The Maybe-Dangerous Mavs, a Pelicans Climb, LeBron’s All-NBA Case, and NFL Draft Guesses With Ryen Russillo
In this episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, Simmons and Ryen Russillo analyze the impact of Kyrie Irving joining Luka Dončić on the Mavericks, instantly elevating them to legitimate contenders. They examine recent shifts in NBA officiating that allow for more physical defense, benefiting teams built for it.
The conversation also covers the upcoming NFL draft, including evaluation of quarterback prospects Drake May and Jaden Daniels. Additionally, Simmons and Russillo discuss candidates for the All-NBA teams, highlighting Luka Dončić's late-game heroics and Jayson Tatum's two-way impact. They explore the Pelicans' resurgence with Zion Williamson orchestrating the offense from the point guard position, making them a formidable playoff opponent.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Mar 18, 2024 episode of the The Bill Simmons Podcast
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1-Page Summary
Kyrie Irving Trade to Mavericks
Bill Simmons and Ryen Russillo lavish praise on Kyrie Irving's exceptional skill, such as when Irving hit a game-winning "junior sky hook" over Jokic. They highlight Irving's impressive recent consistency, playing 18 straight games despite past injuries, averaging around 25-5-5.
With Luka Dončić and Irving playing well together, the Mavericks have instantly become legitimate contenders, with games where both "carried the team" offensively.
New NBA Officiating Focus
The NBA has shifted to allowing more physicality on defense. There are fewer foul calls overall, with players having to adjust to contact plays that previously drew whistles.
Simmons notes teams built for physical defense like the Celtics stand to benefit from this officiating shift.
Quarterback Draft Prospects
Russillo sees Drake May as a top QB prospect, praising his size and ability to play well when making mistakes. But Jaden Daniels is now considered superior after re-evaluation of film.
Simmons expresses skepticism over QB prospects due to the high bust rate, but both agree teams needing QBs should keep taking shots on prospects with a rookie contract's upside outweighing risk.
All-NBA Teams Race
Luka Dončić and SGA are locks for the guard spots according to Simmons, with Dončić's late-game heroics solidifying his case.
For forwards, Tatum's two-way impact and the Celtics' dominance bolster his candidacy over Kawhi Leonard and Kevin Durant. Centers and other spots remain hotly contested.
Pelicans With Zion at Point Guard
Zion Williamson's improved decision-making as a point guard sparked a 15-5 run for the Pelicans. Simmons praises Murphy's three-point shooting supporting the offense.
While still having some crunch time questions, the Pelicans are now seen as a formidable playoff opponent thanks to Zion's offensive orchestration.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- "Carried the team" offensively means that Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving were primarily responsible for scoring and creating scoring opportunities for their team. They were the main offensive forces driving the team's success during games. This term emphasizes their significant contributions to the team's offensive performance and overall success.
- Investing in rookie quarterbacks is seen as beneficial due to their potential to perform well on relatively inexpensive contracts, which can provide significant value to NFL teams. Despite the risks associated with drafting young quarterbacks, the financial advantages of having a talented player on a rookie contract are often considered to outweigh the uncertainties. Teams are willing to take chances on rookie quarterbacks because the financial benefits and potential on-field performance can be substantial compared to more established, higher-paid players.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) is a rising star in the NBA known for his versatile skills as a guard. Being considered a "lock" for the All-NBA team means he is almost guaranteed a spot due to his exceptional performance during the season. SGA's consistent play and impact on his team's success have solidified his position as one of the top guards in the league. This recognition reflects his standout contributions and overall value to his team.
- "Crunch time questions" typically refer to uncertainties or doubts about a team's performance or decision-making abilities during crucial moments of a game, especially in the closing minutes when the score is close and the outcome is uncertain. Teams may face challenges in executing plays effectively, making the right decisions under pressure, or maintaining composure when the game's result hangs in the balance. These questions often revolve around how well a team can perform in high-pressure situations and whether they have the necessary skills and strategies to succeed when the game is on the line.
- Murphy's three-point shooting supporting the offense:
Murphy is a player on the team who is known for his ability to consistently make three-point shots. His accurate shooting from beyond the arc helps to spread the floor and create spacing for the team's offense, making it more difficult for opponents to defend. This skill is valuable in modern basketball as it opens up driving lanes for teammates and forces defenders to guard him closely, opening up opportunities for other players. In essence, Murphy's three-point shooting is a key factor in enhancing the team's offensive effectiveness.
Counterarguments
- While Kyrie Irving's skill and consistency are praised, it's worth noting that his impact on team chemistry and leadership has been questioned in the past, which could affect the Mavericks' long-term success.
