Official 2025 NBA Playoffs Thread

[heyheymymy]

lol Knicks guy in the middle of that outrageous montage saying "we just have to stay cool calm and collected"

[heyheymymy]

haha that Knicks crew taunting post game is so unruly and stupid but it's hilarious and I love their pure rocketfuel enthusiasm

would be fun to watch it all come crashing back down on NYK but they do seem to have some destiny status right now I don't know

[Dex]

Apparently home court advantage doesn't even matter in these playoffs :lol

[davethedope]

That Holmgren really knows how to flush a deuce if I do say so myself

[itzsoweezee]

This might be the worst game I’ve seen Jokic play

[Robz4000]

:lol Thunderrefs back

[Strategic]

Jokic finally showing some fatigue with his outside shot

[lefty20]

Looks like if you make it a close game and OKC will choke immediately and often.

[mystargtr34]

SGA can’t get by anyone since the 4th period and overtime. Fatigue and great D by Denver.

[lefty20]

Lmao SGA

Bruh about to win a MVP but refuses to do anything except look at Harty to bail him out. Them lights getting a little too bright, tbh.

[timtonymanu]

Thunder showing why you need vets. Everyone has a deer in headlights look this OT.

[Robz4000]

Jokic plays his worst game of the season and Denver still wins. OKC is in trouble tbh.

[Strategic]

Regular season may have been a little too easy for the Thunder

[heyheymymy]

AG has been so reliable for DEN

[ginobilized]

Game 4 is a must win for OKC. My gut says that they are not going to win it all this year. This might be where they get knocked out.
Playoff intensity is a whole 'other thing and these young guys aren't seasoned yet.It would be wild to see DEN, MIN or GS represent the West in the Finals, but, that's probably the way it goes.

[R. DeMurre]

There's an interesting experiment going on in the NBA with the idea of returning to two legit bigs again, and I think a lot of it has to do with Jokic. Minnesota had success last year using two bigs to defend him, and now leading teams like OKC and Cleveland are having more general success with it. Last night showed it working pretty well, but also showed the Nuggets adjusting to it, with Gordon and Porter Jr taking advantage of the better spacing that Holmgren's constant hedging towards Jokic provides. Jokic's game was really strange with some uncharacteristic elements-- 0-10 from 3 and 8 turnovers-- but also 20/16/6 plus 2 steals & 2 blocks. Without Jokic's rebounding, the Nuggets lose that game. I imagine the FO of the Spurs watching intently, and thinking about future front court pairings with Wemby... I love the idea of an Evan Mobley-like guy to pair with Wemby (which of course won't be easy to find) but I wonder if the FO has a different vision right now, like a Dirk/Markkanen stretch 4 type. But the game's ever evolving, and who knows, maybe there will be a player in the near future who develops as a Mobley/Markkanen hybrid.

[LeBowen]

There's an interesting experiment going on in the NBA with the idea of returning to two legit bigs again, and I think a lot of it has to do with Jokic. Minnesota had success last year using two bigs to defend him, and now leading teams like OKC and Cleveland are having more general success with it. Last night showed it working pretty well, but also showed the Nuggets adjusting to it, with Gordon and Porter Jr taking advantage of the better spacing that Holmgren's constant hedging towards Jokic provides. Jokic's game was really strange with some uncharacteristic elements-- 0-10 from 3 and 8 turnovers-- but also 20/16/6 plus 2 steals & 2 blocks. Without Jokic's rebounding, the Nuggets lose that game. I imagine the FO of the Spurs watching intently, and thinking about future front court pairings with Wemby... I love the idea of an Evan Mobley-like guy to pair with Wemby (which of course won't be easy to find) but I wonder if the FO has a different vision right now, like a Dirk/Markkanen stretch 4 type. But the game's ever evolving, and who knows, maybe there will be a player in the near future who develops as a Mobley/Markkanen hybrid.

Cavs lineup is working because Mobley made a big 3pt leap.
I'd say Gordon/Jokic is as much of a two legit bigs lineup as it gets because Gordon easily bullies every wing. Chet can't handle him, either.

Teams went away from two bigs because most bigs couldn't shoot.
Eight teams are still competing for the championship and out of 40 starters Allen, Gobert and Hartenstein are the only non-shooters.
Draymond probably being the fourth worst, but he's at 28% on 5.2 attempts in these playoffs.

[daslicer]

There's an interesting experiment going on in the NBA with the idea of returning to two legit bigs again, and I think a lot of it has to do with Jokic. Minnesota had success last year using two bigs to defend him, and now leading teams like OKC and Cleveland are having more general success with it. Last night showed it working pretty well, but also showed the Nuggets adjusting to it, with Gordon and Porter Jr taking advantage of the better spacing that Holmgren's constant hedging towards Jokic provides. Jokic's game was really strange with some uncharacteristic elements-- 0-10 from 3 and 8 turnovers-- but also 20/16/6 plus 2 steals & 2 blocks. Without Jokic's rebounding, the Nuggets lose that game. I imagine the FO of the Spurs watching intently, and thinking about future front court pairings with Wemby... I love the idea of an Evan Mobley-like guy to pair with Wemby (which of course won't be easy to find) but I wonder if the FO has a different vision right now, like a Dirk/Markkanen stretch 4 type. But the game's ever evolving, and who knows, maybe there will be a player in the near future who develops as a Mobley/Markkanen hybrid.

I would say ideally an Evan Mobley or Aaron Gordon type of player would be the best to play at PF next to Victor. I can see how either would easily compliment Victor's game.

[LeBowen]

I would say ideally an Evan Mobley or Aaron Gordon type of player would be the best to play at PF next to Victor. I can see how either would easily compliment Victor's game.

That's why a lot of us want John Collins.
I'd even take him ahead of Naz or Aladama because those two aren't physical enough.

[rankingtear]

If the point is to counter Jokic, Mobley and Collins is useless. You want a strong post defender even if that guy is a forward or a guard does not matter.

[LeBowen]

If the point is to counter Jokic, Mobley and Collins is useless. You want a strong post defender even if that guy is a forward or a guard does not matter.

We need someone to help Wemby with the rebounds and always being outnumbered in the paint.
Wemby will always match up with Jokic, Embiid (if he doesn't retire), AD and whoever else and do a better job than anyone.

He already did well against Jokic this season, it's just that his conditioning wasn't good enough and Jokic just kept going in the 4th.
He's the only player who's got enough length to bother Jokic, did you watch the games? It doesn't really matter if he can't hold his position because Jokic doesn't dunk and even when under the basket Wemby alters most shots. Jokic himself said so.

On offense Collins would be ideal because he can both be a bully against almost every single PF and is a very good 3pt shooter.
We can't afford to have a non-shooter in starting lineup because both Fox and Castle are subpar shooters who want to attack the paint.

[BatManu20]

Game 4 is a must win for OKC. My gut says that they are not going to win it all this year. This might be where they get knocked out.
Playoff intensity is a whole 'other thing and these young guys aren't seasoned yet.It would be wild to see DEN, MIN or GS represent the West in the Finals, but, that's probably the way it goes.

