WOLVES STUN THE NUGGETS! | GAME 7 REACTION w/ JJ REDICK AND RICHARD JEFFERSON
Summary
TLDRIn this special 'Islands Live' episode presented by DraftKings Sportsbook, hosts discuss the surprising outcomes of the Minnesota Timberwolves' defeat of the Denver Nuggets and the Indiana Pacers' victory over the New York Knicks in their respective game sevens. They analyze the key factors, including the Timberwolves' mental toughness and the Pacers' fast-paced strategy, that led to these upsets. The conversation also highlights the importance of supporting cast members like Nas Reed and TJ McConnell, whose contributions were pivotal in their teams' successes. The hosts emphasize the need for teams to maximize their potential and the significance of fan support in the playoffs.
Takeaways
- đ The Minnesota Timberwolves' unexpected series win against the Denver Nuggets in game seven was a significant upset, with the Nuggets' home-court advantage and dominance in previous postseasons adding to the shock.
- đ Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic's high scoring performances in game seven were not enough to secure a win for Denver, highlighting the importance of team dynamics over individual talent.
- đ€ The lack of movement and flow in Denver's offense during the second half of game seven contributed to their loss, as they relied too heavily on two-man games and isolation plays.
- đ„ The role players' performances, such as Nasir Little's contributions to the Pacers' win, are crucial in shifting the momentum of a series and should not be overlooked.
- đ The Pacers' victory in the Eastern Conference game seven was well-deserved, with the team showing resilience and playing better over the last five games of the series.
- đ Tyrese Haliburton's readiness for the playoffs was questioned by media members, but his strong start to the game demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure.
- đš TJ McConnell's exceptional play throughout the series was a standout factor, with his energy and full-court playstyle making a significant impact.
- đȘ The importance of physicality and size in the playoffs was evident, especially in the Timberwolves' game seven win, where they utilized their big men and wings effectively.
- đŻ The Pacers' strategy of playing fast and making every possession a track meet was a key factor in their success against a short-handed Knicks team.
- đ The Knicks' performance, despite injuries and setbacks, was commendable, with players like Julius Randle and RJ Barrett stepping up in crucial moments.
- đ€ The mutual respect and camaraderie between the commentators and players, such as the bond between the commentator and TJ McConnell, adds a personal touch to the analysis and highlights the human side of the game.
Q & A
What was the primary focus of the live reaction video?
-The primary focus of the live reaction video was to discuss and analyze the two game sevens, specifically the Minnesota Timberwolves defeating the Denver Nuggets and the Indiana Pacers beating the New York Knicks.
What surprising outcome did the hosts discuss regarding the Minnesota Timberwolves?
-The hosts discussed the surprising outcome of the Minnesota Timberwolves defeating the Denver Nuggets in game seven, particularly noting Minnesota's dominant performance and ability to win two consecutive games.
How did Jamal Murray's performance impact the Denver Nuggets' series against the Timberwolves?
-Jamal Murray's performance was highlighted as inconsistent, particularly in game six where he lost his cool and in the second half of game seven where Denver's offense became stagnant and overly reliant on him and Nikola Jokic.
What critical plays by Minnesota were emphasized during the Timberwolves' comeback in game seven?
-Critical plays by Minnesota included defensive stops, steals by Anthony Edwards, and significant contributions from role players like Nas Reed, who made crucial rebounds, blocks, and scored key points.
What strategy did the Indiana Pacers employ to defeat the New York Knicks in their game seven?
-The Indiana Pacers employed a fast-paced offensive strategy, emphasizing quick transitions and ball movement, which kept the Knicks' defense working hard on every possession and capitalized on the Knicks' injuries and short-handed roster.
Who were some standout players for the Indiana Pacers during their series against the Knicks?
-Standout players for the Indiana Pacers included Tyrese Haliburton, who started the game strong and talked trash, Pascal Siakam, who performed well despite injuries, and TJ McConnell, whose defensive and playmaking abilities were critical.
What was the significance of Nas Reed's performance in game seven for the Timberwolves?
-Nas Reed's performance was significant as he provided crucial defensive stops and scored important points during a critical stretch, helping the Timberwolves maintain their lead and ultimately win the game.
How did the hosts describe the Knicks' performance and their fans' reaction after their series loss?
-The hosts described the Knicks' performance as maximizing their potential given the injuries and challenges they faced. They encouraged Knicks fans to celebrate and remember this group fondly for their effort and achievements.
What was the hosts' critique of the Oklahoma City Thunder's playoff performance and roster decisions?
-The hosts critiqued the Oklahoma City Thunder for not adding a big to their roster, which they believed limited their chances against other top teams. They argued that the Thunder's lack of size was a significant factor in their playoff performance.
What was the overall tone and conclusion of the live reaction video?
-The overall tone of the live reaction video was analytical and reflective, with the hosts providing insights and critiques on the game sevens. The conclusion emphasized the importance of role players, the strategic decisions of teams, and the appreciation of the efforts of all the teams involved.
