Surgery for Embiid, Trade Deadline Chatter, and MVP Candidates with Tim MacMahon
Feb 5, 2024
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Tim MacMahon, ESPN reporter and analyst, joins Zach to discuss Joel Embiid's upcoming surgery, trade deadline chatter, All-Star snubs, and MVP candidates. They explore the Sixers' approach to the trade deadline, potential moves for the Mavs, Rockets, Cavs, and Nets, and analyze MVP candidates like Embiid, Doncic, Jokic, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Antetokounmpo.
The Utah Jazz are focused on building a contender and getting into the playoffs, but they are not solely targeting the play-in tournament.
The Jazz have an increased willingness to trade Kelly Olynyk at the right price, with some teams expecting a move.
The Los Angeles Clippers are motivated to add depth and improve their chances of making a championship run as they currently have one of the best records in the NBA.
Deep dives
Utah Jazz's outlook on the playoffs
The Utah Jazz are currently 25-26 and have had an up-and-down season since their playoff exit last year. While they made a big trade last year with Mike Conley, they don't have any plans to make a similar trade to jeopardize their entire season. They could afford to trade one player from their rotation, such as Georges Niang or Kelly Olynyk. There has been speculation that the Jazz have an increased willingness to move Olynyk at the right price. The team is focused on building a contender and getting into the playoffs, but they are not solely targeting the play-in tournament.
Interest in Favors and Olynyk
There are teams interested in players from the Utah Jazz, such as Georges Niang and Kelly Olynyk. Olynyk, being on an expiring contract, has generated more buzz, with the Jazz reportedly signaling an increased willingness to move him at the right price. There is a general sense that the Jazz may trade Olynyk, and some teams would be surprised if they don't make a move. While the Jazz are looking to build a contender, they are also focused on securing a young and talented roster.
Jazz's playoff aspirations
The Utah Jazz have had an inconsistent season but are aiming to make it to the playoffs. They have a record of 25-26 and are looking to participate in the play-in tournament if they don't end up with a higher seed. Last year's playoff exit influenced their approach this season. While they don't plan to go all-in for the play-in, they are still open to making moves and potentially trading a player from their rotation, like Georges Niang or Kelly Olynyk. Their goal is to build a strong team and become contenders in the future.
Jazz's potential trade targets
The Utah Jazz are in a position to explore potential trades as the trade deadline approaches. There is interest from other teams in players like Georges Niang and Kelly Olynyk. While the Jazz are focused on building a strong team, they are not willing to make drastic moves that would jeopardize their future. They may be more open to moving Olynyk, who is on an expiring contract, if the right offer presents itself. Overall, the Jazz are looking to improve their roster to become a contender while also keeping an eye on long-term success.
Utah Jazz: Trade Deadline and Potential Moves
The podcast discusses the upcoming trade deadline and the potential moves the Utah Jazz may make. While they owe their first-round pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder, it is unlikely that the Jazz will engage in tanking to secure a top 10 protected pick. They have been considering trading players like Kelly Olynyk for other guards in the league, showing their interest in bolstering their roster. Despite the impact it may have on their team, the podcast suggests that trading Olynyk for a first-round pick, even if it is a low pick, would still be a worthwhile move for the Jazz. Additionally, the podcast mentions the team's interest in Jontay Jordan as a potential guard of the future.
Los Angeles Clippers: Pursuit of a Power Forward or Center
The podcast focuses on the Los Angeles Clippers' pursuit of acquiring a power forward or center before the trade deadline. The team recognizes the need to add size, particularly when Kawhi Leonard is off the court. Mentioned players who the team may have interest in include Markieff Morris, Dorian Finney-Smith, and PJ Washington. However, due to their limited picks available for trade, the Clippers may have to give up a home run deal that includes their 2030 first-round pick. Despite this, the Clippers are motivated to add depth and improve their chances of making a championship run, as they currently have one of the best records in the NBA.
Zach and ESPN's Tim MacMahon discuss Joel Embiid's upcoming surgery, ramifications for the Sixers going forward, all things trade deadline, All-Star snubs, MVP candidates, and much more.