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Colin Cowherd discuss growing pains for the Los Angeles Lakers after 119- 131 loss to the Utah Jazz.
Aaron Rodgers is not the answer for the Steelers
We’re officially into the offseason as the NFL rumors start to swirl roughly one month away from the beginning of the free agency period. The Pittsburgh Steelers and their starting quarterback for the next season are an ongoing topic each offseason. The yearly topic surfaces as the Steelers enter the offseason with questions as the position for a fourth-consecutive year following the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger after the 2021 season.
Last offseason the Steelers were embroiled in finding Big Ben’s eventual heir after moving on from all three of the 2023 seasons’ starting quarterbacks: Mitchell Trubisky, Kenny Pickett, and Mason Rudolph. They were replaced with Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Kyle Allen, none of whom are under contract as the new league year approaches next month.
That means the Steelers are again at the center of quarterback speculation, this time linked to future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers. While some fans and sportsbooks place the Steelers as favorites to land the veteran QB, many in Pittsburgh—including team members—seem uninterested in the idea.
Steelers safety DeShon Elliott made waves when he publicly dismissed the possibility of Rodgers joining the team. In a now-deleted post on Instagram, Elliott responded to rumors about the Steelers acquiring Rodgers with a blunt statement:
https://www.twitter.com/NFL_DovKleiman/status/1889472919920619802
Elliott’s comment reflects a sentiment shared by man in Steelers Nation, including those here at SCU: Rodgers isn’t the answer for Pittsburgh’s quarterback problems.
Rodgers isn’t the future
One of those problems is the Steelers failure to win a postseason game since the conclusion of the 2016 season. Russell Wilson came to town with a promise to turn that tide. While at 36 years of age, Wilson isn’t a long-term solution but taking on a 41-year-old quarterback is a bigger risk. Rodgers appeared in every game for the Jets this season, but famously played four snaps in his first year with the team before going on season-ending injured reserve in 2023.
Now pair that risk with whatever Rodgers’ contract demands could be and a bad situation could potentially come worse.
Most expect Rodgers to be released from the third year of his current three-year $112.5 million contract, which had $75 million of it guaranteed. Running some totals, Rodgers could be in a similar “bargain” situation as Wilson, who signed for near the league’s minimum, depending on his contract language.
If that isn’t the case, then Rodgers becomes a higher-dollar gamble with question marks as to his durability and longevity as his career comes to a close.
Drama
Steelers fans are not in the mood for distractions: something Aaron Rodgers seems to bring with him on a weekly basis.
Rodgers famously headlined numerous spats with his previous organization, the Green Bay Packers, before getting traded to the New York Jets. Among those famous storylines were talks about public health, teammates, and even several days in a dark chamber to decide his future.
At a time when Steelers management is prioritizing long-term success, distractions like the quarterback speculation can take attention away from pressing football matters.
Drama was already a debate with Roethlisberger during the twilight of his career. Big Ben sparked several changes within the organization, including a feud that saw Antonio Brown traded and Todd Haley fired and replaced with Roethlisberger friend Randy Fichtner.
Elliott’s remarks has sparked debates about how Rodgers would be received in the Steelers’ locker room. With a roster built around younger talent, adding a veteran like Rodgers could create similar issues, especially with strong personalities like Elliott voicing concerns.
Breaking: The Jets have informed Aaron Rodgers that the team will be moving in a different direction at quarterback. pic.twitter.com/vDOAFjOTp9
— ESPN (@espn) February 13, 2025
Rodgers’ future remains uncertain
The New York Jets have informed Rodgers that they are moving on from him, leaving him without a team for 2025.
Rodgers, is expected to be released soon, but it remains unclear where he will land. While the Steelers have popped up as odds-on favorites, and the QB has publicly flirted with playing for head coach Mike Tomlin, other teams such as the Las Vegas Raiders and Tennessee Titans have been linked to the veteran quarterback.
There’s also a chance he doesn’t play at all in 2025, as Rodgers himself has not ruled out retirement too.
What’s Next for the Steelers?
For now, Pittsburgh does not appear interested in Rodgers, but the Steelers have a history of keeping all options open. Perhaps if Rodgers significantly lowers his contract demands, or if the team has serious concerns about re-signing Wilson or Fields, they may reconsider.
However, based on Elliott’s comments and the team’s current stance, Rodgers in Pittsburgh seems unlikely.
Aaron Rodgers is not the answer for the Steelers appeared first on Steel City Underground.