Outlines
đ Post-Game Analysis: Minnesota's Stunning Series Win
The discussion begins with a reflection on the Minnesota Timberwolves' unexpected series win against the Denver Nuggets. The hosts express surprise at the outcome and the manner in which the series unfolded, highlighting the Timberwolves' dominant performances and the Nuggets' inability to maintain their usual offensive flow. They delve into the impact of Jamal Murray's loss of composure and the significance of the MVP award as a regular-season accolade. The conversation emphasizes the unpredictability and excitement of the series, suggesting it will be remembered and referenced for a long time.
đ Breakdown of Denver's Offense and Minnesota's Resilience
This paragraph focuses on the breakdown of Denver's offensive strategy and Minnesota's mental toughness. The hosts analyze the Nuggets' stagnant offense in the second half of game seven and the Timberwolves' impressive comeback. They discuss the individual performances of players like Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr., and the importance of role players stepping up in key moments. The summary also touches on the unique challenges presented by the Minnesota team's physicality and size.
đ Indiana Pacers' Deserved Victory and Key Players' Impact
The summary of this paragraph celebrates the Indiana Pacers' series win and their performance over the last five games. It highlights Tyrese Haliburton's readiness for the playoffs, the importance of establishing an early tone in high-pressure games, and TJ McConnell's incredible postseason performance. The hosts express admiration for McConnell's impact on the game and discuss his potential contract situation, emphasizing the value of securing a steady player like him for the long term.
đ Pacers' Strategy and Knicks' Injuries Impact on the Series
The discussion moves to the Pacers' strategic emphasis on playing fast and the challenges faced by the New York Knicks due to injuries. The hosts acknowledge the Knicks' efforts despite being short-handed and praise their ability to maximize the potential of their team. They also discuss the importance of supporting cast members in winning crucial games and the Knicks' lack of depth in comparison to the Pacers.
đš TJ McConnell's Journey and Impact on the Court
This paragraph delves into TJ McConnell's journey from college to the NBA and his significant impact on the game. The hosts share personal anecdotes about McConnell's college days and his emotional final game, reflecting on their initial doubts about his NBA potential. They celebrate his current success and his role as a full-court pest, highlighting his contrasting gentle and kind off-court personality.
đ Recognition of Supporting Cast and Underrated Players
The hosts emphasize the importance of the supporting cast in a team's success, mentioning players like Nerlens Noel, Miles Turner, and Aaron Neith for their contributions. They discuss the role of toughness in the playoffs and the need for backup point guards who can manage the game effectively. The conversation also touches on the Knicks' performance and the potential strategies they could have employed.
đ Appreciation for the Knicks' Efforts and Future Outlook
The final paragraph is a tribute to the New York Knicks' efforts throughout the series. The hosts express hope that Knicks fans will celebrate the team's performance and remember the group fondly. They discuss the mindset of the players, who despite maximizing their potential, felt they underachieved. The conversation concludes with a call for fans to show love and support for the team, acknowledging the intensity and passion of Knicks fans.
đ€ Post-Game Reflections and Future Considerations for OKC Thunder
In the closing paragraph, the hosts share their thoughts on the OKC Thunder's lack of a big addition to their roster and its potential impact on their performance against the final four teams. They discuss the importance of having players who can handle size and physicality in the playoffs, suggesting that the Thunder missed opportunities to strengthen their roster. The conversation ends with a reflection on the importance of seizing opportunities and the challenges of maintaining a competitive window in the NBA.
Mindmap
Keywords
đĄGame Seven
đĄMinnesota Timberwolves
đĄDenver Nuggets
đĄJamal Murray
đĄNicola Jokic
đĄAnthony Edwards
đĄRole Players
đĄHome-Court Advantage
đĄMental Toughness
đĄIndiana Pacers
Highlights
RJ Richard Jefferson reacts live to Minnesota Timberwolves defeating Denver Nuggets in Game 7.
Surprise expressed over Minnesota's dominant performance and series victory.
Discussion on Jamal Murray's struggles and Denver's stagnant offense in the second half of Game 7.
Minnesota's mental toughness and ability to respond with a massive run after being down by 20 points.
Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr.'s limited contributions highlighted as a factor in Denver's loss.
Nas Reed's crucial plays in the fourth quarter mentioned as a turning point in the game.
The unique matchup problems Minnesota posed for Denver analyzed.
Comparison of different series dynamics and how they prepare teams for subsequent rounds.
Tyrese Haliburton's standout performance for the Indiana Pacers in their Game 7 victory over the New York Knicks.
TJ McConnell's significant contributions and his story highlighted as inspirational.
Impact of Aaron Nesmith's on-ball defense and his offensive contributions in the Pacers' win.
Discussion on the importance of role players in playoff series and how they can shift outcomes.
Reflection on Oklahoma City Thunder's need for additional size to compete in the playoffs.
Comparison of different players' roles and their contributions to their teams' success.
Announcement of upcoming content, including a full preview of the Western and Eastern Conference Finals.
