Tag / jalen brunson

by Alex Fischbein

Gordon Hayward Complaining, NBA Conference Finals, Cavaliers’ Future | TAF313

Welcome back to The Atlantic Files, your premier source for in-depth NBA analysis and the latest basketball news! In today’s episode, we delve into the heartbreak and drama of the Game 7 losses by the New York Knicks and Denver Nuggets, explore Gordon Hayward’s frustrations over his playing time, discuss the future of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Donovan Mitchell, and react to the unfolding excitement of the 2024 NBA Conference Finals. Stay tuned for all the essential updates and expert insights!

Knicks and Nuggets Fall in Game 7: We start off the episode with a recap of the dramatic Game 7 losses suffered by the New York Knicks and Denver Nuggets. Both teams fought valiantly throughout their series but ultimately fell short in the decisive games. We analyze the key moments that led to their defeats, the standout performances, and what these losses mean for their future strategies and roster decisions.

Gordon Hayward’s Playing Time Controversy: Next, we turn our attention to Gordon Hayward, who has recently voiced his dissatisfaction with his playing time. Hayward’s comments have sparked a debate about his role on the team and the coaching decisions that have limited his minutes. We delve into the potential implications for Hayward’s future with his current team and explore possible trade scenarios.

Cleveland Cavaliers and Donovan Mitchell’s Future: Shifting our focus to the Cleveland Cavaliers, we discuss the uncertain future of the team and their star player, Donovan Mitchell. After a disappointing playoff run, the Cavaliers face crucial decisions about their roster and strategy. We analyze the potential moves the team could make to build around Mitchell or explore trade options that might better suit their long-term goals.

2024 NBA Conference Finals Reactions: As the NBA Conference Finals heat up, we provide our reactions and insights into the matchups and performances that are shaping this critical stage of the playoffs. From key players stepping up to strategic adjustments by the coaches, we break down the factors that are determining the outcomes of these high-stakes games and predict who might advance to the NBA Finals.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:12:40 Gordon Hayward complains about playing time
00:22:35 What should the Cavs and Donovan Mitchell do?
00:40:30 Knicks and Nuggets lose Game 7s
00:48:50 NBA Conference Finals are set
01:00:33 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

Knicks Sizzle, Nuggets Fizzle, Reactions To NBA Exit Interviews | TAF311

Welcome back to The Atlantic Files! In episode 311, we’re diving deep into the latest buzz from the NBA playoffs, draft speculations, and insightful exit interviews. From red-hot teams like the New York Knicks to three-time MVP Nikola Jokic and future prospects like Bronny James, we’ve got all the must-know highlights from the world of basketball. Let’s jump right into the action!

Knicks’ Playoff Dominance and Jalen Brunson’s Leadership: We kick off the show with a spotlight on the New York Knicks’ impressive playoff performance, led by the stellar play of Jalen Brunson. With Brunson leading the charge, the Knicks are blazing a trail through the postseason, and we analyze their key to success and prospects for the championship.

Nuggets’ Struggles Against the Timberwolves: Shifting our focus to the Western Conference, we discuss the Denver Nuggets’ uphill battle against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the playoffs. Despite their regular-season success, the Nuggets find themselves in trouble against a resilient Timberwolves team, and we examine the factors contributing to their postseason struggles.

Nikola Jokic’s MVP Triumph: Next up, we celebrate Nikola Jokic’s well-deserved third NBA MVP award. As one of the league’s most dominant players, Jokic’s exceptional talent and leadership have propelled him to the top of the MVP race once again, and we reflect on his remarkable achievements and impact on the game.

Draft Speculations: Who Will Draft Bronny James?: Turning our attention to the upcoming NBA draft, we delve into the speculation surrounding Bronny James, son of basketball icon LeBron James. With the draft approaching, teams are vying for the opportunity to draft the highly touted prospect, and we explore potential landing spots for Bronny in the NBA.

