Basketball is a game of skill, agility, strategy, and sometimes, a well-placed word or two. Trash-talking—an art form in its own right—has been an integral part of the NBA culture, serving as a psychological tactic to distract opponents and establish dominance.

Some players have honed this skill to such an extent that they have become known for their verbal jabs as their gameplay prowess. From pre-game banter to on-court exchanges, these masters of words have leveraged the power of speech to tilt the game in their favor.

This article seeks to highlight some of the NBA’s most prolific trash talkers, whose tongues have proven to be as lethal as their performance on the hardwood.

Larry Bird

Larry Bird, often referred to as “The Hick from French Lick,” was a force to be reckoned with on the court. His scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and basketball IQ placed him among the greats. Yet, it was his mastery of mental warfare that truly distinguished him.

Bird’s trash-talking was as legendary as his gameplay. He was known to predict exactly where and when he would sink a game-winning shot, leaving defenders helpless and spectators in awe. His audacious confidence extended even off the court, as seen when he walked into an All-Star three-point contest and asked his fellow competitors, “Who’s playing for second?” This combination of supreme talent and unshakeable confidence made him one of the NBA’s greatest players and trash-talkers.

Reggie Miller

Reggie Miller, the Indiana Pacers shooting guard, was a master of both the three-point shot and the perfectly timed insult. His foray into trash-talking began in his backyard, squaring off against his sister Cheryl. It was in these early duels that Miller discovered the strategic advantages of verbal barbs — when executed correctly, they could get into an opponent’s head, throwing them off their game.

Miller honed this skill throughout his career, becoming a notorious trash-talker in the fiercely competitive 1990s NBA scene. Whether it was goading movie directors courtside, engaging in head-butt competitions with fellow players, or single-handedly taking on a raucous Madison Square Garden crowd, Miller relished his role as the league’s charismatic villain.

Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan, widely recognized as the greatest basketball player of all time, was as intimidating with his words as he was with his game. His competitive spirit was insatiable, and he constantly sought to dominate his opponents physically and mentally. Jordan’s trash-talking was notorious, extending to teammates, opponents, and even in seemingly unimportant All-Star games.

His fierce gameplay and harsh words made him known for breaking down his teammates in practice. Yet, this was a deliberate strategy; if they could withstand his onslaught, they could certainly handle the pressure of the playoffs. His trash talk escalated even more during playoff games, underscoring his relentless pursuit of victory at all costs.

Gary Payton

Gary Payton, dubbed “The Glove” for his tenacious defense with the Seattle Supersonics, was as much a chatterbox as a lockdown defender. Payton’s upper lip seemed to have a life of its own, always curled into a snarl, ready to unleash a torrent of trash talk that could rattle even the steeliest opponents. He firmly believed that getting under his opponent’s skin gave him the ultimate edge on the court. Hence, Payton’s banter was relentless.

Whether he was going eyebrow to eyebrow with Michael Jordan or driving his teammates like Michael Cage, Payton’s vocal prowess was a tool he wielded with surgical precision. His ability to couple his stellar on-court performance with an unending stream of chatter etched his name in the annals of the NBA’s most prolific trash talkers.

Kevin Garnett

Kevin Garnett, famed as “The Big Ticket,” was a titan on the court, possessing an unmatched intensity and a fiery competitive spirit. However, his unparalleled trash-talking truly distinguished him in the annals of the NBA. Garnett was infamous for his ruthless and relentless verbal assaults on and off the court.

He was known to shout intimidating phrases like “I smell blood!” while opponents were shooting free throws, causing them to lose focus and falter. His trash-talking wasn’t just for the sake of mind games; it was the fuel that drove him. He believed that “Quieting down is backing down,” as stated in his 2021 memoir.

Final Thoughts

Trash-talking is as much a part of the NBA as the game itself. This verbal jousting, far from being disrespectful or unnecessary, adds a layer of psychological strategy that elevates the game to a new level. Though by no means an exhaustive list, the above five players have unquestionably left their mark on the NBA’s rich history of trash-talking.

We may never know if it was their words or their game that truly tilted the scales in their favor, but one thing is certain: these masters of verbal warfare are icons in the world of basketball and beyond. And if you’re looking to place bets on NBA games, it’s important to consider the mental game as well as physical abilities of these legendary trash talkers. The sports betting odds may favor a team based on statistics and rankings, but the impact of a skilled trash-talker cannot be underestimated.

The post NBA’s Best Trash Talkers (All-time) appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

The history of the NBA is replete with so many talented individuals who have graced the league. One such set of players is the point guards. Point guards are considered to be the most skillful players on the court.

Their skill set is suited for setting the play and carrying their teams on their back by initiating offense with their dribbling and ball-handling skills.

Besides ball handling skills, they are also reputed to have great vision and shooting skills. In some quarters, they are viewed as the most important players on the court, and often referred to as the most complete players in the game.

But who are the greatest point guards to have exhibited their skills on the NBA stage? Here is our list of the ten greatest point guards in the history of the NBA.

1. Magic Johnson Jr.

First on our list is none other than Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson Jr. Magic Johnson played 13 seasons in the NBA, and in those 13 years, the nation was treated to a spectacle every time he stepped on the court.

The former LA Lakers is considered by many as the best point guard in the history of the NBA. With his skills and talent, he helped the Lakers win five championships.

On a personal level, he won many awards and plaques. He was a three-time MVP between 1987 and 1990, in addition to scooping the finals MVP on three different occasions.

If he hadn’t been diagnosed with HIV which effectively cut short his career, there is no telling how much more he would have gone on to achieve in basketball.

In his career, he was named the league’s most valuable player on three occasions. He also managed three NBA finals MVPs. To top it all off, he won the NBA Championship five times and one wonders how many more accolades he would have

2. Oscar Robertson

Popularly known as the ‘Big O’, Oscar Robertson comes in at number two in our list of the ten greatest point guards in the history of the NBA. While his career lasted, he played for the Cincinnati Royals and the Milwaukee Bucks.