Transcripts
[Music]
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
zero welcome to another special Islands
live presented by draftking sports book
we've got our friend friend of 32 sorry
what associate associate you use a
different word every day I'm going to
continue to use the word friend we've
got our friend RJ Richard Jefferson
joining us once again for a live
reaction to the two game sevens today I
called the Indie uh Knicks game but I
want to start with what I would call an
upset the Minnesota Timberwolves just
defeated the Denver Nuggets in game
seven in Denver
uh arza you called uh a bunch of games
throughout the playoffs you I feel like
we are we are in this right now we are
like locked and loaded with just
basketball are you at all surprised that
Minnesota was able to win this
series I'm surprised by the whole series
I'm surprised by the whole series like
the whole start to finish I'm surprised
I'm surprised that that min inota went
in and won two games in a row in
dominant fashion and and Jamal Murray
the coolest of cool lost his cool in all
the chaos I was surprised when when
Denver went into Minnesota and won both
games right and then it goes you know
obviously they go back so it's like to
say that I'm surprised that they won the
series
um I'm not surprised that they won the
series I'm just surprised by how the
whole series transpired that that to me
is what made it great that's what made
it my mindblowing like we're going to
talk about this series we're gonna
reference this series for a very very
long time you and I we we we didn't
discuss anything we're going to talk
about beforehand I was going the same
place that's why I asked the question
the way I did no I'm being serious
because stop copk hold on if you
if I would never copy your homework
that's not true you were a c minus
student my effort not intelligence those
are two things
no but I if you had said to me before
the series Minnesota's going to win this
in game seven in Denver I would say oh
yeah I I could see that happening but
the way this series played out
particularly
after everyone wrote off Denver after
two games there were all these calls uh
for uh the yic third MVP being
fraudulence um I feel like that guy's
going to probably win a couple more and
and he'll get called you know the MVP
will get called for all just again but
again it's a regular season award
um I was
surprised at the ab absolute ass
whooping that Minnesota gave Denver in
game six and I think what was most
shocking to me what was most shocking to
me was Denver being up
5838 having complete control of this
game in the second half and then
Minnesota just responds with a massive
run it felt to me like
Denver's offense uh par in particular
got really stagnant in that second half
Murray of course missed some shots
during that run but felt like it was
just post yic double team repost yic
double team late shot clock hoist it
just felt like that we didn't see
especially I would say for most of the
second half if not all the second half
any of the movement stuff for Denver it
was all two-man game or a yic postup it
never got to just a flowing offense and
and I think that surprised me the fact
that Minnesota had the you know mental
toughness to to make that run and I'm
going to get to some of the plays down
the stretch that I thought were huge but
that was the part to me that was
surprising that they they it's not even
that they lost their composure to me
they lost playing the
way that they've played all
season they lost who they were and the
numbers back it up though Jay numbers
back it up Jamal Murray and Nicola yage
have 34 and 35 they you you know they
had so then you look at Aaron Gordon
four Michael Porter Jr seven col will
Pope five and then Brawn was the only
person that scored Off the Bench the
brown brown I apologize sry I called I
called I called Andrew nard Aaron nard
not once but twice in the series Once in
game three and once in a game seven I
caught myself in the game seven I didn't
realize I did in game three it happen
Utah give me two no it's just every time
I see it I say Braun but when I talk
about him I say brown whatever I'm
looking at the box score everybody cut
me some slack so Five Points Off the
Bench so to your point they lost who
they were they lost that movement
offense of you don't know who's going to
beat you then in key moments we go to
our two-man game and it's Unstoppable
because everyone has a rhythm the lob to
Aaron Gordon is there to kick out the
kcp you know the scramble to mpj so like
that's what you were saying they lost
who they were and the numbers support
that that's what I'm saying what like I
can't remember many series like this in
that I could like in my lifetime where
it's like the home team and especially
it's there there's context behind the
losses it's not that Denver lost two
games in a row at home it was that they
hadn't lost in in two postseasons at
home and they were dominant and like the
elevation so this is a dominant home
team and they come and get smoked and I
think that's what rattled everyone that
that's what rattled everyone and then I
look at the totality of the series and
it's just it's hard to put a finger on
it what was the thing what was the
deciding factor I'll stand by this the
worst thing that could have happened to
the Los uh to the Denver Nuggets is was
playing the Lakers in the first round I
think that lulled them in because they
had their number and they could do what
they wanted they could be down and start
slow and they it would and then all of a
sudden you get team that's punching you
in your mouth in game one and they were
like whoa and so I I would go to say
that that first round series didn't
prepare them for that and a lot of times
postseason series can prepare you for
the next yeah I think we both lived that
we both lived that where we maybe were
on really good teams and and got away
with the series or we played a team that
played a bad team and we get to the next
round and we're like H they they they
they're not in the playoffs yet we
already in the playoffs Minnesota uh is
just to me a unique matchup for nearly
every team but certainly for the Denver
Nuggets and you know if if there I I
