New York Knicks: My Love-Hate Relationship With Tom Thibodeau

Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks

The main catalyst for the New York Knicks turnaround is Tom Thibodeau. Hiring Thibs as the head coach is the best thing to happen to the franchise since 2013.

Thibs has been better than advertised. Not one single soul on planet Earth thought the Knicks would be in the playoff hunt this season. I’m an optimist and even I didn’t predict this much success so early.

Back in December, I said, “If the Knicks can stay in the race for the 10th seed, I’ll be happy.” Now, I’m expecting to secure a spot in the play-in game at the very least. The expectations have changed and a lot of that can be contributed to Thibs.

From Day 1, the defense has been the Knicks’ calling card. Wait, the Knicks play defense? Yes, the Knicks play good, team defense. The Knicks rank first in points allowed, field goals allowed, opponents field goal %, and opponents three-point percentage. Overall, New York is third in defensive efficiency.

On the offensive side, Julius Randle is in the midst of a career season that could lead to a substantial payday at the end of the season. RJ Barrett continues to improve his jumper especially from behind the arc. RJ’s three-pointer was a liability a season ago at 32%. Now, he’s shooting 38% from three including an incredible 45% in his last 40 games.

There’s no doubt that Thibs has instilled a winning culture in a franchise that’s been allergic to success for most of the 21st century. What they lack in talent, the Knicks make up for it with effort and hard-nosed defense. As a fan, it’s refreshing to see a Knicks’ team that loves to compete and will be in dogfight nine out of every ten games.

As great as Thibs has been, there are a few fatal flaws to his coaching style. Frankly, these flaws have cost the Knicks numerous games. The Knicks own a putrid 2-8 record in games decided by three points are fewer. At 25-27, the Knicks are below .500 for the first time since Feb. 23.

Thibs’s rotations at the end of games are head-scratching. Being a defensive-minded team keeps the Knicks in most games. However, the Knicks struggle to generate offense especially late in the fourth quarter. The Knicks don’t have “the guy” who can generate offense and get a bucket. Randle has been awesome, but he’s not the guard who can create his own shot that the Knicks so desperately need.

When is the last time the Knicks had a point guard that defenses had to gameplan for? Who is the last point guard that could get his teammates easy baskets in the final minutes? If my calculations are correct, Stephon Marbury, who hasn’t played for the Knicks in over a decade, is the answer.

This lack of a true point guard is a huge problem, which is why playing Elfrid Payton over Derrick Rose at the end of games makes my blood boil. I don’t want to turn this into the “Shit On Elfrid Payton Hour.” Payton is a nice player, but he’s extremely limited on the offensive side of the ball. Thibs plays Payton at the end of games for his defense. In theory, that’s a good decision, but when Randle is getting double-teamed and RJ can’t create off the dribble, do you trust Payton to make a play on the offensive side of the ball? Rose is the closest thing the Knicks have to an offensive threat at point guard. Rose needs to finish games, especially with a struggling offense.

Then, there’s Randle, who doesn’t look healthy. Randle suffered a thigh injury a few games ago and hasn’t looked the same since. Despite recording a triple-double against the Nets, Randle did not shoot the ball well against the Celtics (9-23 from the field). I am NOT saying Thibs caused Randle’s injury. However, I can’t help but think logging 37 minutes a game has taken a toll on Randle’s body. If the Knicks want to win in May, they will need a healthy Randle at full strength. I hate leading the charge for the “Minutes Police,” but would it kill Thibs to rest Randle during a blowout?

Tom Thibodeau is an exceptional coach who knows how to get the most out of his players. If the Knicks can land a star and an offensive point guard, this team can be one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference.

There is a lot more love for Thibs than hate. In fact, I don’t hate Thibs whatsoever. It’s frustration, not hate. I don’t want Thibs to change his personality, but some minor adjustments to his strategy could be the difference between a playoff loss and a playoff win.

Do you love or hate Tom Thibodeau? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.

Predictions For Second Half Of 2020-2021 NBA Season

Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz

The first half of the NBA season is like the scene in Avengers: Infinity War where Thanos explains that it cost him everything in order to execute the snap. Did the NBA complete the first half of the season? Yes. Am I ecstatic that it happened? Absolutely? Did the NBA also postpone over 30 games due to COVID protocols? Unfortunately, yes.

On the court, it’s been fun to watch the Lakers reestablish their dominance and the Nets piece together a new super team. Off the court, it’s concerning to see Adam Silver and the front office implement confusing COVID protocols. Plus, the league hosted an All-Star game that many deemed unnecessary. If the NBA can make it to the finish line in July without too many bumps in the road, then all is forgiven

The past is behind us, and the second half of the season is ready to begin. Will the Jazz secure the 1-seed? Who will win the MVP? Can the Knicks make the playoffs? Here are my second half predictions.

Milwaukee Bucks And Utah Jazz Will Be The Top Seeds In Each Conference

Before the second half of the season kicks off, here are the standings as of 3/9.