The hugely talented Robertson was named in the All-Star on twelve occasions, plus eleven more as an All-NBA team member. He also had the honor of being named the most valuable player in the league once in his career.

Robertson was the first player to score a triple-double in NBA history. In his prime, it will be a struggle to find another player better than the Big O at shooting, scoring, and setting plays.

In terms of titles, Robertson didn’t win much, but he has a solitary NBA title he won with the Milwaukee Bucks.

3. John Stockton

John Stockton is undoubtedly one of the greatest point guards the NBA has seen, but he has been dubbed as one of the most unlucky players ever. Stockton made his name with the Utah Jazz, the only franchise he represented.

The former Utah Jazz point guard currently has the records for the most career assists and steals within his grasp and it will be a monumental effort by anyone to wrestle those records from him.

His title collections are also very impressive. He was part of the United States Olympic gold-winning teams of 1992 and 1996 in addition to the FIBA Americas Championship in 1992. The legendary Stockton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009.

4. Stephen Curry

Young NBA fans who may not be too familiar with some of the names on this list will certainly know Stephen Curry. The Golden State Warriors man is a legend despite being years away from calling it quits.

Curry has been described as the player who modernized the role of the point guard. Aside from his overall ability, he is revered for his shooting skills, so much so that he buries three-pointers from ridiculous angles.

Curry is not limited to shooting alone, he also sets the plays and the offense of his team. Overall, his ability to take a game by the scruff of its neck is impressive. As of the last count, Curry has four NBA titles and there is no sign of slowing down yet. He has been named MVP on many occasions.

With the ability of Curry and the likes of Chris Paul and Klay Thompson, the Warriors are considered contenders for the championship season after season. A lot of NBA experts are of the opinion that it is just a matter of time before Curry and his Warriors pals bag another title.

If you are one to back up your conviction or put your money where your mouth is, backing the Warriors to win the title won’t be a stretch by any means. Aside from the potential payout of the bet being settled as won, there are other incentives that come with backing a team in a future bet.

For instance, players are given a variety of betting bonuses available to players on the various sportsbooks operating in the United States. Aside from the general bonuses for players, there are special betting bonuses reserved for wagering on the NBA.

Betting sites in the United States have a variety of bonuses for bettors which includes a vast amount of promotions for customers who bet on NBA games.

5. Isiah Thomas

Isiah Thomas is regarded as one the greatest competitive point guards in the history of the NBA. He was very athletic in addition to being talented.

While he wasn’t the best dribbler even in his prime, his ball-handling skills and vision were critical in establishing him as a top point guard.

He was part of the Detroit Pistons team that defeated the Bulls three times consecutively in the NBA playoffs.

6. Chris Paul

Chris Paul is also another top point guard in the history of the NBA. Although still very active, he has already made a name for himself.

As a point guard, he not only sets or dictates plays, but he also points his teammates in the right direction on the court.

He is famous for his pick-and-roll playing style along with his ability to shoot and score. The man who is dubbed CP3 by his adoring admirers no doubt belongs to the elite point guards in the history of the NBA.

CP3 has yet to win an NBA title, but analysts posit that it may not be too long before he wins one with the Golden State Warriors.

On the international stage, however, he won two Olympic Gold medals from Beijing and London in 2008 and 2012 respectively.

7. Steve Nash

Before Chris Paul, there was Steve Nash who became famous for his pick-and-roll playing style coupled with incredible dribbling ability and shooting skills.

He was so good at shooting that he could aim for the net from anywhere beyond the arc. Nash won a collection of individual awards, including being named the MVP of the league on two occasions. However, he was unable to earn the NBA title itself.

8. Jason Kidd

Jason Kidd was also very highly rated in his active playing days. Undoubtedly one of the greatest point guards in the history of the NBA but one thing stood him out.

His ability to thread a pass to a teammate in the tightest of spaces made him really special. Kidd was also deadly when in transition.

Kidd not only set plays, he could defend, steal, and set up his team’s offense.

9. Waltz Frazier

Walt Frazier was of the old era, but he did enough in his prime to still be remembered and considered one of the best point guards in history.

He was ice-cool in and off the court and went on about his business. He was a smooth operator with great scoring instincts.

He played for the New York Knicks and won a few individual awards while he was on their roster.

10. Bob Cousey

Many basketball historians cum analysts have opined that Bob Cousey is to be credited as the first modern point guard.

He was famously referred to as the floor general. He possessed a variety of skills which made him an excellent point guard.

He could shoot, dribble, pass, organize a play and score. His creativity was also the stuff of legends.

The post The 10 Greatest Point Guards in the History of the NBA appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

Unsurprisingly, players such as Luka Doncic, Shai Gillgeous-Alexander, Lauri Markkanen, and Karl-Anthony Towns are among the best players at the 2023 World Cup. As NBA All-Stars, these players were expected to be the leaders of their respective teams and the focal point of the tournament.

However, any basketball fan knows that a superstar player needs to rely on a second and third option to help their team find success. And yet some teams do not have an identified “alpha”, but rather a collective group of players who can step up at any moment.

For the following five NBA players, their importance is often underrated by fans and media. However, thanks to a strong showing at the 2023 World Cup, they have shown their true value, not only to their NBA team but also to their country during the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Austin Reaves – LA Lakers

On a team where players like Brandon Ingram and Cameron Johnson, two big contract NBA players who are seen as first or second options on their respective teams, are struggling to find playing time and their role within Team USA, Austin Reaves continues to stand out. As Coach Kerr’s “Swiss army knife” off the bench, “Hillbilly Kobe” is the leader of the second unit and has proven to be able to fill any role asked.