- The synergy between Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving is promising, but there may be concerns about ball distribution and defensive capabilities when both are on the court.
- The shift to more physical NBA defense could disadvantage teams that have built their strategy around drawing fouls and could lead to inconsistencies in officiating as players and referees adjust to the new standards.
- While the Celtics might benefit from the new officiating focus, it could also expose them to more injuries or fatigue due to the increased physicality of the game.
- Jaden Daniels being considered a superior QB prospect over Drake May is subjective and dependent on team fit and development, and other prospects could emerge as better fits for certain NFL systems.
- The strategy of drafting QB prospects despite high bust rates assumes that the upside always outweighs the risk, which may not be the case for teams that repeatedly fail to develop their draft picks.
- Declaring Luka Dončić and SGA as locks for the All-NBA guard spots may overlook other guards having standout seasons or contributing significantly to their team's success.
- Jayson Tatum's candidacy for the All-NBA team is strong, but other forwards may also have compelling cases based on their individual performances and impact on their teams.
- Zion Williamson's role as a point guard has been successful, but there may be concerns about his long-term health and defensive responsibilities in this position.
- While Murphy's three-point shooting is praised, the Pelicans' overall depth and bench contributions could also be critical factors in their playoff performance.
- The Pelicans being a formidable playoff opponent is contingent on maintaining their performance under playoff pressure, where the game slows down and opponents have more time to prepare defensively.
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Kyrie Irving Trade to Mavericks
The trade of Kyrie Irving to the Dallas Mavericks has created a significant impact in the NBA landscape, marked by Irving's exceptional performances.
Irving Hits Game-Winning Shot Against Nuggets
One of the Most Skilled Players Ever
Kyrie Irving demonstrated his remarkable skill with an extraordinary buzzer-beater shot to win the game against the Denver Nuggets. Ryen Russillo lavishes praise on Irving, calling him the best ball handler ever witnessed in the game. Irving's finesse and ability were evident when he made a 20-foot running lefty shot, reminiscent of a "junior sky hook," over the towering Nikola Jokic.
Impressive Consistency Recently After Many Injured Seasons
Both Ryen Russillo and Bill Simmons acknowledge Kyrie Irving's recent impressive run, further highlighting his skill level, especially after his game-winning shot. Simmons proudly reflects on Irving's consistent performance and impressive statistics of 25-5-5, especially important considering his history of injuries and missed games. Russillo comments on Irving’s current consistent run, noting that it's his longest streak since 2016, playing 18 straight games.
Mavericks Now Contenders With Irving and Doncic
Kyrie Irving and Luca Dončić have quickly figure ...
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Kyrie Irving Trade to Mavericks
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Ryen Russillo is an American sports host known for his work on ESPN and later The Ringer. He co-hosted shows with Scott Van Pelt and Danny Kanell on ESPN Radio. Russillo has a background in play-by-play commentary and graduated from the University of Vermont.
- Bill Simmons is an American podcaster, sportswriter, and cultural critic known for his work in sports media, including founding The Ringer website. He gained prominence through his writing and podcasting, blending sports analysis with pop culture and personal anecdotes. Simmons worked at ESPN, where he operated Grantland and hosted The B.S. Report podcast. He currently hosts The Bill Simmons Podcast at The Ringer.
- In basketball, the "25-5-5" statistic typically represents a player's performance in a game where they achieve at least 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists. It is considered a significant benchmark for all-around contributions on the court, showcasing scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities in a single game. Achieving 25 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists demonstrates a player's versatility and impact across multiple aspects of the game. This stat line is often used to highlight a player's ability to both score and create opportunities for their teammates during a game.
- Nikola Jokić is a Serbian professional basketball player known for his exceptional skills as a center for the Denver Nuggets in the NBA. He has achieved numerous accolades, including multiple All-Star selections, All-NBA Team honors, and NBA Most Valuable Player awards. Jokić is recognized for his versatility, playmaking abilities, and impact on the court, making him one of the top players in the league.
- A "junior sky hook" is a reference to a signature move in basketball made famous by Kareem Abdul-Jab ...
Counterarguments
- While Kyrie Irving's trade to the Mavericks has been impactful, it's too early to determine the long-term effects on the NBA landscape.
- A single game-winning shot, while impressive, does not necessarily indicate overall success or impact on the team's performance.
- Claiming Kyrie Irving as the best ball handler ever is subjective and can be debated, considering the talents of past and present NBA players.
- Consistency in performance is crucial, but an 18-game streak, although notable, is a relatively short period to assess long-term consistency, especially in the context of an entire career.
- While Irving's statistics are impressive, basketball is a team sport, and individual statistics do not always correlate with team success.