would describe game seven this whole
playoffs on in every single Series has
been very physical but that game seven
was very physical and when you have
physicality and size and multiple bodies
um bigs and wings I thought Anthony
Edwards uh in the second half just
taking the Murray matchup right just
look person i' I've got Jamal Murray
I've got Jamal Murray and making it
tough on him so that's that's what makes
it unique with uh with the Minnesota T
wolves you know we we talk all the time
and I was writing this down in the first
half we talk all the time about
finishing quarters right creating
margins by the way you finish quarters
creating margins by the way you start
quarters and you think about the way
Denver finished that first half eerily
similar
uh to the to the previous game when when
Jamal Murray hit that halfcourt shot
they finished the first half it's a
10-point game Minnesota has the ball
with like a minute to go and it ends up
being a 15-point Denver lead well let's
flip that now at the end of the third
quarter right it's uh
66- 62 ant gets the steel goes down and
dunks the ball then ant hits the three
all of a sudden it's a what what was a
four-point game for Denver with the ball
turns into we're down one and they score
first time coming out coar gets a bucket
so
Minnesota I thought execution wise like
the mental toughness again to to
withstand some really big plays to
withstand a a massive run there from
Denver to end the second and start the
third uh just a phenomenal basketball
team uh I want to give a shout out to
one guy and I'm going to give the same
shout out to another guy when we talk
Indie Nicks um I don't know if you know
this or not but uh on this channel we
did our uh first annual all Alfred team
which is the Derek white All-Star I know
you hate this I know you hate it it's
fine it's fine you know better than
anyone else because you actually won a
championship but Championship level
teams have role players who Step Up in
big moments role players who can shift
an entire series and I just thought Nas
Reed tonight like he's been all season
was spectacular there was a stretch
there Murray gets a bucket to cut it to
8582 nzri gets an offensive rebound gets
fouled makes two free throws next time
down the floor jic has good position on
him goes up first a shot Nas Reed gets
the block next time down the floor comes
out of the corner catches a Miss off the
rim
dunks it Conley gets a
steal another Alfred by the way hits
Edwards in the corner for three all of a
sudden it's a 10-point game and those
were that you know Edwards hit the three
but those were role players guys in big
moments who are
creating what was a onep possession game
all a turning into double digit game and
and and Denver really after that I I
didn't feel like had a
chance but but this okay I I'm gonna
push back on the terminology being used
the six man of the year is not a role
player right I'm like he's a i We're Not
Gonna even get techn because you're
calling him an Alfred and he's saying
that he is literally the best man off
the bench in the league that means he's
better than probably I don't know 70% of
the starters you know on on a half of
these shitty teams out there so I would
say he's above an Alfred that that's
just me right I get your all Alfred team
I didn't watch it I don't subscribe to
your Channel so my point is this Nas
Reed was that dude Nas Reed was 100%
that dude but he's been consistently and
the thing that I love about Nas Reed and
I remember interviewing him uh we had
him on road tripping you know before all
the Fanfare and just you know being able
to spot like future great talent um you
know some people just do like the stars
like we like to do the Grassroots and
like tell the stories early on um but
the thing that I like about Nas Reed is
that he is a security blanket for
the Bon head mistakes that our guy makes
it just it's just a little frustrating
when Carl Anthony towns does some of the
things that he does and it's the foul
trouble or it's the or it's the you know
I'm just gonna put my head down and go
right and just see what happens so Nas
Reed defensively when he has to go out
the game or when when um when town has
to go out the game it just not it's like
Nas Reed time it's seamless the it it
even when even when Rudy gobear was out
and Nas re was playing those extra
minutes he just fills in in so many
spots and to your point when you watch
that stretch of them coming back it ant
had a couple of Steal but it wasn't like
ant going on a flurry it wasn't just
like no it was like defensive plays big
plays and I was trying to explain to a
friend is that you gotta keep scoring
against Denver and they're like yeah you
gotta keep scoring to win the game it's
like no no no when you have them against
the ropes and you score five six points
and you've got a five seven-point lead
you can't have two three empty
possessions because once they get the
momentum it could be gone forever you
have to keep that pressure on them and
that's where the defense that's where
the steel the dunk all of these things
it was big play after big play for Nas
Reed Anthony Edwards even connley like
the steel and just the extra effort from
them yeah so I just I don't I actually
don't like arguing with you but just to
establish once again because you have a
hard time listening and I know you don't
consume any of our content but um what's
up
no I was I was agreeing with you I was
agree uh so the so in NBA sort of
terminology right we talk about Batman's
and robins and that's generally
considered you know the two stars so an
Alfred is any sort of supporting
character the Alfred also is a star in
his own way just like Michael Kane who
played Alfred in all of the Batman
movies is a star this guy's one of Best
Supporting Actor right he's one of the
greatest actors but he's not he's not a
main character and that's that's okay
but you remember him in every single
movie he's in just like you remember Nas
Reed that's what that's what an Alfred
is it's not just a role player you're
like diminishing you're diminishing the
entire premise so he's kind of like
Chris Farley in an Adam Sandler
movie right I just I'm trying to get a
