2026 NBA Offseason Grades (Southwest Division)

DALLAS MAVERICKS: B+

I think the Mavs have done a decent job beginning to quote/unquote build a team "around" Cooper Flagg.  The additions of Saldama and Risacher are noteworthy, even if not game changing, as this team now has more tall, skinny, rotation-worthy dudes than they even had in the Luka days.

As for Flagg, I'm still not 100% convinced of his greatness.  There are a number of rookies from last season who, if given the keys to car, I'm sure could have averaged just as many points.  But he's also a formidable rebounder, obviously.  And furthermore, it's more than apparent that the NBA actually wants him to succeed.  It kinda reminds me of how the Pelicans got Zion Williamson after AD bounced.  But even better, Cooper doesn't look like the perennially-injured type (fingers crossed).

Also, I doubt if he's going to be able to establish himself as an undisputed alpha with Kyrie around.  An undisputed alpha is someone who's inarguably better than his teammates, which isn't the case when comparing Cooper to Irving, unless the latter ends up (re-)injured which, all things considered, is bound to happen sooner or later. 

But in the meantime, that's actually my favorite move, or lack thereof, concerning Dallas's offseason, that they opted to keep "Fievel" around.  And whereas it doesn't look like they'll be reaching the Finals again anytime soon, I would say there's no more hope for the future, with this roster, than when Doncic was around.

HOUSTON ROCKETS: B+

Make no mistake about it - the Rockets are contenders.  I'm surprised by how much pundits are sleeping on this team.

But while on the subject, let me get this off my chest, why I don't think they'll actually win it all.  It's my belief - pure conjecture conspiracy-theory type shit - that the NBA doesn't want KD to win another championship, at least not as an alpha but maybe, you know what I'm saying, later in his career when he's more like a role player.

All the Rockets have to do is figure out how to play together with all of their pieces healthy, because there's only one ball to go around.  They had another quality offseason, adding Bogdanovic and Smart.  Injuries aside, they're just as deep, if not deeper, than San Antonio and OKC.

This is what I was talking about, the difference between a team like the Rockets and, say, the Suns.  Houston hasn't won a championship in over 30 years, but still, it's like dudes actually want to play for them, or something like that.

But that said, it eventually reaches a point that if you keep fielding superior rosters yet getting bounced in the 1st Round type shit, like it ain't a good look at all.  And if this team does flunk yet again which - they probably will, considering that the powers-that-be don't appear to be on their side - then what's next for KD?

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES: B

The Grizzlies' lineup reminds me of that of the Heat - a noteworthy frontcourt, but something to be desired in the back.  And as for their frontcourt, as sizable as it may be, it's not actually intimidating, at least not yet.

Also, speaking of players the powers-that-be may not be too fond of - anyone remember Carlos Boozer?  You know, the guy who stabbed Cleveland (and by extension Lebron) in the back?  I'm just saying that, yeah.  I do find a bit odd that his son isn't getting more press, considering he was like the top-ranked college player or whatever.

What Memphis definitely loss of late, especially with the departure of Morant, is star power.  So unless they get to winning, which isn't particularly likely, at least not immediately, no one is really going to give AF about this squad.

But of course, none of us can see the future.  And you have to give to the Grizzlies for at least respectably rebounding from, just a few short years ago, being the top young up-and-coming team in the league, to losing all of the stars from that roster, to now being engaged in a noteworthy rebuild. 

NEW ORLEANS PELICANS: B

I had a wise dude once tell me that 'people are always looking for external solutions to internal problems'.  And on that note, unlike most pundits, I agree with Dumars and co. opting to basically stand pat.

A couple of short years ago, the Pelicans entered the season with the most talented starting five in the league - Williamson + McCollum + Murray + Ingram + whoever they used for that final spot - probably Trey Murphy III, whose been a coveted player for years - besides boasting a deep bench.  Yet somehow, they still managed to finish at the bottom of the standings.  Granted, that lineup may have had compatibility issues.  But still, it's been pretty obvious, at least to me, that this organization's problem hasn't been lack of talent.

Zion's health of course deserves some of the blame.  But since he's been hobbled from day one, the braintrust should've found a way to at least try to compensate by now.  And as far as standing pat is concerned, if there's anything to criticize, it's their questionable (and expensive) commitment to Williamson.

Let dudes focus on at least trying to stay healthy and making the playoffs type shit.  Then, we can take it from there.  Rushing out and trading Murphy, for whoever, isn't likely the solution unless the objective is to rebuild.  And giving that New Orleans now has quite a few old dawgs on the roster, that doesn't seem like a viable option.

SAN ANTONIO SPURS: B+

As it currently stands, I agree with analysts who argue that the Spurs are the favorites entering next season because, unlike their main competitors (i.e. the Knicks and Thunder), at least they've upgraded.  

Tobias Harris may not have been the player they needed per se, given that his skillset/style is similar to Champagnie.  But the more the merrier, I guess.  And his presence will make it easier if the Spurs decided to move De'Aaron Fox to the bench, which is something I sorta advocate, especially come the postseason.

Tobias has his moments on occasion, but conventionally speaking, he isn't a gamechanger.  However, you have to give it to San Antonio for at least getting deeper.  They acquired a quality, starter-worthy rotation player while not losing anyone of note, at least not as far as I can see

CONCLUSION

The Southwest has two contenders, and it amazes how few pundits seem to be able to recognize that even if, at the end of the day, there's only one Wemby.  But ultimately, the division is balanced by a couple of bottom-feeders.  And in the middle lies the Mavs, who may also prove garbage but at least, unlike the Grizzlies and Pelicans, have more of a foreseeable future.  And as far as offseason moves in general, Southwest teams didn't really do much but still come out looking wiser than perhaps any other division.

If I Could Send One Player to Any Team (Southwest Division)

DALLAS MAVERICKS (39-43) - RUSSELL WESTBROOK

There was recently an article up about Westbrook still not being signed, even though next season is about to begin type shit.  It does seem sorta weird, and I've been arguing for years that "the ScapeGOAT" is the victim of a conspiracy.  But in more recent times, I'm really starting to think, you know what I'm saying?  Like the Thunder didn't just win a championship with wildness, more with athleticism + consistency.

Meanwhile, the Mavs are woefully thin at the point, especially if you're one of those people who believe D'Angelo Russell is washed.  I don't, nor do I advocate forcing Cooper Flagg to play point.

I remember what Jason Kidd did with Giannis, how he taught him how to dribble and in the process transformed him to into "Juggernaut GLP".  But trying to force Flagg to play point would be like a waste of height, like how they did with Zion.

HOUSTON ROCKETS (52-30) - BEN SIMMONS

This may seem like a strange selection.  But Fred Van Vleet, despite being short with a big head, is not someone I would classify as a traditional point.

I've been sleeping on Fred his entire career, up until last season's playoffs whereas, even though the Rockets may have disappointed, Van Vleet proved to be one of the most lethal scorers in the NBA.  It's like he caught the spirit of Dame or some shit - so much so that I questioned if adding a super-scorer like KD was overkill.

