Rasheed Wallace on Jalen Brunson’s Ascension, Another Disappointing Bucks Season, and How Jokic Advanced the Big Man | Real Ones
May 3, 2024
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Four-time NBA All-Star Rasheed Wallace joins the podcast to discuss Jalen Brunson's rise, the disappointing Bucks season, his playing style, thoughts on Nikola Jokic, and the challenges faced by the Clippers superteam.
Jalen Brunson's impressive playoff performance signals a shift in star player perceptions and showcases growth and adaptability in critical moments.
Effective team building in NBA front offices hinges on trust, communication, and strategic planning among all members to achieve success.
The evolving influence of players in team decision-making underscores the delicate balance required for collaborative leadership between players, coaches, and management.
Deep dives
The Impact of Jalen Brunson in the NBA
Jalen Brunson's emergence as a standout player in the NBA playoffs signifies a shift in perception regarding star players. Observing Brunson's performance, averaging 41 points and 10 assists, exemplifies his growth and adaptability in critical moments. His success also highlights how certain players may go unnoticed initially but can redefine their roles and establish themselves as key assets for their teams.
Front Office Challenges in Team Building
The podcast delves into the intricate dynamics of NBA front offices and the challenges faced in team building. It emphasizes the importance of allowing each member, including players and management, to fulfill their roles effectively. The discussion highlights the significance of trust, communication, and strategic planning throughout the entire organization to achieve success.
The Role of Players and GMs in Team Decisions
The conversation touches on the evolving role of players in influencing team decisions and how it impacts team dynamics. It addresses the delicate balance required between players and the front office to ensure collaborative decision-making while maintaining a clear team vision. The podcast underscores the pivotal role of GMs in guiding team strategies and the repercussions of player-driven agendas.
Reflections on Coaching and Player Mentorship
The episode also reflects on coaching decisions and mentorship within NBA teams, shedding light on the complexities of leadership and team dynamics. It discusses the repercussions of abrupt coaching changes and the importance of establishing trust and clear communication between players, coaches, and management. The discussion emphasizes the need for a cohesive team environment built upon mutual respect and collective goals.
Analysis of Nikola Jokic's Playing Style
Nikola Jokic's unique playing style as a skilled big man in the NBA is discussed, contrasting him with traditional big men of the past like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Jokic's evolution as a player is attributed to influences from older players like Arvydas Sabonis and a personal shift in mindset. Emphasizing how Jokic's passing abilities and court vision stand out, the podcast delves into his defensive shortcomings and reliance on offensive skills.
Comparing Minnesota Timberwolves to Denver Nuggets
The podcast analyzes the matchup between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Denver Nuggets, highlighting the advantages Minnesota holds with its frontcourt size against Denver. Mentioning the effectiveness of high-low plays with Nikola Jokic and Aaron Gordon, the discussion touches on the defensive challenges Jokic faces due to his offensive workload. Speculating on the potential impact of rising star Anthony Edwards on the series, the focus shifts to how Minnesota's size could disrupt Denver's offensive strategies.
Logan and Raja are joined by four-time NBA All-Star and cohost of ‘The Sheed & Tyler Show’ Rasheed Wallace to discuss Jalen Brunson’s burgeoning superstardom and the 76ers falling short once again (1:11). Next, they talk about how the Milwaukee Bucks fell apart late in the season and their next steps after another early exit in the postseason (23:03). Along the way, the former NBA champion explains how he developed his playing style, his thoughts on Nikola Jokic, and why the Timberwolves are a formidable threat to Denver (39:43). Later, they unpack the “narrative” around why the Los Angeles Clippers superteam isn’t working (52:31). Finally, the guys close with their Real Ones of the Week (61:10).