Game 4 is a must-win for both teams. Nuggets aren't winning another game in OKC.

[rankingtear]

We need someone to help Wemby with the rebounds and always being outnumbered in the paint.
Wemby will always match up with Jokic, Embiid (if he doesn't retire), AD and whoever else and do a better job than anyone.

He already did well against Jokic this season, it's just that his conditioning wasn't good enough and Jokic just kept going in the 4th.
He's the only player who's got enough length to bother Jokic, did you watch the games? It doesn't really matter if he can't hold his position because Jokic doesn't dunk and even when under the basket Wemby alters most shots. Jokic himself said so.

On offense Collins would be ideal because he can both be a bully against almost every single PF and is a very good 3pt shooter.
We can't afford to have a non-shooter in starting lineup because both Fox and Castle are subpar shooters who want to attack the paint.

Not going to happen in a playoff series. Wemby involved in every primary action on offense and every primary action on defense on 40+ minutes of high intensity basketball while Jokic guards John Collins smells like an easy sweep.

[LeBowen]

Not going to happen in a playoff series. Wemby involved in every primary action on offense and every primary action on defense on 40+ minutes of high intensity basketball while Jokic guards John Collins smells like an easy sweep.

Are you ok?
Why are you even talking about potential matchups with Jokic while we're one of the worst teams in the league and desperately need some physical presence at PF.
You don't guard Jokic or any all-time great 1v1, won't happen. Look at what Thunder are doing, swarming him and hoping refs swallow their whistle.

Wemby won't need to be involved in every action on offense if we put a competent team around him.
While he can be an effortless 30ppg scorer, his defense will always be the bigger difference maker.

[Robz4000]

Game 4 is a must-win for both teams. Nuggets aren't winning another game in OKC.

Disagree tbh. If this goes 7 it's a coin flip imo.

[rankingtear]

Are you ok?
Why are you even talking about potential matchups with Jokic while we're one of the worst teams in the league and desperately need some physical presence at PF.
You don't guard Jokic or any all-time great 1v1, won't happen. Look at what Thunder are doing, swarming him and hoping refs swallow their whistle.

Wemby won't need to be involved in every action on offense if we put a competent team around him.
While he can be an effortless 30ppg scorer, his defense will always be the bigger difference maker.

That was the initial point of the discussion brought up by DeMurre a roster that matchup with Jokic, plus your roster construction ideas are pretty vanilla. Your also contradicting yourself.

[LeBowen]

plus your roster construction ideas are pretty vanilla

Yeah, my ideas are vanilla, I never predicted anything that eventually happened...oh, wait.

Way better than some of you smartasses who constantly write abstract shit that has zero chance of happening.

[mo7888]

That's why a lot of us want John Collins.
I'd even take him ahead of Naz or Aladama because those two aren't physical enough.

I'm glad somebody else has Collins above Naz...that's the minority view here, but i think it's the correct one.

[rankingtear]

Yeah, my ideas are vanilla, I never predicted anything that eventually happened...oh, wait.

Way better than some of you smartasses who constantly write abstract shit that has zero chance of happening.

If you prediction is vanilla it would probably come true eventually. What is your latest prediction nostradamus a player who rebounds and can play the 4.

[LeBowen]

I'm glad somebody else has Collins above Naz...that's the minority view here, but i think it's the correct one.

I'm not sure he's above, they're just different players.
Naz is very good, but I don't think he's what we need. In a way, he's too similar to Wemby.
Wants to face up with the ball, shoots trailer 3pts, handles the ball and lacks strength in some situations.
A perfect 6th man, but he's never done it on consistent basis as a starter.
Yeah, he had some amazing 4th quarters against the Lakers, but we're looking for a starter and we can't afford to throw $30M a year on someone inconsistent. We already have Devin and Keldon for that.

Collins doesn't need the ball, is really strong for his size and is a good rebounder. Not amazing defensively, but certainly better than Naz.
And he'd obviously be way cheaper. Will turn 28 at the start of next season, same age as Fox.


If you prediction is vanilla it would probably come true eventually. What is your latest prediction nostradamus a player who rebounds and can play the 4.

The hell are you on about? At least try to form actual sentences.
Last summer I don't think anyone else mentioned Barnes as a potential Spurs target.
There was that topic about potential wing targets and I predicted a lot of moves around the league.

I don't see what's vanilla about my prediction when we desperately need a starting PF, with no realistic options available.
Naz and Aldama aren't going anywhere because their teams cleared cap space to keep them.
The best we can hope for is John Collins, either as a FA or a S&T.

[lefty]

Jamal Murray is fun to watch when he decides to show up tbh

[lefty]

lol Knicks guy in the middle of that outrageous montage saying "we just have to stay cool calm and collected"

:lol the only level headed person in the video

[LeBowen]

:lol the only level headed person in the video

Sidetalk is the only legit channel, the rest are poor copycats.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m49X7y34HTo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m49X7y34HTo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m49X7y34HTo

:lol


This game can only end with Knicks getting blown out, it's usually how these things go.

[LeBowen]

This game can only end with Knicks getting blown out, it's usually how these things go.

As expected.

[lefty]

Sidetalk is the only legit channel, the rest are poor copycats.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m49X7y34HTo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m49X7y34HTo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m49X7y34HTo

:lol


This game can only end with Knicks getting blown out, it's usually how these things go.

NY and overreacting is an unbreakable tradition

[RC_Drunkford]

I'm glad somebody else has Collins above Naz...that's the minority view here, but i think it's the correct one.

people forget John Collins was the 2nd best player on a Hawks team that went to the ECF a couple of years ago. And he'll probably cost less than Naz too.

[HankChinaski]

people forget John Collins was the 2nd best player on a Hawks team that went to the ECF a couple of years ago. And he'll probably cost less than Naz too.

Yeah I have similar views of going Collins over Naz.

Collins fills a need and shouldn't cost them as much for their services than Naz would.

I do want Boston to lose New York. I hate teams that only play at the 3pt line.

If Boston would at least try to find a higher percentage shot before shooting the 3pt shot or not just not committing to the 3 ball immediately everytime they get a rebound with way too much time on the clock... They are such a stupid team. The coach should call a timeout and shit on his clip board and place it in front of them because thst is what it looks like from the sidelines

190+ million amounts to that.

[LeBowen]

I still think the Knicks fucked up with this roster construction.
Every other team still in the playoffs has multiple triple threat creators while they rely exclusively on Brunson. And as good as he's been, it's too much of a load for one player.
They had to get another creator before the deadline.

[rankingtear]

people forget John Collins was the 2nd best player on a Hawks team that went to the ECF a couple of years ago. And he'll probably cost less than Naz too.

People didn't forget cause it never happened. You could argue for Capela anchors the defense and face guards the star bigs or Bogdanovic who is their secondary creator and shot maker.

