Tag / detroit pistons

by Alex Fischbein

The Jameis Winston Show, Detroit Lions Are Real, The Rams Are Back? | #022

Welcome to episode 22 of The Sideline Specialists! This week, we’re tackling the latest NFL headlines, including Jameis Winston’s big win with the Browns, Detroit’s unstoppable vibe, and whether the Rams are truly back. Plus, we dive into the NFL power rankings, preview Week 9, and take a quick detour to discuss Tobias Harris sparking the ire of Pistons fans. Let’s get into it!

Jameis Winston Leads the Cleveland Browns to Victory: A New Era?

Jameis Winston stepped up big time, guiding the Cleveland Browns to a much-needed win. Did Winston finally settle into the Cleveland rhythm, or was it a one-game wonder? We discuss his impressive performance, what this could mean for the Browns’ playoff hopes, and if Winston could be the quarterback Cleveland’s been waiting for. Spoiler: we’re all hoping for no more interceptions.

Detroit Lions Looking Dominant: Real Contenders?

The Detroit Lions have looked unstoppable lately, and Week 8 was no different. With a balanced offense and solid defense, the Lions might just be contenders this season. We break down how Detroit has gotten to this point, what they’re doing right, and if this is the team to beat in the NFC. Is the Motor City primed for a Super Bowl run? It might be time to believe in the Lions’ roar.

Are the Los Angeles Rams Back?

After an up-and-down start to the season, the Rams looked impressive in Week 8. But is this resurgence for real, or just a blip? We analyze their recent performances, discuss what’s clicking for L.A., and whether they can keep the momentum going. Rams fans, it might be time to start believing again—but cautiously.

NFL Week 8 Recap: Biggest Wins, Surprises, and Storylines

Week 8 brought plenty of action, from upsets to blowouts. We recap all the biggest games, key plays, and storylines that emerged, breaking down how each team’s performance impacts the playoff picture. Who came through in crunch time, and which teams are starting to worry fans? Catch up on everything you missed!

NFL Week 9 Picks and Predictions: Who’s Got the Edge?

Looking ahead to Week 9, we make our picks for each matchup and predict which teams will stand out. Can the Lions stay dominant? Will the Browns keep their winning streak alive? And what about those Rams? We highlight the games to watch, give our hot takes, and even throw in some fantasy advice for good measure.

NFL Power Rankings Through 8 Weeks: Who’s on Top?

With eight weeks in the books, it’s time for an updated power ranking. We rank every team based on their performance so far, with some surprises in store. Find out who’s risen to the top, who’s hanging on by a thread, and which teams need to make serious adjustments heading into the back half of the season. Hint: Some longtime powerhouses may be slipping.

Power rankings through Week 8

Tobias Harris Ruffling Feathers in Detroit: Pistons Fans Are Already Frustrated

Switching gears to the NBA, Tobias Harris is already making waves with Pistons fans—but maybe not the good kind. We discuss why Harris’s arrival in Detroit isn’t exactly winning fans over, how he’s fitting (or not) with the team, and what this means for the Pistons’ season. Pistons fans, you’ll want to tune in to vent, laugh, or maybe both.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:42 NBA Tips Off, Tobias Harris video
00:09:51 NFL Week 8 Reactions
00:40:22 NFL Power Rankings
00:50:17 NFL Immaculate Grid
01:05:13 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

Eastern Conference Preview, 2024-25 NBA Award And Season Predictions | TAF319

Welcome to episode 319 of The Atlantic Files! We’re back with a full court of NBA goodness, just in time for the 2024-25 season to tip off. This week, we’re breaking down three divisions, giving our early predictions for the season’s biggest awards, and discussing all the latest from week one of NBA action. If you’re ready to get hyped for hoops, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s jump into it!

2024-25 NBA Atlantic Division Preview: Battle for the East

We kick things off with a preview of the Atlantic Division, where rivalries are brewing, and every team has something to prove. The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers are once again expected to be the big dogs, but don’t sleep on the New York Knicks or the Brooklyn Nets, who could both make some noise. Plus, the Toronto Raptors are looking to bounce back with a new head coach and fresh energy. We break down each team’s strengths, weaknesses, and what it’ll take for them to emerge as the division champs.