Boston Celtics’ Path to a Championship: In a fascinating discussion, we ponder whether the current playoff landscape presents the Boston Celtics with their easiest path to a championship in the Jayson Tatum era. With the Celtics eyeing postseason success, we analyze their roster strengths, playoff matchups, and chances of hoisting the championship trophy.

Reacting to NBA Exit Interviews: We conclude the episode by reacting to insightful exit interviews from notable NBA players, GMs, and owners, including Daryl Morey, Joel Embiid, Matt Ishbia, and James Jones. From reflections on the season to future plans and aspirations, we provide our analysis and reactions to the candid interviews.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:54 The Celtics best chance for a ring
00:13:39 Can the Knicks make it to the NBA Finals?
00:25:06 Do the Nuggets have any hope now?
00:38:25 NBA Exit Interview reactions, best fits, and Bronny James
00:59:19 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

Trading Joel Embiid, Anthony Edwards and Michael Jordan Comps | TAF310

Tune in to episode 310 of The Atlantic Files as we dive into the latest NBA playoff drama, Anthony Edwards to Michael Jordan comparisons, and Joel Embiid trade possibilities. From heated debates to thrilling matchups, we provide expert analysis and insights on the action-packed first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.

Topics this week:

  1. Joel Embiid Trade Rumors: We start the episode by exploring the hot topic of whether the Philadelphia 76ers should trade Joel Embiid after this playoff run. With speculation swirling around Embiid’s future with the team, we analyze the potential benefits and drawbacks of parting ways with the star center and discuss possible trade scenarios.
  2. Anthony Edwards’ Comparison to Michael Jordan: Switching gears, we delve into the intriguing comparisons between Anthony Edwards and basketball legend Michael Jordan. As Edwards continues to impress with his athleticism and scoring ability, we examine the validity of these comparisons and discuss Edwards’ potential to become a future NBA superstar.
  3. New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers: Best First Round Series: We highlight the thrilling matchup between the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers, which many consider to be the best first round playoff series in a long time. From intense rivalries to nail-biting finishes, we dissect the key moments and storylines shaping this highly anticipated showdown.
  4. First Round Playoff Recap: We provide a comprehensive recap of the rest of the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs, checking in on the latest matchups, series standings, and standout performances from teams across the league. From underdog victories to dominant sweeps, we break down the action and offer insights into the playoff landscape.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:07:19 Should the 76ers consider trading Joel Embiid
00:39:00 Knicks vs 76ers the best first round series
00:41:27 Anthony Edwards compared to Michael Jordan
00:51:06 2024 NBA Playoffs check-in
01:07:02 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

Joel Embiid battling, Celtics drop a game, Jalen Brunson heating up | TAF309

Join us for episode 309 of The Atlantic Files as we dive deep into the latest drama and analysis from the 2024 NBA Playoffs. From standout performances to controversial plays, we dissect the action-packed first round series and provide expert commentary on the games and players shaping the postseason landscape.

Key Points:

  1. Jalen Brunson’s Struggles Against the Philadelphia 76ers: We kick off the episode by discussing Jalen Brunson‘s performance in the first round series against the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite high expectations, Brunson has struggled to find his rhythm on the court, and we analyze the factors contributing to his underwhelming play.
  2. Joel Embiid’s Dominance and Controversy Against the New York Knicks: Switching gears, we delve into Joel Embiid‘s standout performance in Game 3 against the New York Knicks, where he scored an impressive 50 points. However, controversy surrounds Embiid’s aggressive playing style, with accusations of dirty play stirring debate among fans and analysts.
  3. Boston Celtics’ Home Loss to the Miami Heat: We discuss the Boston Celtics‘ disappointing loss at home to the Miami Heat in Game 2 of their first-round series. Despite having home-court advantage, the Celtics failed to secure a victory, and we analyze the factors contributing to their defeat and the adjustments needed for future games.
  4. First Round Playoff Recap: We provide a comprehensive overview of the rest of the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs, checking in on the latest matchups, series standings, and standout performances from teams across the league. From thrilling comebacks to unexpected upsets, we break down the action and offer insights into the postseason battles unfolding on the hardwood.

