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Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
Published
3 years agoon
By
Joshua
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
After beating the Miami Heat 111-90, the Phoenix Suns clinched a playoff spot. The first team to do it… in March. That is insane as playoff berths typically do not happen in the early days of of March, but the Suns did it.
Picking up their 53rd win of the season allows them to be 8.5 games ahead of the Grizzlies, 9 games ahead of the Warriors, and 11.5 games ahead of the Jazz. Safe to say no one is catching up to Phoenix for the number one seed of the Western Conference.
It is also safe to say that the Suns have been on fire and nothing is going to slow them down; per OddsShark, they are also +450 to win the NBA Title this year, tied with Brooklyn and Golden State. That is the most recent betting line for who is going to win the championship. However, at the beginning of the season, the Suns were not even close to be favorites.
Per FanDuel, the Suns were +1450 to win the championship. Nets, Lakers, Bucks, Warriors, and the Jazz were all ahead of Phoenix. With only 16 games to go that is an incredible turnaround as it goes to show who is the better team in all of this.
But how can that be proven, what makes the Suns the team to beat? If they even are, that will all be broken down right here, right now.
The Suns could be better than the Warriors
People are going to agree, laugh, or just reject this concept that I have put out. However, it may be true. Sure the Warriors have Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and all those other talented players. But they have been struggling recently with injuries and have gotten in a bad stretch of basketball. The Warriors have slowly been losing their touch.
They have been falling out of the second seed to Memphis, 3-7 in their last 10 games, and they are still trying to figure themselves out. What I mean by “figure themselves out” is that with all these injuries they have fallen and have become disconnected. Honestly, without Draymond to be there for Golden State, they have become discombobulated.
Without Green, this franchise is 16-16 this season. But, going deeper, they are 3-7 in their last ten without him. That includes from 2/27 to 3/7 without winning a single game. When you lose to the Knicks and the Lakers you know you have issues.
Injuries have been a huge factor on why the Warriors have been so bad recently; or, rather, in a bad slump. But how are they worse than the Suns?
How are the Suns edging out the Warriors?
The Suns have been battling injuries too, but they have remained intact. No Chris Paul for the remainder of the season is not a problem for the Suns. Currently, this franchise is 5-3 without Paul. The significance comes when everyone realizes that Cameron Payne has been out and Holiday hasn’t solidified himself yet as of that Chris Paul injury. As of that date, now that Payne is back it has been somewhat more smooth.
But during the games that Cameron Payne has missed, the Suns are 16-5. Also, when Devin Booker was missing games due to injuries and H/S Protocols, Phoenix has been 8-3 without the superstar. So with all that being said about injuries, that is one area where the Suns have completely dominated the Warriors in.
So there is no excuse coming from The Bay as the Suns have had more significant injuries by far that could have ruined the remainder of their season.
Defense – an area where Golden State is pathetic in
The Suns are a more complete team than the Warriors, that can be said without question. Why? Because not only have the Suns built a mindset on offense, but also on defense. The Warriors, even during their worst years, have been all about offense more so than defense.
Everyone on the Suns play defense intensely, smartly, and has almost a passion for it. Curry, Thompson, and different players on that roster do not play defense. Steve Kerr and the Warriors have always set the precedent that if they want to win the game it must come from shooting the ball.
Defense is just not their strong suit, or their speciality. To be real, if a game came down to offense-only I would take Golden State. And vice versa if it was a defense-only contest I would then take Phoenix.
The Warriors just do not have that hunger of playing defense as none of those players know how; not all, as people like Draymond Green are excellent defenders. However, the Warriors are always having high-scoring games.
The last time the Warriors held a team to 80 points it came against the Cavaliers on January 9th. The final score was 96-82, but that Cleveland team was depleted and had no true momentum heading into that game due to all the changes, injuries, and H/S Protocols.
