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.

The Indecisionists

Damn, make a decision already.

DEMAR DEROZAN

Out of all true free agents still on the market, DeRozan is the biggest gamechanger if placed on the right team.  His stock has gone down not so much due to a lack of efficacy as opposed to (#1) playing for two consecutive garbage franchises and (#2) being a victim of that 'midrange shots no longer matter' analytics' bullshit.

So one of the lingering effects of the past Warriors' dynasty is that now, you have teams who like no longer know how to score within the arc (and outside of the key).  Now that players like Shai and Wemby have taken over, the Steph imitating isn't as bad it was before.  But again, if there's a squad out there who actually needs him, DeMar can definitely help win a championship.

Preferred Destination: Miami Heat

Longshot Destination: New York Knicks

RUSSELL WESTBROOK

It's hard being so good that every time your team falters in one way or another, you're granted part of the blame.  It's also hard being so good that you have to hold yourself back in the name of overall team chemistry.  It's like a no-win situation for "the ScapeGOAT".

Westbrook has been in control of a team twice.  First was when KD bounced on OKC, and Russ immediately went on to win MVP.  Second was during his short stint with the Wizards, where he handily averaged a triple-double.

So all things considered, trying to call this guy garbage or someone undeserving of a contract is ridiculous.  It's logical, at least to me, that he should be most sought after by a team with a really-good starting five but like no bench.  In other words, give Russ complete, undeterred control of a second unit.  And if he's even too erratic for that, then yeah, maybe it is time for him to retire.  Or if he must start, I'm thinking a team like:

Preferred Destination: New Orleans Pelicans

JONATHAN KUMINGA

Jonathan Kuminga bet on himself and, in the short term at least, appears as if he's slated to take a loss.  And you know, I talk a lot of shit about the Warriors' inability to nurture draftees.  Steph may have even verified that when recently memorializing his first NBA Head Coach, the recently-departed Don Nelson, where he stated, plainly, that Nellie "never liked rookies".  So I'm thinking that frame of thought may have more or less persisted, to this day, within the Warriors' organization.

But that said, I'm not going to use this post to once again criticize Golden State's braintrust, because doing so, in context, may prove hypocritical.  It looks like Kuminga will be participating in next season's NBA at an annual salary somewhere in the $10mil range and definitely not exceeding $15mil.  Meanwhile, the Dubs offered him about $23mil annually.  So in hindsight, it's hard to say they lowballed him.  Rather, young Jonathan may have overestimated himself.

Preferred Destination: New Orleans Pelicans

Logical Destination: Cleveland Cavaliers

BRADLEY BEAL

Beal, on the other hand, was overestimated by the industry itself.  And when you compare his situation to Westbrook's, you see how hypocritical the collective mind can sometimes be.

Bradley led the Wizards, and they sucked, but he walked away being regarded as one of the best players in the league.  Westbrook led the Wizards while putting up a triple-double, and they sucked, but he walked away more or less disgraced.

Anyhow, if there's one thing Beal knows how to do, it's score.  I don't think that can ever be taken away from him, so long as he's playable.  So yeah, the Celtics sounds like a good choice, even tho they may not really need him (unless he's coming hard off the bench).  So a more viable option would be:

Preferred Destination: Miami Heat

JALEN DUREN

I'm mentioning Duren, even though he's restricted, because he's in a similar situation to Kuminga.  If he plays out the current year and is still coveted, as a completely free agent, next offseason, I mean come on.  The Pistons would be able to pay him the most money, but would he even want to stay?

Also, let's not forget that they're currently offering him something like $200mil(!).  Yes, other teams are willing to jump in and pay more, in theory.  Well actually, haven't dudes already spent all of their dough?

So realistically speaking, there is the possibility that when he hits the open market, like Kuminga, it may end up like his current team was actually willing to pay him more than anyone else will.

What I'm also envisioning is Jalen just being like fukit and forcing himself out by midseason, to an organization that expresses a willingness to pay him more or whatever.  If he feels that Detroit is devaluing him, it's not like, say he makes All-NBA or whatever, it's not like next offseason those feelings are just going to go away, even if they do max him out.

It wouldn't really make much sense for him to leave on paper, so that's like a worst-case scenario.  But you never know?  If they can't get along, it may all boil down to who the Pistons can get in return, or if maybe Jalen can get on a team where he has a better chance for a ring, tho at the moment it's hard to envision who.