I would also argue that questionable foul Amen Thompson performed on Jimmy Butler turned Playoff karma against Houston.  So imagine KD and Van Vleet on the wings, with Simmons as the facilitator.  Besides having a non-scoring G facilitator that can do other things to help even out the mix, the Rockets could also use a little bit of tenderness.

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (48-34) - RUSSELL WESTBROOK

As of late, mainstream writers have been more or less calling Westbrook old.  But based on the eye test, he remains one of the most athletic NBAers.  So I'm imagining him coming off the bench behind Morant who, according to Steph, is the most-athletic player.  It'd also be the first time in Ja's career that he's playing alongside another superstar, even if it's one who's 'not on his timeline'.

NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (21-61) - GARY PAYTON JR.

Let me be the first to say, I believe in these Pelicans.  You heard it here first.  New Orleans has an outstanding braintrust when it comes to amassing top-heavy talent.  The bigger issue has been compatibility, specifically around Zion Williamson.  But for some reason I can't quite explain, I'm expecting him and Poole to match marvelously.  That reads like a decision the braintrust actually thought out rather than just being like 'oh shit, such-and-such is available'.

The Pelicans' depth, I mean I don't know a bunch about a lot of these dudes, but it doesn't appear particularly inspiring.  So the temptation is to go with the best player available.  But for an organization that isn't adept at meshing talent, bringing the ScapeGOAT in wouldn't be ideal.

I'm going to go with Gary Payton Jr. because first of all, him and Poole kinda blew up together.  Second, he's the type of player that could thrive in any system, as his style is naturally complementary and more importantly impactual.

At least, that's what I think.  I was really looking forward to "the Mitten" showing that he could replicate his effectiveness with another organization, but that didn't happen.  Maybe he's just that good (and healthy) on the Dubs type shit.  So then the question is, why haven't they re-signed him?  If you claim you don't have enough shooting - even with Steph, out of every player in NBA history, on your roster - then try to beat teams another way, like defense.

SAN ANTONIO SPURS (34-48) - TRISTAN THOMPSON

Ron Harper was one of the most underrated players of the 1990s.  He's only 6'6" but could do like everything.  He was at times unstoppable, but "the Braincase" never achieved ubiquitious stardom.

So I'm totally expecting his son, if he has the same body-type and skillset, coming in and dominating, as he, based on his father's experience, already knows what time it is.  Remember that a star NBA player has never had a star son.  It's rather those types who've produced the next generation of superstars.

So there's no need to push Westbrook on this one.  Nor I won't go with any PG at all as, if Dylan Harper actually does pan out, the Spurs may have the deepest point core in the league.  Who foresaw that?

So being compelled to go with a big, I decided Tristan Thompson, even though he really ain't worth a damn on the court these days.  Why?  Because first of all, he's a veteran with championship experience, who would be on a squad where the second-oldest (notable) player is De'Aaron Fox, better all-around though one whose greatest accomplishments are like sympathy All-Star nods.

Second, it's very much possible that San Antonio, if Harper does represent, will be one of the most-popular teams next season.  So adding an A-list media personality to the mix, with Thompson being better-known than even Wemby, wouldn't hurt in that regard.  You'd be hard-pressed to get notable production out of the ol' chap, but maybe someone will throw a sex toy when he's on the court or some shit, you know, something viral, like dude getting somebody pregnant, hashtag Spurs.

CONCLUSION

If Westbrook's career has truly reached the point where being benched behind the likes of Christian Braun during crunchtime in the Playoffs is the new norm, then yes, he should just retire.

2025 NBA Playoffs Ruminations (April 22)

 NEW YORK KNICKS

The way the Knicks fukedup, going all the way back to last summer, is like less than a week after acquiring Bridges, they proceeded to add KAT also.  They should have at least given themselves a chance to see how the addition of Miles alone would work out in and of itself.  All things considered, acquiring him made more sense than going after Karl.  Remember that NYK deadass gave up Randle and DiVincenzo for KAT.

If the braintrust was actually thinking instead of star chasing, they could have used those KAT resources to go after someone(s) who can defend and rebound, which they really needed in the absence of Hartenstein and with the unreliability of Mitchell - not another scorer.  Oh well.  Maybe they'll still beat the Pistons.  But with this type of overtalented, unbalanced roster, I mean if you're going to do it, do it right.

LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS

When it comes to physique, playing style and overall effectiveness, there's no player past or present who reminds me more of Jordan than Kawhi Leonard.  It's too bad that he's always unavailable, thus making it difficult, if not impossible for LAC to build a team around him.  If the Knicks played with the same type of intensity the Clippers did, they would have also won Game 2.

DENVER NUGGETS

It looks to me like the Nuggets may have intentionally thrown Game 2.  If not, than they were more or less playing like bungling idiots down the stretch.  But I'm not knocking them.  It was obvious after Game 1 that, you know what I'm saying, you can't take the Clippers for granted.  And now, that point has really been driven home.

MIAMI HEAT

The Heat are a good team, but they miss Jimmy Butler.  Butler is a lot like Leonard, a player who can instantly make any team better offensively and defensively, and their probably the only two guys in the NBA (still in their primes) who have displayed that ability.  I'm not writing Miami off just yet, but it'll be really interesting to see who or what type of player they go after this summer, and hopefully Wiggins will stick around.

BOSTON CELTICS

Speaking of guys who have fit well with diverse teams, Derrick White, on the low, may be like the best or most effective all-around PG in the modern NBA.

HOUSTON ROCKETS

The Rockets have had the most surprisingly-good season imo, but now you see why still, despite being the 2 seed, no one has called them contenders.

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES

I feel kinda bad for the Grizzlies.  It should be obvious by this point that the core of Morant + Bane + Jackson Jr. isn't going to win a championship unless they're buttressed by the right type of supporting cast.  They actually had such a squad a few seasons ago, but then came the departure of Brooks, blazi blah. 

Remember how the Memphis bench used to be celebrating on the sideline, so much so that they generated headlines and criticism?  You don't see that type shit anymore, or at least I haven't.

It takes a real forward-thinking, well-funded, sacrificial braintrust to be like 'okay, we may end up getting taxed out the ass, but we have to try to keep the band together, because they're supportive of each other and have good chemistry'.  You know, if you have a group of guys who actually feel each other, that's invaluable, because most teams, like the Nuggets, don't have that.

Dudes play harder when they love their teammates type shit.  But in today's NBA, it virtually impossible for most organizations to keep quality rosters together.

2024-2025 NBA Preseason Grades (Southwest Division)

DALLAS MAVERICKS: C

It was cool seeing the Mavs make it to the big dance last season because when they're up against most squads, they're were the most-entertaining team in the league.  That shit didn't work against Boston tho.  So they were certain issues that Dallas needed to mitigate to take themselves to that next level.

At the top of the list was finding a solution Doncic's endurance issues, how, during the Finals for instance, he eventually ran out of steam against a team that actually knows how to play effective perimeter defense over extended periods.  And I'm not overly confident that the addition of Klay or the re-addition of Dinwiddie is going to solve that problem.  

