In this discussion, Anthony Slater, a savvy reporter for The Athletic, brings his expert insights on the Golden State Warriors and the Western Conference as the NBA Cup heats up. The team’s strategy against stars like Shai and Luka is dissected, alongside debates about who genuinely cares about the Cup's stakes. Slater also weighs in on the Warriors’ identity - which version is the real deal? Mixed into the conversation are thoughts on the Bucks' redemption chances and Trae Young's antics in Madison Square Garden, making for an engaging dialogue.
The Warriors face immense pressure as they hold a long-winning streak against the Rockets, making their upcoming NBA Cup match critical.
The Mavericks must creatively adapt their defensive strategies to handle the Thunder's Shea Gildress Alexander amid a knockout tournament format.
Deep dives
NBA Cup Matchup Analysis: Thunder vs. Mavericks
The upcoming NBA Cup game between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Dallas Mavericks presents key matchups that could determine the outcome. A significant focus will be on how the Mavericks plan to defend against Shea Gildress Alexander, as their options are somewhat limited. Notably, previous defensive assignments, such as Derek Jones Jr.'s success against SGA, raise questions about whether the Mavericks can replicate that effectiveness with their current roster adjustments. Additionally, considering the single-elimination format, both teams must strategize effectively, especially the Mavericks, who may need to adapt their defensive schemes to counter the Thunder's dynamic offense.
Warriors vs. Rockets: A Rivalry Renewed
The Warriors and Rockets matchup holds emotional significance, particularly for the Rockets, who seek to break a lengthy losing streak against Golden State. Houston's motivation is heightened as they have not beaten the Warriors in 15 consecutive games, which adds pressure in an elimination-style tournament. Players like Tari Eason have openly expressed a desire to defeat the Warriors, making this game a matter of pride and competition. As the Warriors juggle their star players' health and readiness for high-intensity play, the stakes for both teams remain high in both performance and morale.
Eastern Conference Insights: Bucks vs. Magic
The Milwaukee Bucks are expected to dominate the Orlando Magic in their upcoming matchup, especially considering the Magic's struggles without key forwards. Despite the Bucks facing embarrassment from their prior defeat in the NBA Cup, their current form suggests they are well-equipped to handle the Magic even with their injuries. The playoffs could hinge on the Magic's defensive strategy, which has shown promise this season but may be challenged given their personnel limitations. Players like Jalen Suggs may need to step up significantly, but without consistent support from the rest of the team, overcoming the Bucks will be a daunting task.
Hawks vs. Knicks: The Battle at Madison Square Garden
The matchup between the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden promises a charged atmosphere, particularly with Trey Young's reputation as a villain among Knicks fans. While Young has had notable playoff moments against New York, his historical inefficiency raises questions about his performance in this tense setting. Atlanta's ability to leverage their scoring against a possibly weakened Knicks defense may play a crucial role in deciding the game's outcome. Both teams are aware that this single-elimination game could lead to unexpected drama, adding another layer to an already significant rivalry.
With eight teams remaining, as the NBA Cup enters the knockout stages, Stephen Curry and the Warriors look to book their ticket to Las Vegas. Dave DuFour, Es Baraheni, and Anthony Slater take a look at the Western conference and discuss who guards Shai and Luka, whether the Warriors care, and why the Cup means more to the Rockets. Then, Es and Dave look at the Bucks chances of NBA Cup redemption and Trae Young’s heel work in Madison Square Garden. In the mailbag, the gang take a look at injuries, the Nets roster decisions, and which version of this year’s Warriors team is the real one.
Host: Dave DuFour
With: Es Baraheni, Anthony Slater
Executive Producer: Andrew Schlecht
Audio Producer: Grayson Moody
Submit your questions to The Athletic NBA Daily mailbag: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5939460/2024/11/25/nba-podcast-mailbag-athletic-daily/