The battle for conference supremacy is beginning to take shape. In the East, the 76ers currently hold the top spot with the Nets less than a half-game behind them. In third place are the Bucks, who are winners in six of their last seven games. If Giannis didn’t win a second-straight MVP, he would be at the top of the MVP race this season with averages of 29.0 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 5.9 assists. The Sixers and Nets are better teams, but health concerns with their star players could derail their hopes for the top seed. Both of their mindsets will be to be as healthy as possible when it comes to the playoffs, even if that means sacrificing regular-season games to rest players. I think it’s quite the opposite for the Bucks. They want that 1-seed to avoid Philly and Brooklyn and will go all out to make sure they receive homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs.

In the first half, the Utah Jazz were the both best team in the Western Conference and the NBA. The Jazz boast a top-five offense, a top-five defense, and the best record in the NBA. This team is built that’s built to win a lot of games in the regular season thanks to their defense and depth. For my gamblers out there, the Jazz were the best team ATS in the first half with a record of 25-11. However, ask 100 people who will represent the West in the NBA Finals. You’d be hard-pressed to find 10 people who pick Utah. The disrespect is real, but they’ll have a chance to silence their critics if the road to the NBA Finals goes through Utah.

Team To Ascend – Miami Heat; Team To Descend – San Antonio Spurs

The Miami Heat were plagued with bad luck and injuries throughout most of the first half, which included their star, Jimmy Butler, who missed 10 games due to COVID-19. Despite a 7-14 start, the Heat battled back to 18-18 heading into the all-star break, which is sixth in the Eastern Conference. Things are about to get easier for the Heat with one of the four easiest second-half schedules. Butler, Bam Adebayo, and the rest of the Heat should climb to a top-4 seed before the season ends in May.

On the flip side, the San Antonio Spurs are like a cockroach; they never die. Somehow, the Spurs are in sole possession of the 7-seed with a record of 18-14. DeMar DeRozan consistently puts up 20-points per night, but his seven assists per night are paying huge dividends. Dejounte Murray and Keldon Johnson are a fun, young duo that continues to progress each game. However, the West is a gauntlet and with teams like the Mavericks, Warriors, Grizzlies, and Pelicans lurking in the standings, it will be hard for the Spurs to stay in the top-8. Plus, the Spurs face the second-toughest schedule from here on out, according to FiveThirtyEight.

The Knicks Will Make The Play-In Tournament 

I couldn’t go an entire article without mentioning the biggest surprise in the NBA, the New York Knicks. I can’t express how much I love this team. All-Star Julius Randle drank “Michael’s Secret Stuff” in the offseason with career highs in nearly every statistical category. Tom Thibodeau has instilled a toughness and tenacity that’s been missing for nearly a decade. Do the Knicks still frustrate the hell out of me? Absolutely. When Thibs is playing the starters in the last two minutes of a 20 point blowout against the Pistons, I want the suffering to end. However, it’s so refreshing to root for a competent basketball team again.

As great of a start it’s been, the Knicks will need to play even better in the second half to make the playoffs. The schedule makers did the Knicks no favors as New York faces the third toughest schedule in the second half. The Knicks are in dire need of shooting as they rank towards the bottom in team field goal percentage. At the beginning of the season, I said if the Knicks competed for the 10th seed all year, I’d be very happy. Expectations have changed. I expect the Knicks to make the Play-In tournament at the very least. Make it happen, boys.

Midseason Awards

  • MVP – Joel Embiid
  • ROY – LaMelo Ball
  • DPOY – Rudy Gobert
  • 6th Man – Jordan Clarkson
  • MIP – Jerami Grant
  • COY – Quin Snyder

Will these predictions stay the same at the end of the season? My predictions for how the races will turn out.

  • MVP – LeBron James
  • ROY – LaMelo Ball
  • DPOY – Ben Simmons
  • 6th Man – Jordan Clarkson
  • MIP – Julius Randle
  • COY – Quin Snyder

Playoff Predictions

East

  1. Bucks
  2. Sixers
  3. Nets
  4. Heat
  5. Celtics
  6. Raptors
  7. Hornets
  8. Knicks
  9. Pacers
  10. Hawks

West

  1. Jazz
  2. Lakers
  3. Clippers
  4. Suns
  5. Nuggets
  6. Blazers
  7. Mavericks
  8. Warriors
  9. Spurs
  10. Pelicans

NBA Finals – Lakers over Nets*

*If and only if Anthony Davis is healthy

What are your predictions for the second half of the NBA season? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet me, @danny_giro.

Julius Randle Deserves To Be An NBA All-Star

Julius Randle of the New York Knicks

I love the NBA, but I hate the All-Star Game. That might come off as dramatic so I’ll adjust. I don’t hate the All-Star Game, but it doesn’t excite me anymore. As a kid, I adored All-Star weekend especially Saturday night’s festivities. The idea of the game’s best players teaming mirroed an NBA Live game so I tuned in.