[Robz4000]

T'Pups still can't hit a wide open three tbh.

[timtonymanu]

TWolves should be dominating this while the Warriors don't have Curry but of course they will still struggle to win games.

[timtonymanu]

Lol Anthony Fraudwards

[Robz4000]

TWolves should be dominating this while the Warriors don't have Curry but of course they will still struggle to win games.

Ant's embarrassing himself tbh.

[lefty20]

JoRdAn'S sOn :lol

[Spurs Homer]

T wolves have zero killer instinct….

[Spurs Homer]

lololol

”he is smart…greene knows how to play with fouls….”

….a few moments laturrrr….

[timtonymanu]

If Twolves lose this while Curry and Green sit, time to throw in the towel.

[Spurs Homer]

How was that not a foul on hield?

[timtonymanu]

Kuminga on some fluky shit this series but thankfully it’s not enough today.

[Robz4000]

Minny is fucked if this goes beyond five tbh. Ridiculous how much they're struggling against this Curry-less Dubs team. Not too surprising though.

[RC_Drunkford]

People didn't forget cause it never happened. You could argue for Capela anchors the defense and face guards the star bigs or Bogdanovic who is their secondary creator and shot maker.

Collins was their 2nd best scorer. Not Bogdanovic or Capela

[CGD]

https://www.reddit.com/r/therewasanattempt/comments/1khsbd6/to_get_knicks_fans_out_of_td_gardens_immediately/

They’ll probably still lose the series, but I’m here for all of this! I despise how Boston plays.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

I'm glad somebody else has Collins above Naz...that's the minority view here, but i think it's the correct one.

I'm more prone to John Collins too. Naz Reid is not rebounding well.

[LeBowen]

Horrible start from both teams, I guess it favors the Nuggets because they can change gears easier.

Watching quarters like this one makes you wonder about the 3pt line.

[lefty20]

Caruso successfully guarding Jokic in the post was not in my bingo card.

[LeBowen]

1-25 from 3pt in the first quarter. :lmao

[BatManu20]

Jokic's shot isn't falling so he's trying to be a facilitator instead. The problem is he's surrounded by a bunch of non-shooters, like Westbrook, Braun, Watson, etc. Even broken down MPJ who, outside of Game 3, has been absolute dog-shit this series. And Murray is doing his typical disappearing act after a big game (extremely predictable).

Denver's roster construction is unfathomably dumb. Easy to see why Calvin Booth was fired.

[BatManu20]

Jokic is going to have to start hitting shot if Denver wants any chance at winning this game. His role players aren't good enough, it's gonna have to be him.

[LeBowen]

Thunder just don't have it.

[LeBowen]

Williams has been so bad that OKC would've done better with Vassell in his place.

[baseline bum]

Caruso is such an amazing defender, completely shut Gordon down there.

[BatManu20]

Thunder just don't have it.

It's a one point game. They're playing better than Denver is this quarter. Denver is going to have to play MUCH better if they want to pull this out. OKC is playing like their season is on the line (cause it is). Nuggets have to match it or they will lose.

[exstatic]

Williams has been so bad that OKC would've done better with Vassell in his place.

I guess the whispers from last season’s playoff are full throated yells this year.

[baseline bum]

Caruso +10 tonight

[LeBowen]

It's a one point game. They're playing better than Denver is this quarter. Denver is going to have to play MUCH better if they want to pull this out. OKC is playing like their season is on the line (cause it is). Nuggets have to match it or they will lose.

Jokic is playing his worst ever playoff basketball. Yeah, some of it is on Thunder's defense, but he just seems off and they can't create an advantage.
Still a good team, but those regular season predictions were overblown. They're playing a team with 6 players and MPJ is playing through a serious injury.



I guess the whispers from last season’s playoff are full throated yells this year.

Before the playoffs started I said OKC will go as far as Chet and Williams take them. SGA will eventually deliver his, the rest of the supporting cast is solid, but those two need to show up.
Neither one has, Presti will have some tough decisions to make when it comes to their extensions.

[itzsoweezee]

Didn’t Malone get fired in part from playing Westbrook too much? They’re literally letting this dude throw the series away

[exstatic]

Didn’t Malone get fired in part from playing Westbrook too much? They’re literally letting this dude throw the series away

No, he got fired because he literally couldn’t get along with the GM. Booth drafted Hartenstein,but Malone wouldn’t play him. Booth hired a shooting coach, but Malone thought he was a spy, and banned him from the practice facility, forcing players to meet him other places to get up shots.

[Dejounte]

Gordon has been the MVP for the Nuggets. Too bad there’s no one like him in this upcoming draft.

[LeBowen]

This one is on Jokic, never took control of the game.

[Raven]

both teams shooting sub .250 from 3 is quite impressive

[Raven]

ending it with a clutch time airball, fitting.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

OKC destroyed Denver’s zone in the 4th with threes and that’s game.

[LeBowen]

OKC destroyed Denver’s zone in the 4th with threes and that’s game.

I'd say it's more on Denver's offense, OKC scored just 90 points.

[lefty20]

Nuggets 0/23 from 3 in 1 & 4th qtrs combined.

[davethedope]

Offensive checking seems to be the rule now but how about hand checks and defensive checks too? I don’t think it’s balanced.

[mystargtr34]

A lot of copium in this thread about Jokic supposed lack of help.

If he didn’t have multiple players play above their heads so far they wouldn’t have even made it out of the first round.

Jamal Murray 23-6 on 48-41-90 splits against a top 5 defense in the league in the first round.

Ugly ass Aaron Gordon averaging 19 a game on 50% in the first round.

Russel Westbrook going 13-31 in threes at 41% in the first round after shooting 32% in the regular season.

[BatManu20]

Jokic was horrible yet again, but outside of Game 3, the dude is getting almost no help outside of Aaron Gordon. Here are his supporting cast's numbers today:

Murray: 5/16
Westbrook: 2/12
MPJ: 1/7
Braun: 4/10
Watson: 1/3

The vast majority of these are wide open 3's or mid-range shots created by Jokic. Every single one of Braun, MPJ, and Watson's misses were wide open shots. He's been really bad himself, but it's compounded by the fact that his supporting cast is fucking dog-shit.

[timtonymanu]

The fact that Denver has 2 wins this series is a miracle.

[Robz4000]

The fact that Denver has 2 wins this series is a miracle.

All they gotta do is get it to 7 imo. Don't think OKC is ready for that tbh.

[BatManu20]

All they gotta do is get it to 7 imo. Don't think OKC is ready for that tbh.

Think you're really underestimating the negative effect of having Westbrook play major Playoff minutes in 2025 tbh. The dude is absolute buns offensively. For every hustle play or defensive play that he makes, he gives back two more offensively because he's such a terrible shooter and overall scorer.

But it's not just him. Braun, MPJ, and Peyton Watson are all brick-layers too. And it's really compounded by the fact that Joker is shitting the bed as well. This Denver roster has been severely flawed all season so we shouldn't be surprised -- this is par for the course. They just don't have a good enough roster to win this series imo, especially with them needing to win another game in OKC.