Southeast Division Breakdown: Can the Heat Stay Hot?

Next, we shift our focus to the Southeast Division, where the Miami Heat are looking to keep their fire burning after a deep playoff run. But they’re not the only ones with high hopes; the Atlanta Hawks and Orlando Magic both have young stars ready to make a leap. The Washington Wizards, meanwhile, are still figuring things out post-Bradley Beal, while the Charlotte Hornets hope that their offseason changes can finally lead to some consistency. We dive into all the teams and assess who could be this season’s sleeper.

Central Division Preview: Who’s the King of the Midwest?

The Central Division is stacked with intriguing storylines, from the Milwaukee Bucks‘ new-look lineup to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ ongoing rise. The Chicago Bulls are hoping to make noise with their star power, while the Indiana Pacers continue to build around their young talent. And then there are the Detroit Pistons, aiming to take a significant step forward with Cade Cunningham leading the charge. We break down each squad’s potential and predict how this division might shake out.

2024-25 NBA Awards and Playoff Predictions: Who’s Taking Home the Hardware?

It wouldn’t be the start of an NBA season without some bold predictions! We share our picks for the MVP, Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and more. Plus, we take a stab at predicting which teams will make the playoffs and who could be in for a deep run. Are we riding the hype train for Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, or do we see a seasoned veteran reclaiming the MVP throne? Tune in to find out!

News and Notes from Week 1: Early Surprises and What to Watch

The first week of the NBA season always brings some surprises, and this year is no different. We cover the top stories from week one, including standout performances, unexpected struggles, and key injuries. Which teams look like they’re hitting their stride early, and who’s already showing signs of trouble? We’ve got the insights you need to keep up with all the action.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:03:56 Southeast Division Preview
00:28:23 Central Division Preview
00:40:47 Atlantic Division Preview
00:56:28 NBA Awards and Playoffs Predictions
01:12:44 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

NBA Christmas Reactions, Jalen Brunson The 1A | TAF299

On episode 299 of The Atlantic Files, we react to the NBA Christmas day games, give our thoughts on Becky Hammon saying Jalen Brunson is too small to be a 1A, Kevin Durant expressing frustration with the Phoenix Suns health and role players, and the Detroit Pistons losing streak.

Becky Hammon was on ESPN as their panel talked about the New York Knicks and whether or not they can seriously compete for the NBA Finals. She said they didn’t have that 1A player and explained that Jalen Brunson is a great player but he’s too small to be a 1A. Does she make any good points there or is Brunson a lot better than she gives credit?

The 2023 NBA Christmas Day games gave a mixed bag of entertainment while some superstars didn’t even play and others gave us the performance of a lifetime. Dennis and Alex give their thoughts on the outcomes of each game and whether or not these are signs of things to come for the rest of the season.

Speaking of Christmas games, Kevin Durant is apparently now getting frustrated with the health of his new big three and the talent of the supporting cast. No one is really sure what else he expected when the team went out and got Bradley Beal and traded all of their assets to get him and Beal in the first place. Does anyone actually feel bad for him as well?

Finally, the Detroit Pistons made history for the wrong reasons. They’re now the owners of the longest losing streak in a single NBA season and they could potentially add on to that streak. Is this team actually that bad or are they just hitting some really bad luck?

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro and Christmas movies
00:18:43 The Detroit Pistons historic losing streak
00:43:25 Becky Hammon’s comments about Jalen Brunson
01:00:22 2023 NBA Christmas game reactions
01:15:28 Kevin Durant upset in Phoenix
01:32:13 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

Kelly Oubre Jr. Signs With The Sixers | TAF286

This week, on episode 286 of The Atlantic Files, Kelly Oubre Jr. is signing a one-year deal with the Sixers, James Harden trade talks were ended by the Clippers and not the 76ers, we continue our divisional preview series with the Central Division, the NBA has established new resting rules for star players, and we bring back our fantasy basketball and football corner!