better reference sure that works are
this your your your either messing with
me or you really are a c minus
student or ultimately you
never St the fact that I'm a c minus
student because I don't know all of your
Batman references like what no I I gave
three I had dat Robin and Alfred it
wasn't I wasn't kneed deep in in comic
books my
bad what what uh all right with FYI uh
we're gonna do we're gonna do a full
preview uh of the Western Conference
finals and the Eastern Conference Finals
tomorrow morning on the old man of the
three things this is simply a reaction
video uh so let's get to the Eastern
Conference game seven um in a
way in a way you you certainly celebrate
what the Indiana Pacers were able to do
because I want to be clear on this they
absolutely deserve to win that series
and right now today and I would say over
the last five games they have been the
better team the Indiana Pacers have been
the better team we could put some
context on that of course with some of
the injuries and some of the guys being
banged up Indiana deserved to win this
game a few things that I thought were
important number one uh halberton just
coming
out I'm gonna be honest with you I had
people coming up to me media members at
the Garden yeah I don't I don't think
Tyrese is ready for this I don't think
he's ready for this what were their
names what were their names I'm not
gonna name names I'm not gonna name
names okay I was just wondering I I'll
wait I'll wait because at the end of the
season we do our worst takes of the
season so checking I was just checking
and I just I was like you know could
trust you you know I I think maybe he's
gonna be all right and then he comes out
and starts the game on fire talking sh
talking trash sorry DraftKings talking
trash I think it's okay as long it's not
in the first 10 seconds of the video you
know
it's fine so that was great and then and
then for for SE
yakum um since the OG injury last five
games of the series uh shot uh
efficiently averaged over 21 a game had
a big first half like if you're on the
road in a game seven with some guys that
maybe haven't played a game seven or
haven't played in in in in a in a big
moment like that in the playoffs where
you have a chance to go to the the
Conference Finals your two stars
establishing the tone early was super
important and then my third thing that I
thought was great just throughout this
series and in the closeout game against
Milwaukee uh TJ McConnell's he's he's
incredible he's incredible he really is
he just he he's
incredible TJ McConnell
is he's he's different and the way he's
been playing in this whole entire
postseason has been to him I don't know
what his contract situation is but get
that man a partial guarantee on his
fourth on the on the next
season got partial guarantee yeah I mean
if Indiana was I mean Kevin pitcher's a
smart guy I mean he's smart guy this
guy's beloved he's beloved there lock
him up long term he's an Arizona Wildcat
the last two in my opinion great teams
we had he was at the helm at Arizona so
I was familiar with his work and I knew
who he was I saw him as a point guard I
saw him run the show I he couldn't shoot
but he was picking up 94 feet K he was
Full Court pressing everyone the whole
time right he was just that was kind of
his mentality so I was never surprised
to see his success even early on in
Indiana after after they signed him away
from Philly I think um he wasn't playing
he was like in and out of the rotations
and then they got a good team and then
the value of a of a heady steady guy
kind of came out but yes to me he was
kind of the surprised guy that it's like
he could still play because look the New
York Knicks their guards are pretty good
right he technically shouldn't have the
advantage over Devan chenzo over Josh
hardt over Brunson these guys should be
able to at least dominate that matchup
but time and time again he's been
effective I it's hard to break down this
series man you got to give the Knicks
all the love you got to give them all
the love the minutes the injuries like
like so many guys hard and some of like
you you can't just go to the well the
well will run dry you can't go there so
many times and it was just like okay we
got an injury another guy's gonna step
up okay we got an injury another guy you
after a while there's not enough guys
even even in this game Brunson goes out
divon chenzo is like here I'll give you
a damn near 40 ball in a game seven like
I don't know I just watching this series
I just think it was hard to kind of
evaluate we can give love individual
players and individual performances but
is this a
true did I think that this would go this
way if there was a little bit more
Health on on the knck side I know I
think the Knicks were the better team
the Pacers played better the Nick the
Pacers played better and that's the part
that you give them all the love all the
credit you know they know sometimes you
dodge a bullet if you get a team and
they're banged up handle your business
which they did and move on but they're
not going to sit up here and sit up here
as like say like oh we would have
crushed them had they been fully healthy
yeah you know it's it's interesting and
this was this was very obvious
throughout the series but there
definitely was like a strategic Choice
uh and an
emphasis on just playing fast and I
don't mean hey we're just going to run
and try to score in transition of course
the Pacers want to do that but every
they they were like this all season but
this is where your identity as a team in
the playoffs can matter this is who they
were offensively All Season all of a
sudden you're in a position where you're
playing a short-handed team and it's
like every single time the ball goes
through the net every single time you
get a defensive rebound it's a track
meet right so it's it's getting back on
defense and then once you're back think
about like possessions that that started
like this defensive rebound throw aead
pass to halberton or nard crosscourt
pass to a guy running up the Wing swing
to the
corner side pick and roll swing to a
dribble handoff roll throw it to the
opposite corner close out drive kick cut
Drive kick like they just make you work