[Ice009]

Fing Spurs fan picking Jokic over TD in his/her all-time starting 5 in another thread. What a joke. Nuggets can still win this (it's going to be very tough, though), but Jokic needs to actually start showing up. He's had his ass shut down since game 1. OKC doing a tremendous job on him. Some of it is on him, but Thunder are also doing a great job.

[davethedope]

Refs set this one up, OKC was on the line by the middle of the fourth. There’s an agenda but Jokic is getting shut down.

[BatManu20]

Fing Spurs fan picking Jokic over TD in his/her all-time starting 5 in another thread. What a joke. Nuggets can still win this (it's going to be very tough, though), but Jokic needs to actually start showing up. He's had his ass shut down since game 1. OKC doing a tremendous job on him. Some of it is on him, but Thunder are also doing a great job.

They have the perfect team to slow him down though with so many big bodies/length to throw eat him with Chet, Hartenstein, and Jaylin Williams, plus multiple athletic defenders to crash down with SGA, Jalen Williams, Caruso, and Dort who can all recover to their man in a timely fashion. They're doubling and/or sending help every time he touches the ball in the post, hence why keeps firing away from 3 instead. OKC's entire game plan is to not let Joker beat them and force his shitty supporting cast beat them from 3 and it's working like a charm because Jokic is surrounded by too many non-shooters like Westbrick, Braun, Watson, and MPJ (who sucks ass right now cause he's playing with one arm). Even Jamal Murray has been trash outside of one game because OKC has athletic wing defenders to throw at him.

[Ice009]

They have the perfect team to slow him down though with so many big bodies/length to throw eat him with Chet, Hartenstein, and Jaylin Williams, plus multiple athletic defenders to crash down with SGA, Jalen Williams, Caruso, and Dort who can all recover to their man in a timely fashion. They're doubling and/or sending help every time he touches the ball in the post, hence why keeps firing away from 3 instead. OKC's entire game plan is to not let Joker beat them and force his shitty supporting cast beat them from 3 and it's working like a charm because Jokic is surrounded by too many non-shooters like Westbrick, Braun, Watson, and MPJ (who sucks ass right now cause he's playing with one arm).

He was hitting his threes in the regular season. He's missing threes and free throws now. That's not all on the Thunder defense. I doubt these guys could have shut down a prime Shaq, prime TD, prime Hakeem etc. I don't know, maybe I'm wrong, but I just don't see it. I think some of it is definitely on Jokic. Can't blame his teammates for all of it.

[BatManu20]

He was hitting his threes in the regular season. He's missing threes and free throws now. That's not all on the Thunder defense. I doubt these guys could have shut down a prime Shaq, prime TD, prime Hakeem etc. I don't know, maybe I'm wrong, but I just don't see it. I think some of it is definitely on Jokic. Can't blame his teammates for all of it.

Yea cause he wasn't facing the #1-ranked Defense in the league most games in the regular season :lol.

I'm not saying Jokic doesn't deserve some blame. He absolutely does. He hasn't played well outside of Game 1, where they allowed him to get comfortable and go 1-on-1 in the post far more often. And him missing all these FT's has been a huge factor too (their whole team is missing way too many this series). He has to play better, period.

But Denver's roster construction is also just not good with so many non-shooters and so little depth. They easily win this game today if Murray, Westbrook, Braun, and MPJ don't go a combined 12/45 from the field. And a ton of those looks were wide open 3's generated by Jokic's gravity. That's just not going to get it done, period. Joker has to be much better, but so does his supporting cast.

With that said, unfortunately, I think it's too late. I think today's loss determined the series as I don't see them winning another game in OKC. Thunder are just the better team imo.

[Ice009]

Alright, I'll relent. A lot of what you're saying is correct. I just think that half of it is also on him.

I think it's not over yet, but it's close. If OKC blows them out in game 5 (they'll gain too much confidence at that point), then I think OKC can take game 6 too.

[Biggems]

The Pacers are whooping some Cavs ass right now.

IMO, that fracas in the 1st Q should have resulted in a double ejection. The punch by Mathurin was a bit of a bitch move, but Hunter sold that shit like the witch he is. I guess Mathurin was finally tired of all the cheap fouls Hunter has committed on him this series.

[Robz4000]

Pacers/Knicks in the ECF would be must-see TV imo.

[Biggems]

The Cavs look like complete frauds right now. They remind me of the D'Antoni Suns, high scoring and at the top for regular season wins, but playoff duds.

[spursistan]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gqthfj-W4AAnM4U?format=jpg&name=900x900

[baseline bum]

Crazy beating Indy is throwing down on themselves

https://i.ibb.co/KjdY4NqN/pacers.jpg

[itzsoweezee]

Allen and Mobley getting punked by the small ass Pacers is hilarious. These two seem to be constantly underperforming in the playoffs. I was assured that Mobley was awesome this year

[spursistan]

Bottom line, there is no escaping the fact you need an MVP-caliber player to legitimately compete for a Championship.

Those 2004 Pistons, 2014 Spurs and 2024 Celtics are, by no coincidence, a once-in-a-decade teams which relied on immense depth constituted of multiple high-end 2nd tier stars and past-their-primes future hall of famers.

The 2025 64-win Cavs, just like the 2022 64-win Suns, lack in the first ingredient and don't have enough of it in the second formula.

[KobesAchilles]

If OKC doesn’t ring this year or next then idk if they do ring tbh. That was huge win in Denver. Tbh this series is going 7. I see both home teams losing the next two. And the Knicks aren’t beating Boston. That series is going 6 and Boston is going to win it. I would love a Pacers Denver match up. ABA vs ABA. Low ratings. No drama just basketball

[spursistan]

All they gotta do is get it to 7 imo. Don't think OKC is ready for that tbh.
OKC controlled both games they lost, tbh. Don't think Denver has chance if Thunder D keeps throttling Jokic on offense like this. By far the worst playoffs series of his career..

[Ice009]

I'll say it again, but if Thunder blow them out game 5, I think that will give them extreme confidence and they might just win game 6 and not have to face a game 7. We'll see, though, as I hope it goes 7. If it goes 7 and the Thunder win it, I think that will have made them battle tested and will solidify them to have the belief to go on and win it all.

[spursparker9]

Is Indy the only team crazy enough to play full court D for 48 mins?

How does those humans have the stamina? :lol

[LeBowen]

The 2025 64-win Cavs, just like the 2022 64-win Suns, lack in the first ingredient and don't have enough of it in the second formula.

That's disrespectful to Mitchell. He's been arguably the most consistent first option in these playoffs.
This was his first bad game, but he couldn't have done much. The media is obsessed with Edwards, but Mitchell has been better than him.



Is Indy the only team crazy enough to play full court D for 48 mins?

