Bobby Marks on Harden, Team USA, and the One Question Zach would ask Ben Simmons
Sep 5, 2023
01:20:32
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ESPN's basketball analyst, Bobby Marks, discusses the James Harden situation, Giannis Antetokounmpo's comments, Damian Lillard trade scenarios, and Team USA's performance at the FIBA World Cup.
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Quick takeaways
James Harden refuses to play for the 76ers with Daryl Morey present
Philadelphia 76ers face organizational turmoil which may impact their future
Brooklyn Nets are potential wildcard in James Harden trade discussions
Deep dives
James Harden's frustration with Daryl Morey and the ongoing investigation by the NBA
James Harden remains unhappy with Daryl Morey's involvement in the Philadelphia 76ers and has expressed his refusal to play for a team where Morey is present. The NBA has fined Harden $100,000 for his public trade request and signaling his unwillingness to play for certain teams. The investigation has revealed that Harden's anger stems from his expectation of being quickly traded after opting into his contract. However, as no trade has yet occurred, Harden is now faced with reporting to the 76ers training camp.
Questions about Sixers ownership and management
The Philadelphia 76ers have experienced a prolonged period of chaos and constant turmoil in their organization. The ownership and management have faced scrutiny for their handling of various situations and decisions. There have been questions raised about their ability to effectively lead and manage the team. The upcoming season could be crucial in determining the future direction and success of the franchise.
Potential trade scenarios and the role of the Brooklyn Nets
The Brooklyn Nets have been identified as a potential wildcard in the James Harden trade discussions. While there has not been much dialogue between the Nets and the 76ers or other teams regarding a trade for Harden, the Nets have the assets and the motivation to make a move for the superstar player. However, there are also differing opinions within the organization about whether Harden is the right fit for the team or if they should focus on building around their current roster.
The uncertain future of Damian Lillard and the lack of interest from other teams
There has been little to no meaningful dialogue or interest from other teams in acquiring Damian Lillard. While there have been preliminary conversations between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Toronto Raptors, there is no deal on the horizon. Lillard's future remains uncertain, but at this point, he is expected to report to training camp with the Trail Blazers. If a trade does not materialize by the start of the season, it may be challenging for Portland to find an attractive offer for Lillard.
Key Point: Team USA's performance in the FIBA World Cup
Team USA has made it to the semi-finals of the FIBA World Cup and has already qualified for the Olympics. The podcast hosts express their approval of the team's construction and the impressive performances of players like Tyrese Haliburton and Miles Bridges. However, they also discuss the challenges faced by the team, including lack of point guard depth and the dominance of certain international teams.
Insight: Supermax extensions and potential candidates
The podcast anticipates a historic year for Supermax extensions in the NBA, with up to eight players potentially being eligible based on their performance in the upcoming season. Luca Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are seen as strong contenders, while players like Jamal Murray, Bam Adebayo, and Pascal Siakam may be impacted by positionless voting. The discussion also touches on the 65-game minimum threshold and its potential effect on player eligibility.
Zach and ESPN's Bobby Marks get caught up on the James Harden situation, the Damian Lillard landscape, Giannis Antetokounmpo's recent comments about his time in Milwaukee, Team USA at the FIBA World Cup, and much more.
Harden upset in Philly (2:58)
Giannis' statement (16:02)
Harden situation is more chaotic than it was with Simmons (22:25)
What happened in Brooklyn with Harden? (30:28)
Anything new with Dame? (38:40)
The one question Zach would ask Ben Simmons (52:07)