Preferred Destination: Detroit Pistons

JAMES HARDEN

I'm still having a hard time, from the perspective of either party, trying to understand what logic was used to rationalize bringing the Beard to Cleveland.  They say on his part, he was looking for a longer contract and a better chance at winning, which is understandable.

I'm not going to criticize Harden, as of late I feel like I've been doing too much shaving.  But what I will say is this: all things considered, there are teams out there that could better utilize what he brings to the table.

Longshot Destination: Houston Rockets (sans KD)

BEN SIMMONS

When Ben Simmons ends up back on the Sixers, I want you to remember who called it first.

Simmons was like all-NBA, all-defense, all of that, but ultimately ended up being criticized for lacking the mamba mentality.  Too much eye of the tiger, and you're Russell Westbrook.  Too little, and you're Ben Simmons.

In any event, logic would dictate that reality could be mitigated by (#1) cutting his salary, (#2) not expecting too much out of him and (#3) surrounding him with teammates who are in fact feening.

Preferred Destination: Philadelphia 76rs

CONCLUSION

A team like the Pelicans, with a roster that at least has hope but in a situation where they've been all but forgotten about, could be perfect for undervalued vets who aren't obsessed with winning.  But somehow, New Orleans has already spent all of their cap money(?).

And that's the reality of the NBA, and it always has been, in a way.  You have more cautionary tales of guys betting on themselves and losing than players who took extensions and outplayed them.  In that latter regard, I can only think of Steph, but with the former, Sprewell, Schröder and even Isaiah Thomas, in a way, instantly come to mind.

That said, it baffles me how certain teams are standing pat instead of trying to find creative ways to implement quality players who are looking for work and who may be had relatively cheaply.  

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.

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.

2023 NBA Play-In Predictions (Round 2)

So far, I'm shooting 50% as far as 2023 Play-In predictions are concerned.  I did foretell that Lebron James and the Lakers, i.e. the NBA's leading man and most-profitable franchise, were going to beat the depleted Timberwolves, which they did (just barely).  And as for the Thunder vs. Pelicans, that was anyone's game, though now I have to admit that Zion Williamson, if he had decided to play, would have probably made a difference.

I also rightfully predicted that the Bulls would best the Raptors.  But what I got wrong with the Hawks vs. Heat is overestimating just how thin Miami's depth actually is.  Like, where's Duncan Robinson?  And why didn't they start Kyle Lowry?  And as for Kevin Love, he was basically a no-show.

BULLS VS. HEAT

And speaking of Miami, I think the Bulls once again have the advantage, even if they're not playing at home.  The Heat's starting lineup against the Hawks the other day consisted of two guys, Gabe Vincent and Max Strus, who I never even heard of like that.  Maybe this time around they'll start Lowry, who scored a game high 33 points against Atlanta, even though he was -12.  I mean, why not?  I don't remember the Heat, since they first came into the NBA, ever being garbage.  But now, the championship window they enjoyed for the last few seasons has passed.  And the Bulls, even though they also disappointed this year, look hungrier.

THUNDER VS. TIMBERWOLVES

Even if the T-wolves fail to make the playoffs, I would still argue that they're one of the better teams in the NBA.  Now that Rudy Gobert is back, logic would dictate that they should be able to handle OKC.  Either way, I believe that both of these teams can give Denver a run for their money.  But if it is the Timberwolves, as I'm predicting, fair and square I wouldn't be overly surprised, even if a couple of key bench players aren't around, if they could beat the Nuggets in a seven-game series.

CONCLUSION

OKC is a young, developing team who I believe is next-up after the Grizzlies.  But I doubt if they can beat the Thunder if Gobert, the type of inside defensive presence that the Pelicans lack, is playing.  Hell, I don't even think the Lakers would have gotten past them if Rudy was around.  But that said, I'm definitely looking forward to the presence of Chet Holmgren next season, maybe.

As for the Heat, I believe they matchup better with the Bulls, i.e. a team who is more in their age range than the Hawks.  But it's like, I don't even want to see Miami make the playoffs, because they're slow and generally unexciting.  Traditionally speaking slower, more-steady teams are more-formidable.  But the NBA has changed a lot in the last few years, and these days that strategy isn't as effective.

