of urgency or killer instinct. As soon as their barrage of threes isn't falling, they're lost. That's on Mazzulla.

If whoever comes out of the West is still healthy, Celtics will be in for a rude awakening.

[MultiTroll]

Tatum acting like he's some baddass in the interview.

"I beens to the 2nd Round lot's of times in my career."

Big deal dipstick. With teams that had Championship talent you've been to the 2R. Woopie.

[heyheymymy]

Lol OKC

Coach of the year trying to shoehorn in the offensive establishment of the decidedly non offensively minded Giddey

[Jordan Jackson]

Lol OKC

Coach of the year trying to shoehorn in the offensive establishment of the decidedly non offensively minded Giddey

He’s a liability on and off the court. He can’t shoot. MAVs don’t even bother to guard him.

Hope Spurs fans are paying attention to that shit. Non shooters are useless in Adam Silver’s NBA.

[MultiTroll]

Lol OKC

Coach of the year trying to shoehorn in the offensive establishment of the decidedly non offensively minded Giddey
Does Giddey need some more teen pussy or what is up?

He looks very unengaged.

[MultiTroll]

Lol OKC

Coach of the year trying to shoehorn in the offensive establishment of the decidedly non offensively minded Giddey


He’s a liability on and off the court. He can’t shoot. MAVs don’t even bother to guard him.

Hope Spurs fans are paying attention to that shit. Non shooters are useless in Adam Silver’s NBA.
Also OKC barely involving Chet in the offense.
WTH

[MultiTroll]

MavsRef not even trying to make it look fair.

[exstatic]

Celtics have no sense of urgency or killer instinct. As soon as their barrage of threes isn't falling, they're lost. That's on Mazzulla.

If whoever comes out of the West is still healthy, Celtics will be in for a rude awakening.

Bill Simmons, the ultimate Celts homer, doesn’t think they can win the Finals this year.

[Strategic]

Thunder bench Giddy at half in favor of Isaiah Joe and he sucks too

[MultiTroll]

See the play where Giddey picked up his dribble and was set, looking to pass.
Donutcic runs into him.
Foul on Giddey.

Im not recording but WTF?
Anyone see that?

[MultiTroll]

MavsRef gonna close this. :lmao

Chet obviously fouled on the long 2.

Now Dort goes straight up on D and gets wrung up on a Dallas brick.
80-72

[Mr. Body]

For all their parade of draft picks, OKC is still a couple pieces away. They may still get there once the West decays, but they're missing something.

[MultiTroll]

For all their parade of draft picks, OKC is still a couple pieces away. They may still get there once the West decays, but they're missing something.
BBIQ low on too many.

Stand there with an open ball and let Dallas tip it away for the turn at least 5 times this game.

[benefactor]

Mavs collapsing

[TD 21]

He’s a liability on and off the court. He can’t shoot. MAVs don’t even bother to guard him.

Hope Spurs fans are paying attention to that shit. Non shooters are useless in Adam Silver’s NBA.

Yet all these fools continue to propose drafting or acquiring non shooters, thinking the Spurs will sprinkle magic pixie dust on them and turn them into good enough ones for the defense to respect.

The threshold for that continually gets raised, especially in the playoffs.

[Mr. Body]

Lol, Williams totally double dribbled. How did he get away with that.

[Mr. Body]

Yet all these fools continue to propose drafting or acquiring non shooters, thinking the Spurs will sprinkle magic pixie dust on them and turn them into good enough ones for the defense to respect.

The threshold for that continually gets raised, especially in the playoffs.

Brother, there are like three shooters in the lottery. One is a guy who only shot well for about three months in his life. The other two are undersize guards. Stop bitching.

[GAustex]

lol Mavs yakking

[MultiTroll]

Hardaway turnover :lmao

96-91 OKC 67 seconds left.

Eat shit and die MavsRef.

(Altho that sure looked like a double dribble on OKC for the dunk.)

[heyheymymy]

OKC has a collection of really talented pieces that lack cohesion or chemistry together. Time will fix that.

Really nice comeback here by the Thunder now down 1 with 1 min to go.

But that J-Dub travel was one hell of a non call. Shades of Thunderref from yesteryear

[heyheymymy]

oh I thought he passed it to himself wow

[heyheymymy]

but yeah after that play Lively shot a look back at the ref like wtf

[Mr. Body]

OKC is a really boring team. None of their players are remotely interesting to watch.

Dallas crowd totally dead. Are they even there?