What positions will the Steelers prioritize in the 2025 NFL Draft?
As the Pittsburgh Steelers prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, their strategy is beginning to take shape. With a mix of immediate needs and long-term goals, the team is expected to focus on key positions to strengthen their roster. Here’s a breakdown of the Steelers’ potential draft strategy for 2025.
Strengthening the lines
The offensive and defensive lines remain a top priority for the Steelers heading into the offseason. In recent years, the team has faced challenges with consistency in the trenches, making the 2025 draft a crucial opportunity to address this issue.
On offense, two starters (left tackle Dan Moore Jr. and right guard James Daniels, who finished the season on injured reserve) are scheduled to become free agents.
After targeting offensive tackle with their first-round picks in the last two drafts (Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu) the team could look at adding another guard as a priority, or a tackle if they feel Jones or Fautanu aren’t the answers. Regardless, they will likely look elsewhere to add depth with Moore all but certain to be leaving.
While the NFL is about balancing offense and defense, the most accurate NFL predictions have shown that, more often than not, users who back the team with the stronger offense tend to fare better. Adding a dominant lineman would not only improve pass protection but also create more opportunities for the running game, a cornerstone of getting back to the Steelers offensive identity of previous years.
Pairing young blood with veterans Cameron Heyward and Larry Ogunjobi could prove to be crucial in patterning their defensive success in schemes similar to how the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas Chiefs in the Super Bowl.
Adding dynamic wide receivers
The Steelers have a storied history with explosive wide receivers, and 2025 could see them add another playmaker to their roster. This is especially true after pursuing, but failing to pair another big play receiver with George Pickens in 2024.
Several receivers on the current depth chart are not expected to return, leaving one of the weaker receiver rooms in the NFL at a greater deficit. While Pickens should rejoin Calvin Austin, the only other receiver under contract will be Roman Wilson – a rookie who saw no substantial playing time after battling injuries all season.
With the need for a true number one option, Pittsburgh may look to draft a game-changing pass-catcher. A young, talented receiver paired with their quarterback of the future could elevate the Steelers’ offense to new heights. Whether it’s a deep threat or a reliable possession receiver, adding a dynamic wideout would provide a significant boost to their passing game.
Evaluating the quarterback position
The quarterback position is always a focal point for any team, and the Steelers are no exception. After moving on from all three of their quarterbacks last offseason (Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph) Pittsburgh could wipe the slate clean once again as none of their three replacements (Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and Kyle Allen) were under one-year deals that are expiring next month.
The 2025 draft could present an opportunity to secure a high-upside quarterback prospect. While it may be difficult to secure a franchise signal caller with the 21st overall pick, the team could opt to bring back Wilson or Fields while developing a middle round selection.
Regardless, the quarterback position will be a key area of focus as they plan for the future.
Bolstering the secondary
The Steelers’ defense has long been a strength, but the secondary could use some reinforcements. With the NFL becoming increasingly pass-heavy, having a reliable group of cornerbacks and safeties is essential.
Minkah Fitzpatrick and Joey Porter Jr. are credible, high profile players. Safety DeShon Elliott proved to be a solid addition in free agency last season too. However, cornerback Donte Jackson, acquired from a trade with Carolina, is scheduled to be a free agent and unlikely to return.
The team also rolled with embattled veteran Cameron Sutton and undrafted rookie Beanie Bishop at slot corner, a position that was the most glaring eyesore other than wide receiver depth.
The team could target a cornerback with strong coverage skills and the ability to contribute immediately. A young, athletic secondary would help the team compete against the league’s top passing attacks, similar to Eagles winning with rookies Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean as boundary and slot corners respectively.
Conclusion
Drafting a versatile player from the best available would be a valuable addition. This approach aligns with the Steelers’ philosophy of building a well-rounded roster that excels in all phases of the game.
The Steelers’ 2025 draft strategy will likely focus on addressing key needs while also planning for the future. By targeting linemen, playmaking wide receivers, and a potential franchise quarterback, the team can build a strong foundation for sustained success.
As the draft approaches, the Steelers’ front office will have tough decisions to make. However, with a clear strategy and a focus on versatility, the team is well-positioned to make the most of their draft capital and continue their tradition of excellence. Steelers fans can look forward to an exciting draft that could shape the future of the franchise.
What positions will the Steelers prioritize in the 2025 NFL Draft? appeared first on Steel City Underground.