As a scorer, Reaves averages 11 points off the bench, shooting 55%, and hands out three assists per game. On the defensive end of the floor, Reaves is constantly patrolling the passing lanes, averaging 1.5 steals per game, and is an efficient defender and rebounder, helping kickstart the fastbreak for Team USA.

Many predict that Reaves’s experience with the USA National team will help elevate his stat line and role as a third option with the Lakers as they look to capture their eighteenth NBA championship.

Kelly Olynyk – Utah Jazz

At 32 years old, Kelly Olynyk is the senior representative for Team Canada, a program that he has been a part of since 2010. As the captain of a team that just qualified for their first trip to the Olympics since 2000, Olynyk has been through the lows and now the highs of a program that many feel should be a regular contender for a medal regardless of what tournament they participate in.

Standing 6’11”, 240lbs, Olynyk is the prototypical modern-day big man who has the ability to provide his team with a little bit of everything. Ranking third on the team in scoring (11.2 ppg), second in rebounds (5.2rpg), and third in assists (2.8apg), Olynyk’s national team stats are very similar to his NBA career averages (10.3 / 5.2 / 2.2). As Utah continues its rebuilding process, Olynyk provides the Jazz with the same veteran experience on the floor and in the locker room as he does for Team Canada.

Bogdan Bogdanovic – Atlanta Hawks

A member of the Serbian National Team since 2010, Bogdanovic has helped the team to numerous silver medals, including the Olympics and World Cup.

Averaging 18.8 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.2 rebounds for the Serbian National Team, Bogdanovic has proven to be their number-one offensive option, a role that is not exactly reflective in the NBA. During each of his three seasons (to date) with the Sacramento Kings and now the Atlanta Hawks, Bogdanovic has been looked to as a scoring threat off of the bench, starting just 161 of 370 games.

At the start of the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Bogdanovic ranked 52nd in all-time tournament scoring with 291 points but has now found himself trailing Dirk Nowitzki by just 21 points for the 16th spot (prior to their semi-final game against Canada) and surpassing International and NBA greats such as the late Drazen Petrovic, Manu Ginobli, Marc Gasol and Yao Ming.

Dennis Schroder – Toronto Raptors

Known more for turning down a rumored 4-year / $84 million deal in 2021 than anything else he has done during his decade-long NBA career, point guard Dennis Schroder has proven to be a problem for any team facing the German National Team during the 2023 World Cup.

Even though Germany did not play their best game versus Latvia, luck is also part of the game, like in any popular online casino game website, and thanks to a three-point missed the Germans are among the 4 best teams in the world.

As the only undefeated team heading into the final four, Schroder has been the leader of a young and talented team looking to have their best showing at the World Cup since claiming bronze in 2002. Averaging 18 points and dishing out a shade over six assists, Schroder is the engine that makes the German National Team go, either by pushing the tempo, running the pick and roll, or filling the basket.

Now on his sixth team in eleven years, Schroder will be looked to as the veteran leader of a retooling Raptors team.

Nikola Vucevic – Chicago Bulls

Yes, he is the most accomplished player on this list, earning two trips to the NBA All-Star Game and over $155 million in salary during his twelve years in the NBA, but at this point in his career, Nikola Vucevic is an underrated big man.

A poster boy for consistency, Vucevic posted similar numbers the past two NBA seasons, averaging 33 minutes, 17.6 points, 11 rebounds, and 3.2 assists.

As a member of the Montenegro National Team, since he was part of the Under 20 program, Vucevic has grown to become the leader of the team, posting his best international stat line during this World Cup with 19.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, (ranking among the top ten in both categories) and 1.2 assists.

While Vucevic was the driving force behind Montenegro’s ninth-place finish, helping the team earn a ticket to the Olympic Qualifying Tournament next year, Chicago Bulls fans hope that he can do that and more for an underachieving team that has made just one playoff appearance in the last six years.

The post 5 Underrated NBA Stars That Showed Their Value At The FIBA World Cup appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are a team rich in history and unforgettable moments. This article will journey through the top 10 moments that have solidified the Cavaliers as one of the most memorable franchises in the NBA. From unforgettable game-winners to championship clinches, let’s walk down memory lane with the team from Ohio.

1. The Block: 2016 NBA Finals

The 2016 NBA Finals saw the Cavaliers and the Warriors locked in an epic duel. It wasn’t just about the championship; it was about legacy, pride, and breaking curses. Among the numerous memorable moments of this series, one stands out as the pinnacle of athletic determination and timing.

In the vast legacy of the NBA, moments of sheer brilliance stand out, but few are as momentous as “The Block.” It was Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals, and the Cleveland Cavaliers were on the verge of history.

With less than two minutes left, Andre Iguodala seemed set to score a layup, but LeBron James sprinted from the other end of the court to make a chase-down block. This singular play shifted the momentum and paved the path for the Cavaliers to clinch their first-ever NBA Championship.

2. 2016 Championship: Breaking The Curse

Cleveland’s history with sports has been fraught with near misses and heartbreaking moments. But in 2016, a wave of change swept through the city, promising to wash away years of disappointment and frustration. At the heart of this change was the Cleveland Cavaliers, a team poised to do the unthinkable.

Cleveland’s Triumph After 52 Years. 52 years. That’s how long the city of Cleveland waited for a major sports championship. But in 2016, the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by LeBron James, ended that drought. The Cavaliers managed to overturn a 3-1 series deficit against the 73-win Golden State Warriors. When the final buzzer sounded in Game 7, emotions poured out, and the streets of Cleveland erupted in joy. It wasn’t just a win for the team; it was a win for the entire city.

3. Drafting LeBron James: 2003

Every once in a while, a sports franchise gets the opportunity to change its destiny with a single decision. For the Cleveland Cavaliers, that moment came in the summer of 2003. The weight of the future hung in the balance, and the outcome would determine the course of the franchise for the next two decades.
The King Comes Home

2003 marked a transformative year for the Cavaliers. With the first overall pick, they selected a local high school sensation named LeBron James. LeBron, being from Akron, Ohio, brought a renewed hope and excitement to the franchise. His rookie season showcased his supreme talent and gave fans a glimpse of the bright future that lay ahead.

