Murphy's Multiverse

Tag: NBA

  • Jonathan Majors in Talks to Play Dennis Rodman in Lionsgate’s Upcoming NBA Film

    Jonathan Majors in Talks to Play Dennis Rodman in Lionsgate’s Upcoming NBA Film

    Lionsgate is setting its eyes on telling the story of Dennis Rodman’s 48 hours in Vegas during the 1998 NBA Finals. They were actively looking for someone to take on the role and they finally have found their star. It seems Jonathan Majors, the upcoming star of Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, is currently in negotiations for the project.

    It was last August that Lionsgate won the debate for the spec with Phil Lord, Chris Miller, and Aditya Sood set as producers for the project. Rodman is also set as an executive producer alongside Ari Lubet and Will Alegra. Jordan VanDina has written the screenplay for the upcoming adaptation but there’s seemingly no director attached yet.

    It seems that the story has received momentum after Michael Jordan‘s documentary The Last Dance, as Rodman supposedly went on a “madcap adventure” during the 1998 NBA Finals, which the film will explore as well as the budding friendship with his GM assistant. VanDina wrote the script during the pandemic and it seems Lionsgate was a fan from the first time they read it.

    Source: Deadline

  • Western Conference Finals Preview

    Western Conference Finals Preview

    The Golden State Warriors, not too long ago, were thought to be done as a contender. Over the last few seasons they’ve dealt with injuries, roster turnover, and age. Now they’re back with their championship core, some new additions, and an attitude to get back to the NBA Finals. It might be Steph Curry’s league once more.

    The Dallas Mavericks have a singular talent, the likes of which we may have never seen. A generational player in Luka Doncic, who’s combined his talents with smart coaching and a versatile roster. That combination led to one of the most shocking results in NBA history as they dismantled Phoenix.

    It’s the old guard in Curry, and the new one in Luka. This matchup is fascinating for so many reasons. Let’s take a look.

    Tale Of The Tape: In the first two rounds of the playoffs, the Mavericks have had to adjust on the fly. First, Doncic missed some time against Utah, which led to Jalen Brunson and Spencer Dinwiddie stepping up. After they got through that series they were dominated by Phoenix in the first two games. Once Jason Kidd challenged Luka and co. to participate, the Mavs shocked the world and won a Game 7 on the road.

    The Warriors are coming off of a physical series against Memphis after dispatching Denver in the 1st round. In the 2nd round, it felt like the Warriors just had an experience advantage against the Grizzlies. Despite some uneven performances they now have home court in this round. 

    Key Matchup: Luka vs Everyone

    Luka Doncic has shown that, at least for now, there isn’t a coverage that he can’t figure out. He will hunt a matchup and pick on it. Whether it’s getting a switch to get a big on him or getting a smaller guy, he is on another level. The Warriors will probably start with Andrew Wiggins on Luka. Then the game of chess begins. Dallas will want to get Steph Curry or Jordan Poole in actions for Luka to get the one on one. After that, it’s pick your poison. You either send your help to Luka and allow him to find a three point shooter or he goes one on one. Right now there is no easy answer. Here’s an example of how he can burn you in different ways.

    Here you see the Warriors defense in scramble mode as Luka gets the ball movement going. This is where the Mavs are at their best.

    Kevon Looney is one of the smarter switch bigs in the league, and here Luka just picks on him and gets to the basket for an and one.

    Luka asks Looney for another dance, and this time backs him down, and gets to a mini fadeaway.

    The Warriors can counteract this on the other end by making Luka work on defense. Andrew Wiggins could be an important player this series if Dallas isn’t going to send help. Expect the Warriors to target Luka just like Phoenix did. The only difference is the Warriors have more shooting to expose them.

    The Mavericks should also expect Draymond Green helping on timed double teams, and where Green is deployed should be interesting. Green will have less of a 1 on 1 responsibility and should be able to roam in this series. He could definitely disrupt Dallas’ offense if they’re not on their game.

    The Prediction: Golden State will miss Gary Payton II in this series. His defense and intangibles are very valuable, especially in trying to disrupt this Mavericks offense. There will be games in this series that the Warriors will win just by outshooting the Mavs. Steph, Klay Thompson, and Jordan Poole will find success.

