The Bill Simmons Podcast The NBA Playoffs Mega-Preview. Plus, Awards Picks With Rob Mahoney, Chris Ryan, and Brian Windhorst
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Apr 18, 2025 
Rob Mahoney, an in-depth NBA analyst at The Ringer, joins Chris Ryan, who covers NBA culture, and Brian Windhorst, an ESPN analyst known for his insightful commentary. They discuss playoff matchups, focusing on rivalries like Rockets vs. Warriors, the potential for upsets, and the evolving dynamics of team strategies. The trio brings humor to debates on MVP candidates and defensive standout players, while Windhorst shares thoughts on international basketball and the significance of Luka and LeBron in the postseason. A must-listen for basketball fans!
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Rockets-Warriors Series Dynamics
- The Rockets-Warriors series promises intense physicality and strategic contrast.
- Warriors' small lineup struggles against Rockets' physical wings, raising unpredictability.
Pacers Underestimated, Dame's Impact Crucial
- Pacers have been vastly underrated despite strong late-season performance.
- Dame Lillard's health and impact remain a critical wild card in series against Bucks.
MVP Debate: Jokic vs. Gilgeous-Alexander
- MVP choices highlight competing narratives between statistically dominant Jokic and breakthrough Shea Gilgeous-Alexander.
- Jokic's all-around play and leadership sustain his MVP status despite strong challenges.