I may be wrong.  If Dinwiddie is doing his thing, the coaching staff could then use the opportunity to give Doncic longer rests.  Someone like Thompson, if his shot was on, would have definitely helped Dallas in the Finals, but not likely to the point where they could have beat the Celtics.

It's also painful, from a Mavs' fan perspective, to watch Jones Jr. go.  When Dallas was able to play above the rim (i.e. against their conference rivals in the playoffs) they were virtually unbeatable, and Derrick was a big part of that dynamic.  It's always hurtful when the pairing of a superstar PG who is an exceptional passer coupled with an amazing dunker is broken up.  But maybe Jones will be able to build up a similar rapport with the Beard.

During this offseason Dallas, by the looks of things, failed to upgrade in a manner that could potentially topple Boston.  The Celtics specialty is perimeter defense, and the Mavericks, in their wisdom, most notably decided to go out and add perimeter players.  With Lively gone and basically being replaced with a couple of Gs, good ones though not allstars, there's no way Dallas can be as entertaining as they were last season.

HOUSTON ROCKETS: C

The Rockets have sorta developed this losing culture, but at least a couple of seasons ago they were a good watch, regardless of who they played against.  Nowadays?  Like I don't even know.  It's sorta like, in a way, the air of excitement got sucked out of this team in a way.

From a competitive standpoint, Fred VanVleet was a fine addition.  I wouldn't be surprised if Houston missing the playoffs was some sort of higher-up decision.  But the thing is that - this is my argument.  If you have a team that's young and exciting, even if they lose, keep it like that.  F*ck is a timeline anyway?  'We're going to play it smart, devalue some of our young assets and rather prioritize the addition of quality veterans who can help us win now.'  Help you win what, Houston?

The last thing any braintrust wants is having to decide whether to play vets or developing players.  If you have young players with allstar potential, then ideally they're playing behind veterans who are maybe on the verge of winning a championship.  All things considered, such does not appear to be the case with the Rockets.

Going back to last offseason, Brooks was a good addition for what they were trying to build.  Defensive players like him, who can galvanize an entire team, are priceless.  But as for Fred, he may have to go - and not in exchange for a present player(s) unless he fits the timeline of the rest of the roster, someone to make up for the departure of KPJ.

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES: F

What really broke my heart with the Grizzlies wasn't so much that Ja Morant-gun shit but him getting seriously injured like immediately upon returning.  I hope said "injury" was just an excuse for the braintrust to shut him down during what they already perceived as a lost season.  But if not, smh.

Just a couple seasons ago, Memphis was poised to be the next big thing in the Western Conference, nah, the entire NBA.  Instead, OKC managed to steal their thunder.  And I'm not overly confident that the Grizzlies are going to be able to reclaim it, with their most-noteworthy transaction this offseason actually being the loss of Ziaire Williams.  This is after they already lost Xavier Tillman, who went on to immediately win a championship, earlier in the season.

Aging + lack of roster retention usually does not equal progression.  I still believe that Morant may be a second coming of Jordan.  But maybe he needs to work harder in terms of not putting the organization in a position whereas, I don't even know how to put it.

NEW ORLEANS PELICANS: B-

Entering into this season, if Brandon Ingram sticks around, I think it's safe to say that on paper the Pelicans have the best starting five in the league.  But of course, us mature NBA analysts know that talent doesn't always equal success.  And that's esp true on a team like NOP, where you have star players with overlapping skillsets, coupled with a style of play that is more or less positionless.

I don't necessary see why the Pelicans - or even the Hawks before them - would, given their rosters, bother to acquire the services of Dejounte Murray, unless they intend to actually use him as a (starting) PG.  It's the same like when ATL acquired him a couple of offseasons ago - okay, now how is the roster going to be structured?  Where does Murray fit in alongside the other team's scorers - two, if not all three of whom are iso-oriented?

And then, who are they planning to take back for Ingram anyway?  I'm not in favor of breaking up this roster, but it's going to take a helluva coach to make it work.

If this were a team during the 1990s, when players knew how to stay in their lane so to speak, it would be like yeah, they're contenders.  But in today's NBA, when most coaches are more or tokens, I mean I don't even know off the top of my head who's coaching NOP.  But I don't remember it being a name like, you know what I'm saying?

SAN ANTONIO SPURS: A

I was really impressed with the Spurs' offseason because first of all, they were able to make their moves quickly.  Secondly, they're staying in their lane.  Wemby is already one of the best players in NBA, but it's not like 'hey, let's go overboard and try to win now'.  But at the same time, it isn't like 'let's surround our star with a team that doesn't know how to win'.  You know what I mean?  Like moderation type shit, going out and getting a couple of older players that makes the team more, not less, must watch.

If I could give out a "Offseason Player of the Year" award, that'd go to CP3.  I've been saying for years that how some older star players need to learn how to team up with their younger counterparts, playing for up-and-coming teams instead of chasing instant championships - a strategy that doesn't work most of the time anyway.

I also approve of the addition of Harrison Barnes, the type of player who not only contributes but also seems to bring a sense of stability and order to any system.  This should be more exciting than last season, so long as the Spurs don't suffer any major injuries.  And who knows?  With another star or two and a well-rounded bench, there you go, contender time.  Maybe "the Neck" will walk away with a ring after all.

CONCLUSION

If not for the Spurs and Pelicans, the Southwest would have a had a painfully boring offseason.  This current Spurs' roster, under Popovich, could prove viably competitive, playoff-worthy even.  As for New Orleans, even though they have a helluva roster, the excitement isn't quite there because it'll take a basketball mastermind, the type of which isn't like readily available, to make all those high-grade pieces work in tandem.

Please Trade Jonathan Kuminga

IMO, Jonathan Kuminga was one of the best rookies of 2021.  I believe he was a better rookie than Cade Cunningham.  In fact, I couldn't quite understand why the Warriors were playing him behind the likes of Otto "Richie" Porter.  They did win a championship, but it wasn't like Porter was a big part of the equation.  Or let me just frankly say that I always argued that GSW wasn't giving him enough playing time.

Now actually looking at the stats, he did earn 4 extra minutes this season as compared to 2021-22, but his stats remained roughly the same (besides for a notable increase in assists).  My personal belief is that Kuminga's growth as a player has been stunted dating back to the rookie season.  I can't remember all that was happening back then, but it seems that one of my gripes - that he didn't make the Rising Stars Team - may have been inaccurate.  But I just know that in general, he wasn't getting the shine that he deserved.  Like he wasn't even put in a position whereas for instance his name could have been in part of the ROY conversation, even though he was the 7th overall pick and representing on the court.

I believe that legacy has persisted into the present which is why, despite averaging slightly more minutes, his numbers haven't gone up.  I also would imagine that it must be quite difficult playing alongside Steph, not to mention Draymond (and maybe even Klay).  People tend to always focus on the more vociferous bad guy, but the quiet ones too can be a MFer.