4. Price’s Prowess: 1989 NBA Playoffs Against the Bulls

The 80s era of the NBA was marked by iconic rivalries and players who changed the game’s very fabric. In this tapestry of basketball greatness, the Cavaliers’ Mark Price wove his own legacy, one that deserves every bit of the spotlight it gets.
Game 5 Against the Bulls

Mark Price, one of the unsung heroes of the Cavaliers’ history, had a standout performance in the 1989 playoffs. In a tightly contested series against the Chicago Bulls, Price displayed skill, determination, and leadership. Although the series is often remembered for “The Shot” by Michael Jordan, Price’s contributions throughout the series showcased the heart and soul of the 80s Cavaliers.

5. The Miracle of Richfield: 1976

Before the era of high-flying dunks and 3-point shootouts, basketball had its own set of magical moments that were no less thrilling. In the mid-70s, a lesser-known story was being written in Richfield, Ohio, one that would forever be etched in Cavaliers’ folklore.
Semifinals Victory Over the Bullets

In 1976, the Cavaliers were an emerging team, having joined the NBA only six years prior. In the playoffs that year, they faced off against the Washington Bullets in an intense series. The Cavaliers managed to pull off an unexpected victory in the semifinals, leading them to be dubbed “The Miracle of Richfield.” This win marked the team’s arrival on the big stage.

6. Kyrie Irving’s Shot: 2016 NBA Finals

The stage was set. The 2016 NBA Finals saw two juggernaut teams collide, each looking to etch their names in the annals of history. In such pressure-cooker situations, heroes rise, and for the Cavaliers, one particular moment stood tall, defining their journey to the top.
Sealing the Championship

Another defining moment of the 2016 NBA Finals came courtesy of Kyrie Irving. With less than a minute left in Game 7, Irving hit a 3-pointer over Stephen Curry to give the Cavaliers a lead they would not relinquish. This shot is celebrated as one of the most clutch moments in Finals history. Check out how you can be part of the winning team and get in on the action with Ohio sportsbook promos while supporting the Cavaliers!

7. 2014: Return of the King

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, players move, allegiances change, and stories get rewritten. But some tales, like prodigal sons returning home, have an ageless charm. Such is the story of a King who decided to return to his kingdom, rekindling hopes and dreams.
LeBron’s Homecoming

After a four-year stint with the Miami Heat, LeBron James announced in 2014 that he would be returning to the Cleveland Cavaliers. This move was monumental for the franchise. The subsequent years saw the Cavaliers reaching the NBA Finals four straight years, with LeBron’s leadership and dedication propelling the team to new heights.

8. Brad Daugherty’s Dominance: Late 80s to 90s

In an era dominated by flashy guards and agile forwards, centers held their ground with grace and power. Among these giants, one player stood out in the Cavaliers’ history, commanding respect and attention with his every move on the court.
Center of Attention

Drafted first overall in 1986, Brad Daugherty quickly became a central figure for the Cavaliers. With an impeccable skill set for a center, Daugherty dominated the court, earning five All-Star selections. His partnership with Mark Price formed one of the best duos in the league, bringing the Cavaliers to playoff prominence throughout the late 80s and early 90s.

9. The Arrival of Coach Lenny Wilkens: 1986

Great teams are built on the foundation of great leadership. While players execute on the court, it’s the vision and strategy of the coach that molds a team’s identity. In the mid-80s, the Cavaliers found such a visionary, changing the trajectory of the franchise. Turning the Tides.

In 1986, Lenny Wilkens took over as the head coach of the Cavaliers. Under his guidance, the team transformed from a struggling franchise to a formidable contender in the Eastern Conference. His strategic prowess and leadership elevated the Cavaliers, with the team regularly making deep playoff runs during his tenure.

10. Acquisition of Kevin Love: 2014

The dynamics of an NBA team often hinge on the synergy between its star players. While individual talent is undeniable, the real magic happens when stars align, creating a force that’s greater than the sum of its parts. In 2014, the Cavaliers saw such an alignment.

After LeBron’s return in 2014, the Cavaliers made another significant move by acquiring Kevin Love from the Minnesota Timberwolves. Teaming up with LeBron and Kyrie Irving, Love was the final piece of the puzzle, forming “The Big Three.” This trio would lead the Cavaliers to multiple NBA Finals appearances, culminating in the historic 2016 championship win.

This journey through the annals of Cleveland Cavaliers’ history is a testament to the team’s resilience, talent, and place in the NBA pantheon. From the Miracle of Richfield to the iconic 2016 championship, the Cavaliers continue to inspire and create moments that will be cherished forever.

The post Cleveland Cavaliers: Top 10 Moments in History appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

The playoffs are always unpredictable and full of surprises, and that has never been more apparent than in the 2023 postseason. Heading into last season’s spectacular playoffs, the Eastern Conference had two clear frontrunners, namely the Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics. However, there was one former powerhouse that was looking to restore itself to its former glories and they stunned the basketball world.

That team was of course the Miami Heat. Inspired by the brilliance of former Marquette Golden Eagle Jimmy Butler, the Florida-based outfit stunned Giannis Antetokounmpo’s top-seeded Bucks in the opening round, routing them by four games to one. They would then defeat Derrick Rose’s New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals. That set up a meeting with the heavily favored Celtics in the conference finals, a series in which the underdogs would race into a three-game lead.

The favorites would come roaring back to tie things up at three apiece and set up a seventh-game decider at the TD Garden. But with everyone writing the three-time champions off, Jimmy Buckets would once again deliver the goods. He would top scorer with 28 points and lead the bottom seeds to a famous victory.