- The synergy between Irving and Dončić is promising, but it may take more time and testing against a variety of teams to confirm their effectiveness as a duo.
- The Maverick ...
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New NBA Officiating Focus
Ryen Russillo and Bill Simmons discuss recent changes in NBA officiating that favor a more physical style of play, affecting the dynamics of the game and benefiting certain teams, such as the Boston Celtics.
Allowing More Physicality on Defense
The conversation reveals a trend where NBA referees are allowing for a more physical game. Russillo notes that the way charges were previously drawn—defenders getting in the way and falling down—has been altered by referees who are aiming to clean up unnecessary foul calls.
Less Foul Calls Overall
Simmons mentions officials are no longer giving previously common foul calls like the "car accident drive" and are allowing for more physical interactions on screens and during collisions. Players now can drive into the paint, receive a bump from a defender, and not automatically earn a foul call, signaling a reduction in foul calls overall.
Adjustments By Players and Teams
Players and teams are in the midst of adjusting to the new refereeing style. Russillo shares the frustration some might feel with how offensive players can push boundaries during games, while Simmons compares the current play adjustments to playoff basketball. Star players like Luka Dončić and Damian Lillard, who excel at drawing fouls, are now searching for calls they were accustomed to receiving. Avoidance of specific mo ...
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New NBA Officiating Focus
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Clarifications
- "Push boundaries during games" in this context means that offensive players are trying to test the limits of what they can do within the rules of the game. They may attempt moves or actions that are on the edge of being considered legal, hoping to gain an advantage without committing a foul. This behavior can be seen as a strategic way to exploit any leniency or gaps in the enforcement of rules by the referees.
- "Fighting through screens" in basketball refers to the defensive strategy where a player works to navigate through screens set by the offensive team to impede their movement or create space for a teammate. It involves physical and tactical efforts to maintain defensive positioning and disrupt the offensive play. Players must use their agility and awareness to anticipate and counter the screens effectively. This skill is crucial for defenders to stay close to their assigned offensive player and prevent easy scoring opportunities.
- Offensive fouls in basketball occur when an offensive player violates the rules by making illegal contact with a defender. This can include charging into a defender, pushing off to create space, or using excessive physicality to gain an advantage. When an offensive foul is called, the opposing team gains possession of the ball. Players must be mindful of these rules to avoid committing offensive fouls during gameplay.
- A "deep bench" in sports terminologies, like in basketball, means a team has a strong roster with talented players beyond the starting lineup. These players are skilled and can contribute effectively when called upon during games. Having a deep bench is advantageous for a team as it provides depth, flexibility, and the ability to mai ...
Counterarguments
- While the shift to allow more physicality might benefit teams like the Celtics, it could be argued that this change disadvantages teams and players who have honed skills more suited to a less physical style of play, potentially reducing the diversity of playing styles in the league.
- The reduction in foul calls could lead to a more inconsistent application of the rules, as what constitutes a foul may become less clear to players, coaches, and fans.
- Allowing more physical play could increase the risk of injury to players, as more contact is likely to lead to more physical strain and potential for harm.
- The changes in officiating could disproportionately affect smaller or less physical players who rely on speed and finesse over strength, potentially impacting the fairness of the game.
- The adjustment period for players and teams may lead to a temporary decline in the quality of play as they adapt to the new standards, which could affect the entertainment value for fans.
- Some fans and players might prefer a game with more scoring opportunities, which can be reduced when physical defense is emphasized over offensive play.
- The idea that the Celtics or similar teams benefit from these changes might be an oversimplification, as all teams have to adapt and could potentially find ways to use the new officiating style to their a ...
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Quarterback Draft Prospects
Ryen Russillo and Bill Simmons discuss the landscape of QB prospects in the NFL draft, weighing prospects' traits against their potential to bust.
Daniels, May, and Others As Top Prospects
When discussing the array of talent, Russillo mentions his desire for the Patriots to draft Drake May, touting him as a top prospect. Drake May's potential is noted particularly for his significant weight and ability to play well even when making mistakes, drawing comparisons to players like Josh Allen. May's accuracy is questioned, but his overall potential as a quarterback remains high.
A shift in evaluation sees Daniels now considered superior to May after a reevaluation by those who reviewed the game tapes. Russillo highlights his concerns about Penix, particularly due to injury history and troubling performance outside of the pocket. Despite Nix showing significant improvement in his game, his throwing abilities are not as highly regarded as those of Penix.
Jaden Daniels is celebrated for perfect throws and strong performances, particularly before the Alabama game, showcasing a combination of desirable traits in a quarterback prospect. However, there are concerns about his durability given his lighter build at 206 pounds, raising questions about his ability to withstand tackles from much larger players.
