Draymond and a Say Something Nice Draft with Kevin Pelton
Dec 13, 2023
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Kevin Pelton, ESPN's Kevin Pelton, joins Zach to discuss the latest Draymond Green incident and whether the Warriors can salvage their season. They also analyze Nikola Jokic's ejection and have a fun Say Something Nice About Bad Teams draft featuring various NBA teams.
The Blazers' veteran leadership and ball-handling skills have shown moments of competence despite their poor record.
Hawks' struggles highlight the emergence of Scottie Barnes as a potential offensive centerpiece.
The Spurs' duo of Young and Wambanyama has shown promise despite their losing streak.
Improvements in assist rate and cohesive passing provide optimism for the Raptors' future despite challenges.
The Grizzlies' resilience and the standout performance of Desmond Bane offer hope for a potential turnaround.
The Bulls' potential has been displayed through the performances of Kobe White in the absence of Zach LaVine.
Deep dives
The Portland Trail Blazers: Finding Competence Amidst Challenges
The Blazers, despite their 6-16 record, have shown moments of competence. When healthy, Melo and Brogdon have demonstrated positive chemistry on the court, with a positive point differential when they play together. This highlights the potential impact of Melo's veteran leadership and Brogdon's ball-handling skills. The Blazers' future decision regarding Brogdon will be intriguing, opening up possibilities for the trade deadline and roster adjustments.
The Atlanta Hawks: Achieving Clarity Amidst Struggles
The Hawks have come to realize that they are not performing up to expectations this season. Their 9-13 record and 27th ranked defense indicate their struggles. However, the emergence of Scottie Barnes as a potential offensive centerpiece is a positive development. Barnes has shown versatility, averaging impressive points, rebounds, and assists. While the team as a whole may need to reassess their direction, Barnes' growth provides hope for the future.
The San Antonio Spurs: Striving Despite Challenging Circumstances
The Spurs, currently on a 17-game losing streak, have shown resilience and perseverance. Despite their struggles, the duo of Young and Wambanyama has been promising. In limited minutes together, they have showcased positive point differentials. This has shed light on their potential as a strong offensive pairing. The team's decision-making and lineup management have left room for improvement, but sparks of potential can be seen with this young core.
The Toronto Raptors: Unearthing Strengths Amidst Inconsistencies
Despite holding a 9-14 record, the Raptors have demonstrated improvements in their assist rate compared to previous seasons. Their willingness to share the ball, led by players like Scottie Barnes, Pascal Siakam, and Gary Trent Jr., has elevated their offense. While the team faces challenges, such as a lack of shooting, Barnes' emergence and their cohesive passing game provide optimism for their future.
The Memphis Grizzlies: Battling Through Adversity
The Grizzlies, despite a 6-16 record, have shown resilience amidst numerous injuries. Desmond Bane has been a standout performer, impressing with his scoring efficiency and defensive contributions. With the return of Ja Morant on the horizon, the team's youth and fighting spirit offer hope for a potential turnaround. The combination of Bane's steady play and expected reinforcements could spark positive momentum for the Grizzlies.
The Chicago Bulls: Promising Performances Amidst Challenges
The Bulls have shown promising performances, particularly in the absence of Zach LaVine, indicating their potential. Kobe White has stepped up, averaging over 22 points per game in recent games, providing much-needed offensive firepower. With his development and growing confidence, paired with the team's overall resilience, the Bulls have displayed qualities that can positively impact their future.
The Washington Wizards: Striving for Improvement Despite Difficulties
Despite their 3-19 record, the Wizards have shown determination and effort to improve. Despite losing numerous games, they have displayed flashes of potential, with players like Bradley Beal and Spencer Dinwiddie providing consistent scoring. While their struggles persist, the team's resilience offers hope for eventual progress.
The Detroit Pistons: Building Amidst a Challenging Season
The Pistons have faced difficulties this season, currently holding a 2-21 record. However, the emergence of young players like Cade Cunningham and Isaiah Stewart showcases their potential to become cornerstones for the team. With continued development and growth, the Pistons can lay a foundation for future success despite the challenges they face.
The Utah Jazz: Navigating Troubles with Promise
Though the Jazz currently have a 7-16 record, they have shown glimpses of promise amidst their struggles. Desmond Bane has provided consistent scoring, shooting at an efficient rate. Despite their record, they remain a dangerous team capable of turning things around with the return of key players and improved performances from their supporting cast.
The Charlotte Hornets: Demonstrating Fight Despite Setbacks
The Hornets, with a 7-14 record, have displayed resilience and determination. Despite facing setbacks, players like LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Gordon Hayward have showcased their scoring abilities and contributed to a competent offense. The team's fighting spirit and individual performances demonstrate potential for a brighter future.
Belal Kulubali's development as a rookie
Belal Kulubali, a teenage rookie, has exceeded expectations in his development. Despite having a small role in the French League, he is now shooting 40% from three-point range and showing improvement in making plays with the ball in his hands.
Corey Kispert's playmaking ability
Corey Kispert has shown growth in his playmaking skills, particularly in driving to the basket and running pick and rolls. Although his defense is a weakness, he has been a valuable rotation player with the ability to leverage his shooting to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
Zach discusses the latest Draymond Green incident, what it means for Draymond's career, and whether the Warriors can salvage this season. Then ESPN's Kevin Pelton joins to talk Draymond/Warriors, the Nuggets bench and Nikola Jokic's ejection on Tuesday, and a special Say Something Nice About Bad Teams draft featuring the Hawks, Raptors, Wizards, Jazz, Pistons, Grizzlies, Spurs, Bulls, Hornets, and Blazers.
