Wes Goldberg

And there should be a rule. I don't know what it is. I'm usually anti rules, but can we stop voting these guys? Right. That are top five picks like, oh, wow, it's crazy that this guy got good. Right. You know, I've seen it labeled as like the MVP Junior Award. It shouldn't be that, right?

And there should be a rule. I don't know what it is. I'm usually anti rules, but can we stop voting these guys? Right. That are top five picks like, oh, wow, it's crazy that this guy got good. Right. You know, I've seen it labeled as like the MVP Junior Award. It shouldn't be that, right?

And there should be a rule. I don't know what it is. I'm usually anti rules, but can we stop voting these guys? Right. That are top five picks like, oh, wow, it's crazy that this guy got good. Right. You know, I've seen it labeled as like the MVP Junior Award. It shouldn't be that, right?

And as soon as John Morant mailed his most improved award to Desmond Bain, we should have realized in that moment, oh, we're doing this all wrong. So I don't even ever really consider a top 10 pick unless it's like a weird...

And as soon as John Morant mailed his most improved award to Desmond Bain, we should have realized in that moment, oh, we're doing this all wrong. So I don't even ever really consider a top 10 pick unless it's like a weird...

And as soon as John Morant mailed his most improved award to Desmond Bain, we should have realized in that moment, oh, we're doing this all wrong. So I don't even ever really consider a top 10 pick unless it's like a weird...

like a case where the guy never looked like a top 10 pick and then all of a sudden did but I just yeah if you're one of the top players in the draft you're the whole thing was that you're supposed to get better and be good so I don't I don't think John Moran should have ever won it and I certainly don't think Cade should win it it's nothing to do with Cade or and Evan Mobley like another guy who would have a case but I'm like dude these guys are good they're supposed to be good I'm not voting for them it kind of goes against the spirit of the award

like a case where the guy never looked like a top 10 pick and then all of a sudden did but I just yeah if you're one of the top players in the draft you're the whole thing was that you're supposed to get better and be good so I don't I don't think John Moran should have ever won it and I certainly don't think Cade should win it it's nothing to do with Cade or and Evan Mobley like another guy who would have a case but I'm like dude these guys are good they're supposed to be good I'm not voting for them it kind of goes against the spirit of the award

like a case where the guy never looked like a top 10 pick and then all of a sudden did but I just yeah if you're one of the top players in the draft you're the whole thing was that you're supposed to get better and be good so I don't I don't think John Moran should have ever won it and I certainly don't think Cade should win it it's nothing to do with Cade or and Evan Mobley like another guy who would have a case but I'm like dude these guys are good they're supposed to be good I'm not voting for them it kind of goes against the spirit of the award

We kind of know the teams that should be in the playoffs. But in this case, this is pretty interesting. My only fix to the play-in would be like, do we really need the 9-10 teams in here? Maybe just one game for the seven, eight seeds to figure it out, battle it out and then go that way. But in general, yeah, I think the play in is fine. It works.

We kind of know the teams that should be in the playoffs. But in this case, this is pretty interesting. My only fix to the play-in would be like, do we really need the 9-10 teams in here? Maybe just one game for the seven, eight seeds to figure it out, battle it out and then go that way. But in general, yeah, I think the play in is fine. It works.

We kind of know the teams that should be in the playoffs. But in this case, this is pretty interesting. My only fix to the play-in would be like, do we really need the 9-10 teams in here? Maybe just one game for the seven, eight seeds to figure it out, battle it out and then go that way. But in general, yeah, I think the play in is fine. It works.

I do. I think about like a guy like Avicii Zubac, who has, it's been steady improvement his entire career, but has legitimately been one of the best five centers in the league this year. I mean, it is, he's an elite center. I think he's been awesome. I think Austin Reeves has also taken a leap. I think we have, you can't ignore that. Christian Brown,

I do. I think about like a guy like Avicii Zubac, who has, it's been steady improvement his entire career, but has legitimately been one of the best five centers in the league this year. I mean, it is, he's an elite center. I think he's been awesome. I think Austin Reeves has also taken a leap. I think we have, you can't ignore that. Christian Brown,

I do. I think about like a guy like Avicii Zubac, who has, it's been steady improvement his entire career, but has legitimately been one of the best five centers in the league this year. I mean, it is, he's an elite center. I think he's been awesome. I think Austin Reeves has also taken a leap. I think we have, you can't ignore that. Christian Brown,

In Denver, Dyson Daniels with what he's doing in Atlanta, even though you could argue, is that an opportunity thing or is that really an improvement? I can go either way on that. Ty Jerome, Peyton Pritchard. I mean, there's such a bunch of Aaron Wiggins, like these guys off the bench that are just doing really important stuff for really good teams.

In Denver, Dyson Daniels with what he's doing in Atlanta, even though you could argue, is that an opportunity thing or is that really an improvement? I can go either way on that. Ty Jerome, Peyton Pritchard. I mean, there's such a bunch of Aaron Wiggins, like these guys off the bench that are just doing really important stuff for really good teams.

In Denver, Dyson Daniels with what he's doing in Atlanta, even though you could argue, is that an opportunity thing or is that really an improvement? I can go either way on that. Ty Jerome, Peyton Pritchard. I mean, there's such a bunch of Aaron Wiggins, like these guys off the bench that are just doing really important stuff for really good teams.

The guy that I go back to, though, and this might be my Miami Homerism talking here, Dave, but I can't help but think that Tyler Hero deserves real recognition for this award. This is a guy who, when I think about most improved, right? Like, I don't... We already discussed the top five guys that are supposed to be good. I also want to see a guy who...

The guy that I go back to, though, and this might be my Miami Homerism talking here, Dave, but I can't help but think that Tyler Hero deserves real recognition for this award. This is a guy who, when I think about most improved, right? Like, I don't... We already discussed the top five guys that are supposed to be good. I also want to see a guy who...