Timecodes:
00:00 Intro
01:52 Knicks vs Sixers and Jalen Brunson’s struggles
18:16 Joel Embiid drops 50 with dumb flagrant foul
26:27 Boston Celtics lose a game at home
30:47 Other first round series in the 2024 NBA Playoffs
42:34 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

Joel Embiid, NBA MVP, Philadelphia 76ers, NBA playoffs, Atlantic Files
by Alex Fischbein

Joel Embiid Wins MVP, Celtics and Knicks On The Brink | TAF271

On this week’s episode of The Atlantic Files, Joel Embiid finally wins his first MVP over Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Philadelphia 76ers have pushed the Boston Celtics to the brink of elimination, the New York Knicks are also trying to fend off elimination in their series, and more NBA Playoffs observations!

Joel Embiid has been a part of the highly debated MVP conversation over the last 2-to-3 seasons and it was finally his time to shine. With a substantial portion of the vote, he won his first MVP award over Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo. This doesn’t exactly end the debate as people will likely talk about it for years to come, but no one can take away the MVP honors.

After a surprising Game 5 win, the Philadelphia 76ers pushed the Boston Celtics to the brink of elimination. Doc Rivers doesn’t have a great track record in series-clinching games and the Celtics are not a team that will go down without a fight. Can Joel Embiid and company actually push through the second round or will it be a Game 7 and maybe even a similar fate to the last few seasons?

The New York Knicks are in the same boat as the Celtics as they find themselves down 2-3 to the Miami Heat. A big Game 5 propelled them into at least one more game with Jalen Brunson leading the way as usual. The rest of the team just needs to step up so that Brunson doesn’t have to do everything the rest of the way.

Then, there are the two Western Conference semifinals, which have been entertaining in their own right. Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets have been pushing the Suns around for the most part and LeBron James is determined to make father time look like a joke. Who do you have coming out of the West?

Finally, a surprising name popped up in the Toronto Raptors head coaching search. JJ Redick apparently was interviewed for the opening despite never openly showing any interest in actually being a coach. This could be something to watch closely moving forward!

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Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:35 Joel Embiid wins 2023 NBA MVP
00:11:13 Sixers win Game 5, could eliminate Celtics
00:31:36 Knicks down 2-3 to Miami
00:36:39 Nuggets vs Suns and Lakers vs Warriors series
00:46:49 JJ Redick interviewed for head coach of Toronto
00:48:42 outro

Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, Josh Hart, New York Knicks, NBA Playoffs, Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat, Atlantic Files, Podcast
by Alex Fischbein

The New York Knicks And Playoff Jimmy Butler Are Real | TAF270

On this week’s episode of The Atlantic Files, the New York Knicks are shutting down the Cleveland Cavaliers with ease, Jimmy Butler flipped his playoff switch against Milwaukee, the Philadelphia 76ers swept the Brooklyn Nets so what do they need to do this off-season, Ime Udoka got the job with the Houston Rockets, and more!

Both the Knicks and Jimmy Butler have flipped the playoff switch lately. New York is on a high right now as they took a 3-1 lead over the Cavaliers as the series goes back to Cleveland for Game 5. Many analysts, including us on this podcast, didn’t believe in the Knicks winning a series against a Donovan Mitchell-led Cavs team. Yet, here they are on the cusp of advancing to the second round! Then, there’s the tale as old as time in playoff Jimmy. Butler has taken the Heat to the edge of a huge upset over the first-seed Milwaukee Bucks after he put up a historic performance in Game 4.

Now that the Brooklyn Nets have been swept for the second time in two years, what do they need to avoid the same fate for a third consecutive season? How do they build after moving on from the Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving experiment? Well, a good start is having players like Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson, that’s for sure! It’s time to talk about the pieces they need around those two.

Ime Udoka’s name has been thrown around rumor mills for every single team that needed a head coach. Finally, two teams fired their coaches and then it became a contest of which one could hire him quicker. Reportedly, he didn’t want the Toronto job, so he ended up taking the Houston opening. Does he immediately make them a playoff contender, or is there still a long way to go for this squad?