2023 Western Conference Play-In Predictions (Round 1)

TIMBERWOLVES (42-40) VS. LAKERS (43-39)

FAIR & SQUARE

Even if the Lakers did respect hard work and continuity, which they apparently don't, the Timberwolves would still have a better roster.  Lebron is no joke on offense but is a defensive liability.  And watching AD play, I feel like he's constantly in pain but taking one for the team.  Like he's still an exceptional player but isn't the AD of old.  For instance, you never hear anyone saying he's one of the best centers in the game these days.  And whereas the Lakers are now one of the deepest teams in the NBA, it isn't necessarily that the role players adequately complement a chuckin Lebron and a hobbled AD.  Maybe it would be if, once again, they had continuity.  But the way LAL rotates players in and out of the starting lineup, even the ones who have been around since the beginning of the season, is disheartening.

WHAT WILL THE NBA DO?

But they're probably still going to prevail against the Timberwolves away because, lucky for them, Minnesota has been experiencing all types of misfortunes of late.  First was Naz Reid, who's an absolute beast, breaking his wrist.  Then during the last game of the season Jaden McDaniels, another important and effective player off the Minnesota bench, broke his own hand punching a wall, which ain't something you hear everyday.  And then, lo and behold, the one T-wolves opponent the Lakers would have to worry about most, Rudy Gobert, decides to punch his own teammate, even though doing so would undoubtedly result in him getting suspended, you know, right before his team is about to play the most-important game of their entire season.

So I personally believe the script for this one has already been written.  The Timberwolves, imo, weren't favored during last season's playoffs, and they aren't favored now.  The Lakers, at or near full strength, barely beat the tanking Jazz the other night.  So in my mind there's really no way they could beat a healthy Minnesota squad at full strength in such a critical game.  But the Timberwolves are down three key players, i.e. a starter and two regular-rotation guys, so we will likely witness LAL getting their asses bust by Memphis in the First Round instead.

THUNDER (40-42) VS. PELICANS (42-40)

FAIR & SQUARE

I believe that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Brandon Ingram will end up counteracting each other, even though the former tends to have a greater impact on games, especially close ones, overall.  So then, it's up to the other players to decide who wins this game, and I think New Orleans has the edge there, especially if McCollum plays.

You can argue that if Zion were playing it would be no contest, but he and Ingram don't play particular well together anyway, and if the Pelicans were smart they'd trade Zion and get another star or two who's healthy and actually complements Brandon's skillset.

WHAT WILL THE NBA DO?

I can imagine that the NBA would be more inclined to have SAG and Josh Giddey in the playoffs than the Pelicans, and I wouldn't be surprised if OKC even give the Nuggets a run for their money, even in a seven-game series.  But the Pelicans made it out of the play-ins last season and can probably do so again.  Or at least that's what I believe, that they're a better all-around team than OKC, though again with Shai, miracles are possible.

CONCLUSION

I can understand how the NBA is favoring Lebron again.  He just broke Kareem's record, which is the biggest (American) sports' story of the year, and also these days he doesn't make as many political statements as a couple of years ago.  But it's going to be sad when the Lakers run into a really good, healthy team, unless they're really expecting the likes of Malik Beasley and D'Angelo Russell to win a series for them.

And personally I think OKC would stand a better chance against Denver, but it's hard for me to imagine them beating the Pelicans, which is a deceptively-deep squad.

Is Williamson + Ingram Redundant?

Even prior to CJ McCollum showing up, in my mind, if not in this blog, I did question the pairing of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.  It wasn't really a big deal back then, when Zion was living the hoagie life.  But now he's on the court and looking quite healthy, but the Pelicans, despite having one of the most-talented, well-rounded and deepest rosters in the NBA. often look mediocre on court.

The problem is that Williamson and Ingram's playing styles are too similar, as in being ISO oriented.  And the reality is that it's very rare that a team with two ISO studs win a championship.  Two chucks don't make a right, and off the top of my head, the only such pairing I can think that won it all was Wade + LBJ with the Heat.  But even then you can't call Lebron a chuck, and he was averaging over 6 assists, and Wade added a respectable 5 on top of that.  The Heat also had Chalmers, which is something I want you to keep in mind for what I have to say later.  But by contrast, so for this season Zion + Brandon are averaging less than 8 assists combined.  And you can't really blame them, because unlike Lebron or Wade neither really has PG experience.