    The issue when the rubber meets the road is Luka Doncic. He is playing at a Hall Of Fame level. The decision making is sublime; the ability to dissect a defense is truly incredible. Add in Jason Kidd’s coaching and being adept at making adjustments. Also add in the Mavs role players figuring things out to a point where they dominated the best team in the sport. Going with the best player in the series here, Mavericks in 6.

  • 2022 NBA Mock Draft: Lottery Edition

    2022 NBA Mock Draft: Lottery Edition

    With the end of the 21-22 season around the corner and the NBA Draft Lottery scheduled to take place on Tuesday May 17, let’s breakdown who we view as the top 14 prospects.

    Draft Philosophy

    Is the most talented player in an NBA draft also the most important player, or even the best player to take with the top pick in the draft? The goal should always be to build a Championship roster. With that in mind, should we over value the flashy 6’1 Guard who may be projected to score 25 points per game even if history dictates that teams led by small guards rarely win championships? (Detroit’s Isiah Thomas being the rare example). Data tells us that size, length, and versatility results in winning basketball. For this mock the players are broken out into tiers with their projected outcome.

    Tier 1: Top 2 Players on a Championship level team

    Tier 2: All Star Potential

    Tier 3: High End Starter

    Tier 4 Starter

    Tier 5: Rotation

    Tier 6: Low Floor Wing Bets

    Tier 7: Low Floor Second Round Bets

    Tier 1

    1. Chet Holmgren: Height – 7’0 Weight – 195 lbs

    If selected with the first overall pick, Chet will go down as having one of the lowest floors for a number one pick. A scary proposition for any GM willing to take him but his high-end outcome is way too tantalizing to overlook. Chet projects as an elite shot blocker with the lateral quickness to stick with guards even after being beat off the dribble. Offensively, he possesses guard skills that allows him to lead on fast breaks and beat opposing bigs off the dribble. His three-point shooting is coming along and he has good touch around the rim. If Chet hits his end outcome, he’s a Franchise altering player that can define a team’s defensive culture (ala Rudy Gobert) but also be utilized on the offensive end to great impact. The problem is his weight. At 195 lbs, he’ll be one of the skinniest players in the league. With the highest ceiling in the draft, I still believe it’s worth taking him top overall.

    2. Jabari Smith Jr: Height – 6’10 Weight – 210 lbs

    Smith is one of the best hustlers on defense in draft while also possessing arguably the best jumper. At 6’10, Smith offers teams a shot making big that can space the floor. His lack of ball handling skill limits his ability to create his own shot and forces him to only play the 5/4 on offense.

    Tier 2

    3. Paolo Banchero: Height – 6’10 Weight – 250 lbs

    With various interior moves and the quickness to beat opposing bigs off the bounce, I expect Banchero to make an immediate impact to the team that drafts him. An underrated skill is his ability to play make off the dribble. With NBA spacing and if his shot continues to develop, I can see a scenario in which Banchero’s playmaking will be his elite skill.

    4. Shaedon Sharpe: Height – 6’6 Weight – 175 lbs

    An above the rim wing who thrives on fast-paced teams. His elite handles allow him to be shifty and his ability to shoot the ball makes him a threat anywhere on the court. Sharpe is a gamble as he hasn’t played any college basketball this season but is a gamble worth taking as high-end versatile wing players are hard to come by in the NBA.

    5. Jaden Ivy: Height – 6’4 Weight- 195 lbs

    A dynamic isolation player with a monster first step that allow him to get the rim with ease. Ivy is one of the best athletes in the draft and will definitely turn heads with his monstrous dunks in the league but it remains to be seen how his lack of playmaking ability and defensive struggles will impact him in the NBA.

    Tier 3

    6. Keegan Murray: Height – 6’8 Weight – 215 lbs

    With the best feel for the game in the draft, Keegan is going to a good player and I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up better than player’s selected above him. With such a high floor and low ceiling it makes sense to have him at the top of tier 3. Expect him to play point forward with responsibility on him to make smart reads to give his team the best chance to win.

    7. Jeremy Sochan: Height – 6’9 Weight – 230 lbs

    A versatile wing player who is able to guard all five positions. An offensively limited player but is worth a high lottery pick due to his willingness to make hustle plays, playmaking skills, and his overall basketball intelligence. His NBA outcome all depends on if he’s able to develop a reliable jump shot.