As we all remember, in the NBA Finals, Nikola Joki? and his Denver Nuggets would have too much for the plucky underdogs to handle. They managed to secure a four-games-to-one-series victory to secure a maiden NBA championship and if you have been following the latest NBA odds, you’ll have noticed that the Colorado-based outfit is the +475 favorite to retain the trophy next season. However, the favorites coming out on top isn’t always the case, as some top-ranked teams have flopped in the NBA playoffs.

2007: Dallas Mavericks vs. Golden State Warriors

16 years ago, the Golden State Warriors weren’t the dynasty that they would go on to become a decade later. However, despite that, back in 2007 they became the first eighth seed in NBA history to defeat a top seed in a seven-game series. Back then, the Dallas Mavericks entered the playoffs with the best record in the league, just as they did last season. However, that time around it didn’t matter. The Mavericks were no match for the upstart Warriors who managed to romp to victory in six games despite being their opponents’ illustrious roster.

Stephen Jackson and Baron Davis, who played with an intensity that left Dallas reeling, spearheaded the upstart club, and put in noteworthy performances. The Mavericks put up a valiant fight, but ultimately, they were eliminated following a humiliating first-round loss due to Golden State’s scorching shooting and ferocious energy.

2011: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Dallas Mavericks

Four years on from that shocking defeat, the Mavericks found themselves the underdogs against the heavily favored Los Angeles Lakers. The Staples Center outfit was the reigning back-to-back champion and had reached the NBA Finals in each of the last three seasons however, that counted for nothing as they were whitewashed in four by the upstart Mavs. Despite having outstanding players like the Black Mamba himself Kobe Bryant and All-Star big man Pau Gasol, they struggled to contain Dirk Nowitzki and the talented Mavericks squad that was determined to lay to rest the ghosts of four years prior.

2014: San Antonio Spurs vs. Oklahoma City Thunder

In the postseason of 2014, the San Antonio Spurs faced off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in a true heavyweight contest, with the pair battling it out to become Western Conference’s representative in the NBA Finals. The Spurs entered the contest as the top seeds however, it was the Thunder who won the series 4-2, thanks to the unbeatable combo of Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. Sadly, the Spurs struggled to find their rhythm throughout the series, and their hopes of retaining the crown were dashed by Oklahoma’s scintillating double act.

2017: Boston Celtics vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

The Boston Celtics’ recent resurgence began back in 2017 when they clinched top spot in the Eastern Conference with an impressive 53-29 record. Unfortunately for them, however, their regular-season success didn’t translate into the playoffs glory as they were eliminated by Lebron James and his Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite having home-court advantage, the Massachusetts-based outfit struggled to contain King James, whose brilliance was on display for all to see.

2019: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Toronto Raptors

The Milwaukee Bucks had the best record in the NBA during the regular season in 2019 and were led by MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. The team was bang in form throughout the opening rounds of the postseason however, they were unable to contain Kawhi Leonard, who put up a stellar performance at both ends of the floor. Nobody could have anticipated such an unexpected result, leaving both fans and analysts to wonder what went wrong for the Bucks and what the Raptors’ future may contain, which turned out to be a maiden Larry O’Brien Championship trophy.

The post Five Times the Top Seeds Flopped in the NBA Playoffs appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

Luka Doncic, a young player on the upswing, has emerged as the preseason favorite to win the NBA Most Valuable Player award after his stellar showing last season and in the playoffs. The Dallas Mavericks, led by Doncic, advanced to the Western Conference Finals, where they defeated the Phoenix Suns but ultimately lost to the eventual champions, the Golden State Warriors.

More impressively, Doncic became only the third player in NBA history to be named to the first team three times, joining Kevin Durant and Tim Duncan. Of course, there’s more to these outstanding accomplishments, and we’ll go through all the evidence that points to Doncic as the NBA 2023’s Most Valuable Player.

1. Fastest Mavericks Player to Score 5,000 Points

Doncic has surpassed the legendary Dirk Nowitzki of the Mavericks with this newest feat. Doncic sped through the threshold in a mere 194 games. The fact that he has achieved this in his third year in the NBA makes it all the more remarkable. Nowitzki accomplished the same feat in four seasons.

When compared to other top players, Doncic is not particularly athletic. However, his sharpness and basketball IQ have helped him rise to the level of a top offensive floor general.

2. Remarkable 60-Point game

NBA lines are all over the board, but Luka Doncic is the clear favorite to win the regular-season MVP title. Last year, Luka had one of 19 50+ point games, with Kyrie Irving and Karl-Anthony Towns each having 60 point games. This time around, it will be Luka who will have the chance to stand with an impressive scoring performance.

The Mavs star player has raised his previous scoring high each season. In his first season, he scored 35 points at most, but in his second season, he scored over 40. In his third year, Doncic scored 46 points, and in February of last year, he scored 51 in a victory over the LA Clippers.

Doncic might put in 60 points against any team, but the Warriors seem to be the most likely. Luka Doncic will likely go after the team who knocked them out of the playoffs, so the Dubs should be on the lookout for him.

3. Most Triple-Doubles in Seven Games Since the 1976 Merger

A 31-point, 10-rebound, 11-assist performance by Luka Doncic in the opening game of the 2021 NBA playoffs against the Los Angeles Clippers was crucial to the victory for his team.

The fact that Doncic now has three postseason triple-doubles on his short resume is remarkable. Since the ABA-NBA merger in 1976, Luka Doncic has had the most playoff triple-doubles by any NBA player with three.

4. Youngest Player to Score A Postseason Buzzer-beater (and 40-point Triple-double)

The unthinkable happened in Game 4 of the first round of the 2020 NBA playoffs when Luka Doncic single-handedly won the game.

He had one of the best NBA playoff games of all time, totaling 43 points, 17 rebounds, and 13 assists. Doncic finished off a fantastic night by sinking a game-winning buzzer-beater in overtime to beat the No. 2-seeded Los Angeles Clippers and tie the series.

