Step Back, 4+1 notes on the Conference Finalists: Episode 10
The tenth episode of the new Dunkest segment: this time we’ll talk about McConnell, T’Wolves, Lively, Al Horford, and Madison Square Garden
This week, Step Back’s 4+1 notes focus on the NBA Conference Semifinals. This time, we’ll talk about supporting players.
McConnell doesn’t need inches to dominate
The Pacers’ offensive orchestra – the most harmonious in the entire NBA – played throughout Game 7 against the Knicks and found in TJ McConnell the additional conductor who knows how to take the reins when Haliburton rests on the bench: the definitive consecration of a talent that doesn’t require size or athleticism to assert itself.
The T’Wolves’ victory also depends on Jaden McDaniels
As evidenced by the lone battle of Jokic & Murray – who found themselves without a supporting cast in Game 7 – to advance in the playoffs, everyone’s contribution is needed: the symbol of the T’Wolves is Jaden McDaniels, the top scorer alongside Karl-Anthony Towns with 23 points each, one heavier than the other, shooting 7/10 from the field and 3/4 from downtown.
Lively is what Dallas knew they needed
Game 6 against OKC confirmed it: Dereck Lively II isn’t just an option, but the future and present of the Mavs. In a closeout game where he put up rookie-like numbers akin to Magic Johnson’s (let’s be cautious with comparisons, though), he closed the series with a +71 plus/minus. The worst performer? Daniel Gafford with -58, just to dispel any doubts.
Boston can still rely on Horford, despite his age
He’s the oldest among the players still on the court – turning 38 in June – but Boston still clings to him: no one had ever amassed 20+ points, 15+ rebounds, 5+ triples, and 3+ blocks in NBA playoffs like he did in Game 5. He’s the center with the most triples in NBA postseason history missing “just” a championship ring in his career: could this be the time?
No more MSG in the playoffs: a shame (also for the Knicks’ pockets)
It’s the most famous arena in the world, one of the most glamorous spots in US sports, and for months, the Knicks finally offered a show worthy of the stage it hosted: the NBA playoffs bid farewell to New York and Madison Square Garden, with a record-breaking Game 7 also in terms of revenue (with tickets reaching as high as $15,631).