Steelers’ Irish roots deepen with historic game in Dublin
The National Football League has officially announced that it will hold its first regular-season game in Ireland in 2025. The Pittsburgh Steelers will be the designated team for this historic event, which will take place at Croke Park in Dublin. This historic game is expected to benefit Irish tourism, the broader economy, and the sports sector. It will also strengthen the cultural, family, and economic connections between Ireland and the United States.
The game marks a significant step in the NFL’s ongoing efforts to expand its global presence. Dublin joins a growing list of international cities hosting NFL games, including London, Munich, Frankfurt, São Paulo, Mexico City, Toronto, Berlin, and Madrid.
Croke Park to host historic NFL Matchup
Croke Park, the largest sports stadium in Ireland and the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), will host the game. With a seating capacity of approximately 69,000, the stadium is expected to draw a large and enthusiastic crowd. The game will be held in partnership with the Government of Ireland and Dublin City Council.
The Steelers’ involvement in the first NFL regular season game in Ireland is particularly noteworthy due to the team’s ties to the country. The Rooney family, owners of the Steelers, has a long history and connection with Ireland.
Daniel M. Rooney, former Steelers chairman, served as the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland from 2009 to 2012. The Steelers are no stranger to the venue either, having played in the old preseason’s American Bowl game against the Chicago Bears at Croke Park in 1997.
Fans are also looking forward to this upcoming event. Many online discussions and projections have sprouted, as well as different promo codes for the upcoming NFL events, such as draftkings promo code, and fans are going over various theories and possible outcomes. Fans are also discussing possible future NFL international games and locations.
What this means for Steelers
“We are very excited to be the designated team in the first regular season game to be played in Ireland this upcoming season,” said Steelers’ President Art Rooney II. “The opportunity for the Pittsburgh Steelers to play in Ireland is truly special, not only because of the Rooney family history there but also to play in front of the growing number of Steelers fans in Ireland”.
The NFL awarded the Pittsburgh Steelers international marketing rights on the island of Ireland in 2023. This allows the team to conduct fan and youth football activities, engage in corporate sponsorship, sell merchandise, and develop co-marketing relationships throughout Ireland.
Who will the Steelers face?
The opponent and specific date of the game will be announced in the future, and perhaps ahead of the full 2025 NFL schedule release. However, we already know Pittsburgh’s home and away opponents for 2025. With the Steelers as the designated home team, their potential opponents are already outlined for the upcoming season.
The list of home opponents includes those in the AFC North (the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, and Cleveland Browns) plus a split between teams in the AFC East and NFC North. Those home opponents include the Buffalo Bills, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, and Seattle Seahawks.
Speculation is rampant that the opponent will likely be the an NFC team and is heavily suggesting the Packers have already been notified of the matchup. However, the Minnesota Vikings could have an international game rematch with the Steelers, who squared off in London, England back in 2013, with the Seahawks as the other non-AFC suitor.
The NFL’s decision to bring a regular-season game to Ireland reflects the league’s commitment to expanding its fanbase and promoting American football globally. Regardless of the opponent, tith the Steelers as the designated team, the game promises to be a memorable event for both Irish and NFL fans.
Steelers’ Irish roots deepen with historic game in Dublin appeared first on Steel City Underground.
SCU’s favorite Super Bowl LIX TV commercials
Super Bowl LVIII has come and gone – but the ads are here to stay!
Often, Super Bowl ads leave a lasting impression for weeks, months, and years to come. This morning, as we discussed the aftermath of the Super Bowl, we here at SCU also had a water cooler discussion about our favorite TV commercials that ran during last night’s big game.
Here is a smattering of our top selections in no particular order…
WeatherTech | Whatever Comes Your Way
You’re in for a WILD ride. A moment worth watching. A story worth sharing. See our new Big Game spot now!
Pringles | The Call of The Mustaches
Hold onto your mustaches… The Call for more Pringles is being made. #BigGame
Little Caesars | Whoa!
No eyebrows were harmed in the making of this Crazy Puffs® commercial.
Stella Artois | David & Dave: The Other David
A love for Stella? Fancy footwork? Beckham’s met his match and his name is Other David. #WhoisOtherDavid
Instacart | We’re Here
Do you hear that? That’s the sound of Instacart bringing all your favorite brands together, just in time for game day. We’re here for you when you need us.