How does those humans have the stamina? :lol

Carlisle plays 11 man rotation.
For comparison 4 Nuggets are averaging 38mpg+, while Haliburton is at 35mpg and 3 other starters are at ~32mpg.
Their 8th-11th players average 10mpg.

[Brazil]

Those POs is a reminder of how different it is from regular season, not the same game at all. Spurs making the POs next year is a must, there is no way to understand what adjustments are needed in terms of play style and roster without battling in the POs

[Biggems]

Tatum is too soft to be Superman...he is more Superman on kryptonite.

[LeBowen]

Meanwhile, there's an amazing game happening at the Garden.
Knicks up 3 after 37-23 3rd quarter.

[benefactor]

Jason Harden costing his team another game.

[Dex]

Celtics shitting the bed again :lol

[Gibbz]

Jaylen Brown might be securing himself being dealt this offseason.

[LeBowen]

Celtics dynasty crumbling before our eyes.

[Dex]

Looks like an Achilles for Tatum...sucks for Boston

[GAustex]

That might have been an Achilles

[Gibbz]

That's a torn achilles for Tatum.

[LeBowen]

Wheelchair for Tatum.
They might just blow it up this summer if his achilles is done.
No point in keeping Jrue or Porzingis.

[mystargtr34]

That 2028 pick just went up in value by about 30%

[Gibbz]

Wheelchair for Tatum.
They might just blow it up this summer if his achilles is done.
No point in keeping Jrue or Porzingis.

They're in cap Hell. Their only untouchables will be Tatum and DW.

[LeBowen]

My biggest takeaway from this game is that we need to find ourselves an OG Anunoby.

[mystargtr34]

My biggest takeaway from this game is that we need to find ourselves an OG Anunoby.

Carter Bryant and Rasheer Fleming are the closest matches tbh.

And I agree the OG Anunoby archetype is a must for the spurs to round out the roster. In fact 2 OG’s would be great a SF and PF version.

[Mr. Body]

Celtics dynasty crumbling before our eyes.

They were always pretty fugazy to be honest

[Gibbz]

My biggest takeaway from this game is that we need to find ourselves an OG Anunoby.

My biggest gripe with the Kawhi to TOR deal was not getting him in return.

[Chillen]

Tatum definitely blew out his achillies and it was a really bad one he could not put any weight on it. He will likely be out for quite awhile.

[Gibbz]

They were always pretty fugazy to be honest

Very deep but their top 2 guys are fraudulent superstars. And that Mavs team they beat in the Finals was straight ass.

[LeBowen]

Tatum's Kobe fandom privileges should be revoked, tbh.
Kobe walked off with torn achilles, Tatum was carried off while crying like a bitch.

[Guru of Nothing]

I'm 100% in on the Pacers. Knicks-Pacers has the makings on one of the greatest series of all time.

Go Pacers Go!

[davethedope]

Tatum's Kobe fandom privileges should be revoked, tbh.
Kobe walked off with torn achilles, Tatum was carried off while crying like a bitch.
He was still crying in the wheelchair they put him in, I guess like a bitch

[LeBowen]

I'm 100% in on the Pacers. Knicks-Pacers has the makings on one of the greatest series of all time.

Go Pacers Go!

TNT has ECF this year, Reggie is going to be insufferable. :lol

[timtonymanu]

Things are lining up for OKC to win it all.

[Guru of Nothing]

Bring in Clyde to balance it out.

[Mugen]

OKC/Denver is the real Finals now tbh.

Boston was already gonna need to blow it up due to payroll. Tatum blowing out his Achilles makes things very interesting, they’ve got some guys that would fit great in SA tbh

[timtonymanu]

The game is far from over but it’s pathetic how much the Twolves are struggling against a curry less warriors team.

[LeBowen]

Warriors competing with no size whatsoever.
Fit is only a concept, good coaching can overcome a lot.

[HankChinaski]

Just saw the highlights for Boston and new York.

Huge blow for Boston. Hope the injury isn't major. Lookin like it is.

That is worst time for something like that Going into the off-season

[timtonymanu]

Wolves better win this shit in 5

[scott]

I'm 100% in on the Pacers. Knicks-Pacers has the makings on one of the greatest series of all time.

Go Pacers Go!

Reggie Miller must call every game of that series

[Ice009]

My biggest takeaway from this game is that we need to find ourselves an OG Anunoby.

Spurs should have had him in the Kawhi trade (Should have demanded he be included - I was pretty disgusted at the time that he wasn't included), but again, probably good thing they didn't get him as they might have won more games changing draft positions.

[twodeep]

What does Boston due next year they will be put out of the playoffs next game and the injury to Tatum screams achilles which means he will be out all of next year

[Seventyniner]

What does Boston due next year they will be put out of the playoffs next game and the injury to Tatum screams achilles which means he will be out all of next year

The East will still be weak enough, and the Celtics deep enough, that they should still be able to make at least the play-in. He might be back by then.

If Boston decides to trade major pieces in the name of salary relief, though, all bets are off.

[LeBowen]

The East will still be weak enough, and the Celtics deep enough, that they should still be able to make at least the play-in. He might be back by then.

If Boston decides to trade major pieces in the name of salary relief, though, all bets are off.

Jrue and KP will surely get traded. Horford is a free agent.
Brown apparently also has some knee issues that need fixing and Celtics own their 2026 pick.
Kind of a '96 Spurs situation.

[spurraider21]

well there it is

1922392340229951701

[spurraider21]

Jrue and KP will surely get traded. Horford is a free agent.
Brown apparently also has some knee issues that need fixing and Celtics own their 2026 pick.
Kind of a '96 Spurs situation.
KP is expiring, im not sure why they'll trade him and have to take salary back that may exceed his current deal.

they can try to trade Jrue, but im not sure what his market will be. he turns 35 in a month, is owed 32.5 next year, 35 the year after, and then has a player option for 37 after that... in his year 37 season. who is trading for that?

right now the nets are the only team that can outright eat salary without sending contracts back

[mystargtr34]

Brutal for Boston and Tatum.

And agree above Boston will have to attach assets to get rid of that Jrue contract. I didn’t realise it was another 3 seasons after this one. He’s already breaking down.

[LeBowen]

Just brutal, even when you construct the roster perfectly you're just one bad step away from a disaster.


KP is expiring, im not sure why they'll trade him and have to take salary back that may exceed his current deal.

they can try to trade Jrue, but im not sure what his market will be. he turns 35 in a month, is owed 32.5 next year, 35 the year after, and then has a player option for 37 after that... in his year 37 season. who is trading for that?

right now the nets are the only team that can outright eat salary without sending contracts back

You're probably right about KP, they would've surely traded him if Tatum didn't get injured because he's become a non-factor due to his health issue.
Jrue's contract is bad, but there are always desperate contenders out there.

[CorrectCrusader]

Really sucks when star players get hurt. Hope he comes back just as good as before.

[spurraider21]

Brutal for Boston and Tatum.