[Mr. Body]

OKC has a collection of really talented pieces that lack cohesion or chemistry together. Time will fix that.


They've been playing together for three years.

[Ef-man]

Luka missed 1st FT

[benefactor]

10-21 from the line. Jesus.

[TD 21]

Brother, there are like three shooters in the lottery. One is a guy who only shot well for about three months in his life. The other two are undersize guards. Stop bitching.

I'm well aware, but there's a difference between non shooters (Castle, Holland, etc.) and theoretical shooters (Buzelis, Salaun, etc.)

:lmao Thinking I was "bitching" and the irony of your old, miserable, apologist ass saying that to someone else.

[Ef-man]

Mavs 12 out of 23 FTs

[djohn2oo8]

Mavs 12 out of 23 FTs
Yep. This one gonna sting.

[benefactor]

Mavs 12 out of 23 FTs
Inexcusable. Throw everything else out the window. That's where the game was lost

[Ef-man]

10-21 from the line. Jesus.

OKC 23 out 24 FTs

[Ef-man]

Inexcusable. Throw everything else out the window. That's where the game was lost

Ghost of Timmy roaming the court

[benefactor]

OKC 23 out 24 FTs
Yep. That's your ball game

[lefty20]

SGA catching fire near the end of 4th was fun to see. That shot from behind the basket was crazy. If only the Mavs had someone on that level...

[heyheymymy]

They've been playing together for three years.

Chet is a rookie, J Dub is a second year player, that 2/3rds of your big 3

Wallace and Dieng are both top ten ish picks regardless of Diengs poor progress. Both are young players, Wallace is a rookie, Dieng from 22 draft.

I could see time helping

[GAustex]

OKC winning ugly

[Mr. Body]

OKC reminds me of when GSW started their run. They never faced opponents who were healthy, for like three postseasons. A healthy Doncic would be destroying them.

[heyheymymy]

DAL largest lead was 14

[MultiTroll]

OKC reminds me of when GSW started their run. They never faced opponents who were healthy, for like three postseasons. A healthy Doncic would be destroying them.
Please.
Have Doncic break his leg and be out for the series to come close to sniffing Golden Phaggot Championship Roads.

[MultiTroll]

Will MavFag come back from this?

[heyheymymy]

Luka looks like HORSE GLUE out there

[Ef-man]

MavsRef not even trying to make it look fair.

Uh huh Mavs 23 FT attempts, OKC 24 FT attempts

[MultiTroll]

Oh then it must have been fair.

Because # of FTAs is the way to measure.

[DAF86]

The East is such a shitshow, I honestly think there's a chance the Spurs could have made the conference finals if being put in that miserable conference's playoffs, tbh.

[MultiTroll]

Luka looks like HORSE GLUE out there
Hey he's giving it a go I'll give him props.

Prolly 75% at best.

Should have passed more, he was effective.
His Kobme chucking hurt.

[Ef-man]

Oh then it must have been fair.

Because # of FTAs is the way to measure.

When games don’t have FT disparities, sure, game is fair.

[heyheymymy]

Sounds like NBA on TNT is dunzo and NBC got the new NBA deal

Inside the NBA just tweeted randomly asking for favorite Ernie moments and people are saying he'll do more baseball and NCAA or go to hockey anchor. That's fucked up.

R.I.P.

[BatManu20]

Mavs choked after being up almost the entire game. Zero excuse to lose that game. Missing that many FT's is just asking for a close loss. Luka's definitely banged up but that's no excuse. They had plenty of chances to seal that game. They better steal game 5 or they're cooked.

[Mugen]

:lmao Mavs

[daslicer]

Sounds like NBA on TNT is dunzo and NBC got the new NBA deal

Inside the NBA just tweeted randomly asking for favorite Ernie moments and people are saying he'll do more baseball and NCAA or go to hockey anchor. That's fucked up.

R.I.P.

I don't feel bad for Ernie he is rich and set for life. Neither will I miss Inside the NBA. That show went to shit the moment Shaq joined. I just hope NBC doesn't bring over Shaq.

[LeBowen]

I don't feel bad for Ernie he is rich and set for life. Neither will I miss Inside the NBA. That show went to shit the moment Shaq joined. I just hope NBC doesn't bring over Shaq.

Ernie is the only host in the world who can keep Shaq and Chuck in check.
TNT's other crews are unwatchable.

Ernie is 67 and even if TNT kept the rights, that show wouldn't have lasted much longer. Chuck always said he doesn't want to work past 60 and he signed an extension just so TNT could bid for the rights again.
He also always talked about how they're never going to get him on ESPN because they work all day long.