I think one thing that all of us pundits, including myself, have overlooked in all of these years of dickridin the Dubs is that, outside of the big 3 and Jordan Poole, they don't have much of a player development record.  Or as yourself this question.  Besides for Steph, Klay and Draymond, who else have they ever developed into an all-star?  (Wiggins doesn't count, because most of his stats were actually better before he came to Cali.)  Then, ask yourself this question also.  What journeyman has ever come to the dynasty Warriors and left a better player?

CONCLUSION

So I've been saying for awhile that my personal fantasy is to see Kuminga go to the Grizzlies.  If they could make a deal like that while retaining their current frontline, that shit'll be crazy.  Yes, the vision is different without Dillon Brooks around.  And also, you know what I'm saying, there's no guarantee Morant will return to this team.  But if he does, getting Kuminga could help offset some of the personnel losses they've been taking recently.

And as far as who the Warriors get back in return, the funny thing is that I can actually see Brooks flourishing in their system, because playing alongside Steph + Klay (not to mention Poole), like the less shooting and more screensetting/intangibles you do, the better (i.e. Payton Jr).

And speaking of Poole, I personally feel that Draymond episode has been blown out of proportion, the way people are still talking about it today.  I also believe that he got his superpowers from playing with Steph.  But that's another dude who, you know what I'm saying?  If the Dubs don't know how to treat him right by now, then they never will.

2023 NBA Playoffs Ruminations (6 May 2023)

ARE THE SUNS BETTER WITHOUT CP3?

There are reasons why I sometimes refer to people who are able to put together compatible, contender-level teams as "gurus" is because I fully understand that sh*t ain't easy.  NBA basketball is a 5-on-5 sport, and each team, under normal circumstances, has 12 players available each game.  That means, if I entered the calculation correctly, there are a whopping 792 different combinations that a coach can field.

And when I talk about being a guru, I don't necessarily mean what Pat Riley and them did when they put together Lebron + Wade + Bosh, a combination that was just like more talented than any other team.  I mean that type of sh*t like Ainge trading down to draft Tatum over Fultz, or the Spurs regularly making late draft picks, like Parker, Ginobli and Leonard, who turned out to be Hall of Fame players.

And my point is that as a guru, sometimes you have to make the hard decisions.  For example, Chris Paul turned the Suns around a couple of seasons ago.  He was exactly what the doctor ordered given their roster makeup, the type of PG who could a lead squad with a young superstar + various other diverse talents and who also, if need be, can shoot an opponent down himself.  But first all, he's aged since then.  Secondly, now the Suns got KD.  And whether it's Durant or Irving or Harden or King James himself, it's always the same with those types of players, that they tend to be better when they're allowed to dribble or even run point.

I believe that the Suns have the most talented starting five in the NBA, but there may be compatibility issues.  CP3 is a true, diehard PG if there ever was one in the 21st century.  He's not a combo guard, as is demanded of PGs who are on teams with aforementioned types of players.  So what the Suns' braintrust should have expected is that if KD came around, then Paul may have to make adjustments.  And if he can't, which I'm not so sure he can since CP3 + Harden never really panned out a full years back (tho they were quite formidable), then some of those hard decisions are gonna have to be made, because you can only ask KD to play off the ball so much.

And it's the same thing with Ja Morant and the Grizzlies.  Is Memphis more exciting with Morant?  No question, one of the utmost-exciting teams in the entire NBA.  Do they play better without him tho?  An argument can be made that yes, they do.  But instead of addressing that elephant in the room, instead they took out their frustrations on Dillon Brooks, which isn't the smartest thing to do considering their injury issues and the talent they've already been losing since last season.

NBA Playoffs Ruminations (29 April 2023)

CONGRATS TO THE LAKERS (I GUESS)

I thought it was kinda cheesy the way the Lakers celebrated after beating the Grizzlies, because I doubt it would've been possible if Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke weren't hurt.  It's almost like one boxer throwing a wild celebration after beating another who everyone knows is injured.  In fact in boxing, if an opponent is dealing with a major injury, then the match has to be postponed or called off.  But basketball is a team game, so you have to compensate.

I do understand how the celebration was a bit extra because first of all, LAL won the series in front of their home crowd, and secondly, it's like they've developed a personal beef with the Griz.  As far as Memphis goes, I would say better luck next year, but that's like the same thing I said when they lost to the Warriors last season.  And it's like, these injuries are a bitch.

I always like to point out that back in the old days, the playoffs weren't like this when you had so many key players injured.  I remember some playoffs were like no star was too injured not to play.  But today's NBA is different.  Some of these dudes are diesel like football players, but they aren't actually stronger than the previous generation.

But that said, there are a couple of things that made me happy about the Lakers' victory.  That would be seeing D'Angelo "Brasco" Russell finally getting some flowers and also AD looking happy for like the first time in months.  I always believed that the LAL would be unstoppable if they played the right way, with both AD and Lebron attacking the post, which is reportedly what they did in that final game.  But Davis does not look as formidable as back in the day, and the reason he was to dominate in Game 6 looked more like it was because he was noticeably taller than everyone else.

THE KINGS STRIKE BACK

I like the Kings, but they're another team that looks woefully thin upfront.  That doesn't really matter much against Golden State, a team that has prided itself on being smaller, faster and better shooters.  I'm still not counting the Dubs out, yet I also retain the belief that they would be more formidable if they let younger, faster guys start, even if they aren't as talented, and then bring Steph (not Draymond) off the bench.  Curry can still score his ass off, but the way the lineup is currently structured is like if he runs out of gas and if Klay or Poole aren't hot, then the Warriors really can't do shit.

Maybe they'll utilize that strategy next season.  But right now they look really vulnerable, and unlike the Lakers' aged core, they don't have a plethora of proven youth to lean back on.  But that's the kinda risk you run when you insist on giving the older guys most of the minutes.  And if they do go on to lose in the 1st Round, it'll be interesting to see how the team is structured into the future considering that most of their dough is going to Steph + Klay, both of whom should arguably be coming off the bench.

FREE KUMINGA

One player I hope will not be with the Dubs next season is Jonathan Kuminga, because the way he's been relegated to the bench, it's like they don't even deserve him anymore.  It's always been my fantasy that he would end up on the Grizzlies sooner rather than later, but I don't know how realistic that is considering that he's still on a rookie contract and like can't really demand a trade unless he's really got some cojones.  Remember that the Warriors also recently traded away James Wiseman for like no immediate return.  That's the kinda shit that's going to come back and haunt them as the Splash Bros. age, and hopefully Draymond will leave town also.

JIMMY BUTLER'S ALL THE RAGE

I didn't see much of the Heat v. Bucks series, but I do remember stating before the plyaoffs that the latter probably wouldn't even be a playoff team without Giannis, and I think now that has been more or less proven.  I was also reading today that Mike Budenholzer's brother died, in a car crash, during the series, which sorta reminded me of what Isaiah Thomas went through a few years back.  So the Bucks were definitely distracted.  And I also found it interesting that the way Grayson Allen ended the series was slightly reminiscent of what Butler did against the Celtics last year.  But that's why I always say that in the NBA, you win some, and you lose some.  And you have to be able to take the losses and hope that the next season the pendulum swings in your favor, like it seems to be doing Butler at the moment, though I would personally pick the Knicks over the Heat.