And agree above Boston will have to attach assets to get rid of that Jrue contract. I didn’t realise it was another 3 seasons after this one. He’s already breaking down.
yeah its 2 plus a player option that he is almost certain to opt into for his age 37 season

[Dverde]

Brutal for Boston and Tatum.

And agree above Boston will have to attach assets to get rid of that Jrue contract. I didn’t realise it was another 3 seasons after this one. He’s already breaking down.

Expires the same year as the Spurs 2028 pick swap rights.

[scott]

Digging this IND team. No megastars, just all around solid team ball.

[timtonymanu]

Pacers are legit. The East isn't great but they still managed to make the conference finals back to back seasons. Lots of good players and Carlisle is still a solid coach. Won't be surprised if they win the East.

[scott]

Damn, Spida biffed all 3 FTs to cut the lead to 3 with 1:40 to go... then comes back down and drills a 3 to cut it to 3.

Nembhard answers with an And-1.

Pacers just want it more.

[heyheymymy]

Garland going gimpy was such a loss there and Pacers pounced on it

[scott]

Bye Bye Cleveland (to be read in Comic Sans)

[heyheymymy]

Interesting to see Cavs, Celtics, Rockets and Grizz all fizzle so hard towards the end of reg season and into play in/offs

[poopbox]

Damn in the atlantic yearly player poll Bud got voted as second worst coach in the league :wow

[itzsoweezee]

Westbrook is so bad. He has no place playing in a playoff game

[Raven]

I'm 100% in on the Pacers. Knicks-Pacers has the makings on one of the greatest series of all time.

Go Pacers Go!

probably the weakest conference finals in years tbh, TBD has his title shot.

[Obstructed_View]

Boy, Murray is sure good when he decides to be.

[lefty20]

Westbrook's shooting woes rearing their ugly head again.

[lefty20]

Cold shooting in the 4th about to cost Nuggets a 2nd straight game.

[Robz4000]

Lu Dort saving OKC's season tbh.

[Robz4000]

Cold shooting in the 4th about to cost Nuggets a 2nd straight game.

They had easy layups they gave up for threes only to brick them tbh.

[itzsoweezee]

Nuggets should’ve called a timeout two possessions earlier. Now this game is a toss up. Some very questionable decisions by the rookie coach here

[Obstructed_View]

Cold shooting in the 4th about to cost Nuggets a 2nd straight game.
It's terrible choices on offense. They keep trying to hit dagger threes instead of just taking the smart shot. They try to avoid contact instead of drawing the foul and then cry to the refs. Now they just start leaving Dort open for no particular reason. That screen by Murray was awful.

[lefty20]

They had easy layups they gave up for threes only to brick them tbh.

Yeah, spamming J's when you are cold is not the answer. It drives me nuts when teams refuse to attack the paint to end the slump.

[DAF86]

Nuggets FO really fucked up. How can't you even get a decent 6 man rotation?

[Obstructed_View]

They were cruising, playing smart defense, taking what they were given. Then they start Westbrooking.

[lefty20]

JFC! GG Thunder

[exstatic]

Nuggets FO really fucked up. How can't you even get a decent 6 man rotation?

When you win, your top 3-4 players all get paid, which sets off a chain reaction of other teams poaching the rest of your rotation with prices you can’t pay, hoping for some championship magic to rub off on their guys. Hint: it never does.

[lefty20]

Joker :wow

[Robz4000]

Jokic tbh.

[DAF86]

Why the fuck are you leaving Williams open on the corner to stop a Dort 3 from the elbow?

[lefty20]

Now it's game. For real this time.

[DAF86]

When you win, your top 3-4 players all get paid, which sets off a chain reaction of other teams poaching the rest of your rotation with prices you can’t pay, hoping for some championship magic to rub off on their guys. Hint: it never does.

Draft some decent players, get your scouting to get a few cheap contributors.

[Obstructed_View]

When you win, your top 3-4 players all get paid, which sets off a chain reaction of other teams poaching the rest of your rotation with prices you can’t pay, hoping for some championship magic to rub off on their guys. Hint: it never does.
Not sure the Tony Parkers and Manu Ginobilis exist anymore.

[Robz4000]

Absolutely pathetic effort by Denver outside Jokic in the fourth tbh.

[Robz4000]

This series is going the distance tbh.

[exstatic]

Draft some decent players, get your scouting to get a few cheap contributors.

They gave up probably more than they wanted to get Gordon. Their natural picks have also not been in great position. They did pull Braun and Strawther, but they’re fighting a rear guard action.

[Mugen]

MPJ and Russ were particularly horrible but everybody outside of Joker shit the bed in crunch time.

[RC_Drunkford]

Denver‘s 4th quarter offense is trash. Murray runs the pick & roll with Jokic so slow that they never get the switch. Doesn’t help that MPJ is basically useless on offense. 2nd game in a row where they choke away a lead in the 4th.

[DAF86]

If we are being honest, the Nuggets don't even have a 5 man rotation. They have 3 championship guys (Jokic, Murray, Gordon), a streaky stick (Porter) and 2 below average guards that I'm not sure would play much with the Spurs (Braun and Westbrook).

[davethedope]

What a complete choke job by the Nuggets. Porter Jr. is a garbage and Gay Dildos Alexander is just a low rent Kenny Anderson with cornrows, give me Kenny Anderson and Derrick Coleman over him and Holmgren anyday

[timtonymanu]

Barring any upsets:

OKC vs Minny
Indy vs NY

With the exception of OKC who honestly could have called that?

[djohn2oo8]

That Jokic trade request is going to hit like crack

[lefty20]

1922504830087569769

I know he's injured but still. This is straight trash.

[BatManu20]

It's actually insane how garbage Joker's supporting cast is. Not since 2007 LeBron have we seen a generational Superstar be surrounded by a massive pile of shit like this. He generates so many wide open looks for his teammates and they cannot throw it in the ocean. It's unreal. Having to play complete scrubs like MPJ, Westbrick, Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, etc. Meaningful playoff minutes is laughable.

He won't do it, but Jokić should 100% pull a LeBron and demand a trade out of Denver. They have proven multiple years in a row now they have no clue how to build a contender. He's going to waste his prime with that poverty organization. He should get out while he can. There's zero reason Denver should be losing the series. If they just had 2 knock-down shooters playing in place of Westbrick and Braun, they would've won this series in a sweep, or 5 games at most. Legit. Instead, they're about to get knocked out of the playoffs, because of all the losers surrounding their franchise player. Damn shame tbh.


1922509359902265696

[BatManu20]

This is a Max Contract player btw.

1922504453191618704

[itzsoweezee]

1922504830087569769

I know he's injured but still. This is straight trash.

He’s basically playing with one shoulder. I think he has a pretty good excuse. The guy can’t even lift his left arm

[Ice009]

Darn. Just watched the game. Great game from Jokic, did all he could to try and get them the win. Great, great performance on the road in a must win game. Had no help in the 4th with the game on the line. He made a few mistakes here and there, showed a bit of weakness on defense, but he was already carrying a huge enough load in the game, couldn't really ask any more from him.