defensively on every possession then all
of a sudden they've got three guys in
the back court picking you up on the
defensive end
they they're not as they're not as but
it sounds a lot like Minnesota it's like
has all these dudes all of a sudden you
got three bulldogs and you got the Tower
of Pisa behind them like Jamal Murray is
that dude but you could tell he was
frustrated he's like damn yeah Jay
jaylen's that dude obviously of course
but I'm just saying
like to your point there is a there is a
physical limit to energy there's a phys
there's a physical limit to exertion and
if you don't have enough bodies like
that does matter I'm not I'm not going
to go as far as say like oh if the
Knicks were healthy they definitely were
going to win I because it's a different
game and they're potentially playing a
different way and making different
adjustments so I'm not going to go that
far um I know you hate the Knicks so you
wanted to go that far but I will say
that stuff mattered throughout this
series it really mattered I want to say
one thing about TJ real quick I want to
say one thing
um you know sometimes you have to get on
these podcasts or you know Studio shows
and uh calling games and you just have
to be honest you have to be honest about
players and you know I think we both try
to come at this with No
Agenda it's also I think a point of ours
and I know with Doris because we talk
about this all the time it's a point of
ours that we celebrate players as well
we celebrate the good in the game and a
lot of the good is the greatest players
it's very easy to celebrate those guys I
want to I've said this publicly before
and I I want to say this one more time
I'm sitting there Courtside you know T
TJ's like a he's literally when I say
this I mean it literally like he is like
a brother to me all right he is one of
my closest friends I love that dude I
think he's one of the most outstanding
human beings I've ever met in my
life you brought up the Arizona thing it
made me think of something I remember
watching his last college game and and
had started watching Arizona a little
bit this that year and I remember him
walking off the court and he was
emotional and I remember thinking man
that guy that guy's never GNA play in
the in the NBA he's never gonna have a
game as big as that I thought and I've
told him this and I told him it when I
first got to to Philly I was like dude I
I'm so happy that you're in the NBA I
think it's incredible for me to sit
there today this I think our our four
game of the series that I called for me
to sit there today and watch a friend a
brother just put on that performance in
the garden in a game seven to help his
team get to the Conference Finals bro it
was I I just and we you know he came
over to me after the game said I love
you I said I love you like man I love
sports I really do he he his story his
story is incredible man I I it is and
obviously viously that's when they had I
believe it was Aaron Gordon maybe
Stanley Johnson that was around that era
with all those guys and they were loaded
and I was like Arizona hasn't been to a
final four since I was there it's just
like what the hell and so we had these
rosters they lose to Kaminsky they lose
to Decker it was like Wisconsin both
years and we were in like Anaheim so it
was like home games for us so it was
like T us for us to go back to the final
four and he just he just watching him
because Arizona used to be a point guard
University it used to be it was Mike BBY
it was Steve it was Steve Kerr it was
you know Jason you know Daman stmy like
go down the list like we started with
the point guards then the wings wanted
to come play with the point guards and
we got whatever bigs we could Reeves by
the way did you KH Reeves Aver he still
has a single season scoring record there
so it's just like when you Kenny Lofton
like you go back and look at the history
there's just guards he was a part of
that Jason Gardner shout out our guy he
was a part of that that group and I
recognized that and so when he went to
Philly and he got invited I think he got
invited to camp and once I saw I maybe
it was a preseason game or something he
did something very early on and I'm like
they're going to love this kid because
he knows how to run a team I've watched
him manage the game multiple times I'm
like he's gonna do it now did I think he
would be this no but if you tell me that
he could have been an ish Smith and been
a backup point guard for 12 teams in 15
years yes and both of us both agree
that's a [Â __Â ] amazing career that's
an amazing career but once he got there
I was like oh they're gonna to love him
I'm like just his energy his everything
the way he plays the way he knows the
game and then he's just a full-court
pest right I was you know that was the
part that I thought that he had a good
chance once he got invited to the camp
because he is that type of guy I didn't
foresee the success but to your point
shout out him because so many guys don't
understand how hard it is to get these
opportunities and to get in here and
then to maximize those moments it has
been I I've watched him AAR from a very
very long time and always appreciated
what he did and brought to the game he's
the type of backup point guard you'd
want to play with Rick said this to us
before the game and I and I'll co-sign
this he he's a totally different person
on and off the court he is just gentle
and kind and uh I'm trying to think of
the right word to not throw him under
the bus but he's like a
buttercup yeah he's just sweet he's just
a sweet sweet
man and on the court he he's like he's a
tornado he's a tornado on the court he's
annoying that's why I said you what you
that's why I said they're gonna love him
because like those are the guys you hate
to play against but you love that
they're on your team right it's like a
quiet version of Pat beev right like
yeah it's like you love to have those
guys on your team so that's where it's
like yeah his personality is very very
different off the but I've watched him
run teams I watched him run Arizona with
NBA players and battle against other NBA
players kinsky Decker and Wisconsin I
watch him battle against these guys toet