Finally, we go over the other playoff series around the league and talk about the hottest topics. Dillon Brooks is regretting poking the bear, the Minnesota Timberwolves finally won a game, the Los Angeles Clippers are injured again, and more!

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

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:02:56 2023 NBA Playoffs observations
00:46:32 New York Knicks making the ECF
01:03:31 Joel Embiid sprains his LCL
01:16:58 Brooklyn Nets changes they need to make in the off-season
01:30:08 Ime Udoka heading to Houston
01:34:15 Outro

Joel Embiid, Mikal Bridges, Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets, NBA Playoffs, Atlantic Files
by Alex Fischbein

Joel Embiid vs Mikal Bridges, NBA Playoffs Heat Up | TAF269

In the latest episode of The Atlantic Files, hosts Alex Fischbein discussed the latest happenings in the NBA playoffs. As always, the podcast focused on the Atlantic Division but also covered some broader observations about the playoffs as a whole. Here are some of the highlights from the episode:

Philadelphia 76ers vs Brooklyn Nets playoffs series

Alex broke down the first-round series between the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets, two of the most talented teams in the Eastern Conference. Mikal Bridges has proven to be a top-notch player that deserves to be the number-one option on a playoff team. On the other side, Joel Embiid has grown in his playmaking abilities as he’s been consistently finding his teammates out of double teams.

Cleveland Cavaliers vs New York Knicks playoffs series

He also talked about the matchup between the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks, which had been an unexpected and exciting series. They highlighted the impressive play of Cavaliers’ guards Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell, as well as the toughness and grit of Knicks’ star Julius Randle.

2023 NBA Playoffs observations

In addition to discussing specific matchups, Alex also shared some broader observations about the playoffs. He talked about the dominance of Western Conference teams, the rise of younger teams like the Sacramento Kings and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the importance of coaching in the postseason.

Draymond Green stomping on Domantas Sabonis

One controversial moment in the playoffs was Draymond Green’s stomp on Domantas Sabonis during the Golden State Warriors’ series against the Sacramento Kings. Alex weighed in on the incident and its potential consequences, both for Green and for the Warriors’ playoff hopes.

Jaren Jackson Jr. winning Defensive Player of the Year

Another topic of discussion was Jaren Jackson Jr. winning the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award. The host praised Jackson’s ability to guard multiple positions and impact the game on both ends of the court.

De’Aaron Fox winning clutch player of the year

Finally, De’Aaron Fox won the Clutch Player of the Year award, which recognizes players who perform best in high-pressure situations. They talked about Fox’s ability to take over games in the fourth quarter and his importance to the Sacramento Kings’ success.

The Atlantic Files continues to be the go-to podcast for fans of the Atlantic Division and the NBA as a whole. With expert analysis, engaging conversation, and a focus on the latest news and trends in the league, it’s no wonder the podcast has become such a hit among basketball fans. Be sure to tune in to the next episode for even more great content!

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

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:03:10 Joel Embiid, Mikal Bridges, Sixers vs Nets
00:22:11 Knicks vs Cavs tied 1-1
00:38:20 NBA Playoffs observations from around the league
00:53:17 Draymond Green suspended for stomp
00:57:55 Jaren Jackson Jr and De’Aaron Fox win awards
01:00:29 Outro

Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies, Atlantic Files
by Alex Fischbein

Ja Morant And New York Knicks Stock Watch | TAF265

This week, on The Atlantic Files, Ja Morant is watching a lot of his money and opportunities disappear, the New York Knicks are hitting a hot stretch at the right time, the new CBA could use games played to qualify for major awards, Draymond Green and Dillon Brooks are in a big time beef, Kyrie Irving says gambling is taking away from basketball, and Fred VanVleet opens up the referee can of worms!