As I got older, the All-Star Game lost its luster. I don’t expect guys to guard each other for 48 minutes, but the lack of anything resembling defense made it unwatchable. I’m not a Grinch. I like alley-oops and deep threes, but I wouldn’t mind the occasional blocked shot or steal.

I may dislike the exhibition game, but being an All-Star matters. It’s fun to joke about the level of competiion during the game, but it’s still an honor to be named one of the 24 players chosen to represent the NBA.

This leads me to Julius Randle, one of the biggest surprises of the season. Randle’s all-star status is not up for debate. Randle deserves to be an all-star this season.

So far, Randle’s numbers are all career highs with averages of 23.2 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. It’s Randle’s playmaking that’s significantly improved. Randle’s never sniffed four assists per game in his career. Now, he could realistically surpass six per game. That’s unfathomable for a guy that usually turned the ball over after a spin move.

Randle’s numbers are not being put to waste for a revitalized New York Knicks team. The Knicks currently sit in sixth place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 14-16. Sure, it’s below .500, but last season, the Knicks needed 50 games to record their 14th win.

Coming into the season, the majority of Knicks fans would struggle to say anything positive about Randle. Most, including myself, were counting down the days to trade or buy out the 26-year-old. I was completely wrong. Randle is making us all eat crow. After Monday’s win over the Hawks, Randle said, “Hard work is undefeated.” Could not have said it better myself, Julius.

Due to increased competition, Randle’s spot on the team is far from a guarantee. The five starters were announced tonight, which means seven spots are up for grabs.

Randle finished seventh in fan voting, which isn’t ideal, but not a huge blow. Randle tying for fifth in the frontcourt media vote strengthens his case to become a reserve.

For argument’s sake, let’s say the East takes five guards, five forwards, and two wild cards (guard or forward). Here are the players that are leading the pack and will make the team.

Starters: G Kyrie Irving, G Bradley Beal, F Giannis Antetokounmpo, F Kevin Durant, F Joel Embiid

Next Set of Locks: G James Harden, G Jaylen Brown, F Jayson Tatum

With four spots remaining, there’s room for one guard, one forward, and two wild cards. I’d expect the reserves to come from this pool of players.

  • F Julius Randle
  • F Khris Middleton
  • F Domantas Sabonis
  • G Trae Young
  • G Zach LaVine
  • F Bam Adebayo
  • F Jerami Grant
  • F Jimmy Butler
  • F Gordon Hayward
  • F Tobias Harris
  • F Ben Simmons

Right off the bat, I’m giving one spot to Sabonis, who’s averaging 21.5 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 5.7 assists. Sabonis is the best player on a Pacers team that’s fourth in the Eastern Conference. He’s making the team.

At least one more guard is making the team so pick either LaVine or Young. With two spots remaining, there are few ways this could go. Simmons, Harris, and Middleton could be rewarded for being second-level stars on top teams. (In the Eastern Conference, Sixers are first and the Bucks are third.) Will they reward Bam, Grant, or Hayward for making sizable jumps in their numbers from a season ago?

Full disclosure, I’m a Knicks fan so I’m biased. However, besides numbers and the team’s success, the All-Star game is about narratives. With Randle at the helm, the Knicks went from a projected lottery team to sixth in the East. Randle is the reason why the Knicks are one of the best turnaround stories in the NBA.

The Knicks are back right now, all thanks to their future All-Star, Julius Randle.

Do you like Tom Brady? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.

The Brooklyn Nets Have A Big Problem

Brooklyn Nets

After the Brooklyn Nets traded for James Harden, they cemented themselves as the most talented team in the East. Adding Harden to a team with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving seems like an NBA 2K cheat code.

Things got off to a promising start when Harden posted a 30-point triple-double in his debut, finishing the game with 32 points, 12 rebounds, and 14 assists. KD chipped in 42 points to beat the Magic, 122-115. The duo then followed it up by combining for 64 points in a 125-123 win over the Bucks.

The biggest elephant in the room is not Kyrie. Despite what transpired with Kyrie off the court, from missing games to partying without a mask, his talent speaks for itself on the court. The Nets are more talented with Kyrie than they are without Kyrie.

The Nets’ problem is not Kyrie. The problem lies down low. They have serious issues in the frontcourt.

The Nets became a better team with the addition of James Harden. However, it came at a price. It’s similar to Thanos’s situation in the soul realm after snapping his fingers to wipe out half the population.

For the Nets, Gamora is Jarrett Allen, the talented center the Nets traded to the Cavs in the Harden deal. Allen is a true throwback center. Allen is a great rebounder (10.5 per game), a true rim-protector (seventh in the NBA with 1.8 blocks per game), and a stout defender. He was the perfect complement to Durant and Kyrie because he wasn’t going to take away any of their shots. Plus, he can clean up and score at the rim.

It’s funny how things fall into place as Allen’s first game as a Cav came against his former team. Allen had 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 blocks in a 147-135 2OT win over the Nets.

The Nets may not be able to stop a nosebleed with their current roster. Deandre Jordan, who must start now with Allen gone, is a shell of his Lob City self. Jordan is the only true center on the roster. The backup center, Nicolas Claxton (in my best Snoop Dogg voice, “Who?“), is hurt. They desperately need more big men.