The guy that I go back to, though, and this might be my Miami Homerism talking here, Dave, but I can't help but think that Tyler Hero deserves real recognition for this award. This is a guy who, when I think about most improved, right? Like, I don't... We already discussed the top five guys that are supposed to be good. I also want to see a guy who...

legitimately improved in, in different parts of his game, certain skills, but also maybe change the way that he plays. I think that's maybe the hardest improvement to do, especially if you're somebody like Tyler hero, who six years into his career has a six man of the year award has been a part of two finals teams has been a 20 point per game score twice going into this year.

legitimately improved in, in different parts of his game, certain skills, but also maybe change the way that he plays. I think that's maybe the hardest improvement to do, especially if you're somebody like Tyler hero, who six years into his career has a six man of the year award has been a part of two finals teams has been a 20 point per game score twice going into this year.

legitimately improved in, in different parts of his game, certain skills, but also maybe change the way that he plays. I think that's maybe the hardest improvement to do, especially if you're somebody like Tyler hero, who six years into his career has a six man of the year award has been a part of two finals teams has been a 20 point per game score twice going into this year.

made a hundred million dollar contract, earned a hundred million dollar contract. Guys in that position don't usually say, you know what? I'm going to change everything about what I'm doing. I'm going to just completely change it all. And he went into the lab this off season and said everything that he had been doing to this point wasn't good enough anymore.

made a hundred million dollar contract, earned a hundred million dollar contract. Guys in that position don't usually say, you know what? I'm going to change everything about what I'm doing. I'm going to just completely change it all. And he went into the lab this off season and said everything that he had been doing to this point wasn't good enough anymore.

made a hundred million dollar contract, earned a hundred million dollar contract. Guys in that position don't usually say, you know what? I'm going to change everything about what I'm doing. I'm going to just completely change it all. And he went into the lab this off season and said everything that he had been doing to this point wasn't good enough anymore.

And he looked at his shot chart and he looked at all the things that he was trying to work on and his skill development and his physical development. And he just, he scratched all of it. And he said, I'm going to do it all different. And he looked at Steph Curry's shot chart and he's like, I want to get as close to that as possible.

And he looked at his shot chart and he looked at all the things that he was trying to work on and his skill development and his physical development. And he just, he scratched all of it. And he said, I'm going to do it all different. And he looked at Steph Curry's shot chart and he's like, I want to get as close to that as possible.

And he looked at his shot chart and he looked at all the things that he was trying to work on and his skill development and his physical development. And he just, he scratched all of it. And he said, I'm going to do it all different. And he looked at Steph Curry's shot chart and he's like, I want to get as close to that as possible.

And then he did like all the mid range jumpers that he would dribble a air ball that he would dribble the air out of the ball and dribble into those are gone. You know, he started taking way more threes. The off ball movement has been huge physically. He's much more improved. It's the first time he's ever played 70 games in a season.

And then he did like all the mid range jumpers that he would dribble a air ball that he would dribble the air out of the ball and dribble into those are gone. You know, he started taking way more threes. The off ball movement has been huge physically. He's much more improved. It's the first time he's ever played 70 games in a season.

And then he did like all the mid range jumpers that he would dribble a air ball that he would dribble the air out of the ball and dribble into those are gone. You know, he started taking way more threes. The off ball movement has been huge physically. He's much more improved. It's the first time he's ever played 70 games in a season.

this year since his rookie year I mean he's gotten more durable like you think about all the things that he could have improved upon and that he were asking him to improve upon and he just checked every single box and then he became a first-time All-Star so he was rewarded with it with the individual accolades as well I think it's so hard for a player again who is a first round pick made the money did all that stuff to just walk into year six and be like

this year since his rookie year I mean he's gotten more durable like you think about all the things that he could have improved upon and that he were asking him to improve upon and he just checked every single box and then he became a first-time All-Star so he was rewarded with it with the individual accolades as well I think it's so hard for a player again who is a first round pick made the money did all that stuff to just walk into year six and be like

this year since his rookie year I mean he's gotten more durable like you think about all the things that he could have improved upon and that he were asking him to improve upon and he just checked every single box and then he became a first-time All-Star so he was rewarded with it with the individual accolades as well I think it's so hard for a player again who is a first round pick made the money did all that stuff to just walk into year six and be like

I'm going to it's not good enough. I'm going to change all of it. I'm going to change my mindset. I think that's so hard and underappreciated that when I look at most improved, I don't know that anybody has improved from where they were to where they are now as much as Tyler Hero has.

I'm going to it's not good enough. I'm going to change all of it. I'm going to change my mindset. I think that's so hard and underappreciated that when I look at most improved, I don't know that anybody has improved from where they were to where they are now as much as Tyler Hero has.

I'm going to it's not good enough. I'm going to change all of it. I'm going to change my mindset. I think that's so hard and underappreciated that when I look at most improved, I don't know that anybody has improved from where they were to where they are now as much as Tyler Hero has.

And we're in for a really exciting finish here because I don't like you said, this is madness. I don't remember the last time the standings were just like this bananas with four or five games left in the season. And it's every single day. It's standings watching in the Western Conference now.

And we're in for a really exciting finish here because I don't like you said, this is madness. I don't remember the last time the standings were just like this bananas with four or five games left in the season. And it's every single day. It's standings watching in the Western Conference now.

And we're in for a really exciting finish here because I don't like you said, this is madness. I don't remember the last time the standings were just like this bananas with four or five games left in the season. And it's every single day. It's standings watching in the Western Conference now.

Yeah, I might go Zubach here and that I don't have a great reason other than he's been awesome. And I love watching that guy play. And he's just I'm going to put him on every single ballot. He'll be on my defensive player of the year ballot. I love the season that he's been putting together. So off the top of my head, I go Zubach.

Yeah, I might go Zubach here and that I don't have a great reason other than he's been awesome. And I love watching that guy play. And he's just I'm going to put him on every single ballot. He'll be on my defensive player of the year ballot. I love the season that he's been putting together. So off the top of my head, I go Zubach.

Yeah, I might go Zubach here and that I don't have a great reason other than he's been awesome. And I love watching that guy play. And he's just I'm going to put him on every single ballot. He'll be on my defensive player of the year ballot. I love the season that he's been putting together. So off the top of my head, I go Zubach.

Well, my first thought is Warriors Lakers, just because of their aging stars, don't play as many games, especially when you think about the Warriors. They've got Jimmy Butler. Jimmy Butler got injured in the playing tournament last year when he was playing for the Miami Heat and then wasn't available for them in the first round against Boston. So age, whatever.

Well, my first thought is Warriors Lakers, just because of their aging stars, don't play as many games, especially when you think about the Warriors. They've got Jimmy Butler. Jimmy Butler got injured in the playing tournament last year when he was playing for the Miami Heat and then wasn't available for them in the first round against Boston. So age, whatever.

Well, my first thought is Warriors Lakers, just because of their aging stars, don't play as many games, especially when you think about the Warriors. They've got Jimmy Butler. Jimmy Butler got injured in the playing tournament last year when he was playing for the Miami Heat and then wasn't available for them in the first round against Boston. So age, whatever.

But then I'm like, well, anybody can get injured. It's, you know, stuff happens all the time. I'm looking at the Clippers, Dave. I'm really looking at the Clippers here. They have not beaten the Thunder or the Rockets this season. So if they're in the play-in and they make it out of the play-in, well, they're going to have to probably play one of the Rockets or the Thunder in that first round.

