Monday night, fans saw one of the biggest trades in recent memory unfold between the Miami Heat and Milwaukee Bucks centered around Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has seemingly been in trade rumors and reports for the past two years now.

Pat Riley, whose team has always been in the mix for superstars since Kevin Durant but never pulling the trigger, finally went “all-in” on a player to pair him alongside one of the best big men in the league, Bam Adebayo. Showing fans, and truly players within his organization, that he wants them out of the Play-In Tournament and competing for something more. In fact, getting back to a level of competitiveness that Jimmy Butler had them at during their two NBA Finals runs (2020, 2023).

Jon Horst, who has been spectacular in his managing role with the Bucks since 2017, has orchestrated and put together Milwaukee teams that have always remained playoff competitive and then ultimately winning the championship in 2021. Horst decided to trade Antetokounmpo after 13 seasons with the franchise to begin a full blown rebuild; however, by declining the Boston Celtics’ offer, he has set himself up for success.

I’ll explain later in this article, but full faith and confidence should be placed in him since his track record has been outstanding to date. Plus, this was a relationship coming to an end anyways. Not in any way the same type of transaction that took place between the Dallas Mavericks and Luka Doncic in the summer of 2025.

With all that being said, here are CourtSideHeat’s official trade grades for the Miami Heat and Milwaukee Bucks. Starting with Miami.

Heat Grade: B+

Could this have been an “A”? Potentially, if there weren’t concerns of health and if certain roster moves pan out the way Miami wants it to. However, a “B+”, especially in the world of blockbuster trades, is significantly high and relevant. In fact, anything above a “B” automatically makes you a “winner” of a trade.

So, why did they receive that type of grade? First off, did not need trade their franchise superstar Adebayo. Riley stayed true to his word on not giving up the 28-year-old, as he said the only way he’d trade the forward/center would be by acquiring Victor Wembanyama and eight first round picks. His way of saying no way would they be getting off him.

That is already a good victory, another would be the defensive aspect of things. Adding Antetokounmpo in the frontcourt, with an already strong anchor in Adebayo, creates elite defensive unit. Both can switch, protect the rim, rebound, and dominate transition with ease. We’ve seen them do it for years individually.

Secondly, the 31-year-old is this athletically overpowering player who can do it all. The Heat haven’t had a player like that since the days of LeBron James and Dwyane Wade in the 2010’s. To speak to the volume of how dominate and impressive Giannis is, statistically speaking, for eight seasons in a row to date, he’s averaged least 30 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists per 36 minutes. A level of insanity and skill teams wished they had in their franchise guy. Miami now possesses the ultimate nuclear weapon.

Beyond that, per GeniusIQ tracking, for five years in a row, this team has ranked among the bottom ten teams in shots in the restricted area. Putting pressure on the rim, controlling the rim, being commanding around the rim is no longer an issue. Antetokounmpo has solved it for them.

These reasons alone justify them doing this deal and doing it for a guy like Antetokounmpo. Still a young veteran, experienced, still putting up numbers, not a liability when on the court, and can transcend this team without question.

Now, the reason why this can’t be higher than the grade I’ve given them is due to the health concerns. His calf being the main culprit here; health issues have been very prevalent for him since April of 2024. That’s when those major injuries started pouring in. However, if he is able to get his body healthy again and get back to 60-70 games a season, then there should be less concern as time goes on.

However, in the here and now, have to address the elephant in the room. Another reason why this didn’t get a higher grade is due to semi roster concerns, as they traded Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Kasparas Jakucionis. Not to mention the multiple first-rounders they surrendered to acquire such a talent. They are now spread thinned draft capital wise and player wise.

If Miami gets their way, Norman Powell re-signs and Andrew Wiggins comes back to the team by opting into his player option. Despite rumors and reports, nobody knows for sure what will happen on that end. Even still, just can’t make it higher because if one of them leaves, or both of them, this puts Miami in a more challenging spot. Almost creating a Milwaukee 2.0 situation for Antetokunmpo.