The last time the Suns held a team to 80 points it came against the Wizards on February 5th. The final score was 95-80. Also, take note that the Suns are always blowing out their opponents. The Warriors are either getting blown out or narrowly getting a win. Think about it, defense wins games.
Clutch games – the Suns are unmatchable in that department
The Suns have been deemed clutch by many around the league; doesn’t matter who it is, the Suns have been deemed the most clutch team that we have seen all season. Per NBA Stats, the Suns are ranked number one in the clutch. How about the Warriors… surely with all that talent they must rank very well. The Warriors rank eighth in the clutch.
The Suns record is 27-5 in 32 games, while the Warriors record is 20-14 in 34 games.
The Suns rank number one in:
- Per 100 Possessions
- Per Game
- Per 48 Minutes
That was the traditional setting where the Suns ranked at. Even when putting “teams clutch against opponents” the Suns rank number one. Warriors rank number five. In scoring the Suns rank number one, while the Warriors rank number five.
Those statistics right there prove how the Suns are better than the Warriors in terms of being more clutch. It doesn’t get any better than that. Some people always think that the team with flashier players are going to be the most clutch ones on their team. Just because a team has a collection of players that seem to be clutch on a team doesn’t always turn out to be just that.
That is why for the people that have been sleeping on the Suns are now awaking to the power they possess. As a team, they are tremendous.
Lastly, the Suns are more flexible than the Warriors
Without fail has the Suns been more flexible than the Warriors. With all the changes, injuries, ups-and-downs the Suns have endured proves how flexible Phoenix is. When the Warriors have a roadblock, it causes to stumble and wait for that player to come back. However, for the Suns, they plow right through and don’t look back.
Monty Williams and the coaching staff can do that and recognize those issues to correct the things that need to be corrected. That is why the coaching staff of Phoenix is so superior, along with other attributes and skills, same goes for the players.
It is like having the mentality of “next man up,” it truly is. Phoenix is able to get another guy into a position of success easily to where it benefits everyone and everything around them. The Warriors don’t have that mentality as they never prepare for the worse. One team is able to have the depth awareness to fix these issues, while the other one can’t.
Can that not be a fair assessment of things between these two teams? Being flexible and having the ability to change on a dime is so good and cannot be mastered by all 30 teams of the NBA. Suns have found that and have adapted that perfectly.
Who’s the biggest threat to the Suns?
The biggest threat to the Suns could be the Warriors, but that has been debunked on who is better. However, in the Western Conference it is the Warriors (still), Clippers, and Nuggets. Everyone else is questionable. Questionable teams would be Grizzlies, Lakers, and the Jazz.
Since the Lakers have LeBron, and it is Playoff-Bron, you can never count him out. The Grizzlies have been red-hot as of late and with Ja Morant being who he is, everyone should take them seriously. Because if the NBA ended today and the Grizzlies had to take on the Timberwolves, I take the Grizzlies. That is how good they are.
The Jazz are still interesting with Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert. Okay, fine, that entire team is great as Jordan Clarkson has had our number a few times. Same goes for Mike Conley, their starting point guard.
Is it true the West is getting stronger as the games keep coming?
Yes, from teams 1-10 have made dramatic improvements that are increasing their probability of playoff success. It should scare us, or give us a sense of urgency, as who knows what is going to happen when the playoffs come. The playoffs are another beast that should be taken with great caution. Anything can happen anytime, anywhere.
The West has grown considerably and made teams like Memphis, Denver, Los Angeles (the good team – Clippers), Dallas, and even Utah stronger than ever. That is a very scary sight to behold. So, yes, there is much truth to the West getting stronger as the games keep coming.
In the end, everyone is a threat to the Suns on their path back to the NBA Finals.
Should teams be worried of the Phoenix Suns come the postseason?
One-hundred percent, why? Due to the fact that the Suns have always found a way to win a game, have endless motivation, and the fact that they are that darn good. Teams that even appear to have an edge over the Suns should be nervous, because the Suns are always finding a way past that edge. They have more advantages than disadvantages.