5. Averages 30+ per Night

The first step toward entering the MVP discussion is putting up monstrous stats. In the past three years, Luka’s excellent statistics have helped him place in the top six.

We expect Doncic to reach a new level of scoring this season. Before moving to New York, Jalen Brunson was the team’s second-leading scorer from the previous season. Although Dallas has added Christian Wood, Spencer Dinwiddie’s playing time will increase, and Tim Hardaway Jr. returns from injury, Luka will be more comfortable this season as he attempts to become the first player in Dallas Mavericks history to average 30+ points per game.

Doncic’s recent commitment to fitness and eating healthier will allow him to finish games with enough energy, contributing to his scoring ability. If Luka averages more than 30 points per game, he will be considered for Most Valuable Player, though he will need to do more than that to earn the honor.

6. He Always Exceeds Expectations

He has been able to outmatch himself so many times. We witnessed that last year as they made it to the conference finals: he improves the play of his teammates while still getting his own. Luka has scored 30 or more points in the playoffs multiple times.

There is no doubt that Luka will be close to the top of NBA MVP voting if he can, once again, outperform the high expectations that many will have for this year’s Mavs.

Final Thoughts

The Dallas Mavericks are one of the most underrated Western Conference teams heading into the new season. Luka Doncic has been the betting favorite in the past, and he will start the season in peak physical condition and motivated to lead his team to the championship game, all while pursuing his quest for the MVP title.

The post 6 Reasons Why Luka Doncic Will Win 2023 MVP appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

In the NBA, getting to the Finals is the ultimate prize. After every season, the best basketball players in the world clash on the court for the year’s grandest prize. If you want to find the best of the best, you need to look at how many times a player has found themselves in a Finals lineup.

Today we’re doing just that, checking out the five NBA players who have made it to the Finals the most. If you’re interested in the next year of basketball action, you should consider checking out NBA betting odds.

1. Bill Russell – 12 NBA Finals

It’s no surprise that the man who led the Boston Celtics during their ‘60s glory days is at the top of our list. He’s the only player with 12 appearances at the Super Bowl, with 8 consecutive title wins from 1959 to 1966. Overall, he won 11 of the 12 Finals games, getting beat just once by the St. Louis Hawks in 1958 before the Celtics found their stride. With 29.5 rebounds per game, his record still hasn’t been broken yet.
What other records he had were passed by Wilt Chamberlain, so he’s in great company. Russell also has the single best Game 7 in the history of the Finals. That would be his 1960 game, where he made 35 rebounds and 22 points. It may be impossible to make so many Finals appearances in the modern NBA, where competition is much stiffer.

2. Sam Jones – 11 NBA Finals

Next, we have Sam Jones, though his teammates preferred to call him Mr. Clutch instead. He’s one of the oldest basketball players here and he passed at the end of 2021. Like Russell, he formed the Celtics dynasty dream team during the ‘50s and ‘60s, which is why he has so many Finals appearances under his belt. He was present for 10 of their championship wins across 12 years.

He averaged 17.7 points per game and made 5 All-Star nominations. One of Jones’ iconic moments also came during the 1960 Finals, where he had his namesake clutch moment against Wilt Chamberlain. He made the game-winning shot over Chamberlain with just two seconds left, for which Chamberlain sang his praises. He also made 5 of 10 overtime points in Game 7, too.

3. LeBron James – 10 NBA Finals

It surprises many that LeBron James hasn’t seen more championships. He is, after all, one of the most enduring names in modern basketball. Still, LeBron fans can settle for him being one of four players to see the NBA Finals 10+ times. Of those, he won 4. His latest appearance was in 2017, where he also became the first player to make a triple-double average in a Finals game at 33.6 points.

LeBron averaged 28.4 points with 10.2 rebounds and 7.8 assists. That assist stat puts him third for All-Time records alongside Bob Cousy and Magic Johnson, who you may see more of later in this list. He has impressive stats for somebody who isn’t even a point guard.

4. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – 10 NBA Finals

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is another of those names that are associated with NBA greats and always will be. So, it’s no surprise that he’s here, with 10 NBA Finals appearances and 6 wins out of them. The first came earlier in his career, in 1971 with the Milwaukee Bucks. The rest came from his time with the L.A. Lakers during the ‘80s.

Of his achievements, the 1985 Series stands out. This is where a 38-year-old Kareem, “washed up” as some said, recording 30 points in Game 2 to beat the Celtics. This led the Lakers to beat the Celtics on their own turf at Boston Garden.

5. Magic Johnson – 9 NBA Finals

With Kareem Abdul-Jabbar leading the Lakers through the ‘80s, we saw the rise of Magic Johnson. Having appeared in 9 NBA Finals, he won 5 of them and secured his legacy as one of the NBA’s greatest point guards in the meantime. He also has a lot of star power, becoming a household name all over the world.

Johnson first shined in the 1980s Finals after Abdul-Jabbar suffered a sprained ankle. Despite it being his rookie season, he captivated the world at Game 6 by stepping into Kareem’s place and scoring an eye-watering 42 points, alongside 15 rebounds and 7 assists. He would continue to hone his skills further into the ‘80s and ‘90s until he became one of the best NBA players ever.

Honorable mentions to Jerry West and Tom Heinsohn, who both also made the NBA Finals 9 times. They just didn’t match the caliber of Magic Johnson when writing this.

Conclusion

Those are the five NBA players who have witnessed the most Finals. Just getting there is an accomplishment but, as you’d expect, these great players also won many championships alongside their teams.

The list is a who’s who of the most influential NBA players in the game, from the 1960s to the modern-day. Without their Finals performances, these guys have set records as some of the best players ever.

The post Top 5 NBA Players With The Most NBA Finals Appearances appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

There are some huge players in the NBA. It should come as no surprise that there are also some pretty large salaries to go along with those big names too! These players have been rewarded for their great gameplay with more money than most of us could even dream of.

