Tag / Joel Embiid

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

2024 NFL Draft Winners/Losers, Running Back contracts, and NBA/NHL Playoff Updates | #007

Welcome back to Sideline Specialists, your go-to podcast for the latest updates and insights across the sports world. In episode seven, we’ll be diving into the thrilling developments from the 2024 NHL Playoffs and NBA Playoffs, analyzing the highs and lows of the MLB season, and discussing the latest NFL news updates. From playoff predictions to player injuries and draft analysis, we’ve got you covered with all the must-know highlights. Let’s jump right in!

NHL and Stanley Cup Speculation:
We kick off the episode with an update on the 2024 NHL Playoffs, where the competition is heating up as teams battle for a shot at the Stanley Cup. We delve into the possibility of underdog teams like the Carolina Hurricanes or New York Rangers making a championship run this year, analyzing their strengths and playoff performances so far.

NBA Playoff Recap and 76ers’ Dilemma:
Shifting gears to basketball, we provide an update on the 2024 NBA Playoffs, where the intensity is at an all-time high. However, the Philadelphia 76ers face a major setback, and we dissect what went wrong for the team and discuss potential strategies for their future. Plus, we examine the standout performances and key matchups shaping the postseason landscape.

MLB Season Highlights and Mike Trout’s Absence:
In the world of baseball, we check in on the MLB season, highlighting the Philadelphia Phillies‘ impressive record as they lead the league. However, the season isn’t without its challenges, particularly with superstar Mike Trout sidelined due to injury. We discuss the impact of Trout’s absence and the implications for his team’s success this season.

NFL News Updates:
Next up, we bring you the latest NFL news updates, covering a range of topics from player injuries to contract signings and draft decisions. From Tank Dell’s unfortunate shooting incident to Ezekiel Elliott’s contract extension with the Dallas Cowboys and Najee Harris’ fifth-year option decline, we break down the key developments shaping the NFL landscape.

Winners and Losers from the NFL Draft:
We wrap up the episode by sharing our winners and losers from the 2024 NFL Draft, analyzing the standout picks, surprises, and potential impact players selected by teams across the league. From draft steals to questionable decisions, we provide expert analysis and insights into the future prospects of each team.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:05:21 Mike Trout injured + MLB update
00:27:15 2024 NBA Playoffs + Sixers eliminated
00:51:32 2024 NHL Playoffs update
01:00:48 NFL news update + Tank Dell, Najee Harris, Zeke
01:12:23 2024 NFL Draft winners and losers
01:40:29 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

2024 NBA Playoffs Preview | TAF308

Welcome to episode 308 of The Atlantic Files! This week, we’re covering everything from the highly anticipated 2024 NBA Playoffs to injury updates, Olympic roster announcements, and predictions for the NBA Regular Season awards. Join us as we break down the latest news and provide expert analysis on all things basketball.

Topics this week:

  1. 2024 NBA Playoffs Preview: We kick off the episode with an in-depth preview of the 2024 NBA Playoffs. From top-seeded contenders to underdog teams, we analyze the playoff matchups, predict potential upsets, and discuss the key storylines to watch as the postseason unfolds.
  2. Giannis Antetokounmpo Injury Update: Breaking news on Giannis Antetokounmpo‘s injury casts a shadow over the playoffs as we discuss the impact of his potential absence in Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers. We analyze how this setback could affect the Milwaukee Bucks’ playoff run and the strategies they might employ in his absence.
  3. Team USA Basketball Olympic Roster Finalization: We provide updates on Team USA Basketball as they finalize their roster for the 2024 Olympic Games. From star players to emerging talents, we discuss the athletes expected to represent the United States on the international stage and their prospects for bringing home the gold.
  4. NBA Regular Season Award Predictions: Get ready for some bold predictions as we forecast the winners of the NBA Regular Season awards, including MVP, Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and more. We analyze player performances, statistical achievements, and team success to make our predictions for each award category.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:03:27 Giannis Antetokounmpo may not be available
00:16:29 2024 NBA Playoffs Preview
00:50:29 Team USA finalizing their roster, who got snubbed
01:04:03 2024 NBA Awards predictions
01:11:43 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

Ben Simmons Returns Again! | TAF303

On episode 303 of The Atlantic Files, Ben Simmons finally returns to the court again after more issues with his back, Joel Embiid misses another game against Nikola Jokic in Denver, the Los Angeles Lakers are getting extreme favoritism from the refs, and the Golden State Warriors look at potential trade targets to get themselves back into title contention.