Doesn’t matter if it is injuries, H/S Protocols, or anything like that. For example, all of last year’s postseason series before going up against the Bucks proved that the Suns always found a way to win. They swept the reigning MVP’s team, grooved past the LakeShow (when good) without Chris Paul and other players at full health, and stopped the momentum of the Clippers by going up huge on them.
Plus, take this season, Suns have been completing comebacks. Most recently against the New York Knicks.
Should we be shocked that the Suns have done so well this season + getting the playoff berth first?
No, why? Because they have grown so much in the offseason after making a run to the NBA Finals. They have improved their roster and have found a way to motivate themselves throughout the season on their journey back to the NBA Finals. They have carried momentum since making the playoffs last season.
Truthfully, they are picking up where they left off. However, the only difference is that they have a new game plan and new players. Plus, the Suns were in the top ten of NBA Final Favorites. In the offseason, pre-season, and then heading into the regular season has shown the Suns to be legit.
The signs have been pointing towards the Suns being very good. The only shocking thing here is that the Suns are the first to 40 wins, 50 wins, and the first to clinch a playoff berth. But it was to be expected after having incredible runs in the season, setting records, and just being this fascinating team.
Why is the playoff berth so significant?
The playoff berth cements the Suns as the top team, this makes the Suns undoubtedly the best team in the entire NBA. The whole world can see that by checking the NBA Standings, it is proven and they will remain the number one seed.
The Suns get more publicity, more recognition, and it allows the Suns to be a certified playoff team.
It is just another accolade to the legendary season the Suns are having. This is all being set up to have the Suns prepped for the NBA postseason, and hopefully the NBA Finals.
So now the question has to be asked, “are the Suns the team to beat?”
Are the Suns the team to beat after clinching a playoff spot?
Yes, since clinching this playoff spot it has cemented more fear into the hearts of their opponents. Why? Because now teams have to worry about the first-round of the playoffs and having to face the red-hot Suns. Play-In teams will factor that in, eighth seed team will factor that in, etc.
We have covered this before on if the Suns are the team to beat, and, yes, they are the team to beat. Without fail. Phoenix has been on fire and has beaten out the other 29 teams in the NBA; that is no small task and now teams will have to answer to the Suns if they want to win a championship, or even have the possibility to compete.
There is no team in the NBA that can match to the energy, playing style, or anything else comparable to the Suns. The Suns are in their own world, category, and if you want to have a chance in the postseason then you must have Phoenix out of the postseason.
This is a reality that needs to be learned by all teams: the Suns will not go away easily. Injuries, changes in schedules, H/S Protocols, nothing will stop the Suns as they will make adjustments. They are the team to beat as if the Warriors can’t compare to the Suns, then no one can.
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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.
Featured
Why A Thunder-Pacers NBA Finals Is Good For The League
Published
1 month agoon
June 4, 2025By
Joshua
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.
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OPINION: Tyrese Haliburton Isn’t Overrated, He’s Underrated
Published
2 months agoon
May 14, 2025By
Joshua
Two weeks ago, The Athletic asked NBA players who they thought was the most overrated player in the association. Their response? Tyrese Haliburton. Fast forward two weeks, and the same “overrated” man has eliminated 64-win Cleveland Cavaliers in five games.
Even back it up a series prior where he dismantled Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks, which some were not expecting.
After that horrific poll came out to slander his name, Haliburton has responded humbly and has let his performances do all the talking. In fact, that’s this entire Pacers’ team mentality and ability. I’ll address their underrated season(s) in a separate article.
For now, let’s explore why Haliburton is only not overrated, but most definitely underrated.
Game 2 Against The Cavs
To refresh memories, and to have a good start to lay the foundation, I take us all the way back to Game 2 where Indiana secured a 2-0 lead over Cleveland.