Daryl Morey and the 76ers actually made a roster move that wasn’t trading James Harden. Kelly Oubre Jr. is joining the team on a one-year deal! We’re still not exactly sure why Oubre wasn’t signed by any other teams until now, but it’s a huge pickup for a team that’s in limbo with one of their superstars.

Speaking of James Harden, news came out that the trade talks were actually ended by the Clippers. Brian Windhorst spoke about how the Clippers were the ones moving on after the trade talks hit a stalemate. Originally, the drama began because it was believed that Morey finished the negotiations. Now, the shoe is on the other foot and we haven’t heard from Harden since then.

The NBA also established new rules in regard to resting players throughout the regular season. We’ll, hopefully, begin to see more and more stars playing on national TV and in away games. The issue becomes how the league will actually enforce all of these rules and how they’ll make sure that the injuries listed are real.

Finally, we continue our divisional preview series for the 2023-24 season. The Central Division is the next one on the list before our specialty next week. Will Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks win the division again or will Cleveland take another step up with their young core and Donovan Mitchell?

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Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:02:15 Fantasy Football Corner: Week 2
00:17:37 Kelly Oubre Jr signs with Sixers
00:32:21 Clippers end trade talks for James Harden
00:36:27 New resting rules in effect in the NBA
00:46:50 NBA Central division preview
00:58:48 Outro

Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, Jayson Tatum, Kyrie Irving, Atlantic Files, Podcast
by Alex Fischbein

Brooklyn Nets and Boston Celtics Now At The Top | TAF257

This week on The Atlantic Files Podcast, the Brooklyn Nets and the Boston Celtics are the top two seeds in the East while the Philadelphia 76ers are fifth, offensive explosions have happened everywhere including Luka Doncic, Donovan Mitchell, LeBron James, and more, the Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic got into a fight, Grayson Allen is still dirty, and some surprising teams are rising in the West! That plus much more!

The Atlantic Division is rising once again as the Celtics and Nets occupy the two top seeds in the East while the Sixers are just a few games back in fifth and the Knicks are battling for the play-in. Lagging behind is the Toronto Raptors who still have plenty of time to right the ship and make it into the play-in games.

Across the league, there have been some fantastic offensive games and record-breaking nights. Joel Embiid had his historic night, Luka Doncic had a 60-point triple-double, Donovan Mitchell scored 71 points in a game, and LeBron James scored 40 on his 38th birthday, and that’s just naming a few. We’re in an offensive renaissance right now!

In case people haven’t heard, the Orlando Magic and Detroit Pistons got into a fight which resulted in a handful of suspensions. Some think it could have been a flop that started it all and others think Killian Hayes actually has some quality hands. Everyone has their opinion, of course. Except for Grayson Allen, everyone knows that guy is dirty.

Finally, Nate McMillan is rumored to be thinking about quitting his head coaching job. Nobody would blame him because the Atlanta Hawks seem like a dumpster fire when it should be a contender right now. Trae Young probably would love this idea though.

SUBSCRIBE to Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss a new episode!

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:04:43 Nate McMillan might resign from the Atlanta Hawks
00:16:36 Brooklyn Nets and Boston Celtics are top 2, 76ers at fifth
00:32:36 Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic get into a fight
00:40:18 Grayson Allen is still dirty
00:45:29 Offensive explosions from Luka Doncic, Donovan Mitchell, etc
01:00:44 Surprising Western Conference playoff teams
01:16:47 Outro

Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans, Atlantic Files, Podcast
by Alex Fischbein

Are Zion Williamson and The New Orleans Pelicans Contenders | TAF255

On this week’s episode of the Atlantic Files Podcast, are Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans for real, Cade Cunningham is likely out for the season, the NBA awards received some new names, Jakob Poeltl is potentially on the trade block, who is returning to form more the Brooklyn Nets or the Philadelphia 76ers, Kyle Kuzma wants out and wants a lot of money, and who should trade for Bojan Bogdanovic.

Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans have been the talk of the league as they take over the first seed in the Western Conference. Both parties have been great this season and have defied many expectations. The Pelicans have had tons of injuries yet have stayed afloat to be a half-game ahead of the Memphis Grizzlies. Williamson has slowly been returning to his dominant self as he continues to score with the best of them. The real question is whether or not they are true NBA Finals contenders.

