The Athletic NBA Daily
Playoff Pressure Meter + Weekend Update
Mar 31, 2025
As the NBA season nears its climax, the team analyzes which Western playoff squads are feeling the heat. A dramatic brawl between the Pistons and Wolves adds to the weekend's excitement. The show dives into the Grizzlies' struggles and coaching shake-ups, while spotlighting the Suns' structural issues affecting their game. Finally, they discuss critical playoff matchups, including the potential showdown between Steph Curry and LeBron James, setting the stage for high-stakes basketball ahead.
28:37
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Quick takeaways
- The Memphis Grizzlies' surprising decision to fire their head coach highlights the intense pressure on playoff teams to perform.
- The physical altercation between the Timberwolves and Pistons exemplifies the escalating intensity and rising stakes as the playoffs approach.
Deep dives
Grizzlies Coach Firing Shakes Up Team Dynamics
The Memphis Grizzlies made headlines by firing their head coach with just nine games left in the season, despite being in playoff contention. This decision came as a surprise, raising questions about the timing, as they had struggled defensively in recent months, dropping to 20th in defensive rankings. The move is seen as an attempt to shift the team's direction, with interim coach Tomas Izzo now responsible for improving both offensive and defensive strategies. There’s a looming concern about what lies ahead for the team in the offseason as they navigate potential changes in management and player development.
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