In 84 seconds, an “overrated player” scored seven points. This included the game-winning three-pointer to seal the deal. What makes this even better is the fact that Haliburton did it in Cleveland with fans chanting “overrated” and trying to get into his head.
When the moment calls for it, the 25-year-old rises up and doesn’t shy away. That’s what up-and-coming superstars do.
Game 5 Against The Cavs
To send Mitchell’s team home, Haliburton clutched up and dropped 31 points on them. He had a very efficient game of going 10/15 from the field. Plus, eight assists, six rebounds, one steal, and one block.
He was one of the main factors to the Pacers climbing out of a 19-point deficit. Let’s not forget about that tiny detail.
He left it all out on the court, statistically and what’s not counted, for his team to move onto the Eastern Conference Finals.
Overall Against The Cavs
Throughout this entire series, Haliburton was spot on and was electrifying to watch. Yes, he had a bad Game 3. However, he would later make up for that in Game 5. Game 4 was a pure domination from Pascal Siakam, Myles Turner, and Obi Toppin. He wasn’t needed in that game.
As a side note, which is the beauty of the Pacers. They have so many options on that team that can pop off at any moment that you don’t know who’s going to lead them statistically; not because they are bad, but because they are that good and talented.
When a team has quality, reliable depth, they won’t have to struggle game-to-game on who will be that guy. Indiana has at least five players who can be that guy when their number is called into the spotlight.
Plus, it helps when you have an orchestrator in Haliburton. I’ll get to that in a minute.
Haliburton Is The Epitome Of Mr. Clutch
Throughout this entire postseason and season, Haliburton has been able to showcase his composure in stressful situations and how to excel when the game is on the line.
Haliburton is 10-for-11 when taking a shot to tie or take the lead in the final 90 seconds of the 4th quarter or overtime this season.
That is 91% percent, and nobody nationally is giving him his props. Some players within the NBA is not giving him his props.
How could someone be overrated when they are producing this type of statistic?
Future star of the NBA Cooper Flagg said it best: “People hate him, but he’s so good.”
An absolute baller in the clutch. Not an emotional statement, but a factual statement; just take a look at the numbers.
Haliburton Is The Master Of Fast Breaks And Setting Pace
The Indiana Pacers averaged over 103 possessions per game this season, which saw them lead the league in pace. Haliburton led the charge, as his speed and understanding the tempo of the game allowed for his opponents to always be a step behind.
This didn’t just give them a few points here and there, it inflated them to new heights. They averaged 17.3 fast break points per game, which put them top-five in the league.
Combine that with them leading the league in pace, it made them one of the most deadliest teams in the NBA to try to guard – and it was all funneled by one Tyrese Haliburton.
His basketball IQ and understanding certain mechanics of the game allowed him to unlock a greater side of Indiana basketball, which head coach Rick Carlisle fueled immensely.
Beyond All That, His Playmaking Is Unmatched
People don’t realize how incredible this is, but the man averaged 9.2 assists per game with an outstanding 5.61 assist-to-turnover ratio, making him only the second player in NBA history to average at least nine assists per game with a turnover ratio above 5.5. The only other player to achieve this was Muggsy Bogues in the 1989–90 season.
Following the All-Star Break, Haliburton was averaging 11.9 assists per game and committing only one turnover per game. How could someone do something this great and be overrated?
This level of playmaking efficiency is almost unreachable, it brings him to a new level of superstar potential and downright greatness. Not hyping him up, simply just letting the numbers do all the talking.
Beyond this season, if we take a look back in 2023, fans thought he was the next up-and-coming Steve Nash, Jason Kidd hybrid. Why? Well, back in late December Haliburton was an absolute Point God tearing through the league and posting consecutive 20/20 games.
On December 28th, 2023, Haliburton dropped 20 points and 20 assists against the Chicago Bulls. Did he have high turnovers? Nope. In fact, he didn’t record a single turnover. But, wait, it gets even more impressive.