After every single move the Nets make, they need to ask themselves this question. Can this team beat the Lakers? Right now, the answer is no. The Nets Big Three will put up points, but who is going to guard Anthony Davis? If Deandre Jordan and Nicolas Claxton guard Davis in a series, AD is putting up 40 and 20 every night.

The Nets are trying to add frontcourt depth. They recently signed Norvel Pelle to a deal. Once again, it still doesn’t answer the question as to who stops Anthony Davis. The Nets will be buyers at the trade deadline and buy out the market. Potential names of interest could be Bismack Biyombo, Ed Davis, or PJ Tucker.

A small ball five of KD, Kyrie, Harden, Joe Harris, and Jeff Green can win games. Heck, it can even win the East. However, it’s not beating the Lakers in a 7-game series.

The Nets need to address their front court before it becomes a big problem in the playoffs.

Will the Nets win the NBA Title? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.

New York Knicks: Is This The Start Of Something Special?

Julius Randle of the New York Knicks

The New York Knicks are a competent basketball team.

Say it again with pride.

The New York Knicks are competent and entertaining basketball team.

After a 112-100 win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night, the Knicks hold a record of 5-3 despite an 0-2 start. For any other team in the NBA, a 5-3 record would be nothing to celebrate. Because it’s the Knicks, it calls for cartwheels.

The Knicks are over .500 for the first time since 2012-2013. As a fan of the team who’s watched every game this season, wins do not tell the whole story. There is an attitude and swagger to this team that hasn’t been present at Madison Square Garden since the 2013 Playoffs.

It all starts with Tom Thibodeau. Not hiring Tom Thibodeau earlier when the team had multiple chances this past decade now looks silly. Thibs has the Knicks buying into his system of team defense and playing hard every possession.

The Knicks are seventh in the NBA in defensive efficiency with 104.0. Last season, they ranked 23rd with 110.6. It’s early, but the improvement on the defensive end is eye-opening.

Then, there’s Julius Randle, who is on an absolute tear to start the season, averaging career highs of 23.1 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 7.4 assists. Thibs calls Randle the “Engine of the Knicks.” If you were to ask any Knick fan as to what would happen first, Randle becomes an efficient stud or Randle gets traded, every single fan would pick the latter. Does Randle still take questionable shots? Yes. Does he still commit dumb fouls? Yes. But, the good finally outweighs the bad.

Speaking of improvement, RJ Barrett looks like a completely different player from a year ago. In my season preview, I said Barrett needed to showcase the all-star potential in his sophomore season. After back-to-back 25+ point games against Indiana and Atlanta, the “Maple Mamba” is gaining confidence quickly.

Did someway say quickly? I’m referring to Immanuel Quickley, the first-round pick out of Kentucky. Quickley might be the most fearless rookie to lace it up for the Knicks in the 21st century. He was an integral part of the come-from-behind win over Atlanta, tallying 16 points. Plus, he went to the “James Harden School of How to Draw Fouls.”

Every night, a different player seems to step up. Against the Jazz, Austin scored 14 straight points in the fourth quarter. Against the Hawks, Randle, Barrett, and Quickley combined for 70 points. When the Knicks played the Bucks, Elfrid Payton dropped 27 points and 7 assists. Obi Toppin and Alec Burks have barely played this season so once they come back, the Knicks will have a solid bench.

Maybe I’m drinking the Kool Aid too much. It’s only been eight games. If there’s one thing about the Knicks, they let you down in the worst way. For a team that hasn’t finished with a .500 record in eight years, do I even have a right to be an optimist?

After listening to an inspiring quote from Rivers, how can I not have believe this year might be different?

This emotional high won’t last forever. There will be a rough patch at some point. With that being said, something about this year gives me the confidence to believe the Knicks will persevere.

It’s early, but this could be the start of something special.

Do you believe the New York Knicks can sustain this success? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.

New York Knicks: Realistic Expectations For 2020-2021 NBA Season

rj barrett New York Knicks

The 2020-2021 NBA Season starting on Dec. 22 is nothing short of surreal. It feels like the Lakers won the championship inside the bubble last week. Not every team played in Orlando so their nine-month drought will end. One of those teams is the New York Knicks. Cue the music!

With every New York Knicks season comes hope and despair. Hope revolves around the young talent becoming assets and the new coach asserting himself as “the guy” for the job. After about two or so months, despair hits in the dog days of late February and March, where the product at Madison Square Garden becomes unwatchable.

However, this season may be different… finally. For the first time in a decade, the Knicks made no stupid moves in the offseason. The team hired Leon Rose, Worldwide Wes, and Tom Thibodeau as President, Executive Vice President, and Head Coach, respectively. They weren’t throwing money around and taking on any bad contracts during the offseason, keeping their cap flexibility for next year.