    8. AJ Griffin: Height 6’6 Weight – 222 lbs

    A gifted wing scorer who can light it up from 3. Also possess the ball handling skill to create his own shot. He’s tough but not a great defensive player to project as a 3 and D wing.

    9. Jalen Duren: Height 6’10 Weight – 230 lbs

    An athletic and explosive shot blocker who already has the NBA frame to oppose other NBA bigs. Projects as a decent finisher at the rim and a good pick and roll partner. Will need to work on reading pick and roll defense in order to be an elite defensive presence.

    Tier 4

    10. Dyson Daniels: Height – 6’6 Weight – 199 lbs

    A gifted playmaker and defender, that utilizes his strong feel for the game to facilitate and to control the tempo of a basketball game. The lack of shot making upside limits his ceiling. Dyson can become a reliable starting point guard if he continues to improve his 3 point shot.

    11. Bennedict Mathurin: Height – 6’6 Weight – 210 lbs

    An elite spot up three point shooter who also possesses the athleticism to be an above the rim finisher on fast break plays. Will need to improve his defensive consistency to project as a 3 and D wing.

    12. Blake Wesley: Height – 6’5 Weight – 181 lbs

    One of the best handles in the draft, Wesley is able to break down the defense with ease. This is an upside pick that projects Blake adding better passing reads and a more consistent three point shot to his repertoire.

    13. Johnny Davis: Height – 6’5 Weight – 194 lbs

    A shifty, playmaking guard who thrives off of making mid-range plays. Davis is most comfortable in the mid-range which also happens to be the most inefficient shot in the game.

    14. TyTy Washington: Height – 6’3 Weight – 197 lbs

    A guard with a great feel for the game and a knack of getting his teammates in great position to make plays. TyTy had an injury riddled season but I believe in his shooting ability to translate to the NBA.

  • Eastern Conference Finals Preview

    Eastern Conference Finals Preview

    The Miami Heat and Boston Celtics got to this point in two different ways. The Heat took Trae Young and the Hawks to school and then broke the Sixers over their knee. The Celtics took out KD, Kyrie, and the Nets then outlasted Giannis and the defending champs. While those paths were different, the teams operated the same. They defended on a level higher than any of the teams they’ve played could reach, and executed on offense more efficiently. Now, these teams play each other. Miami has home court, Boston has some hunger to get to the finals, and this series should be fantastic.

    Tale of the Tape: These teams have a lot of similar qualities. Head coaches who are tacticians that think quick on their feet. Ime Udoka and Erik Spolestra are very adept at figuring out weaknesses and attacking them. It’s a legitimately fascinating chess match. Spolestra has the experience, but Ime has been doing a tremendous job on the fly.

    The Heat and Celtics both rely on talented two way players on the wing. For Boston, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are a more than formidable tandem. For Miami, Jimmy Butler leads a cast of very tough and intelligent guys on the wing. Both teams have hyper athletic defensive big men in Robert Williams and Bam Adebayo. Both teams have guards that are full of intangibles, and guys off the bench who contribute. These teams feel even don’t they? Let’s dive deeper.

    Key Matchup: Robert Williams & Al Horford vs Bam Adebayo

    Now you must be asking, why isn’t this Jimmy Butler vs Jayson Tatum? That’s a matchup that comes into play, but they’re both equally great. There’s a considerable chance that they cancel each other out. There’ll be plenty of time to discuss how each can affect the series as it goes.

    The reason why Timelord and Horford versus Bam is the matchup is because of two years ago. These same teams matched up in the conference finals, and when push came to shove Bam sent the Celtics packing. He would drive the ball from end to end attacking the rim and it felt like he took Boston’s will. It was an Adebayo we’ve never seen before. There was almost a Giannis like quality of him barreling his way to the rim but with the grace of a gymnast. Bam also made the key play of Game 1 of that series when he blocked Jayson Tatum. It was one of the memorable blocks of postseasons past.

