Part 2: In-Season Tournament Kudos, GSW in Trouble, NFL MVP Weirdness, and Million-Dollar Thanksgiving Picks With Rob Mahoney, Steven Ruiz, and Danny Kelly
Nov 22, 2023
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Rob Mahoney, an NBA analyst for The Ringer, joins with NFL experts Steven Ruiz and Danny Kelly to dive deep into the NBA's inaugural in-season tournament and its electrifying competitive spirit. They dissect aging superstars like LeBron and Curry, who are navigating the pressures of the MVP race. The trio also explores the NFL's MVP conundrum, highlighting overlooked contenders while prepping for Thanksgiving's betting excitement. From player performance to strategic insights, their lively banter makes sports analytics both fun and thought-provoking!
Kevin Durant's exceptional offensive performance raises concerns about his potential burnout and injuries.
The Warriors' small lineup and reliance on their main stars, Steph Curry and Draymond Green, hinders their defensive capabilities and playoff chances.
The Lakers heavily depend on LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and their lack of depth and reliance on older players is concerning.
The Warriors, Suns, and Lakers all face challenges due to roster limitations and need to address weaknesses in trades, injuries, or workload management.
The Saints should have the edge in their game against the Falcons, given their overall talent and better rankings in offense, defense, and special teams.
Deep dives
Kevin Durant's offensive brilliance and high workload
Despite injuries and a small-sized team, Kevin Durant has been exceptional on offense, averaging 34.7 points, 7 rebounds over six games. However, the team's heavy reliance on him raises concerns about potential burnout and injuries.
The concerns surrounding the small and injury-prone Warriors
The Warriors' small lineup and reliance on their main stars, Steph Curry and Draymond Green, have raised concerns about their defensive vulnerabilities and lack of size. The team's struggles with inconsistency and the reliance on older players could potentially hinder their playoff chances.
Anthony Davis's limitations and the Lakers' dependency on LeBron
Anthony Davis's offensive impact has been inconsistent, highlighting the Lakers' dependency on LeBron James. The team's success heavily relies on the performance and availability of these two stars. There are concerns about their lack of depth and reliance on mid-30s players.
The need for strategic trades and addressing roster weaknesses
The Warriors, Suns, and Lakers all face challenges due to roster limitations. Each team needs to address their weaknesses, whether that means making key trades, dealing with injuries, or finding ways to lighten the workload on their star players.
Saints vs. Falcons: Saints have the talent advantage and a history of success against the Falcons
The Saints have won 9 of their last 11 games against the Falcons, and they have more overall talent and better rankings in offense, defense, and special teams compared to the Falcons. While the uncertainty at quarterback may be a concern, the Saints should still have the edge in this game.
Browns vs. Broncos: Cleveland's strong defense and rushing game give them an advantage
The Browns have a formidable defense that ranks first in several categories, including pass defense. They should be able to limit the Broncos' ability to move the ball. On the offensive side, Cleveland has a strong rushing game that can exploit Denver's weak run defense. The Browns' game plan of controlling the ball and minimizing turnovers should work in their favor.
Dolphins vs. Jets: Dolphins have the advantage with a solid defense and Jets' struggles
The Dolphins have a stronger defense than the Jets, ranking high in several defensive categories. Added to the mix is the Jets' struggling offense led by an inexperienced quarterback. The Dolphins are likely to dominate this game and limit the Jets' scoring opportunities.
Lions vs. Packers: Lions have a chance with their strong run game against the Packers' weak run defense
The Lions have a strong rushing offense that should exploit the Packers' weak run defense. Additionally, injuries to key Packers players, such as Aaron Jones, may impact their overall performance. Although the Packers might have an edge in the passing game, the Lions' chances to win cannot be discounted.
Ravens vs. Chargers: Ravens Offense vs. Chargers Defense
The Ravens, led by their efficient offense, have a clear advantage over the struggling Chargers defense, making the Ravens a strong bet.
Bengals vs. Steelers: Steelers Favorable Matchup
The Steelers are favored against the Bengals, who have been struggling and may be hampered by quarterback availability issues. The Steelers' dominant defense gives them the upper hand in this game.
In Part 2 of a two-part podcast, The Ringer's Bill Simmons is joined by Rob Mahoney to discuss the success of the inaugural NBA in-season tournament and check in on some aging NBA superstars, including LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry (1:42). Then, Bill talks with Danny Kelly and Steven Ruiz about the lackluster NFL MVP race (50:58) before Bill and Danny run through NFL Week 12 games and make the Million-Dollar Picks (1:21:23).
Host: Bill Simmons
Guests: Rob Mahoney, Steven Ruiz, and Danny Kelly
Producer: Kyle Crichton
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