Smart moves can only get a team so far. Now, it’s time to perform. I will be the first to say that the Knicks are not a playoff team with their current roster. For now, that’s ok. The Knicks need to focus on three objectives. If all three are completed, the future will be bright.

1. Tom Thibodeau Needs To Build A Winning Culture

One of the most overused words when describing a team is culture. When teams win or lose, many will attribute the culture as to the reason behind the team’s success or failure. I think that’s half true. You can still win games with a poor culture if you have superstar players. (Ex. LeBron and the Cavs when he was at odds with Dan Gilbert, James Harden and the Rockets, etc.) Culture doesn’t equal wins, but a positive culture lays the blueprint for winning and helps attract free agents. The best example is the Brooklyn Nets, who acquired Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving and will be one of the favorites to win it all.

Tom Thibodeau is an “in your face” coach. For the Bulls, it worked. For the Timberwolves, it did not. There is nothing wrong with asking your players to play both ends of the floor. But, there is a problem with relying on your stars to play big minutes for an entire season. Thibs will have to find a happy medium. The Knicks’ poor record the last eight seasons actually works in Thibs favor because a disciplinarian may be what this team needs to breathe life into the city. It worked with the New York Giants under Tom Coughlin.

If Thibs fosters a culture that plays hard on both ends without killing his stars and adds modern principles to his offensive strategy, the Knicks have a shot to create a winning culture and attract players in the future.

2. RJ Barrett Has To Show All-Star Potential

RJ Barrett had a decent rookie campaign, averaging 14.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. If most rookies accumulated those numbers, it would be viewed as a success. However, Barrett’s in an impossible situation because he will always be compared to the two players selected before him, Zion Williamson and Ja Morant. Both Zion and Ja flashed superstar potential in their rookie seasons. Unfortunately, RJ did not have any games that showcased a superstar in the making.

In year two, RJ doesn’t need to prove he’s a superstar, but he has to show that he can be an all-star down the road. His shooting numbers must improve. A 40% field goal percentage, 32% three-point percentage, and 61.4% free-throw percentage is unacceptable for the third pick in the draft. If you’re not going to be a knockdown three-point shooter, then you have to consistently hit the mid-range jumper and finish in the paint. If the preseason is any indication of what’s to come, then RJ is due for a breakout season.

3. Wins Must Be Sacrificed If It Means Playing Obi Toppin And Immanuel Quickley

Thibs is not used to losing. In eight seasons as a head coach, Thibs registered two losing seasons and made the playoffs in six out of seven full seasons. Thibs wants to win games so I expect a lot of veterans to dominate the early season minutes. I’m ok if that’s a temporary strategy.

However, if the Knicks are losing games and giving big minutes to veterans, then we’re going to have problems. Both Obi Toppin and Immanuel Quickley showed promise during the preseason. They must be rotation players. For the betterment of the organization, those two need to play meaningful even if it means sacrificing wins. Developing young talent should be priority number one.

Final Prediction

In terms of record, all I want the Knicks to do is compete for the 10th seed. If the Knicks can stay in the race for the 10th seed, I’ll be happy. If they fail to register 20 wins, then it’s back to square one for the eighth straight year.

What are your predictions for the New York Knicks? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.

Winning A Championship Is The Only Answer To James Harden’s Dilemma

James Harden of the Houston Rockets

Society loves winners. Whether fair or foul, winning a championship can change public and media perception significantly more than individual awards. More importantly, winning a championship erases past failures and completely reshapes a career narrative. For James Harden, winning a title is the answer to all of his problems.

Harden wants out of Houston. The Rockets’ superstar first requested a trade to the Brooklyn Nets. Now, his preferred destinations include Milwaukee, Philadelphia, and Miami according to Shams Charania. It’s no coincidence that all four of these teams are at the top of the Eastern Conference. Harden’s ready to team up with a new superstar. “The Beard” wants his ring.

Houston came close to making the Finals in both 2018 and 2019, but it appears that’s as close as they’ll ever get in the Harden era. The championship window closed in the blink of an eye. Mike D’Antoni, Daryl Morey, and Russell Westbrook are all gone. The writing is on the wall for Harden. If he wants to win a championship, he will most likely need to leave Houston to do it.

Superstars forcing themselves out of a situation is not uncommon. From legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to current players like Kyrie Irving and Kawhi Leonard, the tale of the unhappy superstar is as old as time. Most recently, Anthony Davis requested a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans and cited the Los Angeles Lakers as his preferred team. This is one of the rare occurrences where the preferred destination had the best package of players and picks to offer so the Pelicans and Lakers made the deal.

The player empowerment era is a double-edged sword. Players should have more freedom to team up in the NBA. It becomes a problem when superstars ask to be traded with two to 3 years left on huge contracts. While I’m predominantly on the side of players, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to side with Harden.

If Harden wants out, then that’s his decision. However, his actions over the past few weeks are indefensible. While his teammates were preparing for training camp, Harden went on a tour around the country, gifting Lil Baby with expensive gifts in Atlanta and partying in Las Vegas “till the break of dawn, yo.” In a normal year, that’s behavior is acceptable, but when it’s a pandemic and these actions go against league protocols, it’s inexcusable.

