Pascal Siakam to the Pacers Trade Reaction. Plus, Round 1 of Embiid vs. Jokic, and Chet: Live and in Color. | Group Chat
Jan 17, 2024
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NBA player Pascal Siakam traded to Pacers for three first-round picks and Bruce Brown. Discussion on Siakam's fit with the Pacers and Raptors' return. Analysis of the Thunder-Clippers game and admiration for Joel Embiid's dominance.
The Raptors-Pacers trade sending Pascal Siakam to the Pacers for three first-round picks and Bruce Brown sparks debate over Siakam's fit, the Pacers' position in the East, and whether the Raptors got a satisfactory return.
The young Oklahoma City Thunder's unselfish and team-oriented style of play, highlighted by Lou Dort, Isaiah Joe, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, indicates promising development and future success.
Joel Embiid's exceptional performance with 41 points and 10 assists, showcasing his remarkable evolution as one of the most skilled big men in NBA history, calls for the Sixers to maximize their chances and make a move before the trade deadline.
Deep dives
Zubac's injury leaves a void in Clippers' lineup
With center Ivica Zubac out for at least four weeks with a calf strain, the Clippers will have to adjust their lineup and find a temporary replacement. Mason Plumlee will likely step into the role, but his absence will be felt, especially in terms of rebounding and interior defense.
The Thunder impress with their unselfish play
Despite falling to the Clippers, the young Oklahoma City Thunder showcased their unselfish and team-oriented brand of basketball. Lou Dort and Isaiah Joe stood out with their shooting prowess, while Shaggyldis Alexander exhibited leadership without dominating the ball. The Thunder's willingness to pass and play for each other bodes well for their development and future success.
The impact of Zubac's injury on the Clippers' playoff hopes
With the Clippers losing center Ivica Zubac to a calf strain for at least four weeks, their playoff aspirations could be affected. Zubac's absence leaves a hole in their lineup, particularly in terms of rebounding and interior defense. The Clippers will need to find a way to compensate for his absence and adjust their playing style accordingly to maintain their position in the competitive Western Conference.
Joel Embiid dominates with 41 points and 10 assists
Joel Embiid had an exceptional game, scoring 41 points and dishing out 10 assists. His range and touch were on display as he hit step-backs, turnarounds, and off-balance jumpers. Despite Denver's defensive design, Embiid's dominance couldn't be stopped as he made shots over defenders and found open teammates. His evolution as a player from his early days in the league to now is remarkable, making him one of the most skilled big men in NBA history. The Sixers should capitalize on Embiid's stellar season and make a move before the trade deadline to maximize their chances.
Jalen Williams solidifies himself as the third player in the Thunder's big three
Jalen Williams had an impressive performance, scoring 25 points and dishing out seven assists. The Thunder have managed to develop a homegrown big three with Williams joining Chet Holmgren and Paolo Bencero. Williams' skill set at all three levels makes him a dependable player for the Thunder. The team's ability to cultivate such talent is commendable, even though they may not have the MVP-level talent like in the past. Williams' rise in the draft and his strong contributions to the team make him an intriguing prospect for teams to consider in a redraft of the 2022 class.
Justin, Rob, and Wos join to cover the Raptors-Pacers trade that sent Pascal Siakam to the Pacers in return for three first-round picks and Bruce Brown. They break down Siakam’s fit with the Pacers, evaluate where they stack up in the East pecking order, and debate whether the Raptors got a big enough return (2:50). Later, they cover last night’s thrilling Thunder-Clippers game (with Wos in attendance) and highlight the impressive performances from both teams (26:01). Then, they stop and marvel at Joel Embiid’s dominance and share their big-picture takeaways on the 76ers' future (54:44).
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Hosts: Justin Verrier, Rob Mahoney, and Wosny Lambre