Ben Simmons has finally returned from his back issues and played his first game since November. He is on a minutes restriction but he still almost posted a triple-double against the Utah Jazz. How long will he remain on the court for the rest of the season and will his back issues keep him off of the court for most of his career?

Joel Embiid put on a masterclass in the first of two matchups against Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. He was set to play in the rematch that took place in Denver but then was surprisingly downgraded to questionable and eventually was sidelined. He hasn’t played in Denver since 2019, so now fans think he’s scared and ducking Jokic. What happened to the regular season not meaning anything?

A stat has been found that proves the Los Angeles Lakers shoot the most free throws out of any team in the NBA. Not only that, but they have the biggest difference in total free throw attempts compared to their opponents. Something seems a bit fishy here, but the Lakers aren’t even turning it into wins. So, should we all be mad about it?

Finally, the Golden State Warriors are trying to salvage something out of this season after they found themselves in 12th place in the West after half of the season has gone by. The question is who they should be trading away and if it’s worth trading for what’s out there right now. We dive into some options they have and whether or not they should even mortgage their future before the trade deadline.

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:45 WWE Royal Rumble thoughts
00:15:09 Ben Simmons first game back against Utah Jazz
00:29:46 Golden State Warriors trade targets before the deadline
00:40:59 Is Joel Embiid ducking Nikola Jokic
00:46:25 Lakers getting way more Free Throws
00:54:21 Outro and final thoughts

by Alex Fischbein

Doc Rivers Coming Back To Haunt Us | TAF302

On episode 302 of The Atlantic Files, Doc Rivers reportedly is the leading candidate to take over the Milwaukee Bucks head coaching vacancy after Adrian Griffin was fired, Terry Rozier was traded to the Miami Heat for Kyle Lowry, Joel Embiid asserts his dominance over Nikola Jokic and the NBA, and is trouble brewing for the first-seed Minnesota Timberwolves?

In the biggest news going around the NBA, Doc Rivers is returning to the NBA sidelines as a coach instead of a commentator. It didn’t take too long for him to get the itch to coach again as the Milwaukee Bucks fired Adrian Griffin after the team started the season with a 30-13 record. Rivers was reportedly helping out in a consulting format, but that will lead to an actual coaching job now.

The other biggest news is probably that Terry Rozier has finally escaped the Charlotte Hornets and was traded to the Miami Heat for a first-round pick and Kyle Lowry. Rozier brings a scoring point guard who can actually get out on the floor without being on the injury report 24/7. Hopefully, the rest of the team can now stay on the floor.

Joel Embiid had quite the week. He destroyed Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets, then went on to become the ninth player in NBA history to drop 70 points in a game. If he wasn’t the leader for MVP before, he’s definitely at the top of the ladder for every outlet now. This is Embiid’s world and we’re just living in it.

Finally, the Minnesota Timberwolves tried to get the ball to Karl-Anthony Towns on the same day that Embiid scored 70 so that he could beat his point total. The issue is that Towns only scored four points in the fourth quarter and the team ended up losing. Then, head coach Chris Finch ranted in the post-game press conference about the immature play from his star forward and the lack of defense from the team. Yikes!

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:36 Trip to South Carolina and NBA Threads
00:15:15 Terry Rozier traded to Miami Heat
00:30:39 Coach Finch rips the Minnesota Timberwolves
00:41:43 Doc Rivers takes Adrian Griffin’s job with Milwaukee Bucks
00:58:06 Joel Embiid vs Nikola Jokic
01:16:06 Final thoughts and outro

by Alex Fischbein

OG Anunoby, RJ Barrett, and The Knicks ft Scott “The King” Engel | TAF300

On episode 300 of The Atlantic Files, we’re joined by a special guest, Scott “The King” Engel. He’s an FSWA Hall of Famer, Senior Writer at The Game Day and RotoBaller, Fantasy Writer for seahawks.com, and a Sirius XM Fantasy Sports Radio host. We talk about OG Anunoby moving to the New York Knicks for RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, the Memphis Grizzlies’ plan with Ja Morant out, the Philadelphia 76ers with Joel Embiid’s injuries, and the initial 2024 NBA All-Star voting returns.

Scott Engel has been in the fantasy sports writing business for over 20 years and is one of the industry’s pioneers. We go over how he got into journalism, his favorite athletes of all time, and how he began playing fantasy sports. Engel gives a lot of great nuggets of information and talks about some of the people he’s met along the way.

Then, we got into the OG Anunoby trade and how he’s fared with the New York Knicks so far. Anunoby has been a great fit and the team has gone undefeated since he joined the starting lineup. Do the Knicks need to make any more moves to be serious title contenders?