In unfortunate news, Cade Cunnigham has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to receiving shin surgery. The Detroit Pistons weren’t competing for much other than a shot at Victor Wembanyama, but it’s still a big blow to the excitement surrounding the team. Hopefully, it’s only a one-season occurrence.

The NBA decided to change the names of all of their season awards to commemorate some of the best players to come through the league. On top of that, they changed the look of all of them. We went through and decided if each one was a good or bad idea.

A couple of names have appeared on the trade block, Jakob Poeltl and Bojan Bogdanovic. Naturally, that means it’s time to predict who will trade for each one and which team should be trading for each one.

It’s time for another Brooklyn Nets vs Philadelphia 76ers debate. Both teams are returning to the form that many expected so which team is MORE back? Sure, that might not make sense, but you knew what we meant.

Finally, Kyle Kuzma is apparently making contract demands and team requests. He wants a lot of money from either a big market team or a competing team. Two scenarios that do not favor his wishes whatsoever. This should be interesting.

SUBSCRIBE to Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss a new episode!

Timecodes:
00:00 Intro
04:52 Cade Cunningham out for the year
10:20 Are Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans true contenders?
29:38 Brooklyn Nets or Philadelphia 76ers, who’s more back
38:04 New NBA Award names, good or bad idea
44:24 Jakob Poeltl and Bojan Bogdanovic, who should trade for them
51:48 Kyle Kuzma’s outrageous demands
55:00 Outro

Draymond Green, Jordan Poole, Fight, Victor Wembanyama, Atlantic Files
by Alex Fischbein

Draymond Green implodes, Victor Wembanyama explodes | TAF247

This week on The Atlantic Files podcast, Draymond Green swings at Jordan Poole during practice, Victor Wembanyama faces Scoot Henderson in an exhibition, Jamal Murray thinks that the level of basketball in the bubble was much better, the NBA divisional preview series rolls on with the Central Division, and debate the Dream Team vs the Redeem Team.

Of course, we had to start off with the hottest bit of drama that the NBA has to offer lately. Draymond Green punched his teammate Jordan Poole in practice and the video was leaked by none other than TMZ. I’m sure no one is surprised that it came from TMZ. So, we gave our thoughts and reactions on the matter.

A week ago, Victor Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson had the exhibition game for the ages. Both players are considered the top two prospects in the upcoming NBA Draft. They did not disappoint one bit. All of the hype and advertisements are crazy for a reason.

Jamal Murray claimed that the level of basketball inside of the bubble a couple of years ago was the best basketball the NBA has seen in a while. Everyone’s focus was only on the game and there weren’t any fans to get inside anyone’s head. Do you agree with him?

We continue our divisional preview series with the second to last division left. The Central Division, which is home to Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks, is one that seems pretty cut and dry. So much so that we even had the same exact predictions for the standings!

Finally, in the spirit of the new redeem team documentary that came out, we debated the Dream Team vs the Redeem Team. Which one of the two legendary Olympic teams are you taking?

SUBSCRIBE to Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don’t miss a new episode!

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:07:44 Reactions to the Draymond Green and Jordan Poole fight
00:33:39 Victor Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson are insanely talented
00:50:21 Jamal Murray says basketball in the bubble was at its best
01:00:11 2022-23 NBA Central Division Preview
01:34:54 Dream team vs Redeem team
01:38:17 Outro

Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons, LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets, Atlantic Files
by Alex Fischbein

LaMelo Ball or Cade Cunningham, who’s a better centerpiece of a team?

Take some time right now and live out a dream that a lot of basketball fans have. Become a fake General Manager for a startup NBA franchise. There’s one single condition: you have to choose between either Cade Cunningham or LaMelo Ball to lead your team.

LaMelo Ball has been a dynamic point guard even since his high school days, so it was no shock when he came into Charlotte and brought the same flair. In just his second season in the NBA, he already made an All-Star game after he put up 20.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, 7.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. He also made players around him look even better like Miles Bridges, PJ Washington, and Jalen McDaniels.