But then I'm like, well, anybody can get injured. It's, you know, stuff happens all the time. I'm looking at the Clippers, Dave. I'm really looking at the Clippers here. They have not beaten the Thunder or the Rockets this season. So if they're in the play-in and they make it out of the play-in, well, they're going to have to probably play one of the Rockets or the Thunder in that first round.

But then I'm like, well, anybody can get injured. It's, you know, stuff happens all the time. I'm looking at the Clippers, Dave. I'm really looking at the Clippers here. They have not beaten the Thunder or the Rockets this season. So if they're in the play-in and they make it out of the play-in, well, they're going to have to probably play one of the Rockets or the Thunder in that first round.

And like I said, they haven't beaten those guys yet. Now, they do play Houston on Wednesday night. Maybe that's something that could be informational for us. But they're a team that actually has...

And like I said, they haven't beaten those guys yet. Now, they do play Houston on Wednesday night. Maybe that's something that could be informational for us. But they're a team that actually has...

And like I said, they haven't beaten those guys yet. Now, they do play Houston on Wednesday night. Maybe that's something that could be informational for us. But they're a team that actually has...

some pretty good matchup stuff depending on where they might end up in the bracket like they have beaten golden state right they uh they match up really well with denver so if they end up in a first round series against those teams they probably feel a lot better about their chances against them than they would against a couple of teams that they have yet to beat all season long so i look at the clippers as the team that really needs to avoid the play-in probably more than any of these other teams

some pretty good matchup stuff depending on where they might end up in the bracket like they have beaten golden state right they uh they match up really well with denver so if they end up in a first round series against those teams they probably feel a lot better about their chances against them than they would against a couple of teams that they have yet to beat all season long so i look at the clippers as the team that really needs to avoid the play-in probably more than any of these other teams

some pretty good matchup stuff depending on where they might end up in the bracket like they have beaten golden state right they uh they match up really well with denver so if they end up in a first round series against those teams they probably feel a lot better about their chances against them than they would against a couple of teams that they have yet to beat all season long so i look at the clippers as the team that really needs to avoid the play-in probably more than any of these other teams

Not to say the regular season is everything, but yeah, those matchups are tough for them, right?

Not to say the regular season is everything, but yeah, those matchups are tough for them, right?

Not to say the regular season is everything, but yeah, those matchups are tough for them, right?

Yeah, that's a team that feels like they might not even make it out of the play. And I just saw John Morant in Miami hit a game winner to win the game for the Grizzlies the other night. So I'm not going to doubt John Morant. And we've seen what he could do in the playoffs before. I mean, that guy is a playoff gamer.

Yeah, that's a team that feels like they might not even make it out of the play. And I just saw John Morant in Miami hit a game winner to win the game for the Grizzlies the other night. So I'm not going to doubt John Morant. And we've seen what he could do in the playoffs before. I mean, that guy is a playoff gamer.

Yeah, that's a team that feels like they might not even make it out of the play. And I just saw John Morant in Miami hit a game winner to win the game for the Grizzlies the other night. So I'm not going to doubt John Morant. And we've seen what he could do in the playoffs before. I mean, that guy is a playoff gamer.

We don't really talk about him in that sort of tier of player, but he's been basically his whole career. Jaron Jackson Jr. has been phenomenal this year, especially like we know what he does defensively. Offensively, he's taken a leap on that end. I always think that we've thought of Memphis as a deep team.

We don't really talk about him in that sort of tier of player, but he's been basically his whole career. Jaron Jackson Jr. has been phenomenal this year, especially like we know what he does defensively. Offensively, he's taken a leap on that end. I always think that we've thought of Memphis as a deep team.

We don't really talk about him in that sort of tier of player, but he's been basically his whole career. Jaron Jackson Jr. has been phenomenal this year, especially like we know what he does defensively. Offensively, he's taken a leap on that end. I always think that we've thought of Memphis as a deep team.

And then you kind of look at the roster this year and you're like, I don't, how deep is this team? You know, like they're relying on two rookies in that starting lineup. There's guys that I like coming off the bench, but this team is really reliant on Desmond Bain making threes. Um,

And then you kind of look at the roster this year and you're like, I don't, how deep is this team? You know, like they're relying on two rookies in that starting lineup. There's guys that I like coming off the bench, but this team is really reliant on Desmond Bain making threes. Um,

And then you kind of look at the roster this year and you're like, I don't, how deep is this team? You know, like they're relying on two rookies in that starting lineup. There's guys that I like coming off the bench, but this team is really reliant on Desmond Bain making threes. Um,

they're a team that if just one thing kind of goes wrong in the game, especially with the new coaching there, it feels like can kind of go sideways for them early in the game. So yeah, I'm, it feels like Memphis is one of these teams that could lose a game that maybe you don't even expect them to lose in the plant tournament.

they're a team that if just one thing kind of goes wrong in the game, especially with the new coaching there, it feels like can kind of go sideways for them early in the game. So yeah, I'm, it feels like Memphis is one of these teams that could lose a game that maybe you don't even expect them to lose in the plant tournament.

they're a team that if just one thing kind of goes wrong in the game, especially with the new coaching there, it feels like can kind of go sideways for them early in the game. So yeah, I'm, it feels like Memphis is one of these teams that could lose a game that maybe you don't even expect them to lose in the plant tournament.

I think I do just because Jokic, you know, at the risk of oversimplifying stuff. But he's just obviously a guy who could take over any game and diagnose that matchup and do it. We've seen him go off for 61 points when they've needed him to do it. So if it's a do-or-die situation, I just trust him to do that. But... Yeah, avoiding the play-in for them, too, would be really important.

I think I do just because Jokic, you know, at the risk of oversimplifying stuff. But he's just obviously a guy who could take over any game and diagnose that matchup and do it. We've seen him go off for 61 points when they've needed him to do it. So if it's a do-or-die situation, I just trust him to do that. But... Yeah, avoiding the play-in for them, too, would be really important.

I think I do just because Jokic, you know, at the risk of oversimplifying stuff. But he's just obviously a guy who could take over any game and diagnose that matchup and do it. We've seen him go off for 61 points when they've needed him to do it. So if it's a do-or-die situation, I just trust him to do that. But... Yeah, avoiding the play-in for them, too, would be really important.

Making it out of the play-in. I mean, this is just a team that's been dealing with injuries all year. We know the Jamal Murray thing, like you already mentioned. Aaron Gordon has been in and out of the lineup with injuries all year. It seems like that still might be affecting him a little bit here. And then even with Jokic, the guy's playing so many minutes this year.

Making it out of the play-in. I mean, this is just a team that's been dealing with injuries all year. We know the Jamal Murray thing, like you already mentioned. Aaron Gordon has been in and out of the lineup with injuries all year. It seems like that still might be affecting him a little bit here. And then even with Jokic, the guy's playing so many minutes this year.

