A Clips-Nuggets Slugfest, Brunson’s Heroics, Best 2025 TV Shows and NBA Then and Now With Rob Mahoney, Joanna Robinson and Bob Ryan
May 2, 2025
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Rob Mahoney, an NBA writer at The Ringer, breaks down thrilling playoff matchups, including the Knicks and Clippers, focusing on Jalen Brunson's crunch-time heroics. Joanna Robinson explores the anticipated TV landscape of 2025, discussing how shows like 'The Last of Us' are transforming viewer engagement. Legendary sportswriter Bob Ryan compares current players with past stars, analyzing the evolution of basketball dynamics and the implications of today's superstar performances.
Anthony Edwards is rapidly becoming a standout talent in the NBA, drawing comparisons to legends like Michael Jordan with his dynamic playstyle.
Luka Doncic's ability to adapt his game for greater team success during playoff moments is a key area for his development moving forward.
Jayson Tatum's impressive evolution as a top player is highlighted by his contributions on both ends of the court, making him crucial for the Celtics' success.
Nikola Jokic is revolutionizing the center position with his extraordinary passing and basketball IQ, marking him as a uniquely versatile player in the league.
The Boston Celtics' strong team chemistry and leadership from stars like Tatum and Brown positions them as serious contenders for the championship this season.
Deep dives
The Rise of Anthony Edwards
Anthony Edwards is emerging as a significant talent in the NBA, drawing comparisons to greats such as Michael Jordan for his playstyle. At just 23 years old, he has established himself as a dominant force, showcasing an impressive blend of athleticism, scoring ability, and swagger. Despite the pressure of high expectations, he has consistently demonstrated an ability to perform in clutch situations, particularly in his postseason appearances. Edwards’ growth as a player is marked by his confidence and skill, positioning him as a promising star for the future.
Luka Doncic's Dominance and Challenges
Luka Doncic is one of the most skilled offensive talents in the NBA today, combining size, skill, and basketball IQ to dominate games. However, the question remains whether he can adapt his game to facilitate his teammates more effectively, especially during crucial moments in the playoffs. While Luka has maintained high scoring averages, the challenge is balancing personal accolades with team success. As he continues to develop, there is hope that Doncic will find a way to enhance his playmaking abilities for the benefit of his team.
The Resurgence of Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum has solidified his status as one of the league's top players, demonstrating a significant evolution in his game over recent seasons. Not only is he an elite scorer, but his rebounding and defensive skills have reached new heights this year, making him one of the best players on both ends of the court. Tatum's improvement is underscored by his leadership on the Celtics, where he serves as the linchpin of their offensive and defensive strategies. If Tatum can maintain this momentum, he could lead the Celtics deep into the playoffs and further establish himself as a franchise cornerstone.
Nikola Jokic: A Generational Talent
Nikola Jokic is redefining what it means to be a center in the NBA, combining exceptional passing ability with scoring and rebounding skills. His vision and basketball IQ set him apart, making him a uniquely versatile player who can impact the game in numerous ways. Observers have noted the resemblance to greats like Bill Walton and Larry Bird, given his ability to orchestrate plays and elevate the performance of his teammates. As Jokic continues to make his mark on the league, there is anticipation to see how his career unfolds and whether he can secure more championships.
The Impact of Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid represents a unique blend of size and skill within the NBA, showcasing an ability to dominate games both on offense and defense. However, concerns about his durability and consistency have persisted, often impacting the 76ers’ success in the postseason. As the team progresses, the pressure will be on Embiid to step up and lead, particularly in critical playoff moments. His journey continues to be closely monitored, with hopes that he can develop into a future Hall of Famer.
James Harden's Evolving Legacy
James Harden's offensive prowess has made him one of the most recognizable names in the league, though his postseason performances have often been marred by inconsistency. Critics have questioned his ability to perform when it matters most, as his style often prioritizes individual stats over team success. While Harden remains a major offensive weapon, there are doubts about whether he can be the leading player on a championship-caliber team. As he navigates his current situation, the scrutiny on his legacy continues to grow.
Giannis Antetokounmpo's Continued Evolution
Giannis Antetokounmpo has solidified himself as one of the NBA's elite players, yet questions remain about his shot selection and ability to perform in critical playoff situations. His unique skill set allows him to dominate physically, but he must continue to develop his shooting to stay competitive against other top-tier teams. Giannis’ leadership will be put to the test as he aims to guide the Bucks back to championship contention. He is a fascinating player to watch as he balances his athletic ability with the learning curve of basketball IQ.
The Promise of the Oklahoma City Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder have emerged as an exciting team in the NBA, with a young core that shows promise for future success. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the team has shown resilience and skill, positioning themselves as a contender in the Western Conference. The synergy among the players contributes to their competitive edge, and they are poised to make an impact in the coming seasons. The development of the young roster, combined with strong coaching, sets the stage for Oklahoma City to be a playoff contender.
The Celtics' Future and Team Dynamics
The Boston Celtics have cultivated a strong team atmosphere, with core players Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown leading the way. The deep roster, filled with talent and likable personalities, has fostered strong connections among the players and their fans. Understanding the importance of winning and effort, the Celtics aim to make a significant impact in the playoffs. The collective effort and unity displayed this season highlight their potential for championship success.
Evaluating the NBA's Historical Context
Historical comparisons remain crucial when analyzing current and past NBA players, contributing to the narrative of the game. Each era has its unique superstars, yet understanding their contributions to the team's success remains essential. The conversation expands as new talents like Edwards and Jokic emerge, challenging the established legacy of historical greats. Ultimately, analyzing skills, championships, and impact helps paint a holistic picture of what it means to be an all-time great.
The Ringer’s Bill Simmons is joined by Rob Mahoney to react to the Knicks-Pistons and Nuggets-Clippers playoff matchups on Thursday (2:22). Then, Bill talks with Joanna Robinson about TV shows in 2025 (48:24). Finally, legendary sportswriter Bob Ryan joins to talk about Anthony Edwards, the Celtics, and more! (01:27:00)
Host: Bill Simmons
Guests: Rob Mahoney, Joanna Robinson, and Bob Ryan
Producers: Chia Hao Tat and Eduardo Ocampo
This episode is brought to you by Degree Deodorant. Grab the original Cool Rush at Walmart or Target today.
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