The Stephen A. Smith Show: In-Depth NBA Predictions (Released October 24, 2024)

In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, host Stephen A. Smith delivers his comprehensive and incisive analysis of the ongoing NBA season. Focusing on pivotal topics such as the Regular Season MVP, Eastern and Western Conference Champions, and the ultimate World Champion, Smith provides listeners with his unfiltered opinions, backed by detailed statistics and keen observations. This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn during the episode.

1. Regular Season MVP Prediction

Stephen A. Smith casts his MVP vote for Jayson Tatum, articulating a compelling case based on Tatum's stellar performance and resilience.

• Performance Metrics: Tatum is averaging nearly 27 points per game, making him a formidable offensive force.

• Leadership and Recognition: As the first-team All-NBA player for the past three consecutive years, Tatum's consistent excellence stands out.

• Motivation and Development: Despite being benched during the Summer Olympics, where Team USA secured gold, Tatum utilized the reduced playing time to fuel his determination. Smith emphasizes, "Jason Tatum's gonna be highly motivated and I think we saw evidence of that last night against the New York Knicks." This motivation is seen as a driving factor propelling him to new heights, further solidifying his MVP credentials.

2. Eastern Conference Champion: Boston Celtics

Smith's analysis earmarks the Boston Celtics as the frontrunners to clinch the Eastern Conference title, citing their robust defense and versatile offensive strategies.

• Team Composition: The Celtics boast elite defensive players like Drew Holiday and Derrick White, complemented by offensive talents including Jalen Brown and Jayson Tatum.

• Kristaps Porzingis’ Impact: The potential return of Kristaps Porzingis is highlighted as a critical factor. Smith notes, "I think the only thing that could derail the Boston Celtics is if Kristaps Porzingis doesn't come back or he comes back and gets hurt again." Porzingis' presence adds a unique combination of height and shooting ability, enhancing the team's offensive versatility.

• Coaching Strategy: Under the guidance of Jeff Missoula, the Celtics are adept at maximizing player strengths and maintaining defensive integrity, which Smith believes will be pivotal throughout the playoffs.

3. Western Conference Champion Predictions

The Western Conference presents a more intricate landscape, with Smith deliberating between Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder as potential champions.

• Denver Nuggets:

  • Nikola Jokic: A three-time league MVP, Jokic's unmatched skill set is a cornerstone for Denver's success. Smith asserts, "How can I bet against Denver? Jokic is a three time league MVP, could easily win his fourth."

  • Supporting Cast: With players like Jamal Murray, when healthy, and Aaron Gordon, Denver possesses both offensive firepower and defensive resilience.

  • Russell Westbrook’s Addition: The integration of Russell Westbrook brings a dynamic element to the team. While Smith expresses some reservations, he remains optimistic about Westbrook's impact: "Russell Westbrook on this team, when you talk about a personality transplant infusing that franchise and then being high-end competitors..."

• Oklahoma City Thunder:

  • Shaed Gilgis Alexander: Despite a shaky start, Smith acknowledges Alexander's potential, stating, "They got a big man that was going to grab rebounds and defend..."

  • Team Dynamics: The Thunder's recent acquisitions and strategic moves are considered, but concerns about player health and readiness for the postseason linger.

Smith concludes that while Oklahoma City presents a viable challenge, Denver's elite roster and strategic advantages make them a more formidable contender in the Western Conference.

4. NBA Finals Prediction: Boston Celtics vs. Denver Nuggets

Bringing together his Eastern and Western Conference analyses, Smith envisions a Finals showdown between the Boston Celtics and the Denver Nuggets.

• Boston's Edge: Smith gives a slight advantage to Boston, highlighting their depth, defensive prowess, and the potential return of Porzingis as decisive factors. He remarks, "I have to give the edge to the Boston Celtics now."

• Denver's Strength: Nonetheless, he acknowledges Denver's elite status and Jokic's influence, recognizing that they are too formidable to dismiss.

5. Reflective Disclaimer

In a candid moment, Smith reflects on his previous year's predictions, demonstrating his willingness to reassess and adapt his viewpoints based on unfolding events.

• Past Predictions: "Disclaimer in the interest of full disclosure, I must confess I picked Boston last year and then I dumb I stupidly changed my mind because Kyrie and Luca was flowing to such a degree."

• Player Performance: He discusses the challenges faced by players like Kyrie Irving, emphasizing the importance of mental fortitude and consistent performance, especially under pressure.

Conclusion

Stephen A. Smith's Quick Hitters segment offers a thorough and nuanced perspective on the NBA's current landscape. His predictions emphasize the strength and potential of both the Boston Celtics and Denver Nuggets, while also acknowledging the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the league. Smith's blend of statistical analysis, player evaluation, and strategic insight provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the NBA's trajectory as the season progresses towards its climax.

Notable Quotes:

• "Jason Tatum's gonna be highly motivated and I think we saw evidence of that last night against the New York Knicks." [03:00]

• "I think the only thing that could derail the Boston Celtics is if Kristaps Porzingis doesn't come back or he comes back and gets hurt again." [04:15]

• "How can I bet against Denver? Jokic is a three time league MVP, could easily win his fourth." [05:30]

• "Russell Westbrook on this team, when you talk about a personality transplant infusing that franchise and then being high-end competitors..." [06:45]

• "I have to give the edge to the Boston Celtics now." [08:00]

• "Disclaimer in the interest of full disclosure, I must confess I picked Boston last year and then I dumb I stupidly changed my mind..." [08:45]

Note: The timestamps provided are based on the transcript segments and correspond to the quoted statements within the episode.