Mailbag: Ja Morant and the Grizzlies, Best Player in a Bad Situation, and More | Group Chat
Dec 21, 2023
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Ja Morant, a player on the Grizzlies, joins the hosts to discuss his impact on the team and comparisons to Zion Williamson. They also talk about best League Pass teams, player fashion, and the best players in bad situations.
The future of NBA television coverage may involve transforming into a sports betting entertainment product and incorporating social apps for sideline access and player-produced live streams after games.
Orlando has the potential to become a premier free agent destination due to strong ownership, an appealing climate, and no state income tax, similar to the growth of Phoenix.
Player fashion in the NBA has been criticized for its depersonalization and genericism, highlighting the need for players to showcase their unique style instead of conforming to stylist expectations.
Deep dives
The Changing Landscape of NBA Television Coverage
The future of NBA television coverage is predicted to undergo significant changes. While TV revenue remains crucial to the league, there is speculation that ESPN, for example, may transform into a sports betting entertainment product. Additionally, there are suggestions that social apps could sign deals for sideline access to players and coaches. Player-produced live streams after games may become popular alternatives to traditional post-game coverage, and social networks could potentially stream NBA games. These changes reflect evolving viewing habits and the need to engage audiences through various platforms and formats.
Orlando as a Free Agent Destination
While Orlando may not currently be seen as a premier free agent destination, there is potential for it to become one in the future. Strong ownership, an appealing climate, and no state income tax could make it an attractive location for players. With the right mix of star players, successful seasons, and a positive reputation, Orlando could become an inviting option for free agents, similar to the way Phoenix has grown in appeal.
The State of Player Fashion
Player fashion has been criticized for its excessive focus on designer brands and the lack of personal style expression. Many players rely on professional stylists, leading to a depersonalization of their fashion choices. The trend towards costume-like outfits and a focus on brand names has resulted in a less individualistic and more generic player fashion landscape. This criticism highlights the need for players to showcase their own personalities and unique sense of style, rather than conforming to the standard expectations set by stylists.
Impressive Rookie Core for the Thunder
The current Oklahoma City Thunder roster boasts a group of talented rookies on their rookie contracts. While not on the level of the 2009-2010 Thunder core with Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden, this rookie group shows promise. Players like Josh Giddey, Jalen McDaniels, and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl have already shown flashes of their potential. While it's still early to determine their long-term impact, the depth of young talent on the Thunder is impressive.
Comparisons to Other Contending Teams
When it comes to impactful rookie scale players on contending teams, several examples stand out. Dwyane Wade's rookie season with the Miami Heat in 2006 was legendary, and his impact on winning was undeniable. Donovan Mitchell's arrival on the Utah Jazz in 2018 also transformed the team into a playoff contender. However, in terms of depth, the 2017-2018 Los Angeles Lakers had an impressive group of young players on their roster, including Kyle Kuzma, Lonzo Ball, and Brandon Ingram. While not all of them have achieved stardom, the potential and talent were evident. Overall, the current Thunder rookie core shows promise, but it will take time to determine their true impact on contending teams.
Justin, Rob, and Wos open up the mailbag and answer some listener questions about Ja Morant and the Grizzlies, best League Pass teams, player fashion, best players in bad situations, and more.
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Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and Wosny Lambre