Shaq needs to disappear from mainstream media, he's awful.
Kenny is just an instigator and a laughing stock.

As good as the show was, all good things come to an end and maybe it's better this way.
With that being said, I watch zero ESPN coverage and I doubt I'll watch NBC, either. Actual basketball fans aren't their targeted audience.

[daslicer]

Ernie is the only host in the world who can keep Shaq and Chuck in check.
TNT's other crews are unwatchable.

Ernie is 67 and even if TNT kept the rights, that show wouldn't have lasted much longer. Chuck always said he doesn't want to work past 60 and he signed an extension just so TNT could bid for the rights again.
He also always talked about how they're never going to get him on ESPN because they work all day long.

Shaq needs to disappear from mainstream media, he's awful.
Kenny is just an instigator and a laughing stock.

As good as the show was, all good things come to an end and maybe it's better this way.
With that being said, I watch zero ESPN coverage and I doubt I'll watch NBC, either. Actual basketball fans aren't their targeted audience.

I agree I don't watch any pregame or post-game shows for ESPN or TNT. I used to watch Inside the NBA all the time before Shaq but soured on it once that big idiot joined the team. He just destroys the flow of conversation with his stupid takes and insults.

[RC_Drunkford]

Inside the NBA is the best show on US television. I don't what y'all are smoking. Pre- and postgame shows will be unwatchable once these guys are gone.

[exstatic]

Inside the NBA is the best show on US television. I don't what y'all are smoking. Pre- and postgame shows will be unwatchable once these guys are gone.

I like the 3 OGs, but Shaq is the turd in the punch bowl, a continuous verbal shitposter/hot take machine.

[Tyronn Lue]

One thing I like about you is how easily you take the bait. The next game Wemby went 34-12 and Joker 22-7. After the 9 block game, Joker barely tried Wemby who was now living rent free in his mind. Meanwhile Joker knows he can simultaneously dismantle KAT and Gobert. Massive difference, though fairly disingenuous of you not to admit that massive difference and truth.

Oh yeah Wemby also put up 17 in 3 minutes as SPURS WIN!!!! Knocking DEN from 1st to 3rd in the West.
:lol

[Tyronn Lue]

Wait. I thought he was Jordan?
What does this mean?

[scott]

Watching the Knicks-Pacers game 5 and LOLing at fans with front row baseline seats practically walking on to the court every time the Knicks score. Not only are refs in this league terrible, they have zero control of the court. :lol

[benefactor]

Watching the Knicks-Pacers game 5 and LOLing at fans with front row baseline seats practically walking on to the court every time the Knicks score. Not only are refs in this league terrible, they have zero control of the court. :lol
They needed to do away with courtside seating a long time ago. Nothing good comes from it and you can be just as close to one row up.

[benefactor]

You had that one dumbass in Oklahoma City that wouldn't give the ref the ball. They didn't throw him out or anything

[rascal]

They needed to do away with courtside seating a long time ago. Nothing good comes from it and you can be just as close to one row up.

They want the big money from those seats.

[benefactor]

They want the big money from those seats.
I'm aware, hence the reason they don't do away with them

[benefactor]

But hell, they lose money on the wnba every year. What's a little more in the name of getting fans back further?

[scott]

LOL, I'm seeing on twitter that the fan almost walking on the court is none other than John Starks

[baseline bum]

LOL, I'm seeing on twitter that the fan almost walking on the court is none other than John Starks

:lmao

link?

[scott]

:lmao

link?

If you're watching the game it's a guy in a gray shirt and a white hat on the left hand baseline. Then I saw a tweet showing Starks in the crowd in the gray shirt and white hat.

[baseline bum]

They needed to do away with courtside seating a long time ago. Nothing good comes from it and you can be just as close to one row up.

Courtside is unlike any other seat, the game looks so much faster and so much more physical and you realize how ridiculous of athletes these guys are when you're seeing it right from the floor. It really is a completely different experience than even second row seats. I have been to a playoff game against Magic & the Lakers in the second row and a scrub regular season game directly on the floor and the floor seat experience was way better.

[baseline bum]

If you're watching the game it's a guy in a gray shirt and a white hat on the left hand baseline. Then I saw a tweet showing Starks in the crowd in the gray shirt and white hat.