to toe so like if you're telling me that
these guys are future first round picks
this guy is a future he has a potential
to be a backup because he was managing
the game running the game making the
plays and so I always respected his game
from afar uh a few other guys just to
mention um you know Miles Turner had a
had a rough game
two I think it was game two yeah game
two but at least in the games I called
he was super impactful at The Rim
shooting the basketball um Aaron neith
he to me he got a ton of credit already
and and I'll give him more uh just for
his on ball defense and and the the
change that Rick Carlile made with him
moving to Brunson going into game three
but it was more than that to me like he
had n this guy had 19 points on the road
eight of eight from the field in a game
seven and easy shots the multiple times
throughout this series we you you have
to be as tough or tougher than the
Knicks to beat them this guy this is the
guy getting an offensive rebound that he
has no business getting this is the guy
getting a loose ball that he has no
business getting this is the guy getting
an an one when there's a lot of contact
like he he had a tough series and then
and then with nard to me as a young
player all this chatter about Jaylen
Bruns you're down 20 Jaylen Brunson
Jaylen Brunson and then the coach says
all right we're moving you off Jaylen
Brunson right and there was no loss in
confidence he hits the gamewinner in
game three and then the last four games
he was more than solid to to be able to
get essentially 14 assists or 14 14
points and five assists a game good
efficiency from your from your fifth
probably the fourth option uh in the
starting lineup I thought the I thought
the dude was just amazing I really did
and he's tough he's tough well but you
but again I I don't know what who was
the person that you referenced before as
a part of a team what Al oh yeah the
Alfred Alfred so the Alfred part you
need Supporting Cast guys you're not
going to win game sevens you're not
going to
win play you're not going to win
multiple playoff series it's never just
the stars that is the biggest the the
the the Stars will get what the hell is
so
funny are you trolling me right now what
are you what are you
saying you went on this whole thing
about how that you didn't know what I
was talking about with alfreds and I
just asked you what you were just click
did it just click no I said what was the
thing that you referenced I don't know
I'm trying to use your reference trying
to anyways my point is this it is the
Stars the stars are going to do it but
and to me in a Four game series and this
is kind of a your stars have to win you
two games two games two games your stars
have to win you two games your um your
others have to win you one and you have
to kind of win a game that you're not
supposed to right you have to win like
that's to me there's like that's
normally the collection of four games
that win a series your two stars played
big because you're not if your Stars
play bad for three games it's hard
you're not winning a series that's hard
to do so it's like your stars have to
win you two games your Supporting Cast
has to win you one and then you have to
win a game where you shoot 25% from
three you have to win a game where you
get outrebounded or guys were in foul
trouble that's the formula and it was it
was nce Smith it was Nim hard you know
it was TJ McConnell when you have those
three guys that's the difference in the
series to me and the Knicks just didn't
have the depth you know Alec Burke came
up had some gave him some great moments
right you're almost kind of like you
might have been able to use him earlier
that's the one thing it's like it's not
like he just learned how to play
basketball in the last like week and a
half is like he might be able to use him
earlier so that would be the one thing
uh but no you're right the the the Stars
got to do it but there has been a lot of
Supporting Cast guys that have been the
difference makers series to series to
series I feel like we talk less about
stars in between the two game the game
two game three game four we're talking
less about stars and about the
difference makers around them yeah and
also you know some quick love to Obie
toppen who uh you didn't have a a huge
game today but he went between his legs
in a playoff game no no no but what he
was leading all all bench players in in
total points um last thing I want to say
we'll jump off of here uh I thought it
was really cool uh just the standing
ovation that a bunch of the Knicks guys
got at the end of this at the end of the
game when they were taken out obviously
Jaylen um you know unfortunately got
hurt and didn't get to have that moment
uh my hope is and I know Nick's fans are
frustrated My Hope Is that you will
celebrate this group and that you will
remember this group fondly um you and I
no listen you and I have been around
basketball a long time and I I would say
this group because of the injuries uh
because of what they were asked to do at
times uh they they maximize the group
and that is all you can ask for as a fan
and I'm not a Nicks fan by any means I
certainly love uh Josh and Jaylen but I
I think as a fan of basketball when a
team maximizes the group you see it you
applaud it and you celebrate it I I
couldn't agree more shout out everyone
it was special it was special to watch
those guys do what they do um you you
feel bad because you said maximize and
you're right they maximized they
maximized 100% but they still felt like
they have underachieved and that's the
ultimate mindset of who those guys are
we can all look and say you guys really
did maximize look did this but to them
in their souls they still felt like they
underachieved they still felt like they
should have won that game they still
felt like they should be still
continuing to play and that's the
ultimate compliment to their mindset now
as far as celebrating them they need to
be celebrated no I bro we have to don't
we can't get up here and give flowers
from an intelligent basketball like IQ
standpoint and not recognize that these
are the Nick fans right so like what you
really say is like Nicks fans be gentle