Overall, they get a “B+” because the pros, at this current time, outweigh the cons. A tremendously gifted individual, obviously don’t need to explain who Antetokounmpo is, everyone already knows and has seen the damage he can impose on his opponents. This was a solid trade for Riley and his team.

Bucks Grade: B+

Milwaukee is in a unique position after the Antetokounmpo trade, as they also won the trade for their roster, development, and critically needing to restock up on draft picks. Despite giving up a talent like Giannis, they have found themselves in a position to really strike when the iron’s hot and make this rebuild not last years on end.

Tyler Herro is not a superstar player, not a main guy to build around, but, for Milwaukee, they can shop him and try to get more draft picks and a developmental player in return. This trade can expand into another trade involving Herro for picks and more flexibility into the future, which they so desperately needed.

Kel’el Ware is the biggest score for them in this deal, why? Because of all the potential upside he has as a young, still developing 22-year-old center who we are already seeing signs of a franchise cornerstone piece. An 11/9 guy as of last season and can most definitely improve upon that and be in a position to average close to 20/12 per game. Milwaukee, especially in their current rebuilding state, will give him those opportunities.

Now, it doesn’t stop there in potential talent who can have upsides. Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Kasparas Jakucionis are young pieces of talent who has the potential to actually grow, develop, and get their games right in order to help this franchise win. Jaquez Jr. was the Sixth Man of the Year runner-up, so he is already creeping out of the shadows with some talent. Jakucionis, who is only 20 years old, will strengthen their depth in the backcourt for sure. Plus, last season since it was his rookie season, did show breakout glimpses of being that guy that can secure rebounds and get a bucket or two when his name is called upon.

For me, Ware is the right-now prize, Jakucionis (if developed correctly) will be seen as a breakout candidate coming into his second season with a new team, and Jaquez Jr. can still be the connecting piece between a starting unit and bench.

While, yes, there is more perceived risk in a rebuild and they did just trade away their franchise piece, again, this was coming anyways, so why not cash in and get the best you could get for Giannis? Milwaukee has so much potential upside and room for growth, it isn’t even funny. Plus, they have this year’s 13th overall pick.

Even though Milwaukee won’t be competing for at least two-to-three seasons, the amount of underlying, untapped potential and talent on their roster they can utilize and explore is insane and should be documented.

Conclusion:

Only time will tell with both of these franchises, but concerning this trade in the here and now, both teams have seemingly won for different reasons. This wasn’t a one-sided affair, both entered and left with something that’s beneficial for them.

First round of the NBA draft is June 23rd, Tuesday night. Fans will be able to see who Milwaukee selects with the 13th overall pick to really kick off the post-Giannis era.

The 2025 NBA draft is a day away, which means the internet will become flooded with a bunch of mock trades, mock drafts, and different scenarios based on their needs and wants (from a fans and team perspective).

There are only a few certainties that pertain to this year’s lottery selections. The Dallas Mavericks selecting Cooper Flagg and the San Antonio Spurs selecting Dylan Harper.

The rest of the lottery is up for grabs, as there are a lot more wildcards at play. In today’s article, CourtSideHeat is going to break down each selection and why it makes sense for the team to do so.

First Overall Pick: Cooper Flagg – Mavericks

Unless Nico Harrison decides to go absolutely insane and trade this pick, or select someone else, the clear choice is Cooper Flagg. Many saw this draft class as Cooper being the obvious first overall pick, as he fits perfectly into the plans and scheme of the Mavericks.

Flagg is the type of player to make an immediate impact on Dallas, as he did for Team USA Select and for Duke. Like Victor Wembanyama, there are few holes in his style of play. The way he plays the game, understands the game, and connects a team is exactly why Dallas is drafting him.

He will be an excellent pairing to Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving (when healthy again). The front court of the Mavericks will become one of the best in the league next season; that’s the Cooper Flagg Effect.

His versatile two-way skill set will make him a top-notch rookie, and Maverick, in this upcoming season.