[Bill_Brasky]

The games where Jokic played like shit, his supporting cast showed up. The games where he played great, they didn't. It do be like that sometimes. MPJ is basura though.

[Mugen]

It took Reggie 5 HD replays of Hart getting elbowed in the eye to figure out why he was bleeding :lol

[LeBowen]

Derrick going for FMVP, tbh.

[Biggems]

Refs giving Brunson the LeBitch treatment. He fell on his own and they call a foul on Horfird.

[benefactor]

If Boston wins again after this game I think we need to fully investigate the possibility of the Ewing Theory

[mystargtr34]

He’s basically playing with one shoulder. I think he has a pretty good excuse. The guy can’t even lift his left arm

He was healthy enough to fluke his way to 17, 15 and 14 points in the last 3 wins of the Clippers series. I think he’s getting shutdown by the Thunder.

[timtonymanu]

Timberwolves with the back door sweep?

[Dex]

If I'm the Wolves right now, I'm just worried about who Draymond Green is going to injure now when he gets frustrated

[GAustex]

GSW hopefully getting eliminated makes for a good day

[Robz4000]

Minny about to choke this game and series away.

[Spurs Homer]

Im waiting for edwards or any t-wolf to do that “put to sleep” kunty move in steffies face…

cmon edwards…do your douchey thing and ill become a fan…

[CGD]

Barring any upsets:

OKC vs Minny
Indy vs NY

With the exception of OKC who honestly could have called that?

I think once the bracket was set in the West, it was pretty clear MIN was gonna have a glide path to the conference finals. SGA v Ant will be fun, as would a Den/Min rematch (best series last year by far).

Definitely don’t see this in the East though.

[Dex]

Lakers out. Clippers out. Warriors out. Rockets out.

At this point I don't care who wins, it's all good.

[Spurs Homer]

Houston rockets really choked hard..they would have given the t wolves a run for the money…

[Spurs Homer]

Lakers out. Clippers out. Warriors out. Rockets out.

At this point I don't care who wins, it's all good.

and the spurs got the #2 pick…

good times…

[heyheymymy]

just get the Thunder out and I'm good

[Obstructed_View]

just get the Thunder out and I'm good

I'm just happy that the Thunder are doing well and the people of Seattle get to watch it happen.

[Obstructed_View]

Did Minnesota just play slightly better than a badly damaged and worn-out Dubs team? They didn't make the leap I expected them to after last year.

[daslicer]

Lakers out. Clippers out. Warriors out. Rockets out.

At this point I don't care who wins, it's all good.

Agreed it's great with the Warriors now being out that I don't have to hate watch anymore. Now I don't care who wins it all.

[timtonymanu]

Did Minnesota just play slightly better than a badly damaged and worn-out Dubs team? They didn't make the leap I expected them to after last year.

Honestly for all the talk about how stacked the West is, every team except OKC looks beatable. Of course that can change with offseason moves but still.

[spursistan]

the "Playoff Jimmy" gimmick is dead...Dubs paying 60 millions for 50-games-a-season role player :lmao

https://x.com/NBASongz/status/1921386157583065158

[mystargtr34]

Lol Pat Riley definitely made the right move.

[LeBowen]

the "Playoff Jimmy" gimmick is dead...Dubs paying 60 millions for 50-games-a-season role player :lmao

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gqo4lR-XUAASQQo.jpg:large

[lefty]

Tatum's Kobe fandom privileges should be revoked, tbh.
Kobe walked off with torn achilles, Tatum was carried off while crying like a bitch.

Thank you for that in depth assessment, qualified doctor

[lefty]

Did Minnesota just play slightly better than a badly damaged and worn-out Dubs team? They didn't make the leap I expected them to after last year.

Minny has played terrible or short handed teams, they are not that great

[Dex]

Minny has played terrible or short handed teams, they are not that great

Yep. They will probably get blown out by either Denver or OKC.

[Mugen]

Minnesota has more than a puncher's chance to get to the Finals tbh. They've been pretty legit since Randle has been healthy and gelled with Ant.

[Robz4000]

Minnesota has more than a puncher's chance to get to the Finals tbh. They've been pretty legit since Randle has been healthy and gelled with Ant.

Problem is Ant has looked mediocre most of these playoffs. Those ankle injuries are prolly more serious than we know.

[Mugen]

Problem is Ant has looked mediocre most of these playoffs. Those ankle injuries are prolly more serious than we know.

Looked fine the last two Warrior games tbh.

I think they got caught by surprise in Game 1 and pretty much coasted the rest of the series once they knew Curry was gonna be out.

I think they push OKC or Denver to at least next 6 games next round, and wouldn't be surprised if they make it to the Finals.

[spurraider21]

at least jimmy has his joy back

warriors offense just tanks without curry which is wild because he's 37 :lol... its more understandable for teams like nuggets/bucks with their stars in their primes. but for the warriors its ridiculous.

i think wolves probably win anyway, but i think GSW at least could have made a series out of it

[lefty]

Yep. They will probably get blown out by either Denver or OKC.

idk about Denver, it depends on whether Jokic’s supporting show up or not

[R. DeMurre]

Randle has been the difference for Minnesota. We're not used to him playing like an impactful star, but he is. When Randle's playing better than Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, that means the Timberwolves have 2 legit stars and a bunch of solid role players, which is enough to win many playoff series.

[LeBowen]

Randle has been the difference for Minnesota. We're not used to him playing like an impactful star, but he is. When Randle's playing better than Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, that means the Timberwolves have 2 legit stars and a bunch of solid role players, which is enough to win many playoff series.

As I said weeks ago, they'll have to think hard about their priorities for this summer.
Randle seems to be like a great second option, they can't let him walk for nothing.

Their best bet would be to somehow find a Gobert replacement for half the cost and get another veteran PG to replace Conley.

[RC_Drunkford]

All they would need to replace Gobert is draft Maluach. Won‘t happen though

[Robz4000]

Regardless, no one is taking on Gobert's contract without significant compensation tbh.

[Dex]

Murray listed as "questionable" with illness for Denver tonight.

Bye-bye Nuggets.

[Robz4000]

Murray listed as "questionable" with illness for Denver tonight.

Bye-bye Nuggets.

In b4 he goes for 50 tbh.

[LeBowen]

Murray listed as "questionable" with illness for Denver tonight.

Bye-bye Nuggets.

https://preview.redd.it/gurkps98g01f1.jpeg?width=892&format=pjpg&auto=webp&383eab9c
Flu game coming up.

https://preview.redd.it/gurkps98g01f1.jpeg
https://i.imgur.com/RPls3yM.jpeg

[scott]

As I said weeks ago, they'll have to think hard about their priorities for this summer.
Randle seems to be like a great second option, they can't let him walk for nothing.

Their best bet would be to somehow find a Gobert replacement for half the cost and get another veteran PG to replace Conley.

Honestly... we should be rooting for Randle to absolutely tear it up this postseason and force MIN into a position where they can't reasonably move on from him and have it ultimately cost them their ability to keep Naz. Fingers crossed.