Oh yeah I had to tune in for about 20 seconds before seeing who you guys were talking about but wanted to see the picture because if that's Starks god damn he has let himself go. :lol

[benefactor]

Courtside is unlike any other seat, the game looks so much faster and so much more physical and you realize how ridiculous of athletes these guys are when you're seeing it right from the floor. It really is a completely different experience than even second row seats. I have been to a playoff game against Magic & the Lakers in the second row and a scrub regular season game directly on the floor and the floor seat experience was way better.
I get that, but you just have too many dipshits that get overly involved. Douchebags for too much money. I think they should have already been gone but that's just my opinion

[scott]

Oh yeah I had to tune in for about 20 seconds before seeing who you guys were talking about but wanted to see the picture because if that's Starks god damn he has let himself go. :lol

LOL and it's Starbury next to him

1790545080316555556

[baseline bum]

LOL and it's Starbury next to him

1790545080316555556

Refs look like some punk ass bitches letting Starks keep walking to the baseline

[baseline bum]

I get that, but you just have too many dipshits that get overly involved. Douchebags for too much money. I think they should have already been gone but that's just my opinion

I wouldn't scrap courtside seats just because John Starks is being an ass tonight.

[benefactor]

I wouldn't scrap courtside seats just because John Starks is being an ass tonight.
And that's another reason they will never do it. It makes for good TV. We're all here for that lol

[baseline bum]

And that's another reason they will never do it. It makes for good TV. We're all here for that lol

What would be good TV would be if Dillon Brooks was on the Pacers since he'd drop Starks ass on an inbound, Larry Bird on Michael Cooper style.

[benefactor]

What would be good TV would be if Dillon Brooks was on the Pacers since he'd drop Starks ass on an inbound, Larry Bird on Michael Cooper style.
:lol

My favorite under the basket moment is still Charles Barkley going into the stands at Utah. Jesus Utah...what a bag of assholes when it comes to fans in the 90s

[Tyronn Lue]

How do you not call a TO and get KAT out of the game? Finch hobbled but lets KAT potentially damage his knee even more.

[skin27]

The son of Jordan playimg like sheet

[benefactor]

The son of Jordan playimg like sheet
They're doubling him every time he touches the ball. It only proves my point that you can build a good defensive team but if you don't have other playmakers then you are basically assed out

[Tyronn Lue]

:lol Slow Mo doing fathead things

[lefty]

Jokic destroying politically correct dpoy

[NASpurs]

:lol Slow Mo doing fathead things

:lol dude is so fucking trash. What a frustrating player to root for.

[skin27]

They're doubling him every time he touches the ball. It only proves my point that you can build a good defensive team but if you don't have other playmakers then you are basically assed out

Nah he just playing terrible, too many missed layup early on.

[MarioSpeedwagon]

:lol Slow Mo doing fathead things

He fucking killed them this series :lol

[John B]

Jokic showing he’s the MVP with almost triple double on top of 40 pts.

[Tyronn Lue]

Joker is no joke.

[John B]

Jabbar, Hakeem, Shaq, Russell, Wilt. Has Jokic cracked top 5 all-time centers yet?

[Pauleta14]

Draymond is really a terrible addition to the TNT crew

Dude just destroyed a peer (Gobert) on national tv like it's nothing...

[John B]

Draymond is really a terrible addition to the TNT crew

Dude just destroyed a peer (Gobert) on national tv like it's nothing...

Either that or he just put a fire on Gobert’s behind to get him going. I’d take it as a challenge. Hey he’s the DPOY right?

[MarioSpeedwagon]

Oh yeah I had to tune in for about 20 seconds before seeing who you guys were talking about but wanted to see the picture because if that's Starks god damn he has let himself go. :lol
https://twitter.com/BigKnickEnergy_/status/1790539875126587722
He don't look that bad

He don't look that bad. Remember the mid '90s is like 30 years ago now. Also, when you get really old you have two options put on a little weight and not have any wrinkles a little bit like a balloon. Or you can stay skinny and then your skin all wrinkles and shrivels up like an uninflated balloon :lol

[Pauleta14]

Either that or he just put a fire on Gobert’s behind to get him going. I’d take it as a challenge. Hey he’s the DPOY right?

I don't care about Gobert and wasn't talking from his perspective.

I just find weird and a lack of class (oh surprise from Dray!) that an active player talks that way about another one while analysing a game on TV. Especially considering their past

[John B]

I don't care about Gobert and wasn't talking from his perspective.