#BigGame #Instacart
Bud Light | Big Men On Cul-De-Sac
Our Big Men on Cul-de-Sac—Shane Gillis, Post Malone, and Peyton Manning—are here with the beer to get the party started for Super Bowl LIX
Dove | These Legs
Every girl deserves to keep playing the sports they love, yet 1 in 2 girls who quit sports are criticized for their body type. Let’s change the way we talk to our girls. Together we can #KeepHerConfident
SCU’s favorite Super Bowl LIX TV commercials appeared first on Steel City Underground.
SCU Week in Review – February 9th
In case you missed it (or anything) the SCU Week in Review recaps all articles, videos, posts and more, shared via Steel City Underground’s various platforms throughout the week.
What will the 2025 Pittsburgh Steelers roster look like?
Joe and Brian take a look at the Pittsburgh Steelers roster, starting with the offense, and make predictions on what changes my transpire during the offseason.
Will the quarterback be Russell Wilson or Justin Fields? What does it look like with either – or neither on the roster? And what does that eventual quarterback’s supporting cast look like at wide receiver, running back, and tight end? Will the offensive line woes continue or are they close to being fixed?
The hosts also discuss the possibilities of adding Myles Garrett or Cooper Kupp to the roster, and why neither is a likely fit in the Steel City.
View the video below on YouTube or visit our podcast page to find it on all popular audio platforms.
How the Steelers offensive line can move past mediocrity
How Super Bowl LIX matchup confirms the Steelers schedule was sabotaged
How Super Bowl LIX matchup confirms the Steelers schedule was sabotaged
Could the Steelers land Myles Garrett? It’s highly unlikely
Only one Steeler is a finalist for this year’s NFL Honors
Is this the end for Russell Wilson in Pittsburgh?
Quick Hits
SCU Week in Review – February 9th appeared first on Steel City Underground.
Support In Steelers’ Building For Retaining Justin Fields Over Russell Wilson?
As the countdown to free agency continues, the Steelers are still weighing their quarterback options. An external addition should not be expected, but maintaining a Russell Wilson–Justin Fields tandem for 2025 would also be a surprise.
Owner Art Rooney II recently noted Pittsburgh will likely re-sign only one of Wilson or Fields this offseason while aiming to achieve continuity under center and also find a long-term solution at the QB spot. Wilson suffered a calf injury late in training camp which allowed for Fields to handle starting duties for the first six weeks of the season. The former Bears first-rounder helped his stock within the organization during that 4-2 span, but Wilson took the over QB1 gig when healthy.
Head coach Mike Tomlin‘s decision on that front was not unanimous, an indication of the support Fields had to continue as starter and, potentially, to remain with the Steelers. Indeed, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reports there are “some people” in the organization who prefer to re-sign the 25-year-old and by doing so allow Wilson to depart in free agency. The team is known to be interested in retaining Fields, so that update comes as little surprise.
Still, it became clear as the season wore on that Tomlin’s clear preference was for Wilson to remain atop the depth chart despite his and the team’s struggles down the stretch. The Steelers’ offense repeatedly came up short as a five-game losing streak ended their campaign in the wild-card round, illustrating the need for upgrades at several positions. Expectations would be tempered if Wilson, 36, were to remain in place – something which would require a more lucrative commitment than the veteran minimum salary he played for in 2024.
As Fowler notes, the prospect of a undisputed starting gig will no doubt be a top priority for Fields as he weighs his options. The Ohio State product has not developed as hoped as a passer during his career, but his age and rushing ability could make him one of the more intriguing QBs on the open market. Sam Darnold is the top option set to reach free agency, but a lack of proven passers (coupled with an underwhelming draft class) could leave Fields considering offers from a number of suitors.
One of those prospective teams could of course be the Steelers, especially if the sect in the organization which favors retaining him manages to convince Tomlin and/or general manager Omar Khan to go the younger route under center. Pittsburgh looms as a team to watch regarding a notable quarterback draft investment this year or next, as Rooney alluded to last month. Before a decision is made on that front, however, one will be required regarding Fields’ future.
Biggest early NBA surprises and disappointments so far
Which NBA teams and players have surprised the most after one week of basketball? Who have been the biggest disappointments?
Only four teams (the Philadelphia 76ers, San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota Timberwolves and Denver Nuggets) remain undefeated, and the Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings and New Orleans Pelicans are still looking for victories.
Our experts answer the big questions about the season so far, including big takeaways, best rookies and do-over predictions.