    In this postseason though, the Celtics will need their best big men to contain Bam. Robert Williams has been working his way back from a meniscus injury but should be ready for Game 1. Al Horford continues to be a steady presence for Boston as these playoffs go but can he hold up? It’s been a lot of minutes against high level competition. He bears watching in this series. For Bam’s side it would be nice to see him getting aggressive down hill against the Celtics D. He can open up things for the perimeter guys on Miami. This matchup will be a bellwether for how this series goes.

    Here you can see how effective Bam is on a grab and go situation in transition.

    The Prediction: Both of these teams are the cream of the crop on the defensive end. It has potential to be a classic. The Celtics have been the best team in the league since February. The Heat have been the best team in the East all year. Can the Heat create offense in a close game down the stretch? Will the Celtics rotation be able to survive the Heat’s depth? It’ll be interesting to see those questions be answered, and I’ll go Heat in 7. Home court, and the Heat’s defense will be just enough against a very capable Boston Celtics team.

  • Suns vs Mavericks Game 7 Preview 

    Suns vs Mavericks Game 7 Preview 

    The Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks have played an unorthodox 6 games to get to Game 7. The home team has won every game and won them decisively. The series has featured the young, coming-of-age superstar in Luka Doncic trying to knock off Chris Paul, Devin Booker, and the league-leading Suns. There is a ton at stake in this game 7, but to be quite honest it’s surprising we’re here.

    After the first two games of the series which Phoenix controlled easily, Dallas has adjusted and changed strategy. Their role players have stepped up defensively, answering the call of head coach Jason Kidd. More importantly, the Mavs at home have gotten the three-point shot going including 16 3s in the Game 6 victory. Chris Paul has played poorly over the last four games, but got an extra day off going into this one. Simply put, this would be an incredibly disappointing result for the Suns if they were to lose this game.

    What’s at stake for the Suns: This could be Chris Paul’s last best opportunity to win a championship. The Suns last season blew a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals. They fought all season to be the best team in the regular season, and now have to cash that in. We always think great teams will get back to this level, but CP3 is getting older. As great as he’s been, you never know what can happen once you get to this stage of your career. The Suns don’t want to have another version of “what if…?” on their minds if they lose this game.

    What’s at stake for the Mavericks: A trip to the Conference Finals, validation for the Kristaps Porzingis trade, and a message to the league. That message? As long as Luka Doncic is on your team, you have a chance to contend for a title. It’s really remarkable that this team has transformed into this. Their defense has outperformed what we’ve expected all season. Their roster has been full of guys who’ve performed well under pressure, and there’s no fear. Winning this game would give them a legitimate chance to win a championship.

    The Suns will win if… Chris Paul plays like Chris Paul. It’s important to recognize how bad CP3 has been in the last four games of this series. Averaging under double digits in points and almost as many turnovers as assists is not going to get it done. The maestro needs to get back to his efficient ways. Also, Deandre Ayton has to play better. In the earlier portions of the series it looked like he would dominate the matchup. Now, it feels like he hasn’t been up to snuff. They need his aggression and inside presence. There’s still an advantage to be had and Ayton has to take that advantage.

    The Mavericks will win if… they get an outlier performance from a third guy. Luka is going to score, Jaylen Brunson is going to score, they need another guy going. Whether it’s Dorian Finney Smith(8 3s in game 4) or Spencer Dinwiddie, on the road you need more contributors. Maxi Kleber will also be a guy to watch in this one. Foul trouble for him will be huge. There’ll be spaces during the game  where it will require a bit from everyone. Another guy to watch out for? Reggie Bullock. He’s had a great series on both ends of the floor.

    The Prediction: It’s the best team in the NBA going up against perhaps the most dynamic offensive player remaining in the playoffs. The Suns are at home and the Mavericks haven’t beaten them yet there. In a one game sample though with everything at stake? You can certainly make the case for Luka having a virtuoso performance. It’s just hard to see the Suns season end right here, so the Suns will be the pick to find a way to win at home.

  • Bucks vs Celtics Game 7 Preview

    Bucks vs Celtics Game 7 Preview

    After the Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Boston Celtics 110-107 in Game 5 of the semifinal series, the thought was Boston gave that game away. The Bucks once again had proven their championship mettle and the Celtics had blown a golden opportunity. What lay ahead was a Game 6 in Milwaukee, and Jayson Tatum proved that he was ready for his ascension. 