with these dudes like be nice to these
dudes like show them the love that you
guys have showed them that love can also
come in supportive ways you don't always
have to be parents you don't Nick's fans
I'm just telling them I'm saying because
you know they they'll they'll boo you
one day sometimes you deserve it they'll
cheer you on like no other sometimes you
deserve it Nick fans I think have been
outstanding in the postseason they've
been less like entitled and more
supportive right and that's you know you
can kind of see The Vibes flow through
so I got nothing negative to say about
anyone in that Nicks organization and I
think honestly the Nicks fans should
they should be given love and you get
why they could be so so intense given
their 20year droughts I've been told by
Jason and Richie that we have to do a
couple questions so Jason why don't you
put those questions up on the screen for
us I got a question I got a question
yeah that's that's lame I got a question
hey Diego what's up Alejandro s um We're
not gonna answer that question but
that's cool question though thank you I
think people should talk about that in
the comment section currently right is
there like a scroll I can't see that but
you guys talk about that um yeah yeah
Stephen Swami that is a great
conversation talk about this this is
what I want to know I have a question
because this has been my take this has
been my take and then I'm gonna go and
I'll let you do the fan question um I
gotta put my kids to bed bro it's Sunday
bro it's like 11:30 I I just what time
is it anyways it's 8:30
here anyways this is my point I I said
it a couple of times and I still feel
this and I felt it in the moment and it
was just like it just became more and
more glaring
the OKC Thunder the fact that they did
not add a big to their roster and the
final four teams that they were the
number one seed they were the best team
all year the final four teams I don't
think they would have beat any of the
three and purely because I think they
would have lacked big de they wouldn't
have had anybody to handle joic and
Aaron Gordon and I love um I love Chad
right I'm not there not a criticism of
him it's just like you need de Dallas
goes and adds you know they draft Lively
they add Gafford they add a power
forward in PJ Washington so they added
size the Wolves huge and we see the
difference you know and we see why they
are huge because they had to beat the
they had to beat the defending champs so
for me I didn't like the fact and again
I'm just an observer I'm not questioning
Sam prey but this is like you can get
all the love and have 900 picks but
don't tell me that oh well they're ahead
of schedule who schedule your schedule
whose schedule and I say this purely
respectfully of like you had he was all
uh was all NBA first team last year he
was MVP candidate this year you
legitimately had a chance to go to the
NBA finals in my opinion with this
current roster with one or two simple
pieces you can brag about having 900
first round picks those first round
picks are not all going to be on your
roster they're literally going to be
used to pull to get assets around the
best players that you can find so given
the deadline given where they were given
what they were showing why wouldn't you
go get them the necessary pieces because
you get to the final four in the west
and you could see they weren't going to
beat any of the three of them if it if
because in my opinion they lack size
they got murdered on the glass last
night and that was really the difference
in the game the second shots and second
opportunities okay um I think it's I
think it's fair that that's a talking
point I think it's
fair I think it's
fair I don't have a strong reaction to
that as I'm I'm not trying to give I'm
just am I off how about this how about
this be my therapist right like I am so
often times yours oh right give me a
break give me a break it's that's a
two-way street
buddy yeah just go along with the drill
okay all
right that am I wrong for feeling
that that they could have you're not
wrong that's why I said it's a fair it's
a fair talking point it's a fair talking
point okay the one I'll say and I and I
and I mean this and I mean this and this
this is this is not a knock at any
organization any
person this is how I feel this is how I
feel because I I I truthfully because I
I lived it in
Orlando and and we lose to the Lakers
it's my third year uh jir is in his
fifth year we've got Rashard under
contract for a long time Dwight's in his
fifth year he's clearly ascending to be
one of the top five if he's not already
there of the top five players in the
game Courtney Lee's starting two guard
he's a
rookie and Kobe and pal beus and me jir
and Dwight we sat and watched them
celebrate before headed back to the
locker room sat out there on the court
for a few minutes and I remember
thinking number one we'll be back number
two we got a long window we got a big
window lots of
time and and we got to the Conference
finals next year and that window that
shut the year after that because LeBron
went to the Miami
Heat I'm just that's all I'm gonna say
that's my biggest gripe the windows can
all I'm gonna say that's allna say now
is Oklahoma City positioned great as
well as any team going forward to have a
Long window 100% I'm not saying like a
Boston like a Boston level window like
I'm totally comfortable saying that but
I agree with you and the answer to this
question uh new basketball fan is most
assuredly Richard
Jefferson oh well um yeah I think our
roles would be different if we're
talking about pime JJ Prime Richard our
roles would be very different so again
like are we gonna reference the end of
our careers or are we going to reference
like the prime prime versions of
us this has been uh
another Islands live presented by
DraftKings sports book uh RJ I think we
should just tell everybody that you have
at least verbally committed to doing the
rest of these with me we got we've got
six more of these before the NB NBA huh
that's not true that's not
true okay it was in writing though over
a text message it's not true but I will
see you next time okay all right bye
[Music]
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