Making it out of the play-in. I mean, this is just a team that's been dealing with injuries all year. We know the Jamal Murray thing, like you already mentioned. Aaron Gordon has been in and out of the lineup with injuries all year. It seems like that still might be affecting him a little bit here. And then even with Jokic, the guy's playing so many minutes this year.

You know, if you could avoid the play-in and just save him a week, doesn't that feel like, of all the players in the playoffs, Jokic might be the guy that needs a week off the most, considering what this season has been for this guy?

You know, if you could avoid the play-in and just save him a week, doesn't that feel like, of all the players in the playoffs, Jokic might be the guy that needs a week off the most, considering what this season has been for this guy?

You know, if you could avoid the play-in and just save him a week, doesn't that feel like, of all the players in the playoffs, Jokic might be the guy that needs a week off the most, considering what this season has been for this guy?

Give them the week off. Like if you're Denver, they're also a team that kind of uses momentum a lot, which is kind of weird for like a veteran team. But when they've got when they are able to string together a couple of wins, that usually leads to another couple of wins for them.

Give them the week off. Like if you're Denver, they're also a team that kind of uses momentum a lot, which is kind of weird for like a veteran team. But when they've got when they are able to string together a couple of wins, that usually leads to another couple of wins for them.

Give them the week off. Like if you're Denver, they're also a team that kind of uses momentum a lot, which is kind of weird for like a veteran team. But when they've got when they are able to string together a couple of wins, that usually leads to another couple of wins for them.

So if they're playing and peaking at the right time, even though they've lost a few games in a row here, if they can kind of close out this last week strong, that probably sets up well for them.

So if they're playing and peaking at the right time, even though they've lost a few games in a row here, if they can kind of close out this last week strong, that probably sets up well for them.

So if they're playing and peaking at the right time, even though they've lost a few games in a row here, if they can kind of close out this last week strong, that probably sets up well for them.

That's kind of where I'm at, just because even if they do make it out of the play-in, it just feels like they would be dead in the water in a first round. It's just a tough matchup for them, and they've proven that in the regular season.

That's kind of where I'm at, just because even if they do make it out of the play-in, it just feels like they would be dead in the water in a first round. It's just a tough matchup for them, and they've proven that in the regular season.

That's kind of where I'm at, just because even if they do make it out of the play-in, it just feels like they would be dead in the water in a first round. It's just a tough matchup for them, and they've proven that in the regular season.

But then on the flip side, if they can get into that 4-5 range, well, now all of a sudden you're looking at a matchup that could be beneficial for them, and now maybe we're talking about a team that could... make it out of the first round of the Western Conference. And then once you're there and you see how the bracket works, who knows?

But then on the flip side, if they can get into that 4-5 range, well, now all of a sudden you're looking at a matchup that could be beneficial for them, and now maybe we're talking about a team that could... make it out of the first round of the Western Conference. And then once you're there and you see how the bracket works, who knows?

But then on the flip side, if they can get into that 4-5 range, well, now all of a sudden you're looking at a matchup that could be beneficial for them, and now maybe we're talking about a team that could... make it out of the first round of the Western Conference. And then once you're there and you see how the bracket works, who knows?

Maybe that's a team that can make it all the way to the conference finals. And Kawhi Leonard's been playing like that guy. James Harden, we know his playoff words, but he's not that guy anymore for this team as long as Kawhi is healthy. And then obviously you save a week and you mitigate the risk of Kawhi aggravating something in another week there too.

Maybe that's a team that can make it all the way to the conference finals. And Kawhi Leonard's been playing like that guy. James Harden, we know his playoff words, but he's not that guy anymore for this team as long as Kawhi is healthy. And then obviously you save a week and you mitigate the risk of Kawhi aggravating something in another week there too.

Maybe that's a team that can make it all the way to the conference finals. And Kawhi Leonard's been playing like that guy. James Harden, we know his playoff words, but he's not that guy anymore for this team as long as Kawhi is healthy. And then obviously you save a week and you mitigate the risk of Kawhi aggravating something in another week there too.

So yeah, my answer is the Clippers, probably just because it feels like... It could either be over before it even begins, or this is a team that we could be looking in a month from now or a couple months from now and be like, wow, that team made a run to the Western Conference Finals that we didn't expect.

So yeah, my answer is the Clippers, probably just because it feels like... It could either be over before it even begins, or this is a team that we could be looking in a month from now or a couple months from now and be like, wow, that team made a run to the Western Conference Finals that we didn't expect.

So yeah, my answer is the Clippers, probably just because it feels like... It could either be over before it even begins, or this is a team that we could be looking in a month from now or a couple months from now and be like, wow, that team made a run to the Western Conference Finals that we didn't expect.

I'm not. And that's not even a thing against Draymond. I think he's been sensational and he's had really big games and really big moments in on like a national stage, right? We, what he did against the honest a couple of weeks ago was just classic Draymond green defensive masterclass. He had those stops against the Lakers a couple of nights ago that were huge, obviously down the stretch.

I'm not. And that's not even a thing against Draymond. I think he's been sensational and he's had really big games and really big moments in on like a national stage, right? We, what he did against the honest a couple of weeks ago was just classic Draymond green defensive masterclass. He had those stops against the Lakers a couple of nights ago that were huge, obviously down the stretch.

I'm not. And that's not even a thing against Draymond. I think he's been sensational and he's had really big games and really big moments in on like a national stage, right? We, what he did against the honest a couple of weeks ago was just classic Draymond green defensive masterclass. He had those stops against the Lakers a couple of nights ago that were huge, obviously down the stretch.

And he's awesome. Like Draymond green is awesome. And the fact that he only has one defensive player of the year award for his career is It's kind of a crime. So if he were to get it again this year, I wouldn't be upset about it.

And he's awesome. Like Draymond green is awesome. And the fact that he only has one defensive player of the year award for his career is It's kind of a crime. So if he were to get it again this year, I wouldn't be upset about it.

And he's awesome. Like Draymond green is awesome. And the fact that he only has one defensive player of the year award for his career is It's kind of a crime. So if he were to get it again this year, I wouldn't be upset about it.

But I also don't think that he was wire to wire to the best defender in the league this season, despite everything that he's been saying and the campaign that he's had the best campaign out of anybody in terms of just being out there. I agree. But yeah, I don't think he's been the best defender wire to wire.

But I also don't think that he was wire to wire to the best defender in the league this season, despite everything that he's been saying and the campaign that he's had the best campaign out of anybody in terms of just being out there. I agree. But yeah, I don't think he's been the best defender wire to wire.

But I also don't think that he was wire to wire to the best defender in the league this season, despite everything that he's been saying and the campaign that he's had the best campaign out of anybody in terms of just being out there. I agree. But yeah, I don't think he's been the best defender wire to wire.