There's two ways I would try to rectify this situation.  First would be for Zion to spend like all of his time offensively in the post.  That's why I recommended a few articles back that he studies the footwork of Barkley, the best postup player I've ever seen.

But the thing about Williamson is that in his case, it's true what they say - once he pivots and drives to the basket, there really isn't anything a defender can do without risking being plowed over.  Zion's style of play requires him taking riskier shots than he needs to, but at least they go in.  So I can't really make the argument that he has to play in the post, like I would with AD for instance.

So the only second alternative, the way I see it, is to let Alvarado start at point.  That's what I was getting at by mentioning Mario Chalmers earlier.  LBJ used to chew dude out because, you know, he's not a stud like him and Wade and Bosh.  But that was exactly what the Heat needed, someone playing alongside those dudes in a position to handle the ball who could then balance them out.  The problem with Jose though is that sometimes he chucks.  And he also find himself open a lot, meaning that if dudes actually passed him the ball, like the way the NBA is these days he'd have to shoot or be labelled a Ben Simmons or some shit.  But hey, he is so far hitting 40% of his threes.  And if the coach drills into his mind that his job is to facilitate, he would have the weapons around him on par with any other starting five in the NBA.

CONCLUSION

Sometimes, no matter how talented a roster may be, it takes time for them to gel.  But in the modern NBA by the time the gelling starts, usually one or more of the key pieces is ready to move on.  So time is not to be taken for granted .  Now everybody likes to picking on the Lakers, but at least AD + LBJ got their championship when they were supposed to.  So hopefully the Pelicans will get their shit together, because I still kinda believe that Zion didn't want to play for them to begin with.

Ja Morant - What Zion Williamson Is Supposed to Be

Of course I had already declared Ja Morant the best-scoring PG in the NBA months ago, the first time he beat Steph and them with some clutch play, not on this blog but as a regular commentator on another I used to frequent.  I have since deleted that account, which means I have no proof of actually saying it.  But it's like the other people who frequented that blog know that your boy was spot on.

And no, the purpose of this post is not to pat myself on my back.  In fact being totally honest, even if I did realize Ja was a more potent scorer than Steph, Luka and, dare I say it, even Kyrie before everybody else started dickriding, in the last month or so Morant has still proven himself better than even I thought.  Like I don't really consider the current iteration of the Grizzlies that good of a team.  But with Ja being on some MJ shit these days, it's like now the sky's the limit.  Yes, Morant may be leaner than a mutha.  But I knew someone like that back in the days, like dude was mad skinny but strong as hell.  That's what niggas in the 'hood call stringy or some sh*t.  And the scary thing is that as Ja, who is currently 22 years old, progresses into his 20s and 30s, it's like dude will only get stronger.  So soon, if somebody don't calm your boy down, he might start straight bangin' on dudes.

And as much as I hate to say it, it's hard, at least for people like to me, to think about Ja Morant without Zion Williamson also coming to mind.  It's been a long time since I watched college basketball, so most of the players coming into the NBA these days I've never heard of until around the time they're getting drafted.  Such was the case with Ja Morant.  But as for Zion Williamson, I had been hearing his name at least a year or two in advance.  And yes, I did conclude he was overrated after Duke's lackluster performance in the NCAA tournament, during that sole year Zion was in college.  But he was still touted as the first truly unanimous number-one pick since AD in 2012, and some people were even going as far as comparing him to Lebron.  So  say if I were the GM of an NBA team, I would have likely picked Williamson over Morant also, though in my defense if I were a GM I would have also actually known who Morant was beforehand.

But such is the danger of dickriding.  When you get caught up in the media and general consensus all that kind of shit, it's like critical analysis is thrown out the window in the name of keeping up with the Joneses.  So Zion Williamson under-performed, leadership-wise, at Duke, on top of displaying health issues yet was still considered the top prospect by everyone.

