#323: Rob Mahoney on DEN-OKC! Playoffs vs Regular Season
May 16, 2025
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Rob Mahoney, a writer for The Ringer and a co-host of a podcast with Zach Lowe, joins the discussion to break down the thrilling Thunder-Nuggets playoff series. He examines Playoff Jamal Murray's impressive performances and the unique challenges faced by both teams. The conversation delves into the stark differences between playoff and regular season dynamics, emphasizing how today's NBA could shift traditional championship narratives. Innovative coaching tactics and player decision-making also play a crucial role in the series' outcome.
The playoff series between the Thunder and Nuggets highlights varying offensive strategies, emphasizing the importance of coaching in adjusting to defensive tactics.
Psychological pressure significantly impacts players' shooting performances, as soaring expectations during the regular season lead to struggles in high-stakes playoff moments.
Role players' contributions determine playoff success, underscoring the critical need for consistent performance from supporting players alongside star athletes.
Deep dives
High-Level Basketball in the Conference Finals
The current playoff series featuring Oklahoma City and Denver showcases an impressive level of basketball, reminiscent of past Western Conference battles in the early 2000s. Despite struggles in three-point shooting from players like Michael Porter Jr. and Russell Westbrook, the intensity and skill displayed by both teams highlight their potential as championship contenders. The matchup between MVP candidates Nikola Jokic and Shea Gildas-Alexander emphasizes the tactical evolution of their games as they navigate defensive challenges. The series’ tension remains captivating, as both teams reveal new aspects of their strategies while competing at a high caliber.
Defensive Adjustments and Player Development
Coaching strategies play a crucial role in the series, particularly in how both teams are adapting defensively to counter their opponents' strengths. The Denver Nuggets, under David Adelman, have successfully implemented various defensive alignments, including creative zoning, which disrupts the Thunder's offensive flow. Meanwhile, Oklahoma City faces challenges as players like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren exhibit inconsistency in their offensive performances when icing out of rhythm during critical moments. The evolution of Shea's shot-making ability under pressure further highlights the growth opportunities for young players in a fiercely competitive environment.
Rim Finishing Disparities
One significant factor influencing the series is the contrasting abilities of both teams in finishing at the rim under pressure. While Denver thrives with players like Jamal Murray and Christian Brown effectively converting difficult opportunities, Oklahoma City struggles with similar scenarios, particularly with role players exhibiting lower shooting percentages inside six feet. The inability of Thunder's guards and wings to finish strong against Denver's defense has dampened their offense, creating a disparity that affects their overall performance. This inconsistency puts added pressure on star players like Shea to deliver in crucial situations.
The Psychological Aspects of Shooting
Mental fortitude becomes crucial as the playoffs progress, influencing players' confidence and shooting performances. The ongoing struggle of Thunder players with their shooting percentages, particularly from beyond the arc, can likely be attributed to psychological pressure stemming from unmet expectations during the regular season. When shots that would normally go in begin to miss, the resulting feedback loop impacts players' mental states, complicating their attempts to regain rhythm. The experiences of players like Jalen Williams underscore the importance of maintaining confidence, as they navigate the demands of high-stakes playoff basketball against formidable defenses.
Evolving Team Dynamics and Role Players
The series serves as a reminder that success in the playoffs relies heavily on the contributions of role players, who often face heightened scrutiny in high-pressure situations. Teams like Cleveland in previous playoffs faced criticism for their reliance on role players who faltered when the intensity ramped up, providing lessons for the Thunder in their current matchup. The differences in how role players like Lou Dort and Jalen Williams compare to Denver's depth, particularly in terms of finishing ability and maintaining offensive flow, become pivotal factors in winning key moments. Ultimately, the mix of star performances and reliable contributions from supporting players will be essential for either team to advance further in the playoffs.
Rob Mahoney of the Ringer is here to discuss the incredible Thunder-Nuggets series before Game 7, how good the play has been, Playoff Jamal Murray, rim finishing differences and coaching moves and Jalen Williams. We also hit on the importance of the regular season versus playoffs today and how today's league could break the traditional championship paradigm. Support at www.patreon.com/thinkingbasketball
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