Second Overall Pick: Dylan Harper – Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs and Dylan Harper both have mutual interest in having a relationship together. In fact, Harper and his camp is reportedly excited at the prospect of being able to play for the Spurs.

Adding Harper will continue to provide great depth and skill to their backcourt, another strong pick after selecting ROTY winner Stephon Castle in last year’s draft.

The combo guard has an amazing ability to finish his shot attempts, use his size to his advantage, incorporate his teammates through his playmaking, and is one of the best shot creators in this draft class. Harper will become the next cornerstone addition to this increasingly better San Antonio roster.

This is a match made in heaven; there’s a reason why the Spurs reportedly have zero interest in trading the second overall pick.

Third Overall Pick: VJ Edgecombe – 76ers

Let the controversy begin, honestly, do they take VJ Edgecombe or Ace Bailey? One player wants to play for Philadelphia’s organization, the other player cancelled their interview with them and told them to kick rocks.

If I’m the 76ers, their best course of action (if not trading the pick) would be to select Edgecombe. His ability to play defense, be a team player, be coachable, and can possess the skill to play as a combo guard is the very exact reason why Philly should select him.

Yes, his private made him seem very nervous and shaky as a shooter. But, his interview and meetings made a long, strong, lasting impression on the organization. They highly value that, which is a great positive influence and strengthener for the locker room and team culture.

The biggest factors of his off-ball defense and pure athleticism is the driving reason why the 76ers should, and most likely will, select Edgecombe with the third overall pick.

Fourth Overall Pick: Tre Johnson – Hornets

Many acclaim him to be one of the top shooters in this year’s draft class, Tre Johnson has major upside as a solid shooter at all three levels of the court. This is why Charlotte should select him, especially with Bailey not wanting to be selected by a bottom-feeder franchise.

For the Hornets, they do need a forward, but they also need a shooting guard. Johnson would slip right in with LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, as it’ll continue to add to their young core of players.

While he does have his challenges defensively and dribbling to his left, him being a threat of pulling up and hitting a three or a mid-range shot will definitely outweigh the cons of the future rookie. Plus, put him in a role where he can play off Miller and Ball, have his select shots and moments, will allow him to thrive.

Overall, he is a reliability, not a liability.

Fifth Overall Pick: Jeremiah Fears – Jazz

This pick I am very excited for, as the Utah Jazz and their fanbase will finally have a proper point guard. Something they haven’t had in quite some time.

When your team is craving for star power and being able to take control of this franchise, I wouldn’t be too surprised if they knocked on the door of Fears. An absolute beast of a point guard from his time in Oklahoma, and showed he has the makings of being, not only a top-five pick, but being an elite point guard in the NBA.

The way he paces each possession, is able to find teammates (no matter where he’s at on the court), and keeps his composure is the pin-point reasons as to why he would be a solid fit for the Jazz. Him and Lauri Markkanen would make an interesting pairing, something fans would love to see.

The potential upside on this individual is outstanding, as it goes beyond his passing skills and being able to be that shot creator for others. His own talent even allows him to create shots for himself; Fears is the type of franchise player they’ve been looking for since Donovan Mitchell.

Sixth Overall Pick: Kon Knueppel – Wizards

Washington is in need of a wing player that can fit in that shooting guard / small forward role, which is why Kon Knueppel is the perfect selection for the Wizards. This is taking into consideration how Bailey does not want to go to teams like the Wizards.

During his days at Duke, he was seen as a strong leader and somebody who can not only take care of himself but also his teammates. One of the bright spots of his game is his commanding perimeter shooting. Plus, his overall basketball IQ and decision making is one of the best in this entire draft class.

Overall, he is a straight baller who has this nature feel for the game of basketball. Additionally, can space the floor and produce positive production for himself and his teammates.

Seventh Overall Pick: Ace Bailey – Pelicans

Even with the addition of Saddiq Bey, the Pelicans need to add more depth to their wings and forward spots. That is where Bailey comes into the picture; with all the other teams, there wasn’t enough there to make them playoff contenders. With New Orleans, it is different.