Harden is putting first-year coach Stephen Silas in a terrible predicament, where Silas will have to answer questions about Harden wanting out for as long as he’s a member of the Rockets. This relationship can still blossom now that Harden reported to camp, but it’s off to a rocky start.

https://twitter.com/metzsam/status/1336812117857509376?s=20

Harden gets unfairly criticized by certain members of the media who only judge his bad moments instead of respecting his greatness. In my opinion, Harden is one of the most gifted and prolific offensive threats in NBA history. Many will point out a blown defensive assignment from an irrelevant regular season game before ever mentioning that Harden has averaged over 25 points per game ever year since 2012 and including 30 points per game the past three seasons. His playoff shortcomings can be open to criticism, but to not acknowledge Harden as one of the three best guards in the league is a crime.

Despite all of this negative attention, Harden has the secret to changing the narrative and that’s winning. Remember when Jimmy Butler went scorched earth and burned every bridge in Minnesota on his way out the door? That’s all been erased from memory after his unforgettable run in the NBA Bubble with the Miami Heat. Remember when the media destroyed Tiger Woods for his off-the-course endeavors and his lack of a major for over 10 years? That all changed with his win at the Masters in 2019.

To quote Tiger, “Winning takes care of everything.” Despite the negative press around his nightclub tour and tumultuous relationship with the Rockets, if James Harden wins a championship in the foreseeable future, this will all be an afterthought.

What should the Rockets do with James Harden? Leave your comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.

Here’s What The 2020 NBA Christmas Day Schedule Should Look Like

Giannis and Steph NBA christmas

Christmas Day marks the unofficial start of the NBA season. Although the season typically begins at the end of October, basketball gets swallowed by the NFL in terms of ratings and attention.

Christmas is such a huge day for the NBA because basketball is usually the only major sport played on December 25. (This year, the Saints and Vikings are scheduled to play on Christmas at 4:30 PM ET.) Christmas and the NBA are similar to Thanksgiving and the NFL. Plus, the season will start on December 22 so Christmas might as well be the official start of the season.

All eyes are on the NBA come December 25, which means it’s a chance for the league to schedule high-profile matchups with their top stars. Below is the tentative schedule for Christmas.

Upon first glance, the biggest story is not that the Lakers are playing, but who they’re playing. LeBron’s played on Christmas Day for over the past decade and the league typically chooses a Finals’ rematch or rivalry. This year, LeBron and the Lakers will take on Luka Dončic and the Dallas Mavericks, which is a huge deal. The NBA is saying that Luka is going to be the guy to carry the torch in a few years so let’s put him up against the guy who owns the title of “Best in the World” for the last 15 years. It’s a bold statement and frankly, I tend to agree with their assessment of Luka.

The other games are good for NBA fans, but average for the casual fan. The first game’s goal is to showcase Zion on national television. The Warriors vs. Bucks is intriguing because of Steph Curry and Giannis Antetokounmpo, but not Klay Thompson hurts this game. The Nets are going to be a must-see thanks to Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. The late game is a rematch between the Clippers and the team that came back from a 3-1 deficit to defeat them in the second round, the Denver Nuggets.

All in all, the Christmas schedule is solid. However, it can be better. Specifically, I can make it better. If I was creating the schedule for Christmas, I’d stick to these three criteria:

  • Superstars
  • Rivalries
  • Knicks Must Play

Without further ado, here’s my updated 2020 Christmas Schedule

12:00 PM – Nets vs. Knicks at MSG

The Knicks should play on Christmas Day at Madison Square Garden every year. They can be basketball’s version of the Lions and Cowboys on Thanksgiving. The Knicks have played more Christmas Day games (53) than any other team in the NBA. Pitting the Knicks against the Nets is what’s best for business. Durant and Irving infiltrate Manhattan, which will piss off many Knicks fans like myself since we stupidly believed the duo would team up at MSG. It’s a great matchup for the NBA.

2:30 PM PM – Warriors vs. Bucks

I wouldn’t change this matchup. Curry is the second biggest name in the NBA behind LeBron so it makes sense to put him against Giannis, a guy the NBA hopes becomes an international sensation.

5:00 PM – Sixers vs. Celtics

When the Sixers and Celtics face each other, throw the records out the window. The Celtics have embarrassed the Sixers in two of the last three playoffs. With budding stars like Jayson Tatum, Jalen Brown, Joel Embiid, and Ben Simmons, this game could be a preview of a rivalry that could last the next decade.

8:00 PM – Clippers vs. Lakers

With all due respect to Luka, who I love dearly, the Lakers should play the Clippers. It’s the best rivalry in the NBA because these two teams legitimately hate each other. There so many storylines to dissect. Can little brother ever surpass big brother? The Clippers will be out to prove that Kawhi Leonard and Paul George can coexist after a disastrous ending to their 2020 campaign. The Lakers upgraded significantly and will want to establish dominance in the Western Conference. Montrezl Harrell trading in his black and red jersey for the gold and purple makes this appointment television. The ratings in this game will be the highest of the day. Let the Mavericks play the Lakers on opening night, instead.

