An Early Season NBA Deep Dive with Tim Legler and Richard Jefferson
Nov 24, 2023
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Tim Legler and Richard Jefferson join the podcast to discuss topics such as James Harden's career, the future of the NBA post-LeBron and post-Steph, potential top-10 all-time talents, expansion teams, and more.
Adapting and making adjustments to his game will be crucial for James Harden's success in a new team.
The Clippers have the potential to bounce back and reach their full potential by maximizing the talents of key players.
Criticism of James Harden's decision-making should consider the value of making the right play and finding open teammates.
Recognizing the intelligence and basketball IQ behind LeBron James' decision-making is important, instead of solely focusing on the end result of the shot.
Deep dives
James Harden and the Importance of Adaptation
James Harden's remarks about being a system player highlight the need to adapt and make adjustments to his game. While some criticize him for this, it is a valid observation, considering his unique style of play and dominance on the court. Adapting to a new team and maximizing his role within it will be crucial for Harden's success.
The Clippers and Their Shaky Start
The Clippers have had a challenging start to the season, but it is too early to make any definitive judgments about their performance. With time, rotations, and lineup adjustments, they have the potential to find their rhythm and bounce back. As long as they focus on maximizing the talents of their key players, such as Westbrook and Harden, the team can recover and reach their full potential.
James Harden's Decision-making and Perceptions
James Harden's decision-making has been under scrutiny, particularly when it comes to passing out of double-teams. While some criticize him for not taking the shot himself, it is important to acknowledge that making the right play and finding open teammates is a valuable strategy. The perception of his decision-making often hinges on whether the shot goes in or not, which can lead to unfair judgments and narratives.
LeBron James and the Right Play
LeBron James has consistently made the right play throughout his career, often passing to open shooters when double-teamed. However, criticism arises when those shots do not go in, leading to unfair comparisons to other players with purported 'killer instinct.' It is crucial to recognize the intelligence and basketball IQ behind James' decision-making, rather than focusing solely on the end result of the shot.
The Excitement of Broadcasting Basketball Games
Broadcasting basketball games allows me to combine my love for the game with the joy of sharing my insights and analysis. I wake up every day excited to sit court side and watch the action unfold, and once the game is over, I get to discuss it like a fan. It's a dream come true to have a job that revolves around basketball and allows me to be involved in the sport I am so passionate about.
The Brotherhood and Understanding of Players
One thing I miss about being a player is the brotherhood and understanding among teammates. In the locker room and on the court, everyone knows the sacrifices and dedication it takes to reach the professional level. There is a level of bonding and camaraderie that comes with competing together against all odds. Outside of that environment, it's difficult for others to fully grasp the intensity and drive that athletes have. It's a special connection and a sense of being understood that is hard to replicate in any other aspect of life.
The Intensity and Competitiveness of the Game
The level of intensity and competitiveness in professional basketball is unmatched. As a player, there is nothing quite like the adrenaline rush that comes from being in the heat of the game, making big plays, and competing at the highest level. The feeling of going head-to-head with opponents, especially in hostile environments, is indescribable. The thrill of winning and proving oneself against the best in the world is a feeling that can never be replicated in any other profession.
The Understanding and Brotherhood Among Players
Playing basketball at the professional level required a certain level of dedication, passion, and commitment. The understanding and camaraderie among players who have been through the same struggles and sacrifices is something I miss the most. The shared experiences of long hours of practice, relentless training, and overcoming obstacles create a bond that is hard to find outside of the basketball world. It's a unique connection and a powerful support system that is truly irreplaceable.
We're thrilled to welcome Tim Legler and Richard Jefferson back on The Old Man and the Three this week. The guys get in-depth about so many different topics, including James Harden's career and what a successful future looks like for him, what a Post-LeBron and Post-Steph NBA looks like, who in the league currently has the realistic potential to be a top-10 all-time talent, the talk of expansion teams, and much more.