With a fully healthy Dejounte Murray and Zion Williamson, the team can go higher than before. On top of that, New Orleans see Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones getting progressively better as time goes on. Now throw Bailey into the fold and you have something special.

The athletic wing possesses traits that you can’t teach, beyond height and power. His ability to play off-the-ball defense fits him in perfectly with the defensive-minded pieces they already have on their roster. Plus, he can shoot the ball with ease. One of the top pull-up threats in this class.

Bailey should have been a top three pick, even top five pick, but he did not want to play for those teams and made sure his camp told those organizations not to draft him. A great example would be Philly and how he cancelled on them for their meeting.

Going seventh is still extremely good and will ensure him a bright future in the NBA; compounding on top of that, the Pelicans have the pieces to begin pushing for a legit playoff spot this upcoming season. The most ideal start for the future rookie.

Eighth Overall Pick: Khaman Maluach – Nets

Coming in at 7’2″, a defensive monster, and known as a traditional center. The Brooklyn Nets are selecting Khaman Maluach with their lottery pick, as this ensures they are taking priority on fixing their defense. Brooklyn ranked sixteenth in defensive rating last season, something they desperately wanted to fix.

By drafting the Duke standout (third Duke player taken in this mock draft), Brooklyn secures themselves a top-notch defensive anchor that protects the paint and can deter shots around the rim. On the offensive side, Maluach can be a serious lob threat towards opposing defenses.

He fits perfectly on what the Nets have looked for in their future center. No doubt choosing the dominant center is the correct way to go.

Ninth Overall Pick: Derik Queen – Raptors

Toronto is predictably going for center, however, their sights were set on Maluach falling to them. If they can’t secure him at ninth, then their backup option will be to select Derik Queen. Queen is not a bad choice, in fact, he is one of the highest rated centers in this draft class.

Not only do the Raptors get younger in their front court, but they also secure a big man who has great touch around the rim, has an impeccable ability to grab any rebound in the air (offensive or defensive), and is a solid interior scorer.

Is the same defensive anchor as Maluach? No, but his offensive and rebound-tracking skills are far superior. Immanuel Quickley will enjoy passing him the ball in the paint. Beyond that, a front court room of Scottie Barnes, Jakob Poeltl, Brandon Ingram, and Queen will be amazing to have.

Toronto would be given a nice grade if they were able to land Derik Queen and have him being mentored by veterans and having a good-sized role.

Tenth Overall Pick: Collin Murray-Boyles – Suns

Phoenix needs to regroup after trading away Kevin Durant and securing the tenth overall pick, as they face many issues. Not only do they need a true point guard, actual defensive players, and a legitimate center, they need size and physicality. The Suns have one of the smallest rosters in the league currently.

However, by selecting Collin Murray-Boyles, Phoenix can begin to correct course. While Murray-Boyles isn’t this great standout forward/center, his abilities to the Suns will contribute nicely. In fact, they are almost needed.

Murray-Boyles has a wide range of skill defensively, as he has the toughness and strength to contest centers and the quickness with wing players who are getting into his territory. Plus, his defensive abilities are not limited like other sin this draft class. He can play on and off the ball, which is something Phoenix players struggled heavily in last season.

Offensively, not the greatest. He does not have a jumper, his dribbling is not good, and playmaking is subpar considering his position. However, I say all this to say that the Suns don’t need another big man shooting a bunch of threes (Jusuf Nurkic), they need a physical and more defensive-minded player with the fluidity to guard either forwards or centers.

Him being in the same room as Dillon Brooks, Ryan Dunn, and Nick Richards is highly beneficial to everyone involved. Phoenix needs to worry less about offense, and worry more about defense.

Phoenix ranked twenty-third last season in defensive rating, by drafting Murray-Boyles, he will help bring that down. This is a smart, long-term, defensively-grounded choice.