10:30 PM – Mavericks vs. Nuggets

Don’t worry, Luka. You can play on Christmas against the Nuggets in the nightcap. The Mavericks and Nuggets are going to be contenders in the West over the course of the next five years. Luka and KP vs. Murray and Joker is a top five duo battle.

Merry Christmas.

What is your ideal Christmas schedule? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.

NBA Free Agency: Five Major Questions Heading Into The Season

Montrezl Harrell nba free agency

NBA Free Agency is like the wild west. Teams sign and trade players with reckless abandon. For teams like the Lakers, the rich get richer. For struggling teams like the Pistons, it’s a field day for NBA Twitter. After the dust has settled on the first week, here are the five biggest questions heading into the season.

To Win The NBA Championship, Would You Take The Lakers Or The Field?

Heading into the 2020-2021 season, the Los Angeles Lakers were the favorite to repeat as champions because they still had LeBron James and Anthony Davis. (Anthony Davis is a free agent, but will resign with the Lakers. It’s only a matter of time.) After one week of free agency, the Lakers are now the heavy favorite to repeat as NBA champions.

The Lakers not only restocked players, but upgraded at certain positions. Here’s how the Lakers improved in free agency.

  • Traded for Dennis Schröder, who led the league in points off the bench with 18.9 points per game.
  • Signed Montrezl Harrell, the Sixth Man of the Year last season and second in points off the bench behind Schröder with 18.6 points per game.
  • Signed Wesley Matthews, who shot 36% from behind the arc a season ago.
  • Signed Marc Gasol, a former Defensive Player of the Year and one of the best defensive players in the league.
  • Resigned Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Markieff Morris.

The Lakers did lose Rajon Rondo, Danny Green, Dwight Howard, and JaVale McGee through free agency and trades. However, Schröder, Harrell, Matthews, and Gasol is a stronger foursome.

https://twitter.com/LegionHoops/status/1330593277846818818?s=20

A lot of contenders in the West like the Nuggets and Clippers lost key players from their lineups. The Lakers significantly upgraded, which means barring injuries, the Lakers will be the clear-cut favorite to win the title. Right now, counting on the Lakers to repeat is a better bet than the field.

Did The Bucks Do Enough To Convince Giannis To Stay?

The biggest question of free agency has still yet to be answered. The landscape of the entire NBA rests in the hands of the Greek Freak. Will Giannis Antetokounmpo sign the supermax with the Bucks? Milwaukee knew they had to bring in new players to try and entice Giannis to stay. Enter Jrue Holiday, one of the best two-way guards in the NBA.

The Bucks traded a lot for Jrue Holiday, but if Giannis resigns, it’s all worth it. Had the Bucks completed the sign and trade for Bogdan Bogdanovic, I would have said the Bucks did their part to sway Giannis. However, the Milwaukee front office royally screwed up, leading to Bogdan singing with the Hawks.

If I had to put a percentage on Giannis resigning, I’d go with 80%. The longer Giannis waits, the less confident I will become.

Are The Pistons Drunk Or Wasted?

Respectfully, can anyone explain to me what the Pistons are doing? New GM Troy Weaver has a plan, but I’m confused as to what that plan is. Here are the notable moves from Weaver.

  • Signed Jerami Grant for three years, $60 million
  • Signed Mason Plumlee for three years, $25 million
  • Signed Jahlil Okafor for two years, $3.85 million
  • Signed Josh Jackson
  • Traded Luke Kennard and Christian Wood
  • Drafted Killian Hayes, Isaiah Stewart, Saddiq Bey and Saben Lee.

I’m at a loss for words. Are they creating a stable of big men? The Plumlee signing and Wood trade are baffling. It’s important to remember that Blake Griffin is still on the team. If the Pistons can’t flip Griffin for a guard like John Wall, then who brings the ball up? Good luck, Detroit.

Who Is The Second Best Team In The West?

The aforementioned Lakers are the best team in the West. Who is the second best team?

A few weeks ago, the Warriors would have been my selection as the second-best team in the West. Unfortunately, Klay tragically tore his Achilles and will miss the entire season once again. James Wiseman will help in the frontcourt and Steph will do his thing, but the biggest question mark is Andrew Wiggins. Can he become a 20 point scorer again?

Conventional wisdom would say the Clippers will look to challenge the Lakers. After a disappointing exit, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George will be on a mission to prove that their pairing can lead to a title. Losing Harrell was a huge loss, but the addition of Serge Ibaka may have been an upgrade down low.

The Nuggets will only take the next step if and only if Michael Porter Jr. becomes a true third option. The Blazers have a loaded bench, but their stars must remain healthy in order to advance in the playoffs.

Gun to my head, I’ll pick the Clippers to challenge the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals.

Can Chris Paul Lead The Suns To The Playoffs?

