ESPN analyst Kevin Pelton joins Zach to break down the Wimbanyama-Holmgren duel, discuss NBA win total predictions, James Harden's potential fit with the Clippers, Jrue Holiday coming off the bench, and more.
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Quick takeaways
The Bucks may still be a great team, but there are concerns about injuries and player participation.
The Kings have talented players, but questions remain about their depth and ability to consistently win.
The Raptors have faced setbacks and uncertainties about their offense and defense in recent seasons.
Deep dives
Milwaukee Bucks under 54.5 wins
The Bucks may still be a great team, but the line is set high, and there are concerns about injuries and player participation.
Sacramento Kings under 44.5 wins
While the Kings have some talented players, there are still questions about their depth and ability to consistently win.
Toronto Raptors under 36.5 wins
The Raptors have faced some setbacks in recent seasons, and there are uncertainties about their offense and defense.
Minnesota Timberwolves under 44.5 wins
The Timberwolves have potential, but there are doubts about their depth and ability to compete in a tough Western Conference.
Clippers Pursuing James Harden Trade
The Clippers have continued talks with the Sixers about a potential James Harden trade, with the offer currently consisting of a first-round pick and expiring contracts. The Sixers have rejected the offer so far, but the Clippers may consider including an unprotected 2028 pick in the hopes of enticing other teams and potentially getting two protected picks in return. The Clippers believe Harden would provide the much-needed playmaking and scoring to complement Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, but concerns remain about the fit and whether both players would have to adjust their styles. The outcome of these trade talks will depend on the offers from other teams and whether the Clippers view themselves as legitimate championship contenders.
Yannis Antetokounmpo as Most Versatile Defensive Player
According to the NBA GM survey, Yannis Antetokounmpo is considered the most versatile defensive player in the league by the general managers. This assessment is based on his ability to guard multiple positions and switch on defense. However, some teams around the league believe that Yannis' reputation as a perimeter defender may be inflated, and they would welcome the opportunity to test him in that role. The Milwaukee Bucks' lack of a dedicated wing defender may force Yannis to guard perimeter players more frequently. As teams plan for matchups against the Bucks, they may look to challenge Yannis' defensive abilities and see if he can effectively guard elite wing scorers.
Zach and ESPN's Kevin Pelton break down the Victor Wembanyama-Chet Holmgren duel, pick their favorite overs and under for NBA win totals, talk James Harden stand-off and his potential fit with the Clippers, Jrue Holiday coming off the bench in Boston's preseason opener, and much more.