Eleventh Overall Pick: Carter Bryant – Blazers

Portland has a bunch of holes they need to fill, but the center position is not one of them. They have Deandre Ayton and Donovan Clingan (drafted in 2024). Funny thing is that they aren’t too far off in their rebuilding journey, even by trading Anfernee Simons for Jrue Holiday.

The smartest pick for the Trail Blazers would be to select the forward from Arizona, Carter Bryant. By no means is this man creating shots on his own and becoming an absolute scoring machine, but his defensive talents and being able to shoot from a far enough range makes him the best selection for Portland.

This pick continues to breathe new life, and strengthens, the front court. Bryant is well known for his playmaking talents and being a spot-up three shooter that allow him to be an elusive and multi-functional forward. He shows great basketball IQ and when to space and how to space.

Bryant is pure athleticism, which reinforces his presenting case of being a lottery pick. Defensively, he is a great shot blocker and one that can protect the rim. He has fast feet and keep up with whoever he is guarding.

Despite being limited in his on-ball reps during his college days, the Blazers should not pass up on a legit first-round 3-and-D type player. Portland would make a costly mistake, if they do so.

Twelfth Overall Pick: Kasparas Jakucionis – Bulls

So the rebuild continues for the Chicago Bulls, as this next pick allows them to have sort of a prove-it floor general. They’ll be selecting Kasparas Jakucionis, who was a solid point guard during his time with Illinois.

Basketball IQ is off the charts, with him also being a very cunning and crafty playmaker. That is one of his bright spots. Even with him not being the best offensive scorer, or efficient compared to others, between his physical size, playmaking, and relentless unselfishness, he would fit right in with the Bulls.

Chicago, like others in this stage and later in the draft, are targeting backcourt players. His shooting will progressively get better through correct development and time to read NBA defenses, as this is a good long-term investment/project.

He’s a rhythm-and-flow type of player that will command an offense if you allow him. A solid pick based on the current needs and trajectory of Chicago.

Thirteenth Overall Pick: Egor Demin – Hawks

Back-to-back teams that will be drafting a floor general; first the Bulls and now the Atlanta Hawks. Having a backcourt room of Egor Demin, Trae Young, and Dyson Daniels would not be too shabby at all. Demin would be Young’s backup.

This point guard has it all, truly. Beyond him able to score from mid-range and closer, and being able to rebound, he is also able to pass like no other. His passing vision, IQ, and artistry is one of the key factors as to why he is getting selected in the lottery.

Atlanta continues to rebuild their organization, and having someone in their back pocket like him is incredibly relieving. This move should bring joy to the Hawks and their fans.

His versatility and flexibility as a perimeter playmaker makes him valued by the Hawks and other franchises. He can also play ball on both ends of the court; now, defensively, it isn’t as good as his offensive game, but his hand-eye coordination and reading defenses/passes is what saves him from being a liability on that end of the court.

A very solid pick for the Hawks.

Fourteenth Overall Pick: Joan Beringer – Spurs

San Antonio is the only team in this year’s draft to have two picks in the lottery portion. So, for them, they are going to capitalize on this opportunity. With their first pick, they went offense. With their second pick, they are going to go defense.

To keep beefing up the front court, giving Victor Wembanyama more support when he’s on and off the floor, San Antonio is targeting the defensive-minded center out of Cedevita Olimpija.

Joan Beringer is a terrific pick as he will stabilize and further the Spurs mission to lock down the perimeter. His interior defense is special to watch, as Beringer protects the rim and can really block shots. The 6-11 player will give opposing offensive players a challenge when in his territory.

Even though he is a better defensive player, due to his height and athleticism, Beringer can be a legit lob threat for San Antonio. Something to seriously considering, as this is a piece for the future. This is long-term strategy.

Both picks represent the Spurs trying to balance out and beef up their quality and quantity of both the front and back court of their units. Plus, this allows them to account for more depth and role pieces for the future.

I’d be shocked if Beringer was not selected by the Spurs.

Conclusion:

This is CourtSideHeat’s official mock draft for the lottery. This includes the real-time trades involving Kevin Durant and the Rockets, plus Jrue Holiday and the Trail Blazers. Check social media for updated lists come draft days one and two.