    Tatum flummoxed the Bucks with his ability to get to the rim and hit from the perimeter, scoring 46 points on 17/32 shooting. Time and time again, when Giannis Antetokounmpo kept coming with 44 points of his own, Tatum responded. The Celtics again got contributions from multiple guys which now has us at a Game 7. This series is turning into a classic, and now we have reached the endgame.

    What’s At Stake for Boston: A chance to take down the defending champs and to addvance to the conference finals. Also, the journey in molding a superstar in Jayson Tatum would feel near complete. 

    What’s At Stake for Milwaukee: A trip to the conference finals, and surviving in hopes of getting injured star Khris Middleton back. Also, Giannis cementing his status as the best player in the league. Considering how the Bucks are heavy underdogs in the series this would be a massive achievement for Milwaukee.

    Boston will win if…. they get a similar 3 point variance they got in Game 6 as they hit 17 3s. Game 7’s are normally ugly, so any type of transition baskets they can generate would help. Feed off the home crowd, and get good performances from Marcus Smart and Al Horford. The stars will be stars, but usually there’s an unsung hero somewhere.

    Milwaukee will win if….. they get any type of help from a third scorer. Giannis and Jrue Holiday have been the only reliable offense in the series. The Bucks are going to need someone to step up and fill those gaps. Expect Giannis to be dominant once again, but if Tatum matches him like he did in Game 6, they’ll need more from others.

    The Prediction: On the last day of the regular season, the Bucks had a chance to be the 2nd seed. They decided to sit their stars and punt on home court in the 2nd round. That decision allowed Boston to host this game. Is home court advantage overrated? To a degree, but it usually matters in a Game 7. The numbers don’t lie. It will take a Herculean effort against a hungry, resilient Boston team to win this. If there’s anyone who can beat back this challenge, it’s Giannis Antetokounmpo. The champs have been staggered, but they won’t fall. Bucks win Game 7.

  • NBA Playoffs Notebook 

    NBA Playoffs Notebook 

    Celtics vs Bucks

    The defending champs had a chance to put the Celtics on the brink of elimination in Game 4. Giannis Antetokounmpo and the undermanned Bucks have continued to show their mental toughness but they were throttled by a veteran. Al Horford, at 35 years old, scored 16 of his 30 points in the 4th quarter leading Boston to a 116-108 victory. It was a truly incredible performance. Now we head to a pivotal Game 5 back in Boston to see who takes control of the series. It isn’t an exaggeration to say the winner of this series will be a big time title favorite.  

    Grizzlies vs Warriors

    In a series filled with flagrant fouls, suspensions, and trash talk, the veteran Golden State team finds itself on the brink of another conference finals trip. Steph Curry scored 32 points in Game 4 leading the Warriors back from a lackadaisical performance to win 101-98. All of this is marred by the injury that was sustained in Game 3 by Grizzlies star Ja Morant. Ja is going to miss the rest of the playoffs with a bone bruise in his knee. With a 3-1 series lead and Memphis injured and inexperienced, the Warriors are poised to close the series out. The Grizzlies have fought all season, and expect a fight from them in Game 5 at home.

    Heat vs Sixers 

    Miami took a 3-2 series lead with a dominant 120-85 victory Tuesday night in Miami. After two disappointing games on the road, the Heat was on as they shot 53 percent from the floor and hit 13 threes. Their defense was suffocating and more like the Heat team we’ve seen the whole season. Philadelphia struggled mightily, and star center Joel Embiid was not on his game. Considering what he’s been through-an orbital bone fracture and a concussion and torn ligaments in his thumb-you have to feel for him. Can the Sixers summon one more performance at home to force a game 7? Absolutely. However with the way the Heat have defended all postseason plus Embiid and James Harden’s lack of help around them? Winning this series seems like it would be a shock at this point.

    Suns vs Mavericks

    Dallas shot their way back into the series with 2 big wins at home with a barrage of 3 pointers. The Phoenix Suns got back to their defensive ways in Game 5, only allowing 80 points as the Mavs committed 18 turnovers. Dallas couldn’t get anyone besides Luka Doncic and Jalen Brunson to hit a shot. Devin Booker led Phoenix with 28 points and the Suns can end the series Thursday in Dallas. The Mavericks showed a lot of heart tying the series, but now their feet are to the fire. Can they force a game 7? The odds are against them, and the Suns are the better team. Sometimes it just comes down to if you can make shots. 

