The Top of the East with Tim Bontemps and a Look at the Suns
Dec 18, 2023
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Tim Bontemps and Michael Schwartz join the podcast to discuss strengths and weaknesses of Celtics, Sixers, and Bucks. They also analyze the Suns' trade for Kevin Durant and discuss potential of a new basketball lineup.
The Philadelphia 76ers have a strong lineup and depth, making them a formidable team in the East.
The Milwaukee Bucks have bounced back and positioned themselves as a strong contender in the Eastern Conference.
The Boston Celtics' dominant defense and well-rounded roster have solidified their position at the top of the Eastern Conference.
The Eastern Conference is highly competitive and unpredictable, with multiple teams emerging as top contenders.
Deep dives
The Emergence of Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid's Dominance
The Philadelphia 76ers are off to a strong start, with Joel Embiid playing at an MVP level and Tyrese Maxey emerging as a star. The team's new starting lineup has been extremely effective, with dominant performances on both ends of the floor. Embiid's defensive impact is underrated, as he challenges shots at the rim and limits opposing shooters. Maxey's emergence has provided a boost, bringing speed and unpredictability to the offense. The Sixers' depth and versatility complement their star players, making them a formidable team in the East.
The Resurgence of the Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks have bounced back from a slow start and are currently 19-7. Despite some early chemistry issues, the team has found success and is slowly improving. Their offense has been efficient, while their defense is trending in the right direction. It's clear that Giannis Antetokounmpo is playing at an elite level, and the team's depth is a valuable asset. While the Bucks have played an easier schedule, they have capitalized on their opportunities and are positioning themselves as a strong challenger in the Eastern Conference.
The Rising Momentum of the Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics have made significant strides this season, boasting a 20-5 record. Their current lineup has been dominant on both ends of the court, and their defense, in particular, has been a standout aspect of their game. The team has a well-rounded roster, with Jason Tatum stepping up as a leader and Jaylen Brown finding his rhythm. The Celtics' depth and versatility have solidified their position at the top of the Eastern Conference, making them a formidable contender.
The Balanced Strength of the Eastern Conference
The Eastern Conference is showcasing a balanced strength this season, with teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, and more emerging as top contenders. Each team has its own set of star players, depth, and unique styles of play. The race in the East is shaping up to be highly competitive and unpredictable, making the conference an exciting battleground for teams vying for a shot at the NBA Finals.
Injury concerns and lack of game time hinder Phoenix Suns
The Phoenix Suns have been plagued by injuries, preventing their star players from playing together and fully showcasing the team's potential. With Bradley Beal, Devin Booker, and Kevin Durant on the roster, the Suns have the offensive firepower to dominate. However, their lack of game time together has hindered chemistry and cohesion. The team's record so far has been average, and with an uncertain fifth starter, they struggle to find a consistent rotation. Defensively, their rim protection and rebounding need improvement. Overall, the Suns' success relies on their ability to stay healthy and develop chemistry among their star players.
Theoretical Potential of the Phoenix Suns
Despite the setbacks and injury concerns, the theoretical potential of the Phoenix Suns with Bradley Beal, Devin Booker, and Kevin Durant is high. When all three players are on the court, the Suns' offense becomes formidable, with the ability to score from the perimeter and attack the rim. The addition of shooters like Grayson Allen and Eric Gordon further boosts their offensive capabilities. However, the lack of game time and injuries have prevented the team from fully realizing their potential. If the Suns can stay healthy and develop chemistry, they have the talent to compete at a high level.
Defensive Challenges and Need for a Point Guard
The Phoenix Suns face several defensive challenges, including rebounding and rim protection. Despite having Nurkic and Durant on the team, their defense ranks in the middle of the pack. Improvements in defensive rebounding and shot-blocking are necessary for the team to become a stronger defensive unit. Additionally, the absence of a consistent point guard has been noticeable in the fourth quarter and during times when Booker is not on the court. The Suns could benefit from a floor general who can set up plays and provide stability in crucial moments.
Zach and ESPN's Tim Bontemps weigh in on the strengths and weaknesses of the Celtics, Sixers, and Bucks. Then ESPN's Michael Schwartz stops by for a look at the Suns.
Zach laments his bet with Bontemps on the Hawks (1:10)
This is the best Celtics team of the Tatum-Brown era (6:52)
Sixers offense is humming and Embiid has a great MVP case (35:07)
Bucks have been cast aside as the third wheel in the East a bit too aggressively (50:18)