June 25th: first round. June 26th: second round. Both are starting at 8:00 PM EST.

Despite some fans, media members, and critics of the NBA saying this will be the worst NBA Finals in recent memory, and potentially in history, this finals matchup will actually be really good that’s beneficial to the league.

Not only is it beneficial to the league, but also to small market teams, rising players, overall storylines, the fate of the draft, and even how teams should be constructed for the future.

With all that being said, let’s dive right into this.

The Rise Of The Next Faces Of The NBA

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Tyrese Haliburton have been on a sensational tear season after season. Both players have had a historic season that resulted in individual career definers and team definers.

Haliburton is revolutionizing the point guard position and what it means to be an all-around player commanding an underdog team to an impressive postseason run.

Gilgeous-Alexander continues to prove why the mid-range game is still alive and well, boosting not only himself, but also his team. This season being the biggest for him, winning MVP and having the opportunity to become the Greatest OKC Thunder ever.

Besides both players showing their clutch abilities, abilities to not choke under pressure, and be an efficient machine, they both have taken the next step in their young journeys to become that superstar figure.

The amount of obstacles and postseason challenges they had to go through to get to this point is more than what some other superstar-caliber players have been able to do.

For fans, Anthony Edwards and Jayson Tatum are quickly being ruled out as the “next face of the NBA.” They find Tatum to be corny and not that guy, whereas with Edwards, they want him to be that guy but he continues to stumble each postseason. Plus, Edwards has gone on record to say he doesn’t want to be that guy.

Shai and Haliburton have made the game of basketball meaningful again with their styles of play, not just taking a bunch of threes and wishful shooting, as time after time rise to the occasion and become the “IT guy.”

Both these players want to be the faces of the league, ready to embrace the moments; you can’t force fans to accept a player as the new, exciting face of the league. Players like Shai and Haliburton have to gravitate towards the audience, and the audience is accepting them right now.

Smaller Market Teams Can Make It

One of the biggest critics the NBA has seen in recent memory is that the game of basketball has turned into big market franchises securing giant-name players and seeing who can spend the most to form “Big 3’s” and “superteams” to win rings. However, last season and this season have proven the exact opposite can happen.

This should not only change those narratives, but should give hope to the fans who are fans of small market teams.

Indiana built from the ground up and took a flyer on a guy who wasn’t even wanted by his original team – the Sacramento Kings. Indiana stuck with their core, developed their players (like Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith), made risk-free trades (like Obi Toppin), and drafted solid players. Plus, they didn’t give up much to acquire Pascal Siakam – a game changer for the Pacers.

The same can be said for OKC, how so? Well, they took a flyer on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and it paid off, they stuck with their core, they drafted very well, they made minimal-to-risk-free trades, and made sure not to blow it up quickly because things weren’t progressing fast enough.

Does it take time? Yes, absolutely. However, when you are patient and component in the decisions you make, then they’ll pay off. Coaching matters, so does the front office. Both teams put a lot of time and energy to get both corrected. Now both organizations are benefiting from that.

So many teams want to blow it up after a mediocre season, or just coming up short, but OKC and Indy did the exact opposite. Funny enough, both teams are in the postseason. See the Phoenix Suns as an example, they blew it up after just falling short of winning a championship and now are a bottom-feeding organization.

Patience and competence are important, it doesn’t matter if the market the team is in is big or small. Pacers and Thunder are living proof of that. Long-term over short-term is the better option.

More Storylines That Can Expand Fan’s Interests

When LeBron James retires, the NBA is going to need something new to talk about. New trendy topics, storylines, and players to focus on. It can’t always be revolved around the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, or Golden State Warriors.

When the likes of LeBron and Stephen Curry step down and pass the torch, it will go to guys like Haliburton and Shai. The Thunder have a legit chance of being underdogs to going on a dynasty. From their overhaul of picks to developing talent that’s turning into legit talent, their future is not only set up, but has the chance of winning a couple of rings.