    The Most Valuable Player

    According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Denver Nuggets star center Nikola Jokic will be announced as the MVP for a second consecutive year. Jokic would be the 13th player to do so, and it’s well deserved. Jokic (27.1 ppg 13.8 rpg 7.9 apg) carried a team that was missing its second and third best players all season. He improved on his first MVP season, showing growth in all facets of his game, including his much maligned defense. Truth be told, we haven’t seen a talent like him; an offensive hub at that size with passing skills like a guard is incredible. You can’t guard him as he has so many moves in his bag. Get that man some help. 

    Joel Embiid would be a great choice, too, and most wouldn’t have quibbled with it. He was deserving as well, and hopefully he’ll get his opportunity to win eventually. However this was Nikola Jokic’s year again and we can look forward to seeing this battle continue into next season.

  • Celtics vs Bucks Game 1 Breakdown

    Celtics vs Bucks Game 1 Breakdown

    Although they lacked home court advantage, the Bucks were able to control the flow of the game, beating the Celtics 101-89. Even with Giannis Antetokoumpo reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the best players in the world, I still expect this series to go to 6 or 7 games.

    Bucks Role Players

    The biggest question for the Bucks in game one was where the secondary offense would be coming from with Kris Middleton out. Well, the Bucks’ benched and rolled players all stepped up. I don’t think anyone really expected solid 20+ minutes from Grayson Allen, Jevon Carter, and Wesley Matthews in this game but the Bucks really needed those contributions to control the flow of game one. Jrue Holiday was also great for Milwaukee, putting the clamp on Tatum/Brown as well as being the Bucks’ primary scorer, scoring a team high of 25 points. For the Bucks to ultimately make it out of round 2, they will need to continue to empower their role players.

    Closer Than It Looks

    This was an important game for the Celtics to win given that this was a home game, and it may seem that the Bucks are running away with this series, but I truly believe the series is closer than it really looks. This was a bad offensive game for the Celtics as they shot only 33% from the field and turned the ball over 18 times, but I feel that they’re a few adjustments away and can really challenge the bucks. The Bucks’ interior defense was dominant, but Boston was able to get open three’s that just didn’t go in. Expect the Celtics to embrace those open shots more, and look for those open teammates and really challenge the Bucks there. Also, Boston rarely head hunted Bobby Portis or Grayson Allen, opting instead to challenge Jrue Holiday who is one of the best perimeter defenders in the game. I expect Boston to either use Jrue in more pick and roll actions to get him off their primary ball handlers, or to really go at the Bucks poor defenders such as Bobby Portis.

    I’m expecting this to be an interesting series and it’s fun to reminded how dominant of a player Giannis truly is!

  • The NBA’s Dearly Departed: Utah Jazz Edition

    The NBA’s Dearly Departed: Utah Jazz Edition

    As teams in the NBA Playoffs get eliminated, Murphy’s Multiverse takes a look at their prospects for next season. The Utah Jazz had a lot riding on their 2021-2022 season after multiple disappointing playoff losses in the last 5 years. This was a year to determine if the duo of All-Stars, Donavon Mitchell and Rudy Gobert, is one capable of finally bringing a championship to Utah. Famously, Mitchell stated at the beginning of the season that he will not settle for anything less than reaching the Conference Finals. A goal that wasn’t realistic to begin with given their roster make-up. Can the Jazz finally put to together a roster that will propel them past the 2nd round in the Playoffs?

