On this episode of The Kevin O’Connor PresentKevin takes a deep dive on the 2 NBA Cup closing groups and what to anticipate of their subsequent matchup earlier than discussing ALL the newest information and intrigue across the NBA.

Kevin is first joined by NBA knowledgeable Andrew Schlecht to take a deep dive into the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder’s spectacular 20-5 begin to the season and their upcoming problem towards the revamped Milwaukee Bucks within the NBA Cup Finals . With Giannis Antetokounmpo looming as a serious take a look at for the Thunder’s top-tier protection, Andrew explains how OKC plans to deal with the Greek Freak by committee, with key contributions from Lu Dort and Alex Caruso. The duo additionally breaks down the Thunder’s distinctive model of play, together with their small-ball technique and the essential influence of Isaiah Hartenstein’s display and lob connections on offense. They focus on the vibe in Las Vegas and the expansion of the occasion, and the way the Thunder’s ultra-competitive guards will assist fill within the gaps when Chet Holmgren returns. Plus, Andrew shares a narrative from his Oklahoma roots about profitable a Shaq Phoenix Suns jersey due to an unforgettable peanut butter competitors.

Later, Kevin and Ekam Nagra (Ball Do not Cease) dive into the early season performances of a number of notable NBA groups and gamers, beginning with the Milwaukee Bucks. Kevin and Ekam reward Giannis’ MVP-caliber play and evolving chemistry with Damian Lillard. In addition they focus on the challenges opposing defenses face in stopping Giannis from moving into the paint, a key space the place the Bucks’ dominance continues. The duo additionally displays on the Atlanta Hawks’ struggles in constructing a cohesive id, noting that Trae Younger wants a dependable secondary scorer to assist elevate the workforce.

Shifting on to the Houston Rockets, Ekam breaks down Jalen Inexperienced’s ups and downs, suggesting the younger guard must discover a constant rhythm and management his tempo to turn out to be a star. In addition they focus on the Dallas Mavericks and Golden State Warriors scoring 48 threes in a recreation, and the way the NBA’s present development towards analytically optimized, data-driven play has led to a mode of basketball extra homogenized, which has an influence on the distinctive character of the groups. The dialog turns to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, with Ekam declaring how their older, extra bodily model of play nonetheless has weight within the trendy recreation, however is not sufficient to make the Lakers title contenders with out extra alignment actions. They shut with ideas on NBA trades, specializing in Dennis Schröder’s position in Brooklyn, potential strikes for Zach LaVine and the way Jimmy Butler’s spot in Phoenix may not maximize his upside for a run to the title.

(00:55) – Thunder vs Bucks preview

(18:25) – NBA Cup ambiance in Las Vegas

(28:40) – Andrew’s Peanut Butter Contest for a Shaq Jersey

(35:00) – Dame & Giannis begin clicking

(39:00) – How can the Hawks proceed to construct an id?

(44:55) – How distant are the Rockets?

(50:30) – Why extra threes is not essentially good for the NBA

(56:45) – What’s up for LeBron and AD?

(1:01:55) – Might Dillon Harper problem Cooper Flagg for the title of high prospect?

(1:06:55) – Dennis Schröder to Warriors

(1:12:40) – Potential NBA trades: Jimmy Butler and Zach Lavine

(1:21:30) – Quick hitters

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shouts next to center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) during the second half of an Emirates Cup NBA basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday, 10 December 2024, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billing)Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shouts next to center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) during the second half of an Emirates Cup NBA basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks, Tuesday 10 December 2024, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Nate Billing)

Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shouts subsequent to heart Isaiah Hartenstein (55) throughout the second half of an Emirates Cup NBA basketball recreation towards the Dallas Mavericks, Tuesday 10 December 2024, in Oklahoma Metropolis. (AP Photograph/Nate Billing)

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