So I'm between two guys, but before I tell you who it is, can we talk a little bit about Ahmed Thompson making a late push for this thing? I would love to talk about it.

So I'm between two guys, but before I tell you who it is, can we talk a little bit about Ahmed Thompson making a late push for this thing? I would love to talk about it.

So I'm between two guys, but before I tell you who it is, can we talk a little bit about Ahmed Thompson making a late push for this thing? I would love to talk about it.

What he did against Steph Curry and the Warriors on Sunday night, it has me at least rethinking my whole defensive player of the year thing. And then I look at the different sports books this morning, Dave, and he's not even listed on these things in terms of odds. And I'm like, look, I don't know if he would be my favorite. He's probably not right now.

What he did against Steph Curry and the Warriors on Sunday night, it has me at least rethinking my whole defensive player of the year thing. And then I look at the different sports books this morning, Dave, and he's not even listed on these things in terms of odds. And I'm like, look, I don't know if he would be my favorite. He's probably not right now.

What he did against Steph Curry and the Warriors on Sunday night, it has me at least rethinking my whole defensive player of the year thing. And then I look at the different sports books this morning, Dave, and he's not even listed on these things in terms of odds. And I'm like, look, I don't know if he would be my favorite. He's probably not right now.

but he would, he would be on my ballot and did not even have him mentioned in this conversation. I mean, Shady Eldridge's Alexander has better odds than Ahmed Thompson does. That seems weird. So he's one of those guys who, when I think about defensive player of the year,

but he would, he would be on my ballot and did not even have him mentioned in this conversation. I mean, Shady Eldridge's Alexander has better odds than Ahmed Thompson does. That seems weird. So he's one of those guys who, when I think about defensive player of the year,

but he would, he would be on my ballot and did not even have him mentioned in this conversation. I mean, Shady Eldridge's Alexander has better odds than Ahmed Thompson does. That seems weird. So he's one of those guys who, when I think about defensive player of the year,

Not only am I looking at who's getting stops and who's important to their defense, but who's making those game-changing defensive plays? Who's swinging the momentum and changing the entire tenor of the whole matchup just with what they do on the defensive end? And I don't know that there's... I mean... I don't.

Not only am I looking at who's getting stops and who's important to their defense, but who's making those game-changing defensive plays? Who's swinging the momentum and changing the entire tenor of the whole matchup just with what they do on the defensive end? And I don't know that there's... I mean... I don't.

Not only am I looking at who's getting stops and who's important to their defense, but who's making those game-changing defensive plays? Who's swinging the momentum and changing the entire tenor of the whole matchup just with what they do on the defensive end? And I don't know that there's... I mean... I don't.

Is there anybody better than Ahmed Thompson on that end when when he's sort of just totally dialed in and engaged in terms of just making those huge kind of game swinging type of plays on the defensive end? I think he at least has to be in the conversation.

Is there anybody better than Ahmed Thompson on that end when when he's sort of just totally dialed in and engaged in terms of just making those huge kind of game swinging type of plays on the defensive end? I think he at least has to be in the conversation.

Is there anybody better than Ahmed Thompson on that end when when he's sort of just totally dialed in and engaged in terms of just making those huge kind of game swinging type of plays on the defensive end? I think he at least has to be in the conversation.

Yeah, it's just weird that we're not even having him in the conversation. I mean, he guarded Steph on Sunday night. He guards Shea Gilgis-Alexander in Houston's win over Oklahoma City. And then a couple weeks ago, he's guarding Luka and holds him to one for six shooting, right? It's just... There are moments for him, but to your point, it's very similar to the Draymond Green case a little bit.

Yeah, it's just weird that we're not even having him in the conversation. I mean, he guarded Steph on Sunday night. He guards Shea Gilgis-Alexander in Houston's win over Oklahoma City. And then a couple weeks ago, he's guarding Luka and holds him to one for six shooting, right? It's just... There are moments for him, but to your point, it's very similar to the Draymond Green case a little bit.

Yeah, it's just weird that we're not even having him in the conversation. I mean, he guarded Steph on Sunday night. He guards Shea Gilgis-Alexander in Houston's win over Oklahoma City. And then a couple weeks ago, he's guarding Luka and holds him to one for six shooting, right? It's just... There are moments for him, but to your point, it's very similar to the Draymond Green case a little bit.

I just wanted to throw him in there. But to answer your question, I'm either... I'm between Lou Dort and Evan Mobley at this point. And now you kind of get back to that classic, well, am I going to go with the perimeter guy or am I going to go with the big? And... I will make the case for Lou Dort because the one thing I hear, Evan Mobley, he's awesome. Cleveland's defense has been really good.

I just wanted to throw him in there. But to answer your question, I'm either... I'm between Lou Dort and Evan Mobley at this point. And now you kind of get back to that classic, well, am I going to go with the perimeter guy or am I going to go with the big? And... I will make the case for Lou Dort because the one thing I hear, Evan Mobley, he's awesome. Cleveland's defense has been really good.

I just wanted to throw him in there. But to answer your question, I'm either... I'm between Lou Dort and Evan Mobley at this point. And now you kind of get back to that classic, well, am I going to go with the perimeter guy or am I going to go with the big? And... I will make the case for Lou Dort because the one thing I hear, Evan Mobley, he's awesome. Cleveland's defense has been really good.

But with Lou Dort, I keep hearing this pushback of, well, he's surrounded with a lot of really good defenders in Oklahoma City. And that's true. Like, no doubt about it. I kind of think... the whole thing falls apart without Lou Dort a little bit. Like it's not to say that there would be a bad defense, but they wouldn't be elite.

But with Lou Dort, I keep hearing this pushback of, well, he's surrounded with a lot of really good defenders in Oklahoma City. And that's true. Like, no doubt about it. I kind of think... the whole thing falls apart without Lou Dort a little bit. Like it's not to say that there would be a bad defense, but they wouldn't be elite.

But with Lou Dort, I keep hearing this pushback of, well, he's surrounded with a lot of really good defenders in Oklahoma City. And that's true. Like, no doubt about it. I kind of think... the whole thing falls apart without Lou Dort a little bit. Like it's not to say that there would be a bad defense, but they wouldn't be elite.