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE - CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

And speaking of the Knicks, wow.  I know that anything is possible, but I never would've imagined, if they were to beat the Cavs, that they would have been able to do it so dominantly.  Cleveland isn't panicking, which is a good sign, because they definitely have a nice, compatible squad.  But it'll be real interesting to see what moves they pull off this offseason.  Draymond, anyone?

NEW YORK KNICKS, CONTENDERS?

I don't believe I ever called the Knicks contenders, but I did say that their roster really isn't lacking anything, and that was even before they got Josh Hart.  Even losing Game 1 against the Heat can be attributed to Julius Randle not being around.  But man, how about those Heat?  Their showing why you can never sleep on a team filled with veteran allstar-level players playing for an organization that knows how to win basketball games without always having to rely on being more talented or healthier than the opposing squad.

DENVER BUSTS PHOENIX'S ASS

Game 1 between the Nuggets and Suns was never really close.  And speaking of organizations that knows how to win and build competitive rosters, you have to give to Denver also, because it's been like 20 years since they've been garbage.  Even back when Andre Igoudala was the team's alpha, they were winning like 50 games a season.

So now, I kinda wish I had stuck to the same prediction I made the two seasons before this one, that Denver will win the championship if healthy.  But still, you know what I'm saying?  Fukaround and Murray or Porter Jr. slips on a banana peel or some shit, and boom, hopes dashed.

As for the Suns, I still believe they have not only the most-talented starting five in the league but also one that is naturally compatible, so long as neither KD or Booker is chuckin when on the floor together.  But now I see they've taken one step forward, two steps backwards, as the homey used to say.

Between last season in this season, they got KD, one of best scorers in history, but lost three starters basically.  And this isn't like back in the days when the Warriors did the same thing to get Durant.  So there's likely going to have to be another player or two outside of the Big 4 to give the Suns a chance, because Denver not only has its own Big 4 but also a number of quality role players, including Bruce Brown, who has become one of my favorites.

We Gotta Chase Those Crazy... Rastas?

Based on what MTO is saying, Ja Morant did not break any laws with his gun antics.  Based on what NBA Inception has long been saying for the longest, the NBA is parochial AF.  I don't know what type contracts the players sign, but obviously it's one where the executive powers-that-be can more or less discipline at will, and dudes can't really say or do jackshit about it, or if they do the penalties become increasingly severe.  It kinda reminds me of my relationship with Mom Dukes back in the days.

But this is one of rare instance where I have to agree with the NBA and Grizzlies in particular, because niggas be fukin up.  Let's not forget the asininity that transpired between Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton.  There are quite few NBA players, stars even, with gang affiliations.  But Crittenton is like a real life, scary, don't-give-AF thug.  After more or less being kicked out of the NBA, he was involved in the gang-related murder of an innocent bystander that's scheduled to have him locked up until about 2040.  So I can understand how the NBA don't want dudes getting to ahead of themselves, like you already see that dumb shit that happened with Shannon Sharpe.

So now, what MTO is also reporting is that Morant is headed to alcohol rehab.  Dude doesn't really strike me as an alcoholic.  But this is what he would have to do anyway - something visible to public to prove that's he's trying to better himself.  And it's not like there's any 'dumbass rehibilation' out there.

So I wouldn't be surprised if Ja Morant cutting off his dreadlocks, you know, like that clean cut image shit?  Remember back in the days when if you saw dreadlocks, you'd think of people like Bob Marley?  Dreadlocks are supposed to be a symbol of righteousness.  Jae Crowder is a true dread, one who even gets persecuted by baldheads.  But shit ain't the same anymore.  Now you have all types young, famous Black dude rockin dreadlock that if you even mention the word righteousness to them, they'd probably turn around and shoot at you.

CONCLUSION

My personal take on the matter is that since Ja Morant is currently positioned to be a max player for his entire career and potentially an international superstar (if he isn't already) or even face of the NBA, then yes, what he did was quite stupid.  Dudes need to learn from Kyrie that anytime you decide to do something controversial on social media, you also have to be prepared to face the fire.  And again, I'm not one of those people who believes in selling your soul for money and fame.  But I'd tell Ja the same thing I would tell Ben Simmons, that if the NBA ain't for you, take the gazillion of dollars you already made and bounce, because other niggas is posting images of guns, and ain't nothing happening to them.

NBA Postseason Power Stinkings (Southwest Division)

I figured that I need to get these postseason "Power Stinkings" over and done with, since the NBA preseason is about to start.  Many analysts like to argue that the preseason is inconsequential, but I beg to differ, because it's during the preseason where teams with new pieces get to first see which lineups are compatible, and vice versa.  For example, I'm sure I mentioned around this same time last year that the Lakers going winless during the 2021-22 preseason was quite telling.  So what that means is that I can't do my true, final predictions for the upcoming season until post-preseason, hopefully, if like I have the time to write an article that long.

But until then, I can still blab about how franchises look as we currently speak.  And these are the Power Stinkings, meaning that we're not going to start this list off with the Grizzlies but rather the...

1.  CHARLOTTE HORNETS

Fullcourt basketball is largely a test of endurance, and that's especially true when you're playing over an 82 game season.  So at the beginning of last season the Hornets - young, dumb and full of cum - looked like a team on the rise.  Then as those long months progressed, they were exposed.  And now Miles Bridges, who I personally feel is their best player, well, it doesn't look like he'll be suiting up anytime soon.  In fact I personally believe that one of the reasons the Hornets fell off last season is because after the All-Star break, Bridges seemed more disinterested, probably because he got snubbed or whatever.

The Hornets also didn't re-sign Montrezl Harris, which would have really made sense esp now that Bridges ain't around.  So, I guess it's back to putting our faith in Gordon Hayward.

2.  HOUSTON ROCKETS

I don't particularly believe in youth movements, though they may be necessary at times.  Or let me say that youth movements only tend to be successful when you're dealing with teams that have really wise braintrusts, which are so few that you can like count them on one hand, and then most of those already have established rosters.  So the Rockets may be exciting to watch, but I have yet to come across anyone predicting that they'll even make the upcoming playoffs.

But another thing about these young, energetic squads is that if somehow they are able to get their shit together and overachieve, then watch out, because those wise, established rosters are usually filled with vets who may lack the energy to be chasing young dudes around for 48 minutes every night.

3.  SAN ANTONIO SPURS

It pains me that I was even tempted to put the Spurs, as in the team with the highest winning percentage in NBA history, at the top of this list.  Coming into this season, they have perhaps the most mediocre roster in the Association.  But this is the Spurs, and Gregg Popovich is still around, so you have to give them the benefit of the doubt, that they may end up with a better records than the Hornets or Rockets.  And you know, the Spurs are such a proven organization that for whatever reason they're never mentioned in tanking conversations, even though it's kinda obvious that's what they're doing.  And if Popovich is able to stick around until they get a new crop high draft picks, then it's like look out.