Before you check out Fanduel’s NBA player futures odds, we first wanted to take a look at some of the biggest Supermax NBA contracts that have ever been signed. You’ll be surprised by at least a few of these we’re sure!

What Is A Supermax Contract?

First, let’s get one thing out of the way. What exactly is a supermax contract? Well, it’s basically the largest salary that a player in the NBA can get. It’s known officially as a Designated Veteran Player Exception. With this, any team can sign a player again for another year for 35% of the team’s overall salary cap. Every year they will get an extra 8%. Certain criteria must be met in order for a player to qualify for a supermax contract, such as having done 8 seasons at least in the NBA, but for the sake of this article, let’s just say it’s a pretty big salary!

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo – 5 year / $228 million

Making a name for himself with the Milwaukee Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo is a very accomplished player. It should come as no surprise that at just the young age of 26, he’s already managed to win MVP twice, and managed to bring the Bucks to victory with the NBA title for the first time in 50 years. His contract? $228 million, and throughout the next 4 years he will be earning an average salary of $45.6 million.

2. Damian Lillard – 4 year / $197 million

It’s no wonder that Damian Lillard has managed to gain such an impressive supermax contract. His contract will be guaranteed until the 2024-2025 season. He’s a legendary player, to the point that he’s the 5th highest earner in the NBA as far as salary goes.

3. Rudy Gobert – 5 year / $207 million

A lot of people don’t believe that Gobert is deserving of his supermax contract based on the amount of points he averages for each game, but his defensive game is certainly an impressive one. He turned down the initial max contract he was offered, to instead take a lofty supermax contract for five years worth $207 million.

4. Luka Doncic – 5 year / $207 million

Could you imagine earning the kind of money that Luka Doncic earns at just 22 years old? This player has a lot of talent and potential for his young age, and for the 2026-2027 season of the NBA he’s going to be earning $47.1 million. His supermax contract is worth over $200 million.

5. Stephen Curry – 5 year / $201 million

Known for his spectacular gameplay for the Golden State Warriors, Stephen Curry is well deserving of his impressive supermax contract. Back in 2017, Curry signed a deal that was worth $201 million, and signed yet another one again for an extra 14 million in 2021. He’s managed to secure more than one supermax deal worth more than $200 million dollars, something that no other player in the NBA has ever managed to do.

6. Joel Embiid – 4 year / $196 million

Playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid is probably the best player currently on the team. He almost won the MVP award in the previous season, so it shouldn’t come as a shock to see him on this list. He signed a supermax contract that will see him earning more than $54.2 million in the 2026-2027 season, and his contract as a whole is worth more than $200 million with bonuses.

7. Russell Westbrook – 5 year / $205 million

Westbrook is currently in his final year of his supermax deal which he initially signed back in 2019. For the season of 2021-22, he will be earning $44.2 million, and may potentially be earning $47 million in the following year. He’s currently playing for the LA Lakers.

8. James Harden – 6 year / $227 million

Harden is yet another player at the end of his supermax deal. His deal was initially signed with the Houston Rockets, but now it is with the Brooklyn Nets. For the next season, he will be earning $43.8 million in salary and can earn more on a player option worth $46.8 million.

9. John Wall – 4 year / $171 million

John Wall is currently on his last year of his supermax contract and will be earning $44.3 million for the season of the NBA that’s due to start. There have been some major issues surrounding the contract thanks to an Achilles injury that Wall sustained, and there’s currently a hunt for a trade partner for Wall that isn’t going well thanks to his mammoth sized contract.

10. Kevin Durant – 4 year / $164 million

Not quite a supermax contract, but certainly worth mentioning! Durant has a contract worth $164 million with the Brooklyn Nets. That’s a decent contract for a four year run, and is more than many players will ever end up earning in the NBA! Pretty impressive, right? We’d sure like a contract like that!

The post 10 Highest Supermax NBA Contracts Ever Signed appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

The post NBA Predictions for the 2017-18 Season appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

The post Every NBA Team’s Ideal Off-Season appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

The post NBA Mid-Season Awards 2017 appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

The post 2016-17 NBA Season Awards Predictions appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

The post 2016 NBA Season Team By Team Preview appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

The post 5 Players Who Could Be Traded If Things Go South This Season appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.

A lot of hype was made of this year’s Team USA Basketball Olympic team—even some experts, like ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, questioned whether or not the United States should even send our pro basketball players to the Olympics anymore. But, how good was the 2016 USA Basketball team anyway? How does the 2016 Olympic team measure up all-time?

This 2016 Team USA Basketball squad was supposed to be all-time in defense. This team was supposed to be Carmelo Anthony’s time to shine. This team was also supposed to be a memorandum on NBA players (or at least all-stars) playing in the Olympics.

In the end, that was just a bunch of hype. But after the United States slammed China, 119-62, and Venezuela, 113-69, people started to take this team seriously and take notice of just how good they could be. It ended up being Kevin Durant’s time to shine, as he led the team with 19.4 ppg just like he did in 2012.

The USA Olympic team would not win another blowout game until the Gold Medal game against Serbia, which the US took handily, 96-66. The rest of the games were rather close with the U.S. even falling behind in several games.

The US started sending professional basketball players to the Olympics with the Dream Team in 1992, and since then the US is 6-1 overall with a 117-7 record. Despite the 8-0 record, this team did not prove that the US no longer needs to send professional basketball players. In fact, it showed just how much the world has caught up to the United States in basketball since 1992.

So how did this year’s team stack up against the legendary Dream Team (1992) and the Kobe and LeBron’s Redeem Team of 2008?

This year’s (2016) squad makes the list, but just barely, mainly because of the fact that they fell behind in games and their historically low win margin (for US pro basketball players). Their defense was decent, but their offense typically lacked flow and ball movement.

