Thinking Basketball #357: Ethical rankings, Dangerous matchups & Best players in the East
11 snips
Jan 14, 2026 Discover the ethics of drawing fouls as the hosts debate players who thrive without flopping. Gain insights into dangerous matchups and under-the-radar teams, including the impact of Nikola Jokic's injury on the Nuggets. Explore the best players in the Eastern Conference, featuring standout discussions on Cade Cunningham and Jaylen Brown. Catch a glimpse of the evolving dynamics in the playoff landscape and how coaching philosophies shape player growth and team success.
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Style Explains Free Throw Disparities
- Team style drives free throw disparities; individual free throw rates often reflect offensive/defensive playstyle rather than officiating bias.
- Ben Taylor explains Warriors' low FT rates and Lakers' high FT rates as style-driven phenomena.
Injury Revealed Nuggets' Hidden Depth
- Nikola Jokic's injury forced Denver to reassign roles and revealed unexpected depth and defensive identity.
- Ben Taylor argues the short-term loss created long-term gains by testing bench players in pressure moments.
Pressure Reps Build Playoff Composure
- Coaches intentionally expose role players to pressure to build playoff-ready confidence and clutch experience.
- Cody Houdek and Ben reference Phil Jackson's habit of letting players 'figure it out' as developmental strategy.