2.  DALLAS MAVERICKS

I'm almost tempted to say that the Mavericks took one step forward but two steps backwards in acquiring Christian Wood yet losing Jalen Brunson, but JaVale McGee ain't no slouch either.  My biggest issue with the Mavs is that Luka, as great of a player as he may be, seems sorta like a despondent superstar, i.e. one who doesn't bring out the best in his teammates and may even have the opposite effect.  But he's like the most naturally-talented basketball player in the world, so once again it is up to Cuban and them to construct a roster around him that works.  And if Doncic stays healthy, it is possible that this team will be better than last season, though it's really hard to imagine them once again making it to the WCF.

1.  MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES

The problem with the Grizzlies is that besides losing key role players in Kyle Anderson and De'Anthony Melton, it doesn't look like they got anything in return, unless Danny Green proves healthy enough to remain on the court.  So it's like Memphis didn't upgrade and may have even degraded.  The good news though is that they have the best young core in the West.  So what I'm presuming is that the braintrust is like okay, all of these guys, including Ja Morant, will be better this season than they were last, and that's what they're banking on.  Like, there's only so much talent floating around the NBA anyway.  But there's still a few quality vets in free agency, as I can really see DeMarcus Cousins as part of this roster.

CONCLUSION

The Southwest Division was one of the more intriguing last season, but it may not be that way this time around.  While other teams were out upgrading, the likes of the Hornets, Spurs, Grizzlies and Mavs were either standing pat or losing key players.  It speaks volumes to conclude that the Rockets may have had the best offseason in Southwest Division, but we have to see how things play out in Dallas especially, as now Doncic truly has the type of supporting cast that not only compliments his style but also shouldn't step on his toes too much.

2nd Round Predictions - Warriors vs. Grizzlies

This is a hard series to call, because all season it's been like the Grizzlies have been beating up on these older, established teams, especially out West.  But in Golden State's defense, I don't think they ever played against Memphis at full strength, as the Warriors are now.

GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS

They still remain my sentimental favorites, but this may be where the buck stops.

STARTING 5 MAKEUP

PG-SG-2G-SF-PF (point guard, shooting guard, 2guard, small forward, power forward)

That's based on the starting lineup the Warriors rolled out in Game 5 against the Nuggets, which consisted of all three Splash Brothers + Draymond and Andrew Wiggins.  That's supposed to be their new "Death Lineup" or whatever, but it leaves much to be desired in terms of starting that combination.

BIGGEST STRENGTH

Bob Fitzgerald and Kelenna Azubuike are my favorite pair of announcers, after only Mark Jackson and Jeff Van Gundy.  Mark and Jeff, being established in the NBA pantheon, don't give AF.  But it's amusing listening to Bob and Kelenna, because you can tell they're real Warriors fan.  Like if Golden State is down by even a point, they get nervous - like true fans, who want their team to lead throughout the entire game.  In Game 5 the Warriors were down by like 10 in the third quarter, and dudes were panicking.

But like I said before, big leads, unless maybe you're up by 30, doesn't mean shit against the Splash Brothers.  When Steph gets going, the threes and layups he makes are so unorthodox that there's nothing a defense can do.  When Klay is hot, on top of making his own crazy threes he also attacks from the midrange, and there's nothing defenses can do.  And Poole has like this slashing game in addition to a sometimes-hot threepointer, even though I fear at times he may break his own ankles.

BIGGEST WEAKNESS

I hope Steve Kerr doesn't start all three Splash Bros. like he did in Game 5.  Steph was averaging nearly 30ppg coming off the bench(!) earlier in the series.  And as outstanding as that was, of course when there's egos etc. involved, he wasn't going to remain on the bench for long.  But if you have to start Steph out of respect, then that means Jordan has to go to the bench.

X-FACTOR

I'd like to say Jonathan Kuminga in this case, and maybe the Gauntlet.  If there's one advantage the Grizzlies have over Golden State, it's youthful energy.  And in matching that, there's may be no better player on the Warriors roster than Kuminga.  Also, Gary Payton Jr. has the best chance of all defenders in locking Ja Morant down, even though he seems to play dirty sometimes.

KARMA ASSESSMENT

The Warriors appear to have really good karma in terms of supporting each other.  Even some quality players who haven't been getting any burn during the Playoffs seem real supportive of the ones that are.  But the thing is that if there's one team that perhaps has even better karma amongst its roster, imo that'd be the Grizzlies.

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES

The Grizzlies had a tough time against Minnesota, but that's understandable, because the Timberwolves are a really talented team to be a 7 seed.

STARTING 5 MAKEUP

The Grizzlies benched Steven Adams, perhaps after being incepted.  But I think I finally figured it out.  When Ja Morant is unable to play, Memphis is better with Adams.  But when he's running around all wascally and shit, they're better off playing someone younger and faster at the 5.

So I would presume they'll continue to start Xavier Tillman at C, whose like a cross between a slower, traditional C and a younger, faster one.  But of course Brandon Clarke, who falls more into the latter category, will end up getting more minutes.

BIGGEST WEAKNESS

I'm not inclined at this point to say the Grizzlies have a weakness besides the potential for injury.  But if they had a hard time defending Edwards/Russell, than the Splash Brothers are prolly going to drive their perimeter defense crazy.

X-FACTOR

Dillon Brooks, who I never even heard of until like a month ago, has really grown on me.  And he's like pretty big to be a SF.

KARMA ASSESSMENT

The Grizzlies be deadass partying before and after games.  Sometimes I think it's foolish, or cocky to say the least, to do so beforehand.  And of course, we don't really know what goes on behind the scenes.  But these dudes look like they have each other backs.  Also, it is possible that they have the backing of the NBA itself.

CONCLUSION

It makes me nervous to have the audacity to predict against the Splash Bros. and rather go with a team that has a questionable perimeter defense, but I think Memphis, if healthy, will take the series.

Ja Morant is a giant killer, the one player most responsible for humbling Lebron and the Lakers this season.  He put up Magic-like numbers against the Timberwolves, and his pops still dissed him.  And that may just be the additional fire he needs to pick the Warriors apart.

1st Round Prediction - Grizzlies vs. Timberwolves

My original plan was to write this post yesterday, before the series started.  But in a way I'm glad I, because Game 1 was revelatory.  But I still have to believe that the Grizzlies will find a way to beat the Timberwolves, maybe.

MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES

By NBA Inception standards the Timberwolves are a superteam, i.e. a squad with three all-stars.  KAT has been on the best Cs since he came into the NBA.  Anthony Edwards will likely be an All-Star next season.  And D'Angelo Russell has already proven that he can be an All-Star if he were forced to actually run a team.

STARTING 5 MAKE-UP

PG-2G-SF-PF-C (PointGuard, 2Gaurd, Small Forward, Power Forward, Center)

The T-Wolves have a pretty traditional starting 5 structure, even though Russell may not really be like a true 2 (defensively).  This can work with players with Edwards and KAT, because Patrick Beverly is like pass first PG.

BIGGEST STRENGTH

I would have to say KAT.

BIGGEST WEAKNESS

Depth, maybe.  But the overall depth of a team isn't as important when you have three offensive all-stars.