Time to take an “L.” I did not think Chris Paul had this much left in the tank. Not only did he prove me wrong, but he proved the entire league wrong when he led the rebuilding Thunder to the playoffs.

Now, Paul will have another chance to expedite a rebuild in Phoenix. The Suns will look to build off the momentum gained inside the bubble, where they went a perfect 8-0. Devon Booker will be a popular pick to make an All-NBA and Deandre Ayton is finally showing his true potential. Add Paul and Jae Crowder to the lineup and Phoenix will try to make the playoffs in over a decade.

The Suns are not a contender, but they should take a huge step in the right direction.

What is your biggest NBA free agency storyline? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.

New York Knicks: Solid Draft Night Leads To Unpredictable Offseason

Obi Toppin of Dayton / New York Knicks

As a fan of the New York Knicks, there are a few things that I’ve grown accustomed to when it comes to this organization. First and foremost, the Knicks will always make the wrong move, and it will surprise no one. Hiring Isaiah Thomas, trading for Eddy Curry, hiring Derek Fisher, drafting Jordan Hill, and empowering Phil Jackson only represent a small percentage of a laundry list of poor offseason moves in the last 20 years.

Since the 21st century, the Knicks are Murphy’s Law. Whatever can go wrong, will go wrong. Besides a brief stint from 2010-2013 that included Melo, Amare, and Linsanity, it’s been a dark time as a Knicks fan, which is why what I’m about to say is foreign territory for most of us.

The Knicks had a solid draft night.

In other words, they didn’t mess up, which is the next best thing.

With the 8th pick, the Knicks selected Obi Toppin, the National Player of the Year out of Dayton. Toppin had a stellar season for the Flyers, averaging 20 PPG and 7.5 RPG. Toppin is a 6’9″, 220 pound highlight reel with a great motor and spectacular ability to finish at the rim.

The Knicks are desperate for a playmaker at guard, which is why many believed the team would select Tyrese Haliburton with the 8th pick. I would’ve picked either guy, but it appears Tom Thibodeau and Leon Rose wanted Toppin all the way.

I understand fans who wanted a guard, but I’m at a loss for words with the Toppin slander. His defense and footwork must improve or he will become a liability on the defensive side. However, Toppin is a high-character, hardworking player that went from a 6’1″ high school prospect to a 6’9″ lottery pick. Work ethic will not be a problem. I’m tired of seeing players shy away from the bright lights of MSG. Toppin is a New York native who WANTS to be a Knick. You can’t put a price on that passion. This kid is going to shine as soon as he steps foot into the building.

After the Toppin selection, the Knicks then made a few head-scratching decisions. They traded up to pick 23 but then traded back to get pick 25 and pick 33. At 25, the Knicks selected Immanuel Quickley. The sharpshooter won SEC Player of the Year and will look to light it up behind the arc. However, the Knicks need a distributor, and Quickley only averaged 1.9 APG last season. Quickley does support the theory that the Knicks are becoming the “Kentucky Pipeline.”

I would’ve loved to take a chance on RJ Hampton at pick 23 and I’m disappointed it didn’t happen. I can defend the Quickley pick, but I’m speechless with the Daniel Oturu trade. I thought Oturu, a walking double-double in college, was a good value pick, which is why trading him for a 2023 second round pick makes no sense.

Overall, the Knicks drafted two guys that should play right away. Now, the attention turns to free agency. Cue up the theme song from Jaws because Leon Rose is set to make a move.

First, he cleaned house. Rose created $40 million in cap space by waiving and declining a number of guys like Wayne Ellington and Bobby Portis.

Rose was not done.

The Knicks have roughly $35 million in cap space. “Leon, the Launderer” is accumulating ammo for his next move. How big will it be? It appears he has his eyes on a few targets.

If I’m being honest, I’m not crazy about trading for Westbrook. The 40m+ cap hit over the next 3 years is unappetizing. I wouldn’t overpay for Hayward, who’s been a shell of himself since the major injury. I’m not convinced Fred VanVleet can be “the guy.” I like Malik Beasley and would try to make that trade work.

Despite all of my doubts, am I really in a place where I can be picky? Have you watched the Knicks since 2013? Maybe it’s time to say, “Fuck it,” throw it all on red, and let it ride.

Trading for Westbrook and signing Hayward to a long deal may be foolish, but what is the alternative? Every Knicks fan is quick to say what the team shouldn’t do but slow to offer a viable solution. They won’t accumulate picks like Sam Presti. They don’t draft well like Bob Myers. Masai Ujiri is not walking through the door.

I’m tired of watching the Knicks tank and strike out in the offseason. Is a starting lineup of Russ, RJ, Hayward, Obi, and Mitch a bad thing? That could be a potential playoff team. I’d kill to watch basketball that matters. Maybe I’m delusional. Maybe I’m just tired of the same old shit. Perhaps I should embrace the idea of taking chances on expensive players.

There’s no right answer, but for the first time since 2016, the Knicks have my full and undivided attention.

What should the Knicks do in the offseason? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or tweet us, @unafraidshow.