On the flip side, RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley joined the Toronto Raptors and took another step in their young careers. Is this the best place for their development? Also, we talk about a potential Pascal Siakam trade and how the Raptors will go about building for the future with Scottie Barnes.

Finally, we go over the initial voting returns for the 2024 NBA All-Star game. We talk about those who have been snubbed, some surprise names, and why fans can’t ever get it fully correct when it comes to voting the right guys into the game. Also, are there any good All-Star games anymore in any of the major sports?

Check out Scott Engel’s work!
The Gameday – https://thegameday.com/author/scott-engel/
RotoBaller – https://www.rotoballer.com/author/scottetheking
Seahawks.com – https://www.seahawks.com/news/fantasy-insider/

Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:58 Scott “The King” Engel joins the show
00:11:49 Scott Engel talks New York Mets and baseball fandom
00:15:33 Dr. Pepper Zero vs Coke Zero and favorite food
00:25:50 OG Anunoby and the New York Knicks
00:49:49 RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and the Toronto Raptors future
01:03:28 2024 NBA All-Star voting returns
01:12:41 Closing thoughts

by Alex Fischbein

Ja Morant Returns, Steve Kerr On Hot Seat | TAF298

On episode 298 of The Atlantic Files, Ja Morant returns after his 25-game suspension, we discuss if Steve Kerr should be on the hot seat while watching the Golden State Warriors crumble, we give an update on the state of the Atlantic Division, and Giannis Antetokounmpo ready to fight over a game ball.

Ja Morant has finally returned to the court after his 25-game suspension for multiple gun-related incidents. Right now, the Memphis Grizzlies are one of the worst teams in the league record-wise. We discuss whether or not Morant’s return is a little too late for them to get in the top six, or if they have a shot at making some noise come playoff time.

The Golden State Warriors have been in shambles for the most part this season. They haven’t sunk to the bottom of the West, but Draymond Green has been suspended indefinitely and both Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins have seemed to forget how to play basketball. Is this going to put Steve Kerr on the hot seat or has he been so good for so long that he has a lot of slack before they think about replacing him?

Giannis Antetokounmpo once got into a fight with Montrezl Harrell over a ladder and that seemed like it was going to be the most ridiculous argument he would get into. Then came the game ball discussion after Antetokounmpo scored the franchise record for most points in a single game. He was ready to sprint into the Indiana Pacers locker room just to fight someone to get his game ball back. What is going on in the NBA?!

Last but not least, we check in on the Atlantic Division and give some updates to each team. The Boston Celtics look primed to win the division again but where does everyone else fall? Do the Brooklyn Nets just need to bring in one big-time star or do they need a series of moves?

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Timecodes:
00:00 Intro
06:11 Steve Kerr on the hot seat
17:57 Giannis Antetokounmpo gets mad over the game ball
21:51 Ja Morant is back shooting game winners
37:39 Atlantic division update
46:34 Outro

by Alex Fischbein

James Harden Unleashed & The Wemby and Holmgren Show | TAF293

On episode 293 of The Atlantic Files, James Harden says he was on a leash in Philadelphia and he isn’t a system player, Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren are putting on a show, two Atlantic division teams are at the top of the East while the others have shown a mixed bag, and the Milwaukee Bucks haven’t been as good as expected so far.

James Harden did his first press conference since joining the Los Angeles Clippers and he talks about how he was on a leash in Philadelphia and that he needs a coach that he can trust who will also trust him. This is news to all of us, including Joel Embiid who was confused by his comments and said that they gave him the ball on every possession. Make this drama make sense, please!

Damian Lillard and the Milwaukee Bucks have yet to show their full potential after suffering a couple of bad losses in the early going of this season. Inefficient shooting, poor defense, and ejections have caused the team to look like they regressed from last year. Is this team actually as much of a title contender as everyone thought or did they ship out too much of their depth to be as good as they used to be?

Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren have been garnering all the hype for quite a while now. Deservedly so, these two rookies have lived up to all of the expectations and then some! Both of them have turned into must-see TV and have raised the level of each of their teams. This race for Rookie of the Year may be one of the closest in a long time!

Finally, we take a look at the Atlantic Division so far and how they’ve fared over the first few weeks of the season. The Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers are at the top of the division and the conference while the other three are all next to each other in play-in territory. This is shaping up to be a fun year!

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Timecodes:
00:00:00 Intro
00:06:07 James Harden on a leash?!
00:29:42 Damian Lillard and the Milwaukee Bucks
00:44:30 Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren are awesome
00:56:22 The Atlantic Division so far
01:09:31 Outro