Ramona Shelburne on Giannis, Harden, Golden State, and the Lakers
Sep 15, 2023
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Ramona Shelburne and Zach discuss Giannis Antetokounmpo's comments about his future, potential trade options for the Milwaukee Bucks, the championship aspirations of the Golden State Warriors, James Harden's uncertain future, and the covert world of tampering in the NBA.
There is uncertainty regarding James Harden's future with the Philadelphia 76ers following a feud between Harden and Daryl Morey, the President of Basketball Operations for the 76ers.
The Golden State Warriors, led by the core players Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, are considered contenders for another NBA title.
The podcast episode explores the complex dynamics and challenges in the relationship between James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers, emphasizing the importance of communication, trust, and shared goals in building a successful team dynamic.
Deep dives
James Harden's future with the 76ers is uncertain
There is uncertainty regarding James Harden's future with the Philadelphia 76ers following a feud between Harden and Daryl Morey, the President of Basketball Operations for the 76ers. Some close to Harden believe he may never play for the team again, while others think he will come in determined to perform at his best and rebuild his value in the NBA. It remains to be seen how the situation will play out, but there are expectations that Harden will show up for training camp.
The Golden State Warriors have a chance at another title
The Golden State Warriors, led by the core players Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, are considered contenders for another NBA title. Despite difficulties with salary cap restrictions, there is optimism surrounding the team due to their excellent chemistry and unique playing style. The recent addition of Chris Paul through a trade with the Phoenix Suns has further boosted their chances. The team's success will depend on the health and performance of key players, as well as their ability to adapt to any necessary lineup changes.
Clay Thompson's contract extension talks
The Golden State Warriors have begun contract extension discussions with Clay Thompson. While the details are still being worked out, it is expected that the extension will be similar to the one signed by Draymond Green. Discussions have been ongoing, but no immediate agreement is anticipated. Thompson's future with the team remains uncertain, but the Warriors are determined to keep him as a valued member of the organization.
Assessing the Golden State Warriors' championship potential
While the Golden State Warriors have a chance to win another championship, it is uncertain how many titles they can secure in the remaining years of Steph Curry's career. There are varying opinions on whether they can win more than 0.5 championships, and it ultimately depends on factors such as health, the development of young players, and the team's ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The Warriors' core players, along with the addition of Chris Paul, contribute to their potential success, but the new CBA restrictions also pose challenges.
The Complicated Relationship Between James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers
The podcast episode explores the complex dynamics and challenges in the relationship between James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers. One main idea is the struggle to find compatibility between Harden and Joel Embiid's playing styles. While both are individually talented, their contrasting approaches to the game created challenges on the court, affecting their chemistry and potential success. The episode highlights multiple instances where the two players had difficulties connecting and how their different preferences and roles impacted their performances. The significance of coaching and offensive strategies is also discussed, with suggestions that reorganizing the team's offensive approach could enhance their compatibility. The episode delves into the personal and business aspects of the relationship, including Harden's expectations for a new contract and feelings of betrayal toward Daryl Morey, the Sixers' president of basketball operations. It emphasizes the importance of communication, trust, and shared goals in building a successful team dynamic.
The Impact of Contracts and Tampering Concerns in the Harden-Sixers Relationship
The second main idea focuses on the financial and logistical factors influencing the Harden-Sixers relationship. The podcast explores how the uncertainty of future max contracts and tampering concerns played into the decision-making process. It highlights Harden's willingness to make financial sacrifices to facilitate team-building for Houston, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia, but also how these sacrifices sometimes created expectations for future contracts. The podcast examines the potential implications of the NBA's new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and how it might lead to a shift in players' perspectives on long-term contracts. It also touches on the significance of Harden's relationships with influential figures like Michael Rubin and Daryl Morey and how their involvement, or lack thereof, influenced the dynamics between player and organization. Throughout the discussion, the importance of timing, personal relationships, and smart negotiation strategies are emphasized.
Zach and ESPN's Ramona Shelburne discuss Giannis Antetokounmpo's recent comments about his future, dive into Ramona's recent story on the James Harden stalemate, preview the Golden State Warriors, and much more.
Giannis doubling down on his future possibly being elsewhere (1:27)
Zach thinks Milwaukee might trade Giannis if things go horribly wrong this year (10:22)
How can Milwaukee improve this season? (13:45)
What teams are closely monitoring Giannis' situation (21:03)
How many more titles will Steph-led Warriors win? (33:20)
On a potential extension for Klay Thompson (38:28)
Will CP3 start for the Warriors? (44:50)
Harden vs. Daryl Morey (53:30)
Trying to make sense of Harden's thinking about his contract status (1:13:13)