The Pacers can have the same future of always being a threat in the Eastern Conference; being able to be the “new blood” the East needed.

Storylines of new duos, East against West rivalries, small market teams finding success, new superstars being born, MVP races, and so much more can be birthed due to this NBA Finals matchup. The possibilities are endless. Think about how intense and enjoyable the Bucks-Pacers rivalry has turned into over two postseasons.

With both teams having young rosters, spearheaded by two superstars who are only 25 and 26 years old, this can bring in fresh waves of fun, entertainment, and new powers to both conferences.

This Highlights The Importance Of The Draft

Not only does this re-spark interest in the draft and what that would mean for teams of smaller, or larger, sized markets, but also fan interest. Beyond all that, there is a reassurance in draft classes for teams where they wouldn’t need to break the bank to get a high quality superstar when they can find one and develop.

The example of Chet Holmgren is a very good one, he was an immediate impact on the court for OKC. Another example that required some patience is Nembhard, as he was seen as a pseudo starter and an impactful role player in his second season in the league. That was last season.

While Holmgren went second, Nembhard went 31st. It goes to show how many good players are throughout the draft, plus combine that with correct development, then teams can really set up their future the right way.

Beyond the previous drafts, OKC has so many first-round picks that they’ll always be able to get solid quality and keep having strong depth and a young core. They are the ultimate blueprint on how a team should go about picks, goals for the future, and development on traded-for or drafted players.

The “Blow It All Up” Method Isn’t End-All-Be-All

From 2020 to 2022, Indiana had a dark period of being an underperforming franchise who couldn’t put together a winning season or find their way past the Play-In Tournament.

They had okay-solid pieces, but nothing to get them to that next level that was plaguing them in the East. In the 2022-23 season, where they finished 11th, Indiana could have easily blown it up.

The Pacers had Haliburton, Buddy Hield, Myles Turner, veteran talent, guys still in the development process (Nesmith), and new rookies (Bennedict Mathurin, Nembhard). Most rebuilding/struggling teams who can’t make it work will definitely trade majority of their players for either “win-now” guys or draft picks that put them regular season purgatory until they can cash in on those picks.

Despite doing what is so common in the NBA, the Pacers decided to make minimal moves that didn’t require a bunch of output to climb out of the hole they were in. They gave it another season, which saw them solidified as the sixth seed.

How did this happen? They didn’t break the bank to get Siakam, Toronto were ready to move on and Indiana jumped on it. They took a flyer on Toppin, who turned into a solid bench piece who has been explosive this current season/postseason.

The Pacers continued to develop players, trust their coach Rick Carlisle, allow for the team to gel together, and retain their young prospects from any potential trades. In a span of three seasons, Indiana went from being the 11th seed to the 4th seed.

They went from missing the postseason to making back-to-back ECF trips and finally punching their ticket to the NBA Finals. An incredible turnaround that wasn’t built on the “blow it all up” concept.”

Conclusion:

In short, this Pacers-Thunder NBA Finals matchup is a very good thing for the overall consumer of basketball, for the NBA, and for the product’s teams. This Finals matchup sets a new precedent of not blowing it up, patience over impatience, player development, trusting coaches more, and that it takes a team and not just two or three players.

It fizzled out with LeBron James and Luka Doncic, it also fizzled out with Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert, and Karl-Anthony Towns. It didn’t work for Phoenix’s “Big 3” of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. For the Warriors, Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry couldn’t do it alone.

However, it didn’t fizzle out for OKC or Indy. Two teams people were calling “overhyped,” “overrated,” and who would crash and burn in the postseason. The exact opposite took place, as their whole depth chart took them to the NBA Finals.

That’s not luck, that’s skill, determination, and meticulous planning. Significant difference. For both teams, this isn’t the only year for them to win a championship. Honestly, that window can be from now into the next five years.

After seeing what these two organizations have done, don’t be shocked if other teams follow suit in their blueprint and try to mimic that.