On December 31st, the man dropped 22 points and 23 assists against the New York Knicks. He joined John Stockton and Magic Johnson in being the third player ever with back-to-back games of 20 points and 20 assists.
To take it another step further, Haliburton combined for 43 assists and only two turnovers. That’s four less turnovers than Stockton, and six less turnovers than Magic. He had three more assists than Magic, and two more assists than Stockton.
What he’s been as of late isn’t a fluke, he’s been doing high-level playmaking since 2023. Performances like these are why he’s one of the most underrated players in the league, put them together with present-day games. Don’t ever call him the most overrated player again.
On Top Of Playmaking, Haliburton Can Score
This isn’t a wild concept, but Haliburton is most certainly a guard who can score and score at will.
Fun fact, he leads the NBA in clutch three-point shooting percentage at 40.7%. Would someone who is overrated be able to do this?
Haliburton in this season shot only 47% from the field, 38.8% from deep, and has a true shooting percentage of 61.6%. To say he is just efficient would be an understatement.
To have an elite, almost rare, efficiency level like his would make him one of the best in the league. However, he gets diminished for some ridiculous reason.
In addition to all this, when he is on the court this season, he was a +222. The season prior to this one, he was around +294. Not bad for an “overrated” player, if I do say so myself.
Postseason Success Can’t Be Undermined
Postseason success is a big make-or-break deal for a lot of players, especially if they are trying to become the “next big thing” in the NBA or that ultimate superstar in general or for their respected franchise.
For Haliburton, he is building an incredible resume, which is only getting started. This is back-to-back postseasons of his team reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, an incredible feat for a young and hungry organization.
They ran through the likes of the Bucks, New York Knicks, and tried taking on the eventual champs, the Boston Celtics. Many thought they couldn’t handle bigger teams due to their ups and downs against Boston, and facing a New York team who was banged up and without Jalen Brunson.
Without taking anything away from them, they competed hard and were the ultimate underdog team last postseason. This postseason, they decided to double down as the underdogs and rip through their competition.
Giannis and Mitchell were no match for Haliburton, as his team heads to the conference finals once more. From being the underdog to now being the top dog; something Indiana hadn’t had since the Reggie Miller days.
Many called his postseason performance last year a fluke and that he got lucky, Haliburton proved them all wrong Tuesday night to send one of the best teams in the league packing. There are no more excuses, the Pacers are a legit team that could be Finals bound here very soon.
Conclusion: Tyrese Haliburton Is More Underrated Than Overrated
If you’ve gone through this entire article and still agree with all the media analysts, players, and fans who are against Haliburton, then that is your prerogative and I understand that.
However, if I removed the name and face from this individual’s career and accomplishments for his team. Then many would overwhelming take this individual and crown him the second-coming for this fresh, young, hungry, ready-to-strike organization.
Haliburton is everything an organization would want in a player. He isn’t cocky, flashy, annoying, or loud with his words or actions. In fact, he is the complete opposite on and off the court. He lets his game do all the talking, has amazing perspective, and is incredibly humble.
His play is legit game-changing to the point where some teams have no answer on how to stop it. Haliburton knows the game better than some within the NBA, as his playmaking and overall decision making is spot on.
His shot creation and overall tendencies with the basketball is almost like poetry in motion. Something I continuously marvel at. Haliburton continues to prove that what he does and how he does it is not luck, is not some hopeful prayer to the universe; it is in fact hard work and being that guy.
The players who voted him as the most overrated player in the league are jealous of him, why? Because they aren’t him and will never be him.
For him to be this proven, so far, and to still be doubted and treated like he’s this small-time player continues to prove my point of him being underrated. If you’re legit and nobody respects or takes you serious, then how can you be overrated and not underrated?
Remember, Haliburton is no fraud. The stats, team-centered accomplishments, and individual accomplishments all speak for themselves. There’s a reason why he’s going back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals at another shot for the championship.
Like this team, he is special. Tyrese Haliburton is only going up from here, you all can quote me on that.

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