Like just this absolute, you know, razor of a, of a defense that just is carrying them to wins. It's almost 70 wins in a season. They'd probably be still top 10, but I don't think they would be this dominant on this end. If not for Lou Dort, he's always the guy taking the most difficult assignment. He's kind of the, the, the anchor of that defense and everybody else kind of

Like just this absolute, you know, razor of a, of a defense that just is carrying them to wins. It's almost 70 wins in a season. They'd probably be still top 10, but I don't think they would be this dominant on this end. If not for Lou Dort, he's always the guy taking the most difficult assignment. He's kind of the, the, the anchor of that defense and everybody else kind of

Like just this absolute, you know, razor of a, of a defense that just is carrying them to wins. It's almost 70 wins in a season. They'd probably be still top 10, but I don't think they would be this dominant on this end. If not for Lou Dort, he's always the guy taking the most difficult assignment. He's kind of the, the, the anchor of that defense and everybody else kind of

So when it first was introduced, I was anti-playing because I mostly don't like new things and things that generally add more stuff to an already packed NBA schedule. And then I really liked the play-in because it ended up being really exciting. And then I'm looking at the Eastern Conference this year. I'm like, are we sure we need to play in here?

So when it first was introduced, I was anti-playing because I mostly don't like new things and things that generally add more stuff to an already packed NBA schedule. And then I really liked the play-in because it ended up being really exciting. And then I'm looking at the Eastern Conference this year. I'm like, are we sure we need to play in here?

So when it first was introduced, I was anti-playing because I mostly don't like new things and things that generally add more stuff to an already packed NBA schedule. And then I really liked the play-in because it ended up being really exciting. And then I'm looking at the Eastern Conference this year. I'm like, are we sure we need to play in here?

does stuff around him, but every single night he's bringing it. And I just think about two things. Who's had the best wire to wire defensive season. I think Lou Dort started the year just already looking like an all defensive guy. And he's finished the year looking at it. He's not had any lulls or any dips.

does stuff around him, but every single night he's bringing it. And I just think about two things. Who's had the best wire to wire defensive season. I think Lou Dort started the year just already looking like an all defensive guy. And he's finished the year looking at it. He's not had any lulls or any dips.

does stuff around him, but every single night he's bringing it. And I just think about two things. Who's had the best wire to wire defensive season. I think Lou Dort started the year just already looking like an all defensive guy. And he's finished the year looking at it. He's not had any lulls or any dips.

I can't think of a time where I watched the thunder game and I was like, not an awesome game for Dort defensively on this end. The guy just doesn't screw up. He's awesome and he's super important. And he's also really important to all the stuff they do with the deflections and all that kind of stuff. He's so integral into everything that Mark Dagnon is doing there.

I can't think of a time where I watched the thunder game and I was like, not an awesome game for Dort defensively on this end. The guy just doesn't screw up. He's awesome and he's super important. And he's also really important to all the stuff they do with the deflections and all that kind of stuff. He's so integral into everything that Mark Dagnon is doing there.

I can't think of a time where I watched the thunder game and I was like, not an awesome game for Dort defensively on this end. The guy just doesn't screw up. He's awesome and he's super important. And he's also really important to all the stuff they do with the deflections and all that kind of stuff. He's so integral into everything that Mark Dagnon is doing there.

And then the other thing is when you talk to players around the league, you ask them, who's the one guy you don't want defending you? They all say Lou Dort. They all say Lou Dort.

And then the other thing is when you talk to players around the league, you ask them, who's the one guy you don't want defending you? They all say Lou Dort. They all say Lou Dort.

And then the other thing is when you talk to players around the league, you ask them, who's the one guy you don't want defending you? They all say Lou Dort. They all say Lou Dort.

It's a great question. In terms of the first part, they've finally figured out how they want to play, the rotations that they want to get to. Eric Fulcher kind of had a pretty audacious plan going into the year, playing Terry Rozier and Tyler Hero together in that backcourt, playing Nikola Jovic at that starting power forward spot.

It's a great question. In terms of the first part, they've finally figured out how they want to play, the rotations that they want to get to. Eric Fulcher kind of had a pretty audacious plan going into the year, playing Terry Rozier and Tyler Hero together in that backcourt, playing Nikola Jovic at that starting power forward spot.

It's a great question. In terms of the first part, they've finally figured out how they want to play, the rotations that they want to get to. Eric Fulcher kind of had a pretty audacious plan going into the year, playing Terry Rozier and Tyler Hero together in that backcourt, playing Nikola Jovic at that starting power forward spot.

There was just so many question marks, not really knowing how that bench unit was going to look or how it was going to work. And... doing all that while also installing what was going to be essentially a five-out offense. They wanted to take a lot more threes. They wanted to reduce the amount of mid-range shots that they took. They were way over-indexed on mid-range shots last season.

There was just so many question marks, not really knowing how that bench unit was going to look or how it was going to work. And... doing all that while also installing what was going to be essentially a five-out offense. They wanted to take a lot more threes. They wanted to reduce the amount of mid-range shots that they took. They were way over-indexed on mid-range shots last season.

There was just so many question marks, not really knowing how that bench unit was going to look or how it was going to work. And... doing all that while also installing what was going to be essentially a five-out offense. They wanted to take a lot more threes. They wanted to reduce the amount of mid-range shots that they took. They were way over-indexed on mid-range shots last season.

The math just was not working in their favor. And so a lot of this stuff was very much like an upheaval, even though you think of Miami typically being this team that's been together for so long, but they were trying to play in a very different way.

The math just was not working in their favor. And so a lot of this stuff was very much like an upheaval, even though you think of Miami typically being this team that's been together for so long, but they were trying to play in a very different way.

The math just was not working in their favor. And so a lot of this stuff was very much like an upheaval, even though you think of Miami typically being this team that's been together for so long, but they were trying to play in a very different way.

And trying to change an identity of a team without changing very much of the personnel is a really tough thing, maybe even an impossible thing in pro sports. And so the fact that it took so long shouldn't be surprising. And then Eric Spoelstra finally found the rotations at work. Rozier to the bench. Duncan Robinson elevated back to the starting lineup.

And trying to change an identity of a team without changing very much of the personnel is a really tough thing, maybe even an impossible thing in pro sports. And so the fact that it took so long shouldn't be surprising. And then Eric Spoelstra finally found the rotations at work. Rozier to the bench. Duncan Robinson elevated back to the starting lineup.

And trying to change an identity of a team without changing very much of the personnel is a really tough thing, maybe even an impossible thing in pro sports. And so the fact that it took so long shouldn't be surprising. And then Eric Spoelstra finally found the rotations at work. Rozier to the bench. Duncan Robinson elevated back to the starting lineup.

You've got their own version of the Splash Brothers between Tyler Hero and Duncan Robinson now in that backcourt. You add Heywood Highsmith now at the fore on the wing next to Jimmy Butler. And now you've got another really strong wing defender in that group that kind of reduces some of the stress on Tyler Hero and Duncan Robinson defensively.

You've got their own version of the Splash Brothers between Tyler Hero and Duncan Robinson now in that backcourt. You add Heywood Highsmith now at the fore on the wing next to Jimmy Butler. And now you've got another really strong wing defender in that group that kind of reduces some of the stress on Tyler Hero and Duncan Robinson defensively.