Notable Players: Carmelo Anthony, Stephen Curry, DeMarcus Cousins, Kevin Durant, Paul George, Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, DeAndre Jordan, and Kyrie Irving

Record: 8-0

Scoring Margin: +22.5

Notable Stats
Points per game: 100.9
Opponent’s points per game: 78.4
Assists per Game: 24.0
Turnovers per game: 11.8

2016 Notable Players Stats
Kevin Durant 19.4 ppg 5.0 rpg 57% FG 58% 3PT
Carmelo Anthony 12.1 ppg 5.3 rpg 39% FG 40% 3PT
Kyrie Irving 11.4 ppg 2.5 rpg 47% FG 37% 3PT
Paul George 11.3 ppg 4.5 rpg 45% FG 28% 3PT

Statistically, this was one of the best Olympic teams of all-time. The 2012 Olympics brought together the best players in the post-Jordan era, players like Kobe, LeBron, and Melo. This team was so dominant that throughout the tournament that they trailed in the 4th quarter only once.

Notable Players: Carmelo Anthony, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, James Harden, LeBron James, Chris Paul, and Russell Westbrook

Record: 8-0

Scoring Margin: +32 ppg

Notable Stats
Points per game: 115.5
Opponent’s points per game: 83.37
Assists per Game: 25.0
Turnovers per game: 13.0

2012 Notable Players Stats
Kevin Durant 19.5 ppg 5.8 rpg 1.6 spg 2.6 apg
LeBron James 13.3 ppg 5.6 rpg 1.4 spg 5.6 apg
Carmelo Anthony 16.3 ppg 4.8 rpg 0.5 spg 1.3 apg
Kobe Bryant 12.1 ppg 1.8 rpg 1.1 spg 1.3 apg

2012 Olympic Team USA Basketball Highlights

The Redeem Team was an amazing collection of once-in-a-generation talent. Watching this team was one of the closest things I’ve seen in years to the original Dream Team. Led by the three-headed monster of Kobe, LeBron, and Melo, the team crushed its opponents. A 35-year-old Jason Kidd played a crucial role on the team as the coordinator of the offense and the stabilizer.

Notable Players: Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Jason Kidd, and Chris Bosh

Record: 8-0

Scoring Margin: +27.87 ppg

Notable Stats
Points per game: 106.2
Opponent’s points per game: 78.4
Assists per Game: 18.7
Turnovers per game: 13.7

2008 Notable Players Stats
Dwayne Wade 16.0 ppg 4.0 rpg 2.3 spg 1.9 apg
LeBron James 15.5 ppg 5.3 rpg 2.4 spg 3.8 apg
Kobe Bryant 15.0 ppg 2.8 rpg 1.1 spg 2.1 apg
Carmelo Anthony 11.5 ppg 4.3 rpg 1.0 spg 0.4 apg

The oft forgotten Dream Team III was a powerhouse, returning five players from the original Dream Team. Another added bonus was the experience this team had going up against the original Dream Team. Grant Hill and Penny Hardaway got to play against the 1992 Dream Team in scrimmages. This team dealt out a series of blowouts by legendary margins, including a 63-point thrashing of China, 133-70.

Notable Players: David Robinson, John Stockton, Scottie Pippen, Gary Payton, Shaquille O’Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, Reggie Miller, Karl Malone, and Charles Barkley

Record: 8-0

Scoring Margin: +32.3 ppg

Notable Stats
Points per game: 102
Opponent’s points per game: 70.25
Assists per Game: 26.2
Turnovers per game: 12.7

1996 Notable Players Stats
David Robinson 12.8 ppg 4.6 rpg 0.6 spg 0.3 apg
Charles Barkley 12.4 ppg 6.6 rpg 0.9 spg 2.4 apg
Reggie Miller 11.4 ppg 1.0 rpg 1.0 spg 2.1 apg
Penny Hardaway 9.0 ppg 2.8 rpg 1.4 spg 4.4 apg

Sports Illustrated called this team “arguably the most dominant squad ever assembled in any sport.” The complete unselfishness among a team of all-time greats is what made this team unstoppable and fun to watch. Their assists per game record blows other USA Olympic teams away. On the other side of the ball, no other Olympic team has been so efficient with the ball, limiting their turnovers per game to less than 9. Other teams like the 1996 and 2008 teams have come close to showing the utter dominance displayed daily by this legendary squad, but it is doubtful that some of their records will ever be broken. Michael Jordan recalled “We were dominating the game.” No team got within 31 points of the Dream Team. After Kobe claimed his 2012 squad could have beaten the 1992 Dream Team, Bird wisely jabbed “They probably could. I haven’t played in 20 years and we’re all old now.” It is hard not to call the 1992 squad the greatest USA Basketball team of all-time. And, frankly, I’m not even sure the 2008 Redeem Team could beat the 1996 Dream Team III.

Notable Players: Michael Jordan, Earvin Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Scottie Pippen, Karl Malone, John Stockton, Charles Barkley, Clyde Drexler, David Robinson, and Patrick Ewing

Record: 8-0

Scoring Margin: +43.8 ppg

Notable Stats
Points per game: 117.3
Field goal percentage: 57.8%
Charles Barkley field goal percentage: 71.1%
Opponent’s points per game: 73.5
Opponents shooting percentage: 36.5%
Assists per Game: 29.87
Turnovers per game: 8.37

1992 Notable Players Stats
Michael Jordan 14.9 ppg 2.4 rpg 4.6 spg 4.8 apg
Scottie Pippen 9.0 ppg 2.1 rpg 2.9 spg 5.9 apg
Charles Barkley 18.0 ppg 4.1 rpg 2.6 spg 2.4 apg
Karl Malone 13.0 ppg 5.3 rpg 1.5 spg 1.1 apg

The post 5 Best Team USA Basketball Olympic Teams of All-Time appeared first on The Hoop Doctors.