Draymond Green’s Bold Prediction and The Big Number’s Reaction
On a recent episode of The Big Number, analysts Tom Haberstroh and Dan Devine were taken aback by Draymond Green’s audacious claim that the Golden State Warriors "WILL" win the NBA title this season. Despite their reservations about the Warriors’ current form and depth, they decided to use Green’s bold statement as a launching point to explore which long-shot teams could realistically make a run for the championship. After all, the unpredictability of sports often leads to the most thrilling moments. They delved into the numbers and explored the potential paths to glory for the Houston Rockets, LA Clippers, and Minnesota Timberwolves, each of which has a unique set of circumstances that could propel them to the top. The episode was a mix of serious analysis and lighthearted banter, complete with a memorable reenactment of Sisqo’s "Thong Song." This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys a blend of hard data and entertaining commentary.
The Houston Rockets: A Dark Horse with Rising Stars
The Houston Rockets, once a perenfnial playof contender, have been in rebuilding mode for the past few seasons. However, Tom and Dan see potential in their young roster, led by dynamic guards such as Fred VanVleet and Jalen Green. VanVleet, acquired from the Toronto Raptors, has brought a level of experience and scoring prowess that can significantly elevate the team’s performance. Green, meanwhile, continues to grow and develop into a star, with his explosive athleticism and improving game awareness making him a threat on both ends of the court. The Rockets also have a strong bench and a solid defense, which could be crucial in a deep playoff run. While the odds are long, the combination of youthful talent and experienced leadership makes the Rockets a sleeper pick worth considering.
The Surging Denver Nuggets and Jamal Murray’s Return
The Denver Nuggets, led by reigning MVP Nikola Jokić, have been a force to reckon with in the Western Conference. However, the return of Jamal Murray from a long injury layoff has added a new dimension to their game. Murray, once a key player in the Nuggets’ playoff successes, is showing signs of his pre-injury form and is providing much-needed scoring and playmaking. The Nuggets’ offense, already potent with Jokić’s passing and scoring, is now even more dynamic. Tom and Dan discussed how Murray’s return, coupled with the continued development of Michael Porter Jr. and the defensively strong performances of Aaron Gordon and Bruce Brown, could make the Nuggets a formidable threat. They pointed out that while the Nuggets might not be the favorites, their recent surge and improved depth make them a team to watch.
Memphis Grizzlies: More Than Just a Young Team
The Memphis Grizzlies are another team that often gets overlooked, but Tom and Dan argued that they might be more dangerous than most people realize. The Grizzlies have a young, talented core led by Ja Morant, who is one of the most exciting players in the league. Morant’s ability to burst past defenders and finish at the rim with acrobatic moves is a constant highlight. The Grizzlies also boast a strong supporting cast, including Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr., who have been consistently delivering solid performances. The team’s defense is among the best in the league, and their bench has the depth to compete with any playoff contender. Tom and Dan suggested that the Grizzlies’ youthful exuberance and defensive prowess could surprise many in the playoffs, making them a viable long-shot contender.
New York Knicks: Could Brunson and Anunoby Be the Missing Pieces?
The New York Knicks have been a bit of a roller coaster this season, but the addition of Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby has injected a new level of confidence and stability into the team. Brunson, a reliable playmaker and scorer, has been a significant upgrade at point guard, providing the Knicks with the leadership and floor general skills they lacked. Anunoby, known for his elite defensive capabilities and scoring versatility, has added a much-needed defensive presence. Tom and Dan discussed how these two acquisitions, along with the continued growth of RJ Barrett and Julius Randle, could transform the Knicks into a playoff threat. They highlighted that while the Knicks might not have the star power of some other teams, their balanced roster and defensive strength could be enough to make a deep playoff run.
Minnesota Timberwolves: A Team to Watch
The Minnesota Timberwolves have been another surprising team this season, and Tom and Dan took a closer look at why they might be underrated in the championship race. Led by Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Timberwolves have a potent offensive duo that can put up big numbers. Edwards has been a revelation, showing his ability to score from anywhere on the court and defend multiple positions. Towns, always a scoring threat, has also been more consistent and effective in the paint. The Timberwolves have a deep bench and a solid supporting cast, including Malik Beasley and D’Angelo Russell. Tom and Dan noted that while the Timberwolves might not be the most talked-about team, their balanced attack and the growth of their young stars make them a dark horse candidate for the title.
Over/Under Scoreboard Update and the Future of the All-Star Game
After analyzing the long-shot teams, Tom and Dan provided an update on their Over/Under scoreboard, a feature where they predict various outcomes and track their accuracy throughout the season. They discussed their recent predictions and how they’ve fared, offering insights into their decision-making process and the factors they consider when making these bets. Finally, they tackled the perennial question of whether the NBA All-Star Game needs a revamp. They argued that while the All-Star Game has its charm, it could benefit from changes to make it more competitive and engaging for fans. Ideas such as a more structured format, increased stakes, and better team selection processes were on the table, adding a layer of depth to their discussion. The episode concluded with a call to action for listeners to join the conversation and share their thoughts on the All-Star Game’s future.