Combination of Traits and Question Marks
There is a constant interplay between the positive aspects of these quarterbacks' skills and the looming question marks over their futures. Russillo debates the level of improvement Jayden Daniels has shown at LSU and whether his decision-making in games puts him on par with other top prospects.
History of High Bust Rate for First Rounders
Simmons expresses skepticism over quarterback prospects after a bad game, noting how one poor performance can greatly influence draft perception despite recognized talent. This hesitance underscores the high bust rate for first-round quarterbacks, a sentiment echoed in the remembrance of trades where quarterbacks were rapidly devalued after being drafted.
Teams Needing QBs Shoul ...
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Quarterback Draft Prospects
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- "Drake May," "Jaden Daniels," and "Penix" are fictional names used in the text to represent quarterback prospects in the NFL draft. "Josh Allen" is a reference to a current NFL quarterback known for his playing style. "LSU" stands for Louisiana State University, a college football program. The "Alabama game" is a specific football game involving a team from the University of Alabama.
- The evaluation of quarterback prospects typically involves assessing various traits such as accuracy, decision-making, throwing abilities, durability, and performance under pressure. Scouts and analysts review game tapes to gauge a prospect's strengths and weaknesses, considering factors like physical attributes, skill set, and past performance to predict their potential success in the NFL. Concerns about a prospect's injury history, ability to handle pressure, and consistency in gameplay are crucial aspects of the evaluation process. The evaluation criteria also include comparisons to established NFL quarterbacks and historical data on draft prospects to determine the likelihood of a prospect becoming a successful franchise quarterback.
- The NFL draft ...
Counterarguments
- While Drake May's significant weight and ability to perform under pressure are seen as positives, it's important to consider that size alone doesn't guarantee NFL success, and the ability to learn from mistakes and improve is crucial.
- Accuracy is a critical skill for a quarterback, and if May's accuracy is in question, it could be a significant hindrance in the professional league where windows to complete passes are much smaller.
- Reevaluations that place Jaden Daniels above May could be premature or influenced by recent performances, and a more comprehensive assessment over time is necessary to accurately judge a prospect's potential.
- Concerns about Jaden Daniels' durability due to his lighter build are valid, but it's also true that many successful quarterbacks have overcome similar concerns with proper conditioning and avoidance of hits.
- The interplay between skills and question marks is a normal part of scouting, but overemphasis on either can lead to misjudgment; a balanced approach that weighs both equally is essential.
- While a high bust rate for first-round quarterbacks is historically accurate, each draft class is ...
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All-NBA Teams Race
As the All-NBA teams selection looms, discussions intensify around which players will make the cut for the prestigious end-of-season honors.
Candidates for Guard Spots
Doncic, SGA Locks
According to Bill Simmons, Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) are shoo-ins for the All-NBA first team guard spots, having demonstrated exceptional performances throughout the season. Doncic, notably a significant asset for Dallas, hit a vital three-pointer in a game, solidifying his candidacy. Ryen Russillo underscores the potential fear factor Doncic poses in a playoff series, referencing his impressive track record in past postseasons.
Edwards, Brunson, Others In Mix
Simmons continues the conversation about the All-NBA team by discussing eligibility criteria, including the controversial 65-game minimum. This requirement might be seen as unfair, potentially costing a player like Anthony Edwards a chance at qualifying for a larger contract extension due to injury-related game absences.
Forwards Candidates
Tatum vs. Kawhi vs. Durant
The forwards race is tightly contested, with Jayson Tatum, Kawhi Leonard, and Kevin Durant all vying for the coveted spots. Simmons pits Tatum's confidence and two-way game, especially evident in matchups against Durant, as a key reason for his selection. He also notes that Tatum’s impressive rebounding adds to his consideration.
Case for Tatum With Celtics' Dominance
Ryen Russillo backs Tatum, placing winning as a critical determinant for All-NBA selection. Simmons and Russillo also acknowledge Kawhi Leonard's and Kevin Durant's significant numbers this season. However, t ...
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All-NBA Teams Race
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- Bill Simmons is a prominent sports analyst, writer, and podcaster known for his deep knowledge of basketball and engaging commentary. Ryen Russillo is a respected sports media personality with a background in sports journalism and broadcasting, offering insightful analysis on basketball and other sports. Both Simmons and Russillo are well-regarded in the basketball world for their expertise, experience, and ability to provide in-depth perspectives on players, teams, and league dynamics.