You've got their own version of the Splash Brothers between Tyler Hero and Duncan Robinson now in that backcourt. You add Heywood Highsmith now at the fore on the wing next to Jimmy Butler. And now you've got another really strong wing defender in that group that kind of reduces some of the stress on Tyler Hero and Duncan Robinson defensively.

And then Terry Rozier off the bench, he could just focus on being a scorer, which is what he is. He's not really a point guard. He's just sort of a scorer in a point guard's body. And so now everybody's kind of playing more where they're comfortable. And they've figured out a rhythm here because of that. Also, Bam Adebayo got out of a shooting slump. Jimmy Butler is more engaged more frequently.

And then Terry Rozier off the bench, he could just focus on being a scorer, which is what he is. He's not really a point guard. He's just sort of a scorer in a point guard's body. And so now everybody's kind of playing more where they're comfortable. And they've figured out a rhythm here because of that. Also, Bam Adebayo got out of a shooting slump. Jimmy Butler is more engaged more frequently.

And then Terry Rozier off the bench, he could just focus on being a scorer, which is what he is. He's not really a point guard. He's just sort of a scorer in a point guard's body. And so now everybody's kind of playing more where they're comfortable. And they've figured out a rhythm here because of that. Also, Bam Adebayo got out of a shooting slump. Jimmy Butler is more engaged more frequently.

And like you already said, Tyler Hero is playing out of his mind. So that's what's going on, and that's why they've won four straight. In terms of why now these trade rumors with Jimmy Butler and all these things, dude, your guess is as good as mine. Look, honestly, locally, we knew this stuff already. This was an open secret.

And like you already said, Tyler Hero is playing out of his mind. So that's what's going on, and that's why they've won four straight. In terms of why now these trade rumors with Jimmy Butler and all these things, dude, your guess is as good as mine. Look, honestly, locally, we knew this stuff already. This was an open secret.

And like you already said, Tyler Hero is playing out of his mind. So that's what's going on, and that's why they've won four straight. In terms of why now these trade rumors with Jimmy Butler and all these things, dude, your guess is as good as mine. Look, honestly, locally, we knew this stuff already. This was an open secret.

Basically, since Pat Riley declared in the spring in his end-of-season press conference, we're not signing Jimmy Butler to an extension, not even going to entertain that conversation. We're not even going to talk about it this summer. And ever since then, Jimmy Butler's future has been up in the air.

Basically, since Pat Riley declared in the spring in his end-of-season press conference, we're not signing Jimmy Butler to an extension, not even going to entertain that conversation. We're not even going to talk about it this summer. And ever since then, Jimmy Butler's future has been up in the air.

Basically, since Pat Riley declared in the spring in his end-of-season press conference, we're not signing Jimmy Butler to an extension, not even going to entertain that conversation. We're not even going to talk about it this summer. And ever since then, Jimmy Butler's future has been up in the air.

I think the only big difference now is that the Heat are open to listening to offers versus over the summer. They were essentially shutting down those offers. And I think that, again, it always was heading in that direction. You think about where Miami is or the league is at that 20 game mark of the season. That's typically when teams will take a step back and reflect on things.

I think the only big difference now is that the Heat are open to listening to offers versus over the summer. They were essentially shutting down those offers. And I think that, again, it always was heading in that direction. You think about where Miami is or the league is at that 20 game mark of the season. That's typically when teams will take a step back and reflect on things.

I think the only big difference now is that the Heat are open to listening to offers versus over the summer. They were essentially shutting down those offers. And I think that, again, it always was heading in that direction. You think about where Miami is or the league is at that 20 game mark of the season. That's typically when teams will take a step back and reflect on things.

Not just your own team, but also you look at the other teams. So I think a lot of those teams that might have called in the summer to ask about Jimmy Butler were calling again. And I'm assuming that the impression given to those teams was, well, we're not hanging up the phone right away. And that might just be the only thing here.

Not just your own team, but also you look at the other teams. So I think a lot of those teams that might have called in the summer to ask about Jimmy Butler were calling again. And I'm assuming that the impression given to those teams was, well, we're not hanging up the phone right away. And that might just be the only thing here.

Not just your own team, but also you look at the other teams. So I think a lot of those teams that might have called in the summer to ask about Jimmy Butler were calling again. And I'm assuming that the impression given to those teams was, well, we're not hanging up the phone right away. And that might just be the only thing here.

But in terms of the Heat, like shopping Jimmy Butler or anything like that, that's not happening. If the Heat are winning, they have a really hard time pulling the plug on something like that. And right now they are.

But in terms of the Heat, like shopping Jimmy Butler or anything like that, that's not happening. If the Heat are winning, they have a really hard time pulling the plug on something like that. And right now they are.

But in terms of the Heat, like shopping Jimmy Butler or anything like that, that's not happening. If the Heat are winning, they have a really hard time pulling the plug on something like that. And right now they are.

Yeah, it's kind of funny. I would love to get Tyler Hero in an honest moment and be like, isn't it nice that it's not you in the trade rumors for once? Right, right, right. But this team really, like, it's not a surprise. Like, the whole heat culture thing, I mean, the part of it that's real is that this team really does thrive under some sort of stakes when their backs are against the wall.

Yeah, it's kind of funny. I would love to get Tyler Hero in an honest moment and be like, isn't it nice that it's not you in the trade rumors for once? Right, right, right. But this team really, like, it's not a surprise. Like, the whole heat culture thing, I mean, the part of it that's real is that this team really does thrive under some sort of stakes when their backs are against the wall.

Yeah, it's kind of funny. I would love to get Tyler Hero in an honest moment and be like, isn't it nice that it's not you in the trade rumors for once? Right, right, right. But this team really, like, it's not a surprise. Like, the whole heat culture thing, I mean, the part of it that's real is that this team really does thrive under some sort of stakes when their backs are against the wall.

Like, they really find some sick enjoyment out of it. And I really do mean that, like, earnestly, like, they hear all these things and they're just like kind of rally together. It's, it's part of the identity of this group. It's very intangible, but you can, and, but when you're winning four in a row, that's the part when that's when you see it, right.

Like, they really find some sick enjoyment out of it. And I really do mean that, like, earnestly, like, they hear all these things and they're just like kind of rally together. It's, it's part of the identity of this group. It's very intangible, but you can, and, but when you're winning four in a row, that's the part when that's when you see it, right.

Like, they really find some sick enjoyment out of it. And I really do mean that, like, earnestly, like, they hear all these things and they're just like kind of rally together. It's, it's part of the identity of this group. It's very intangible, but you can, and, but when you're winning four in a row, that's the part when that's when you see it, right.