[LeBowen]

Honestly... we should be rooting for Randle to absolutely tear it up this postseason and force MIN into a position where they can't reasonably move on from him and have it ultimately cost them their ability to keep Naz. Fingers crossed.

https://i.imgur.com/BX00mIi.png

Second apron will be at $207M.
How would you solve their situation?
NAW is surely gone, they fucked up with that Dillingham trade, I don't think he can take over for Conley next season and they should get rid of Conley, he's past his expiry date.
McDaniels seemed to be overpaid, but he's taken a big leap over the past few months and he should be staying.
I guess they could extend both Naz and Randle while staying just under the second apron, but I wouldn't rule out a team like Detroit offering either of them more money.
Idk which team would even consider taking Gobert.
I guess Bulls wouldn't mind upgrading from Vucevic and they can absorb the extra salary, then Timberwolves could offer Vucevic and #17 for Poeltl.

[Ice009]

Great win by Boston last night. White and Brown were great leading the team. Everyone stepped up. Kornet looked really good. I can see now why some Spurs fans want the Spurs to sign him. I hope they can somehow win game 6. Going to need a repeat performance from Brown and White leading the way with everyone else stepping up.

Darn, what kind of illness does Murray have? Is it a virus or something else? I hope he can play and be effective is he does. Hasn't Porzingis also got some kind of virus/illness that's really knocked him around? I hope Denver can win and at least put some pressure on the Thunder in a game 7. I don't want the Thunder cruising through. This series deserves a 7th game.

[scott]

https://i.imgur.com/BX00mIi.png

Second apron will be at $207M.
How would you solve their situation?
NAW is surely gone, they fucked up with that Dillingham trade, I don't think he can take over for Conley next season and they should get rid of Conley, he's past his expiry date.
McDaniels seemed to be overpaid, but he's taken a big leap over the past few months and he should be staying.
I guess they could extend both Naz and Randle while staying just under the second apron, but I wouldn't rule out a team like Detroit offering either of them more money.
Idk which team would even consider taking Gobert.
I guess Bulls wouldn't mind upgrading from Vucevic and they can absorb the extra salary, then Timberwolves could offer Vucevic and #17 for Poeltl.

So we're going to operate under the assumption that MIN absolutely wants to be under the second apron next year to avoid the repeater 2nd apron penalties.

Garza and Minott are non-guaranteed deals, but they are effectively minimum salaries anyway, so there isn't any real savings there. So realistically if Randle opts in they need Naz to take a $25MM/yr starting deal and fill out the roster with two minimum guys to stay under the second apron. My guess is that Naz can probably get $30MM on the open market - but only BKN can offer him that outright (which I think is a real possibility).

I wonder if Randle would be willing to opt out and sign a 3/74, kind of like Demar's deal with SAC. That would open up a lot of flexibility for MIN.

I agree I'm not sure anyone is taking Gobert. McDaniels seems relatively fairly compensated.

Conley's expiring is moveable but only to take salary back...

Really tough spot for MIN. They really need Naz to start at $25MM or for Randle to opt out and extend for around $25MM...

Will be interesting to watch! The way Randle is playing is making it a lot harder for MIN!

MIN doesn't have a FRP, which is actually pretty helpful for them this year... but they do have pick #31 and another SRP. They could fill out their roster that way.

[Dex]

In b4 he goes for 50 tbh.

lol you may be right. 11 in the first quarter already.

[Robz4000]

Westbrick clearly playing for OKC tbh.

[Obstructed_View]

Westbrook is having one of the most tragic shifts of all time. Jesus.

[scott]

DEN sporting some of the best City Edition kits in the league for their season finale

[Dex]

That may have been the worst inbounds sequence I've ever seen.

Like...create some movement or throw the ball to someone else

[Dex]

Westbrook is having one of the most tragic shifts of all time. Jesus.

That's just the Westbrook experience.

Dude will win one game for you, then lose you two more.

[Obstructed_View]

How is tapping a missed freethrow into the backcourt not a violation?

[Dex]

How is tapping a missed freethrow into the backcourt not a violation?

I believe it should be...Saw it called a few days ago.

[Gibbz]

Chet shouting on a lob finish a possession after getting the biggest pussy bailout call of the postseason. :lol

[Obstructed_View]

I believe it should be...Saw it called a few days ago.

NBA refs are just awful. Seriously, they used to be the best refs in pro sports. Now they're down there between NFL refs and Angel Hernandez.

That overturning of the challenge is just awful.

[PopTheGOAT]

DEN sporting some of the best City Edition kits in the league for their season finale
Jerseys are horrible imo lol

[ace3g]

SGA just picked up 4th foul in 2nd Q.

[Obstructed_View]

That's huge.

I'm going at him the first dozen possessions of the second half.

[ace3g]

Jerseys are horrible imo lol

Yeah those and these are bad.

https://a.espncdn.com/photo/2024/1108/r1412153_1296x729_16-9.png

[Obstructed_View]

Yeah those and these are bad.

https://a.espncdn.com/photo/2024/1108/r1412153_1296x729_16-9.png
Fuck. At least it doesn't say clutch city.

[scott]

Jerseys are horrible imo lol

Different strokes for different folks, but DEN and MIN had the best City Edition kits and courts in the league this year, IMO

[Obstructed_View]

Man, the refs love OKC.

[PopTheGOAT]

SGA just picked up 4th foul in 2nd Q.
Such a dumb foul. Potentially game altering.

[PopTheGOAT]

Different strokes for different folks, but DEN and MIN had the best City Edition kits and courts in the league this year, IMO
Yeah I’m a fan of MIN’s

[LeBowen]

If OKC chokes the series away because of those dumb fouls...:lol

[scott]

SGA's 4th foul really turned the tides...

Lu Dort is just a bad motherfucker. I remember he hit an almost identical 3 at the buzzer to beat us a few years ago (in the DDR days)

[Obstructed_View]

Dort is the kind of dude that wins you rings. Every Spurs title team had a guy like him.

[Gibbz]

If OKC chokes the series away because of those dumb fouls...:lol

Would be fucking amazing.

[PopTheGOAT]

What does OKC do if they lose this series? Do they just run it back? They could probably bring back KD if they decided that was the move.

[Dex]

What does OKC do if they lose this series? Do they just run it back? They could probably bring back KD if they decided that was the move.

They've got a solid young core they could easily run back.

They also have a treasure-trove of picks and young players they could move if they want to take a run at Giannis or KD or other stars.

Oh, and they have the (presumed) MVP in SGA.

I hate to say it, but they are set up for now and the immediate future.

Fortunately, we aren't far behind them as far as young talent and assets go....but we still will have to deal with them.

[Biggems]

This game is stressful as Hell. It is entertaining for sure. I wish the Nuggets could build a bigger lead and hold on in the 4th.

[Biggems]

Don't with a great LeBitch James impression with that flop to draw a foul on Strawther.