Now another thing I stated on that other blog months ago is my belief that Zion Williamson is not as hurt as he is letting on.  What I rather believe is that okay, he may have some health issues.  But more to the point is him not wanting to potentially hurt himself further by playing for the Pelicans.  Most young players, like Ja Morant, are compelled to prove themselves upon entering the NBA.  Meanwhile, via endorsements and what have you, Williamson is already enjoying a superstar's earnings.  Also the NBA already made him an All-Star last, in only his second season, in yet another attempt to present him as the next big thing.  So my conspiracy theory is that Zion is saving his strength for until after his Pelicans' contract runs out, so he can go and play with a more-popular team, like the Lakers or Knicks, the latter of whom he has already more or less expressed an affinity for.  Zion is currently one of those few NBAers, like Kawhi for instance, who doesn't even have to play for like a year or two but will still be a max player whenever his next contract comes around.

CONCLUSION

Based on that above conspiracy theory, some people may say that Zion is a quitter or not a team player, blazi blah.  But this is the age of player empowerment, whereas NBAers are more aware of their worth than they've ever been.  So ask yourself this question - if you were Zion Williamson, would you want to be out there right now busting your ass for the Pelicans and potentially endangering your health and thus future court efficacy in the process? 

So of course the real losers in this equation are the Pelicans.  First they got sh*tted on by Anthony Davis.  And now Zion Williamson, who is supposed to be AD's superstar replacement, appears to be doing the same.  But so it is when you decide to name your team "the Pelicans".

And even though, to reiterate, no one probably would have chosen Ja over Zion (lol) in 2019, if for no other reason than the latter's commercial appeal, you still have to also presume that there's some people in the Pelicans' organization who are kicking themselves for passing up on the player who has actually proven to be the next big thing.

Does Zion Williamson Have Work-Ethic Issues?

The above video was posted to YouTube earlier today by ESPN's The Jump, where host Rachel Nichols interviewed New Orleans Pelicans' General Manager David Griffin (along with Paul Pierce and Vince Carter) concerning the welfare of Zion Williamson, whom the team shutdown for the rest of the Las Vegas Summer League after him playing just the first half of his first game.  The knee injury which reportedly rationalized this decision is not seen as anything major.  But it is what Griffin said about Zion's overall conditioning which really caught my attention:

"He came to us.  He wasn't in great condition.  And from a cardio perspective, it wasn't a great situation to begin with."

The thing that separates the NBA greats from other players who have their same physical attributes is supposed to work ethic.  Michael Jordan was reportedly the hardest working player of his era.  So was Kobe Bryant.  And I've read a couple of accounts of players who formerly played with Lebron being impressed by how he put it in at the gym.  In other words, on top of really-tall and really-athletic they really, really wanted to win.  As for Zion Williamson, he is not at that point right now.  Nor is there any guarantee that he will ever be.

Now let's be frank.  Zion Williamson was not the number-one pick in the Draft due to his work ethic.  Or to put it into perspective, if you or I were born with his body we would have likely been the first pick in Draft also.  This is not me trying to dis him or say anything negative about his drive.  Indeed if anything I'm giving a shoutout to his mom, dad and anyone else who may have passed that trait down to him.

So there is the possibility that Zion likes basketball more than the average person who enjoys playing the sport.  Or there's the possibility that, like any normal 19-year old (his birthday was just two days ago) he would rather spend the day doing things he enjoys (being with his girlfriend, playing videogames, chilling with his homeys) as opposed to being in the gym or on an airplane.  And let's not forget that he has already made a lot more money than most of us ever will.

I knew a few dudes that, if fate allowed, they would spend like all day every day playing basketball.  But we don't for sure if Zion is one of them.  And maybe he'll have to age, just like most of us do, before he really starts feening to win or is mature enough to take his career seriously.  In other words we perceiving him as the next LBJ does not necessarily mean that being so is one of his aspirations.

LET'S GO PELICANS!

Below is a pic which, according to The Jump, is supposed to be how the Pelicans' starting lineup would look if the season started today:

I'm a bit disappointed that Lonzo's name is not on the list, though I can logically understand why.  But at the same time putting a point-guard who specializes in passing on the bench kinda renders him ineffective.

Under this situation ideally JJ or Brandon would be the first to go to the bench, thus bringing in Lonzo and sliding Jrue over to the 2.  Or they may go small, inserting Lonzo in place of Favors and moving Zion to the 5 (and everyone else up a number).

Derrick Favors has been in a couple of situations where he was the player with the 'highest upside' or whatever on his team.  And whereas he does possess a versatile skillset, I don't feel overly confident with dude starting at center.