NBA Contenders: A Trainer’s Perspective
Drew Hanlen, a basketball skills and development coach for some of the NBA’s biggest stars, including Joel Embiid, Jayson Tatum, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, recently appeared on The Kevin O’Connor Show to share his insights on the league’s most pressing issues. Hanlen, known for his ability to connect with and develop players, began by discussing the teams he believes have a legitimate shot at making the NBA Finals. From the powerhouse Lakers in the West to the emerging Cavaliers in the East, Hanlen provides a nuanced analysis of each team’s strengths and weaknesses. The Cavaliers, in particular, caught his attention with their balanced roster and the development of their young core. Hanlen believes that with the right combination of experience and rising talent, they could pose a real threat in the Eastern Conference.
Giannis Antetokounmpo: A Mid-Range Evolution
One of the most significant developments in the league this season has been the evolution of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s mid-range game. Hanlen, who has been instrumental in refining Giannis’ skills, shared how the two-time MVP has taken his game to the next level. According to Hanlen, Giannis has been working tirelessly on expanding his offensive repertoire, adding a reliable mid-range jumper to his already formidable arsenal. This development not only diversifies Giannis’ scoring options but also makes him a more complete player, capable of dominating from any position on the court. Hanlen’s insights into Giannis’ dedication and work ethic offer a behind-the-scenes look at the growth of an already elite player.
The Cavaliers: A Rising Eastern Threat
The Cleveland Cavaliers have been a surprise team this season, and Hanlen believes they are more than just a flash in the pan. He pointed out the team’s balanced roster, which combines the experience of veterans like Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen with the rising talents of rookie Evan Mobley and other young stars. Hanlen’s assessment is that the Cavaliers have the potential to challenge the established powerhouses in the East, thanks to their disciplined defense and developing offensive chemistry. The team’s performance so far has been a testament to their hard work and the vision of their front office, making them a squad to watch in the playoffs.
The Philadelphia 76ers and Joel Embiid: A Ray of Hope
Critics have been quick to label Joel Embiid as "washed," but Hanlen strongly disagrees with this assessment. He emphasized Embiid’s continued growth and the impact of his recent training regimen. Working closely with Embiid, Hanlen has seen firsthand the dedication and improvements in his game. From refining his post moves to enhancing his stamina and conditioning, Embiid is far from the "washed" player some claim him to be. Hanlen believes that with the right support and a renewed focus, the Philadelphia 76ers have a real chance to make a deep playoff run. His confidence in Embiid’s ability and potential is a refreshing counterpoint to the negative buzz surrounding the team and its star center.
Ben Simmons: A Road to Redemption
Ben Simmons has been a source of controversy and speculation, and when asked if he could help fix Simmons, Hanlen was candid. He acknowledged the complexity of Simmons’ situation, both mentally and physically. Hanlen suggested that addressing Simmons’ mental health and confidence issues is just as important as working on his skills. He proposed a holistic approach, combining mental training with skill development, to help Simmons rediscover his game and his passion for basketball. Hanlen’s empathetic and strategic view highlights the multifaceted nature of player development and the importance of addressing the whole person, not just the player.
Jayson Tatum: The Mental Leap
One of the most striking stories Hanlen shared was about Jayson Tatum’s mental transformation. Tatum, a star player for the Boston Celtics, had been consistently good but struggled to make the leap to the next level. Hanlen revealed that a key factor in Tatum’s recent success has been his mental approach. By focusing on his mindset and emotional resilience, Tatum has become a more consistent and clutch performer. Hanlen’s training not only includes on-court skills but also mental strategies to help players handle the pressures of the game. This holistic approach has been pivotal in Tatum’s development and has helped him become one of the league’s most feared scorers.
Teaching the NBA’s Best: Insights and Secrets
Hanlen’s ability to work with some of the NBA’s top players is a testament to his coaching prowess. He delved into the specifics of his training methods, explaining how he tailors his approach to each player’s unique strengths and weaknesses. For example, with Tyrese Haliburton, Hanlen focused on enhancing his passing skills, believing Haliburton had the potential to become the best passer in the NBA. Hanlen’s strategies often involve breaking down the game into its fundamental components, reinforcing the importance of basics while pushing players to expand their skill sets. His approach is not just about physical drills but also about building a player’s confidence and mental fortitude.
Changing the NBA Landscape
As the NBA landscape continues to shift, Hanlen also discussed the evolving end-of-season awards and the impact of ring culture on the regular season. He believes that the increasing emphasis on titles and playoff success is sometimes at the expense of recognizing regular-season achievements. Hanlen advocated for a more balanced approach, where players like Tatum and Embiid, who consistently perform at a high level during the regular season, receive more recognition. Additionally, he shared his thoughts on the player he would love to work with, highlighting a few names that piqued his interest. His new book, which delves deeper into his training methods and the stories of the players he has helped, is a must-read for any basketball enthusiast. Hanlen’s candid and insightful conversation provides a unique look into the world of NBA training and the personal journeys of some of the league’s biggest stars.