That's when you can touch and feel it and see it in the standings. Um, I, I, I was telling Dave before we even started recording, I've never seen Jimmy Butler in a better mood after a basketball game than I saw him tonight. He was amazing in that postgame. Just shouting at guys in a good way in the locker room, having a really good time.

That's when you can touch and feel it and see it in the standings. Um, I, I, I was telling Dave before we even started recording, I've never seen Jimmy Butler in a better mood after a basketball game than I saw him tonight. He was amazing in that postgame. Just shouting at guys in a good way in the locker room, having a really good time.

That's when you can touch and feel it and see it in the standings. Um, I, I, I was telling Dave before we even started recording, I've never seen Jimmy Butler in a better mood after a basketball game than I saw him tonight. He was amazing in that postgame. Just shouting at guys in a good way in the locker room, having a really good time.

He's really kind of had some fun dyeing his hair and changing his hair color and all these things. This team just really kind of gets jazzed up when people are doubting them or questioning them or whatever. In terms of the win streak, I think the overall sentiment on the team is We knew it. Like, we knew this was here. We weren't sure when we were going to see it, but we knew this part was here.

He's really kind of had some fun dyeing his hair and changing his hair color and all these things. This team just really kind of gets jazzed up when people are doubting them or questioning them or whatever. In terms of the win streak, I think the overall sentiment on the team is We knew it. Like, we knew this was here. We weren't sure when we were going to see it, but we knew this part was here.

He's really kind of had some fun dyeing his hair and changing his hair color and all these things. This team just really kind of gets jazzed up when people are doubting them or questioning them or whatever. In terms of the win streak, I think the overall sentiment on the team is We knew it. Like, we knew this was here. We weren't sure when we were going to see it, but we knew this part was here.

And I think it's been a really long time since the Heat have had a sustained winning stretch in the regular season. We know the 2023 finals run. Like, in the regular season, like, this is a team that's been in the playing tournament a couple years in a row now. We haven't really seen, like, a 10, 11, 12-game stretch where they've just won, like,

And I think it's been a really long time since the Heat have had a sustained winning stretch in the regular season. We know the 2023 finals run. Like, in the regular season, like, this is a team that's been in the playing tournament a couple years in a row now. We haven't really seen, like, a 10, 11, 12-game stretch where they've just won, like,

And I think it's been a really long time since the Heat have had a sustained winning stretch in the regular season. We know the 2023 finals run. Like, in the regular season, like, this is a team that's been in the playing tournament a couple years in a row now. We haven't really seen, like, a 10, 11, 12-game stretch where they've just won, like,

Do you agree with me there? Oh, 100%. I've said it 100 times. When we talk about Miami's problems in the past regular seasons, they start and stop with Jimmy Butler. And you mentioned the availability, just games played, but also mentally being there for some of these games. Last year, he played, what, 60-something games last season for the Heat? He was probably mentally engaged for...

Do you agree with me there? Oh, 100%. I've said it 100 times. When we talk about Miami's problems in the past regular seasons, they start and stop with Jimmy Butler. And you mentioned the availability, just games played, but also mentally being there for some of these games. Last year, he played, what, 60-something games last season for the Heat? He was probably mentally engaged for...

Do you agree with me there? Oh, 100%. I've said it 100 times. When we talk about Miami's problems in the past regular seasons, they start and stop with Jimmy Butler. And you mentioned the availability, just games played, but also mentally being there for some of these games. Last year, he played, what, 60-something games last season for the Heat? He was probably mentally engaged for...

30 of them like i'm like maybe like maybe that many it was not a good season for him and they need him playing at not even a high level but just like an engaged like part of the offense level um you know when when he basically has a usage rating of 20 percent but he'd have a very winning they're like they're a 58 pace win team 20 it's not like luca no 20 like cam johnson like that's 20 like it's just being a part of what's going on out there

30 of them like i'm like maybe like maybe that many it was not a good season for him and they need him playing at not even a high level but just like an engaged like part of the offense level um you know when when he basically has a usage rating of 20 percent but he'd have a very winning they're like they're a 58 pace win team 20 it's not like luca no 20 like cam johnson like that's 20 like it's just being a part of what's going on out there

30 of them like i'm like maybe like maybe that many it was not a good season for him and they need him playing at not even a high level but just like an engaged like part of the offense level um you know when when he basically has a usage rating of 20 percent but he'd have a very winning they're like they're a 58 pace win team 20 it's not like luca no 20 like cam johnson like that's 20 like it's just being a part of what's going on out there

And he's basically been that for them this year, and he's played a lot of games. He's played at the end of back-to-back. Pat Riley challenged him during that press conference, hey, you need to play more games if you want the money. So to answer your question, Dave, I think he's got a lot of motivation now to play in these games. He said, okay, I heard you. You want me to play more games?

And he's basically been that for them this year, and he's played a lot of games. He's played at the end of back-to-back. Pat Riley challenged him during that press conference, hey, you need to play more games if you want the money. So to answer your question, Dave, I think he's got a lot of motivation now to play in these games. He said, okay, I heard you. You want me to play more games?

And he's basically been that for them this year, and he's played a lot of games. He's played at the end of back-to-back. Pat Riley challenged him during that press conference, hey, you need to play more games if you want the money. So to answer your question, Dave, I think he's got a lot of motivation now to play in these games. He said, okay, I heard you. You want me to play more games?

I'm going to play more games. There's some games where he hasn't looked great. There's some games where, frankly, he probably should have taken those games off. I think about one in Charlotte where he was doing some back problems, and he was just bad in that game. Yeah. He said, you want me out here? I'll be out there. Hasn't rocked the boat. Nothing crazy at media day.

I'm going to play more games. There's some games where he hasn't looked great. There's some games where, frankly, he probably should have taken those games off. I think about one in Charlotte where he was doing some back problems, and he was just bad in that game. Yeah. He said, you want me out here? I'll be out there. Hasn't rocked the boat. Nothing crazy at media day.

I'm going to play more games. There's some games where he hasn't looked great. There's some games where, frankly, he probably should have taken those games off. I think about one in Charlotte where he was doing some back problems, and he was just bad in that game. Yeah. He said, you want me out here? I'll be out there. Hasn't rocked the boat. Nothing crazy at media day.

Nothing like he's been sort of this consummate professional, which has been a very big 180 from where he's sort of been in terms of his level of engagement in the regular season in the past.

Nothing like he's been sort of this consummate professional, which has been a very big 180 from where he's sort of been in terms of his level of engagement in the regular season in the past.

Nothing like he's been sort of this consummate professional, which has been a very big 180 from where he's sort of been in terms of his level of engagement in the regular season in the past.

As long as something happens to the team, I don't care.

As long as something happens to the team, I don't care.

As long as something happens to the team, I don't care.