Kawhi's Extension, All-Star Picks, and Trade Chatter
Jan 12, 2024
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Kawhi Leonard discusses his contract extension with the Clippers and their championship prospects. They also talk about the Clippers' strong defense, Ty Lue as a coach, and potential trades. Later, they pick All-Stars and discuss trade chatter. Eastern and Western Conference starters and reserves are analyzed, along with the impact of injuries. The podcast also touches on affiliations in college sports and scheduling challenges in the NBA.
The Clippers are legitimate contenders in the NBA.
The Clippers' defense is being overlooked and deserves recognition.
Ty Lue is considered one of the best coaches in the league.
There are multiple deserving candidates for the remaining starting spots in the Western Conference All-Star team.
Deep dives
Eastern Conference All-Star Starters
The Eastern Conference has four clear-cut starters: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, Jason Tatum, and Joel Embiid. These players have been performing at an exceptional level and are deserving of their spots in the starting lineup.
Remaining Guard Spot Debate
The final guard spot is up for debate, with several players contending for it. Candidates include Donovan Mitchell, Jalen Brunson, and Tyrese Maxey. They have all been playing at a high level and will likely be included in the All-Star rosters regardless of the final decision.
Other notable guards
In addition to the aforementioned guards, other notable guards in the Eastern Conference who deserve consideration include Trey Young, Damian Lillard, and Derrick White. While White has seen a recent slump in performance, he has still made a strong case for his All-Star candidacy.
Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis secure starting spots
Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis have earned the starting spots in the Western Conference All-Star team. Their exceptional performances and impact on the court make them clear choices. Their skills and contributions to their respective teams cannot be overlooked.
Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as starting guards
Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have been chosen as the starting guards in the Western Conference All-Star team. Their outstanding play and offensive prowess make them undeniable choices for these positions.
The battle for the remaining three starting spots
The remaining three starting spots on the Western Conference All-Star team have fierce competition. The candidates for these spots include LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, Stephen Curry, Anthony Edwards, and De'Aaron Fox. Choosing between these exceptional players will be a tough decision for coaches and fans.
Reserve spots for key players
Several players deserve reserve spots in the Western Conference All-Star team, including Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Paul George, Karl-Anthony Towns, Rudy Gobert, Desmond Bane, Zion Williamson, and Brandon Ingram. These players have demonstrated their skills and value to their respective teams.
Zach and ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk discuss Kawhi Leonard's extension, whether the Clippers are contenders, and trade possibilities for LA. Then ESPN's Chris Herring joins Zach to pick tentative All-Stars, talk trades leaguewide, and more.
Clippers are real contenders (10:54)
No one is talking about Clippers defense (25:24)
Ty Lue is one of the best coaches in the league (34:32)