X-FACTOR / KARMA ASSESSMENT

If I had written this article yesterday, I would have listed Anthony Edwards as the x-factor.  And that would have been cool, because then he went out and bust the Grizzlies ass.  But now, I'm more compelled to go with Patrick Beverly.

I knew he would be a good fit when the Wolves got him last offseason.  But now it's like, don't forget Minnesota is a team where traditionally superstars tend to butt heads.  So now I'm thinking like if Beverly wasn't around, maybe KAT and Edwards would have some type of alpha beef considering that Anthony may be just as good as Karl.

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES

I'll be honest and say I'm a Grizzlies fan.  They're my second favorite team at the moment.  So as good as the T-wolves may be, I'd be disappointed if the Griz ends up getting their asses bust by them.

STARTING 5 MAKEUP

2G-2G-SF-PF-C

I know that Ja Morant is a PG, but I think most of us would agree that he's more dangerous as a scorer than a facilitator.  Also, I had no idea that Dillon Brooks was 6'7" until I just now looked it up.  Before I thought he was a little guy.

BIGGEST STRENGTH

Of course most people would answer this question by saying "Ja Morant".  But things aren't that simple when you consider that the Grizzlies have had a better winning percentage this season without him.

BIGGEST WEAKNESS

As for his character, Steven Adams is one of my favorite players in the NBA.  But even some months ago, I was on the verge of mentioning that he seems out of place on the Grizzlies.  The reason I never said that is because I later found out that he leads the league in offensive rebounds.  And honestly that fact really shocked me, because every time I've watched Memphis play it's like he didn't really do jackshit.

X-FACTOR

I would have to say Jaren Jackson Jr.  He's the team best defender, and defense is the one thing you really need against the Timberwolves.

KARMA ASSESSMENT

It looks like the members of the Grizzlies genuinely like each other.  That's the glow of winning.  The problem is that - like let me just go ahead and say it - as good as they may be, they may be even better when Morant isn't playing.  Every time that happens - a team being arguably better without its franchise player - shit can get sticky, especially if dudes end up disappointing with Ja playing.

CONCLUSION

I'm still going with the Grizzlies on this one, even though my confidence has now been shaken.  Maybe they'll try something like benching Adams and starting Clarke, for all the good that may do against KAT.  But the thing is that Edwards and Russell, as well as some role players, also have to be chased around the court.  So Memphis has to become like super focused on defense.  But at least they have the depth to do so.

The Power of Youth (in the NBA)

I finally figured out why youth is so dangerous in the NBA, and perhaps in professional sports in general.  Last night, the Griz played the Suns.  Phoenix had all of its starters healthy and ready to go.  Meanwhile, Memphis rested Jackson, Morant, Adams, Bane and a couple of role players.  So basically, they started their second unit.

Of course doing something like that against the Suns, the best team in the NBA, is sort of an insult.  So you could tell CP3 and them weren't really taking things seriously from the opening tip, not like they would against even a slumping Warriors squad once they see Draymond and Klay on the other end of the floor.  And that's actually part of the problem.  You have dudes on one team who are established vets, already making gazillions of dollars.  Then you have these young, unknown cats on the other team who're dreaming of reaching that status, still having something to prove.  So that's problem number one.

The bigger issue - like I finally figured this shit out.  When you play against a young team like the Grizzlies or even Pistons on some nights, you have to be ready to play from the moment the whistle blows until the end - for the full 48 minutes.  That's because if you sleep on them and let them build up a big lead, by all means you'll catch up eventually, but by time you do, even if it's in the first half, they're still going to be fresh.

It's kinda like what happened against Lebron and them versus the Pelicans a week ago.  If I remember correctly, by the time the Lakers finally caught up with NOP, even though it was very early in the game, like the Pelicans were ready to surge again and again and again if necessary.  So it's like 'damn, I gotta be chasing niggas around for two hours straight , even though they're scrubs'.  And yes, that is in fact the issue when dealing with these young teams.  You gotta be ready to chase them around, like on some Dennis the Menace type shit.

I would argue that back in the day, the refs were more sympathetic towards superstars and the good veteran teams.  But also, back in those days teams played more halfcourt, so it wasn't like now when they shoot early in the shot clock and are always running fastbreaks.  You know what I mean?  Back in the days, you had the big guys, and then you had the small guys.  But now on many teams, it's like every player from 1 to 5 is ready to slash and drive if given the opportunity.  And traditionally speaking, you can't have a team of rookies running vets out the gym - that wouldn't be a good look for the NBA.  Think, for instance, how they did Kobe back in the '98 All-Star Game.  That was the pre-Lebron era.  In the post-Lebron era, now the younger teams are getting a fairer shot.  Or at least, that's my argument as to why now they're suddenly more formidable than usual.

And also something else I just thought about is there's quite a few teams these days with like no real veteran presence anyway, you know, due to all of the trades and stuff.  That's NBA Inception.

CONCLUSION

By no stretch of the imagination am I saying that the Grizzlies, even when healthy, are better than the Suns.  But then again, I'm not saying that the Grizzlies are that good anyway.  In other words, when you look at their roster on paper and compare it to others in the NBA, in actuality they're pretty average, i.e. containing one perennial all-star in Ja Morant, a couple of lesser-known stars, an old soldier and a lot dudes you probably never heard of.

But dudes are young and hungry.  You know how it is when you start playing catch with a small child, how they never want to stop?  Fuck around, niggas even enjoy the game when they're losing, even if there's no score involved type shit.  That's what some of the elder teams are learning the hard way.  You have these one-and-done cats coming into league still fresh-faced, not chiseled men like back in the day.  And if an organization decides to go the veteran route, well, at least don't fool yourself into believing that you can dominate youngsters by playing freestyle, run-and-gun basketball.

Memphis Grizzlies, the Biggest Surprise of the 2021-22 Season

I'll agree that the Cleveland Cavaliers have overachieved, but to me their success isn't surprising.  This is what happens when you mix a talented roster with a bit of luck (i.e. the injury to Colin Sexton; the rapid development of Evan Mobley).  The Cavs may not be an instant superteam like the 2008 Celtics, nor am I going to jump out of the window by calling them contenders, even if they are currently tied for third in the East and have a couple of All-Stars on their roster.  But this is a well-constructed squad out of nowhere, even though both the pre- and post-Lebron Cavs were garbage.  And that's something that the team's execs should be applauded for, i.e. bringing in a crew of compatible 7footer-ish players buttressed by small, quick guards.

The one thing that does disturb me about the Cavs is the way they traded away Ricky Rubio.  I'm not saying that they sh*tted on him in the truest sense of the word, but when a team does overachieve, that usually means they have an identity/soul.  And it was Ricky Rubio, perhaps moreso than any other player on the roster this season, who helped instill that don't-give-a-flyin-fuck on-court mentality in the Cavs.  In fact I saw them play recently post-Rubio, and it seems they lost that a bit, i.e. that level of basketball wildness that can only be developed in places like Europe or South America.  Karma can be a bitch sometimes, and I wouldn't be surprised if Cleveland is eventually recompensed for stabbing Rubio in the back like that, especially if Caris Levert doesn't prove to be as good of a fit as he appears on paper.