The hottest news and memes on the block are all related to Ja Morant. That’s not good news or memes either. Morant is now away from the team as he seeks counseling after losing a sponsorship or two due to more and more allegations coming out about fights, guns, and all sorts of things. He needs some help making decisions and navigating the world as a young man with tons of money.

Once again, on a hot streak, the New York Knicks are making people believe that they’re a dangerous team again. Knicks fans are revving up their engines to match the levels they were on when they ended up playing the Atlanta Hawks in the first round a couple of seasons ago. Can the world handle that?

There are rumors swirling around the new CBA that could entail a game played minimum for major awards like MVP in the future. This is something that a lot of people would love to see, but are there players and teams that are going to game the system and still get their guys rest days by playing them for a minute? This could be another sad attempt at getting people to stop with load management.

The beef of the ages is happening between Draymond Green and Dillon Brooks. Two people who aren’t very relevant this season when it comes to outstanding play and winning awards. They sure know how to keep their names in the news and everyone’s mind though!

Stop me if you’ve heard this before: Kyrie Irving went on another rant. This time it was about how gambling and sports betting are ruining the sport of basketball and how he doesn’t feel free right now. Yikes.

Finally, Fred VanVleet has finally spoken up about some unfair officiating and other players around the league are starting to agree with him. Could this launch some sort of investigation? Probably not, but it makes everyone wonder.

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

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:03:24 Ja Morant’s off-court drama
00:26:24 Draymond Green vs Dillon Brooks beef
00:36:03 New CBA and games played minimum for awards
00:45:49 American White guys are not good at basketball
00:55:38 Kyrie Irving rants about gambling and basketball
01:04:58 New York Knicks are getting hot at the right time
01:09:55 Fred VanVleet vs the NBA Referees
01:17:58 Remember this guy?
01:20:56 Outro

Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks, Scottie Barnes, Toronto Raptors, Atlantic Files
by Alex Fischbein

New York Knicks & Toronto Raptors Heading Opposite Ways | TAF256

On this week’s episode of The Atlantic Files, the New York Knicks and Toronto Raptors are headed in separate directions as the Knicks are on a hot streak and the Raptors are sinking fast, Anthony Davis and Stephen Curry both get hurt while Joe Ingles is set to return, James Harden reveals a lot in his interview about why he left Brooklyn, would Mexico City be a good expansion city for the NBA, and more!

The Toronto Raptors were on a big losing skid before a 52-point game by Pascal Siakam finally allowed them to break it. As of right now, they’re barely hanging on to a play-in spot at the 10th seed. Is it time for this team to finally hit the panic button and look toward the trade market, or do they still have what it takes to make a deep playoff run?

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the New York Knicks are on a big win streak right now. They’ve shot all the way up to the sixth seed in the East. Their core guys are all contributing in big ways and Tom Thibodeau’s job looks secure for now. There’s always plenty of time for the Knicks to pull a Knicks-ish move before the season ends.

James Harden sat down for an interview to give some insight on why he decided to ask for a trade to get out of Brooklyn. He brought to light a lot of things that people were speculating about and a couple of surprising facts about the rest of the team. He ended everything by asking if he was still a quitter if the main superstar on the team also asked to get out of there.

There have been a few major injuries and some returns that have taken place recently. Anthony Davis, Stephen Curry, and Brandon Ingram have all either been out or are out now for an extended period of time. Joe Ingles is making his return to his new team after his torn ACL and Markelle Fultz has returned too. What type of impact do all of these things have?

Finally, Adam Silver talked about how Mexico City was putting in a lot of work to get an NBA expansion team in their city. Should Mexico City even be near the top of the list to get a team, or are they a few more American cities that need a team before they start looking internationally?

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

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:09:46 Time for the Toronto Raptors to hit the panic button?
00:27:47 Are the New York Knicks a playoff team?
00:44:06 NBA creating a Mexico City expansion team
00:53:50 Why James Harden really wanted out of Brooklyn
01:09:29 Major injuries and returns: Stephen Curry, Anthony Davis, and Joe Ingles
01:14:33 Outro