I just find weird and a lack of class (oh surprise from Dray!) that an active player talks that way about another one while analysing a game on TV. Especially considering their past

Love or hate Draymond, but he’s there because he attracts attention. Now it’s not a first time that an ex-nba-player-turned-broadcaster give it straight. It’s locker room talk. Shaq says the same to Embiid, play big, stop shooting outside, etc. Coming from a former DPOY, Gobert needs to take that as a challenge.

[JPB]

I don't care about Gobert and wasn't talking from his perspective.

I just find weird and a lack of class (oh surprise from Dray!) that an active player talks that way about another one while analysing a game on TV. Especially considering their past

That's a long story and there's a long beef between the two who've been going at eacher through social medai, ITV or pressers for years now. And it's not just Green, Gobert has been other NBA players' target for a while now, starting by Shaq.

Whether you like Rudy or not, (and that covid stuff was obviously a mistake) , the way he's bullied sometimes by wannabee tough NBA guys is indeed pretty weak and sick. But he's french, he got the big bag, he sometimes showed emotions publicly (crying in presser after not being an all star a few years ago) so I guess he's an easy target for "gangsta" millionaires.

NBA playoffs 2024: Why do so many players have beef with Rudy Gobert? (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/40002092/nba-playoffs-2024-why-do-many-players-beef-rudy-gobert)

[Pauleta14]

Love or hate Draymond, but he’s there because he attracts attention. Now it’s not a first time that an ex-nba-player-turned-broadcaster give it straight. It’s locker room talk. Shaq says the same to Embiid, play big, stop shooting outside, etc. Coming from a former DPOY, Gobert needs to take that as a challenge.

Again, not about Gobert (whom I not fan of tbh). It's about the principle. Class and respect have become too old fashionned

Draymond is not a former player turned broadcaster (in that case I wouldn't mind). He's still playing and it chnages everything to me

[Pauleta14]

That's a long story and there's a long beef between the two who've been going at eacher through social medai, ITV or pressers for years now. And it's not just Green, Gobert has been other NBA players' target for a while now, starting by Shaq.

Whether you like Rudy or not, (and that covid stuff was obviously a mistake) , the way he's bullied sometimes by wannabee tough NBA guys is indeed pretty weak and sick. But he's french, he got the big bag, he sometimes showed emotions publicly (crying in presser after not being an all star a few years ago) so I guess he's an easy target for "gangsta" millionaires.

NBA playoffs 2024: Why do so many players have beef with Rudy Gobert? (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/40002092/nba-playoffs-2024-why-do-many-players-beef-rudy-gobert)

I agree on Gobert, never been a fan mainly bc of his character and sensitive reactions but I find it very weak ethically to use the TNT platform to shoot on an ambulance when clearly even if I'm not a fan of his, the fault is on the Wolves coaching leaving him on an island vs Jokic.

Everybody agrees Gobert isn't the best individual defender in the league, not even close, he got the DPOY for his (alledged) collective impact

Anyway, my initial point was that Draymond is a terrible addition and his BBIQ is vastly overrated. He needs to get over himself before he's able to bring any value

[heyheymymy]

lol saw that Starks shit watching the game but had no idea it was anyone special. Was surprised a fan was walking that far out to the baseline like his seat entitled him to that range lol

Nothing will happen because they are VIP. Bet they got a talking to though. He was insanely close to the active game play. Def looked wasted too lol

[lefty]

:lol Starks
:lol undesized grocery bagger
:lol Jordan's competition at the SG position

[MultiTroll]

Cavs at least hanging around.
85-79
Morris the POS with b2b treys.

Not getting stops tho.

Celtics with the Warriors level of opponent injury luck this series.

[spurraider21]

Courtside is unlike any other seat, the game looks so much faster and so much more physical and you realize how ridiculous of athletes these guys are when you're seeing it right from the floor. It really is a completely different experience than even second row seats. I have been to a playoff game against Magic & the Lakers in the second row and a scrub regular season game directly on the floor and the floor seat experience was way better.
you were watching plumbers and accountants from the 2nd row tbh fwiw imo

of course they didnt seem that fast and physical

[baseline bum]

you were watching plumbers and accountants from the 2nd row tbh fwiw imo

of course they didnt seem that fast and physical

This was pre-AIDS Magic tho

[skin27]

SGA game is really similar to derozan.midrange game

[Strategic]

Mavs dunking with ease and Holmgren not even contesting. Glad we dodged that bullet

[benefactor]

Now it's OKC laying the egg at home

[benefactor]

A banged up Luka nearing a 30-point triple double. Bananas.