On the other side of things, Cade Cunningham was no scrub in his first season in the league. He essentially was thrown into the fire and expected to lead a terrible team right away. The Detroit Pistons haven’t been a good team in what feels like ages. 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game is nothing to make fun of. He had a little rough start to the season, and then put up a great 21/6/5 stat line post-all-star break!

Age wise, the two of them are actually only about a month apart. LaMelo Ball just turned 21 and Cunningham is turning 21 at the end of September. So, that brings the question, who are YOU taking to lead your new team?

2022 NBA draft, chet holmgren, paolo banchero, jabari smith jr, atlantic files
by Alex Fischbein

2022 NBA Draft Reactions and Analysis | The Atlantic Files Ep233

This week on the Atlantic Files podcast, we’re talking all things 2022 NBA Draft. We give all of our opinions and analysis on trades such as the ones involving Jerami Grant to the Portland Trail Blazers and Christian Wood to the Dallas Mavericks! The NBA Draft itself will be taking place as we’re recording so all reactions and takes will be live as they happen. We’ll also be talking about the weird Kyrie Irving rumors about not reaching contract agreements on top of sign-and-trade options.

The hottest topic in the NBA this week was obviously the NBA Draft. So, we decided to do a rare Thursday recording and we live streamed our reactions to each pick and trade in the lottery. The top three picks were known from the start, we just didn’t know which order, and things really started to shake up once it hit the New York Knicks pick. Right now, it seems like the Detroit Pistons stole the show. However, with free agency looming in the not-so-distant future, a lot of things can change.

Before the draft even happened, there were a couple of trades that we had to note. Christian Wood was sent to the Dallas Mavericks for a ton of filler and not much else. This bolsters the Mavs offense and especially defense down low. Then, Jerami Grant was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers for more filler type of returns. While Damian Lillard got himself a nice stretch-four, the Pistons cleared up some space for their prospects of Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren.

Finally, there is even more drama on the Kyrie Irving and Brooklyn Nets front. All sorts of smoke and rumors coming out of the Irving camp are saying that they haven’t reached a deal on a new contract and now he’s coming up with lists of teams he’d like a sign and trade to. If Kyrie then moves, everyone is worried about Kevin Durant moving right after him. That’s a lot of drama for a team who didn’t even have a pick in the draft.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:20 2022 NBA Draft live reactions
00:11:39 Christian Wood traded to the Dallas Mavericks
00:16:07 More NBA Draft reactions
00:27:44 Dennis makes a quick appearance!
00:46:50 Kyrie Irving drama with the Brooklyn Nets
00:54:20 Back to NBA Draft analysis

LeBron James, Isaiah Stewart, Fight
by Alex Fischbein

LeBron James draws blood | The Atlantic File

On this week’s episode of the Atlantic Files, LeBron James draws blood from Isaiah Stewart, Luke Walton loses his job, Jayson Tatum is good again, plus Cade Cunningham is finally making his Rookie of the Year argument.

By now, everyone has probably seen the fight between LeBron James and Isaiah Stewart. Stewart had some serious blood coming from his eye and he was rightfully pissed off. All of these reports say that James didn’t mean any harm, but the video seems to say otherwise. Also, does anyone really buy that LeBron James, of all people, couldn’t “track down” Stewart’s phone number? 

Luke Walton, now former coach of the Sacramento Kings, is on the lookout for another job. If there’s anyone who knows chaos out of the NBA franchises, it’s definitely the Kings. Hopefully, they don’t think that this is going to fix their entire team and all of their problems. That would just somehow be very Kings-esque though.

A couple of episodes ago, we talked about how Jayson Tatum wasn’t pulling his own weight. Since then, both Tatum and the Boston Celtics have been much improved. Tatum’s percentages and all-around game have gone up and looked worlds better. Could a Jaylen Brown for Bradley Beal trade work out? 

On top of that, we discussed Cade Cunningham starting to show his true potential!

Timecodes:
0:00 – Intro
1:38 – Golden State Warriors are highly lethal
11:42 – LeBron James and Isaiah Stewart fight
22:10 – Cade Cunningham showing his true potential
29:28 – Jayson Tatum looking more like Jayson Tatum
39:10 – Luke Walton fired by the Sacramento Kings