The Athletic NBA Daily - Episode Summary

Title: Western Conference Playoff Race + Most Improved Player Award
Hosts: Dave DuFour, Zena Keita, Esfandiar Baraheni
Guest: Wes Goldberg (Host of Real GM Radio and Locked On Heat)
Release Date: April 8, 2025

1. Western Conference Playoff Race

Overview:
The episode kicks off with a deep dive into the chaotic Western Conference playoff race. With the introduction of the play-in tournament, the landscape has become more unpredictable, leading to a highly competitive environment as teams vie for playoff spots.

Key Points Discussed:

• Play-In Tournament Dynamics:
  The current setup involves seeds seven through ten, making the race for these positions extremely intense. Teams like the Lakers, Nuggets, Clippers, Warriors, Wolves, and Grizzlies are all in contention for the seven or eight seeds.

  Notable Quote:
  Dave Dufour (03:54): "This is one of the more chaotic playoff races since the introduction of the play-in."

• Impact of the Play-In:
  Wes Goldberg shares his evolving perspective on the play-in tournament. Initially skeptical, he appreciates the excitement it brings but suggests potential adjustments, such as reducing the number of teams involved to streamline the process.

  Notable Quote:
  Wes Goldberg (04:43): "I think the play-in is fine, it works and we're in for a really exciting finish here."

• Team-Specific Insights:

  • Clippers: Goldberg expresses concern about the Clippers needing to avoid the play-in due to their inconsistent performance against teams like the Thunder and Rockets. He emphasizes their vulnerability in a single-elimination scenario.

    Notable Quote:
    Wes Goldberg (07:11): "I look at the Clippers as the team that really needs to avoid the play-in probably more than any of these other teams."

  • Warriors & Lakers: Discussions revolve around the aging stars and injury concerns, particularly with players like Jimmy Butler impacting the Warriors' stability.

  • Nuggets & Grizzlies: The Nuggets’ recent losing streak and ongoing health issues, including Jamal Murray's performance, are highlighted. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies face challenges with defensive consistency and coaching changes.

    Notable Quote:
    Dave Dufour (09:00): "What about Denver? I mentioned they're on the losing streak right now. Do you trust them to get themselves out of the play-in if they're in that 7, 8 game?"

2. Defensive Player of the Year

Overview:
The conversation shifts to the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award, focusing on Draymond Green’s campaign and other standout defenders in the league.

Key Points Discussed:

• Draymond Green’s Candidacy:
  Draymond Green has been actively campaigning for the DPOY award, showcasing his defensive prowess throughout the season. However, Goldberg questions whether Green has been consistently the best defender "wire to wire."

  Notable Quote:
  Wes Goldberg (13:04): "I don't think that he was wire to wire to the best defender in the league this season."

• Emerging Candidates:

  • Victor Wembanyama: Seen as a frontrunner due to his transformative impact on the court.

  • Jaren Jackson Jr.: Despite injury setbacks, his defensive contributions remain significant.

  • Amen Thompson: Goldberg highlights Thompson's game-changing defensive plays, advocating for his inclusion in the DPOY conversation.

    Notable Quote:
    Wes Goldberg (14:29): "He guarded Steph on Sunday night... he's got to be in the conversation."

• Alternative Perspectives:
  Goldberg suggests that the DPOY award might benefit from being role-based to better recognize different types of defensive excellence.

  Notable Quote:
  Dave Dufour (15:30): "It's hard to reward, it seems in the NBA that sort of defender."

3. Most Improved Player Award

Overview:
The discussion moves to the Most Improved Player (MIP) award, addressing the controversy surrounding its recipients and the criteria for genuine improvement versus expected progression.

Key Points Discussed:

• Critique of Current Recipients:
  Goldberg criticizes the trend of awarding MIP to highly touted players like Cade Cunningham, arguing that their success aligns with expectations rather than genuine improvement.

  Notable Quote:
  Wes Goldberg (19:27): "If you're one of the top players in the draft, the whole thing was that you're supposed to get better and be good."

• Alternative Candidates:

  • Tyler Herro: Goldberg praises Herro’s significant evolution in his game, including changes to his shooting mechanics, increased durability, and overall impact leading to his first All-Star selection.

    Notable Quote:
    Wes Goldberg (22:27): "I can't help but think that Tyler Herro deserves real recognition for this award."

  • Avicha Zubac: Recognized for his steady improvement and becoming one of the best centers in the league.

  • Others: Austin Reeves, Christian Brown, Dyson Daniels, and Aaron Wiggins are mentioned as potential candidates who have shown notable growth.

• Award Criteria:
  Goldberg emphasizes the importance of recognizing players who have not only statistically improved but have also transformed their playing style and overall contribution to their teams.

  Notable Quote:
  Wes Goldberg (20:36): "I can’t help but think that Tyler Herro deserves real recognition for this award."

4. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Goldberg highlighting his support for Avicha Zubac in the DPOY race and reaffirming his stance on the MIP award's current direction. Dave DuFour thanks Wes Goldberg for his insights, emphasizing the value of expert opinions in understanding the rapidly evolving NBA landscape.

Final Notable Quote:
Dave Dufour (23:52): "I actually think that's a great call. It's a little. It's similar to the Austin Reeves thing where it's like, well, clearly there's been a leap."

Overall Summary:
This episode of The Athletic NBA Daily provides an engaging analysis of the tumultuous Western Conference playoff race, offering expert opinions on which teams are most at risk of falling into the play-in tournament. The discussion transitions smoothly into a critical examination of the Defensive Player of the Year and Most Improved Player awards, questioning current trends and advocating for more nuanced criteria. Wes Goldberg's insights add depth to the conversation, making the episode a must-listen for NBA enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive understanding of the season's pivotal moments and award considerations.