    Notable Free Agents

    • Guard Trent Forrest (Restricted)
    • Forward Danuel House
    • Forward Eric Paschall
    • Center Hassan Whiteside

    Projected 2022-2023 Starting Lineup

    • PG Mike Conley
    • SG Donovan Mitchell
    • SF Bojan Bogdanovic
    • PF Royce O’Neale
    • C Rudy Gobert

    The Rudy Gobert/Donavan Mitchell Conundrum

    The relationship between Mitchell and Gobert seems to have reached a breaking point on and off the court with both players taking subtle (and not so subtle) swipes at each other after various disappointing losses throughout the season. In the NBA, winning always seems to fix everything but with constant disappointing playoff losses, it’ll be very unlikely that the team can move forward with both stars on the roster. Which one the Jazz should trade is the most important question. Mitchell is a gifted scorer that’s able to light it up in bursts and give his team a strong offensive weapon, but his lack of strong growth as a playmaker limits the Jazz and his lack of size at 6’1 makes him a consistent defensive liability on the perimeter. Gobert on the hand is one of the best defensive centers in the league whose presence down low forces opponents to jack up jump shots instead of attempting to get to the rim, but unfortunately, he’s easy to scheme against as his lack of foot speed and lateral quickness makes him a huge liability against opposing pick and roll offense.

    Lack of Off-Season Flexibility

    The unfortunate truth in the NBA is that small market teams have a hard time attracting free agents and must typically overpay for talent to get them to agree to sign there. The Jazz badly needs perimeter defense as Mike Conley is now washed and Mitchell is too small to truly be a defensive threat. The unfortunate truth is that with three large contracts on the books, they really don’t have the flexibility to sign meaningful free agents. The Jazz is between a rock and a hard place, and they will have to blow up this roster with trades in order to truly make an off season impact.

    Quin Snyder’s Future

    Snyder has been the coach of the Jazz since 2014 with a positive win percentage. He’s a good and successful coach in a league that has a deficit of good coaching talent, but unless you’re Greg Popovich or Erik Spoelstra, the coach is typically the first one to go when a team is in turmoil. With Mitchell and Gobert both signed to long term contracts, I can see a scenario in which the Jazz chooses starting fresh with a new coach as a band aid fix for their massive problems.

  • Warriors vs Grizzlies Game 1 Breakdown

    Warriors vs Grizzlies Game 1 Breakdown

    The Golden State Warriors outlasted the Memphis Grizzlies 117-116. Led by Jordan Poole’s 31 points, the Warriors stole home court advantage from the upstart Grizzlies. A lot of the discussion of this series involved the clash of styles. The Warriors, with the excellence of execution, their shooting, passing and their experience. The Grizzlies counter with their youth and athleticism, and ability to win the possession game on the glass. This much is clear after Game 1, we’re in for a heck of a series.

    You can’t talk about the Warriors without talking about how they out-rebounded Memphis 51-47. They were also even on the offensive glass. It was the first time the Dubs won the rebounding battle against the Grizzlies this season. Gary Payton II was instrumental as one of 6 Warriors players with 6+ rebounds. His effort and hustle contributed to extra possessions which led to great looks for Poole and Steph Curry(5 3’s and 24 points).

    For Memphis, they blew a golden opportunity after Draymond Green got ejected in the 2nd quarter for a flagrant two foul. You could make the case that it was a flagrant one, but with Green’s history (see the 2016 playoffs), the officials made a judgement call. It’s fair to say the officiating overall in the playoffs have left a lot to be desired. 

    Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. had great offensive games (34 and 33 points respectively) but the Grizzlies were lacking a third scorer. Dillon Brooks and Desmond Bane were a combined 6-of-23 from the floor. Bane had been the Grizzlies most consistent offensive player in the playoffs so far. Brooks is always hit or miss but he was a special kind of bad in Game 1. They’ll need those two to even up the series on Tuesday night. Here are some interesting plot points which can define the series.

    Ja Morant attempted 11 3’s in game 1. They’re going to force him make that shot as it’s not his strongest attribute. He made 4 of them, and the Warriors will prefer him taking those.

    Here Ja gets in transition off of the blocked shot and just darts to the rim. It’s amazing how quickly he gets from end to end.

    The Warriors splash trio causes so many issues for a defense. You trap one another one springs loose. Jordan Poole’s playmaking has taken a step forward in the playoffs. Here he finds Klay for the layup.

    Without Draymond Green in the 2nd half, there was more pick and roll for Steph Curry. Here he’s able to get the switch and separate from Jaren Jackson to get off the three. Guarding Steph one on one might be the key to the series.

    It’ll be interesting to see what adjustments both of these squads have for each other in Game 2. It feels like it’s going to be a very long series.