To me, the team that's really shocked my trousers off is the Memphis Grizzlies.  On paper, even with Ja Morant, this isn't an overly-impressive roster.  Their biggest star besides Ja is Jaren Jackson Jr. - a draft pick who, when he was being heralded as the new face of the franchise, seemed as if he would be bust.  And then there's Desmond Bane, who looks more like a Revenge of the Nerds villain than a basketball player and popped up out of nowhere.  Also let's not forget Kyle Anderson, who feels like he's been around forever, and the likes of Brandon Clarke, a young dude who like Jackson and Morant was actually drafted by the Grizzlies.  

And I don't have anything personal against Steven Adams.  Dude keeps it dirty on some real Jason Momoa shit, which is something I have to respect.  But until Memphis gets around to scoring a better starting center (and no, not Jaren Jackson), I don't see them winning a championship, not with this current roster.

The Grizzlies have also proven that they can bust ass even sans Morant.  That run kinda reminded me of how the Bulls remained contenders even after Jordan retired the first time.  It's like a residual effect or something.  And no, I'm not trying to compare Ja Morant to Michael Jordan just yet.  Instead, what the current success of the Grizzlies also illustrates is what a young, talented and confident team can accomplish against older, even more-talented squads.

CONCLUSION

The caveat to being young and talented tho is that cats also aren't too bright.  For instance, a few days against the lowly Blazers you have the Griz expending all types of energy on some type of pregame dance routine more reserved for a club than a basketball court, and then losing the game.  So it would be cool to see them score a quality, veteran bigman not only in the name of becoming stronger in the paint but also to add an extra degree of seriousness to the squad.  But that said, I don't think there's any quality bigmen set to hit the buyout market.

Also I wouldn't be totally surprised if the Griz made it to WCF and, if not for the Suns (or maybe Mavs) all the way to the Finals even.  The way the Lakers have unexpectedly fallen off this season is what's really opened the door to such possibilities in the West.

What in the Name of Basketball Are the Lakers Doing?

The Lakers are a team that's entertaining to watch, no matter who they're playing against, because if they win it's like 'yeah, Lebron!'  But then if they lose, it's like 'how can team with so many great players keep getting their asses bust?'  So it's like the Lakers are easy to love yet just as easy to hate on.  But so is the price of having so many undeniably great players on a single roster, even if virtually all of them are past their prime.

A couple of nights ago (on 30 December) I had the pleasure or displeasure, depending on one's perspective, of peeping out a good portion of the second half of Lakers versus the Grizzlies.  The Grizzlies are an up-and-coming squad and even recently, without their star player Morant, went on a major winning streak.  They're also an interesting watch, and if a game goes down to the wire Ja "Lean on Me" Morant is very much capable of winning it, even against the best teams in the league.

But damn, they aren't that good.  You know what I mean?  It shouldn't be a situation if say the Lakers meet the Grizzlies in the Playoffs, most pundits at this point would probably pick Memphis to win.

But as I have stated in the past, the Lakers' problem isn't their age or even their on-the-fly and ever-changing roster construction.  The bigger issue seems to be that they can't get their heads out of their own asses.

NO USE OF BIGMEN

Off the top of my head, I would say that Dwight Howard is in better shape than any other NBA player who has been active in the 15 year range.  He is also one of the most accomplished bigmen in the history of the sport.  Yet versus the Grizzlies for instance, he didn't get any run during the entire fourth quarter.

At the time he was pulled out of the game late in the 3rd, the Lakers were leading and in control.  Then they spent the entire 4th quarter playing like goofballs and getting their asses bust.  And truth be told, even when AD plays - considering that for whatever reason he's allowed to shoot jumpers more than postup - the Lakers still tend to fail to take advantage of their size.  When AD joined Lebron in L.A., I was envisioning them simply destroying opposing squads by taking turns posting up hapless defenders.  Less than a handful teams, if any, are prepared to defend the post against AD and Lebron James.  But instead, it's more like 'I wanna be like Steph'.

NO SET PLAYS

The way the Lakers play reminds me a lot of schoolyard basketball when there's one player on your squad who is clearly better (and more of a loudmouth) than all the rest.  In the case of the Lakers that would be Lebron James or when he sits Russell Westbrook.  And how that style of play traditionally goes is that you give the ball to the alpha dawg, and he basically does whatever he wants with it.

Such a modus operandi, considering that opposing teams are usually for the most part equal, does not consistently yield desired results.  And that's because the alpha player would most often chuck and as such miss prime opportunities to pass the ball, rather doing so more as a last-second desperation move (if at all).  The Lakers don't seem to have this problem as much when Russ, who is more of a natural guard, is controlling the rock as opposed to Lebron.  And in the last quarter of that game against the Grizzlies, when Lebron was for the most part playing the point, man did things get ugly.

That is why in 'organized' basketball we have what are called coaches.  Coaches serve two very important functions which, when practiced, can make their teams superior to competitors.  One is that they actually design plays based on their team's strengths and their opponent's weaknesses.  And second, they force their players on offense who do not have the ball in their hands to cut and try to get open.  Meanwhile, the Lakers weren't doing either one of those.  Lebron was controlling the ball with no clear direction in sight, and his teammates were by and large standing pat while he was doing so.  And it's like every team plays like these days.

SO IS THIS EVEN BASKETBALL?

Yes, even if a team plays sloppily with no type of set organization, whether on the playground or in the NBA, that is what this particular sport is called.

A LEBRON IN THE HAND...

But another way of looking at it is what would Lebron gain by bullying around people like Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.?  Those dudes are almost young enough to be his children.  So maybe he simply isn't interested in over-exerting himself (i.e. posting up) and bully-balling at the moment.  But the problem is that last season's Playoffs proved that he can't just flip the switch like that anymore.  In other words if AD is unable to play in the upcoming Playoffs, then the Lakers may well be looking at yet another early postseason exit, with this one being even more disappointing than the last.

CONCLUSION: STEPH CURRY HAS DESTROYED ORGANIZED BASKETBALL

Players like Lebron James and Russell Westbrook are the types that are going to do their thing regardless, no matter how old they are.  But when you look at the rest of the Lakers' rosters, as stated they are largely relying on players past their prime.  That is not a good strategy if, also like the Lakers, your offense consists exclusively of impromptu three-pointers and layups.  That's why at the end of the day, it's like Steph is very lowkey as far as generational superstars are concerned.  But he is one of only a handful of players - like Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan and Allen Iverson - who actually changed how the game is played in all-around, i.e. the current phenomenon of just about every team chucking up three-pointers at will.

Steph inherited the ability to shoot and was trained to do so, by one of the best shooters in NBA history at that, throughout his entire childhood.  Other players in the NBA do not possess such a background, on top of Curry's dribbling ability.  So on one hand, it's cool to see Lebron chucking up 3s and even on hitting most of them.  Taking into consideration LBJ's age, his body language and the evolution of his playing style, one has to conclude that he simply isn't interested in banging downlow anymore.  But you're not Steph, Lebron.  And it's like damn, where's Frank Vogel in all of this.