- The 65-game minimum requirement for All-NBA eligibility means a player must have participated in at least 65 games in a regular NBA season to be considered for the All-NBA teams. This rule aims to ensure that players who receive these prestigious honors have been consistently available and contributed significantly throughout the season. Missing a substantial number of games due to injuries or other reasons can impact a player's chances of making the All-NBA teams. It is a criterion that helps maintain the integrity and fairness of the selection process.
- Jayson Tatum's matchups against Kevin Durant are significant for his All-NBA candidacy because they showcase his skills and abilities in direct competition with one of the league's top players. Tatum's performance in these matchups, especially in terms of his confidence, two-way game, and rebounding, can influence voters' perceptions of his ov ...
Counterarguments
- While Doncic and SGA are considered locks for the All-NBA first team guard spots, it could be argued that other guards may have had equally impactful seasons and deserve consideration based on their contributions to their respective teams.
- The emphasis on Doncic's single three-pointer and playoff performance might overlook the importance of consistent performance throughout the entire regular season.
- The 65-game minimum requirement is designed to reward players who contribute consistently throughout the season, and while it may seem unfair to players like Anthony Edwards, it ensures that the All-NBA teams reflect sustained performance.
- The race for the forward spots could be influenced by recency bias or market size, potentially overlooking players from smaller markets or those who have had a strong season but less media coverage.
- Tatum's case for All-NBA selection might be strong, but other forwards could have arguments based on different metrics or impacts on their teams that are not as highlighted, such as defensive prowess or leadership.
- While the Celtics' success could bolster Tatum's All-NBA case, it could be argued that individual a ...
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Pelicans With Zion at Point Guard
The New Orleans Pelicans have seen a significant shift in their gameplay and results, largely attributed to Zion Williamson's role as a point guard.
15-5 Run With Zion Running Offense
Simmons highlights Zion Williamson's improved decision-making on the court, pointing out his ability to pick the right moments for fast breaks and scoring. Zion's growth in decision-making has been pivotal in the Pelicans' strong performance, particularly during a stretch where the team went 15-5. Russillo echoes this sentiment, noting the Pelicans' offensive adaptability. This adaptability includes initiating offense from different positions to keep the opponents guessing, which has helped avoid predictability and staleness in their play.
Conley and Murphy Providing Offense
As for the roster composition, Simmons observes that what earlier appeared as a disjointed assemblage of players now seems more cohesive, especially as seen during a game against the Clippers. A significant contribution to the offense comes from Murphy, who averaged 17 points in his last 15 games. His three-point shooting is noteworthy, with a 42% success rate on nine attempts per game. In March, he impressively averaged 48% accuracy from the three-point line on 10 attempts per game.
Still Questions About Crunch Time
However, despite the impressive run, there remain questions about the Pelicans' performance during crunch time. Russillo and Simmons discuss how the team had encountered several issues earlier in the season during hi ...
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Pelicans With Zion at Point Guard
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Clarifications
- In basketball, the point guard is typically responsible for directing the team's offense, setting up plays, and distributing the ball to teammates. Three-point shooting is a crucial skill where players attempt to score by shooting the ball from beyond the three-point line, which is farther from the basket than a regular field goal attempt. These roles and skills are essential in shaping a team's strategy and performance on the court.
- Bill Simmons and Ryen Russillo are well-known sports media personalities who often discuss and analyze basketball and other sports on various platforms like podcasts and television shows. They provide insights, opinions, and commentary on players, teams, and games, offering a mix of analysis and entertainment for sports fans. In the context of the text, they are discussing Zion Williamson's impact as a point guard for the New Orleans Pelicans and analyzing the team's performance during a specific stretch of games. Their perspectives help provide a deeper understanding of the Pelicans' gameplay and dynamics during this period.
- Securing a higher seed in the playoffs, like the fourth seed compared to the fifth seed, is crucial as it often determines home-court advantage in the postseason. Home-court advantage means playing more games in your own arena, where the crowd support and familiarity can boost a team's performance. This advantage can be significant in crucial playoff series, potentially influencing the outcome of games and the overa ...
Counterarguments
- Zion Williamson's role as a point guard might limit his effectiveness in other areas where he excels, such as inside scoring and rebounding.
- Offensive adaptability can sometimes lead to a lack of defined roles and confusion among players, potentially affecting on-court chemistry.
- Relying on Murphy's three-point shooting could be problematic if he experiences a shooting slump, as three-point shooting can be inconsistent.
- Cohesion against a single team like the Clippers may not translate to overall team cohesion against the varied playstyles of other teams.
- The Pelicans' performance during crunch time, despite recent improvements, may not be a reliable indicator of their ability to handle playoff pressure.
- Being considered a formidable opponent could increase the psychological pressure on the Pelicans, potentially affecting t ...
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