More: NBA Power Rankings | Reunion tour
1. What has been your biggest takeaway from the first week of games?
Bobby Marks: Three teams projected to finish at the bottom of their conferences — Minnesota, Cleveland and Phoenix — failed to get the message. The general manager of a playoff squad told me last week that the teams with new head coaches and low expectations are the ones you do not want to face early in the season. Teams with a fresh start can surprise before the middle part of the season, when losing becomes a habit and players start looking toward the offseason.
Royce Young: It was hard not to leave the arena somewhat affected by the Golden State Warriors‘ dismal performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday. Their first half was one of the worst you’re ever going to see an NBA team play, in all facets: rebounding, defense, turnovers, shooting, dribbling, running, walking. The Warriors rallied Monday against New Orleans, and they are dealing with injuries at key spots, but the abrupt fall from clear contender to this is still jarring.
Andrew Lopez: The East might be a little bit deeper than we thought. Philadelphia and Milwaukee were expected to waltz to the conference finals, but that might not be the case. The defending champion Raptors aren’t going away easily. Miami is quietly cooking down in South Beach. Trae Young has looked mighty good, and Detroit might even make some noise with the way Derrick Rose and Andre Drummond are playing.
Tim Bontemps: The 76ers are going to win a lot of games in very ugly fashion. Philadelphia’s size across the board gives the team a chance to end this season with the NBA’s best defense, which will likely need to be the case given that Philly can’t shoot. The Sixers have gone 31-for-104 from deep so far, but with their size and defense, it isn’t going to matter most nights.
Kevin Pelton: NBA teams are pushing the pace even further. This time last year, there were an average of 105.4 possessions per 48 minutes for each team, portending the league’s jump over 100 possessions per 48-minute game for the first time in nearly three decades. That’s up again so far this year, with an average of 106.3 possessions per 48 minutes. Although pace tends to drop over the course of the season, we’re still likely in for our fastest season in recent memory.
2. What has been the biggest surprise so far?
Lopez: Stop me if you’ve heard this before, but it looks like early reports of the Spurs’ demise have been greatly exaggerated. Every season, people try to say the end of the Spurs is imminent, and every season, San Antonio seems to bounce right back. San Antonio went 3-0 in the opening week, and FiveThirtyEight still gives the team just a 15% chance to make the playoffs.
Marks: The Suns. Their biggest offseason addition was not Ricky Rubio, Dario Saric, Aron Baynes or Kelly Oubre. That honor goes to new head coach Monty Williams. In Saturday’s win against the LA Clippers without Rubio and Deandre Ayton, Williams used the next-man-up approach in steering the team to a win. Remember this is the same Phoenix that didn’t win its second game until Nov. 2 last year.
Young: I predicted they’d get the East’s last playoff spot, but the Atlanta Hawks look like they’re taking a real step forward. For every young team, it has to come at some point … or not at all. The Hawks look like a group of young, talented players who are developing while learning how to win. Trae Young has a great chance to be an All-Star, and 40 wins doesn’t feel at all unattainable.
Pelton: Even though I was higher on the Suns than most because of their strong statistical projections, I didn’t expect them to start 2-2 against a difficult schedule with a win over the Clippers and a pair of one-point losses to Denver and Utah. Phoenix has been shockingly competent on defense and has thus far survived Ayton’s suspension without missing a beat.
Bontemps: Miami Heat rookie Kendrick Nunn. Nunn’s going from barely starting in the G League last season to averaging more than 22 PPG is the latest impressive success story for Miami’s player development department. Even when Jimmy Butler comes back following the birth of his child, Nunn will be a starter or remain a core part of Miami’s rotation.
(Nunn ended up in the G League after going undrafted in 2018 in part because of a 2016 guilty plea to a lesser charge of misdemeanor battery stemming from an incident in which a woman told police that he choked her during a dispute over an unpaid debt. Nunn denied choking her but admitted to pouring water on her head during the argument.)
3. What has been the biggest disappointment so far?
Pelton: Despite a comfortable win Monday over a short-handed Pelicans squad, I’m still going with the Warriors, who have the NBA’s third-worst point differential (minus-12.0 PPG). Although hot opponent 3-point shooting isn’t sustainable and Golden State will get healthier in the frontcourt, the lack of competitive fight in the team’s first two losses was shocking to see. It forced Steve Kerr to play his “break glass in case of emergency” option and turn to Draymond Green at center far earlier than he wanted.
Lopez: I didn’t know where to put the Kings before the season, but I didn’t think they’d end up getting blown out by the Suns on opening night. The Kings followed that with a 10-point loss to Portland before a 113-81 loss to Utah. Sacramento put up a fight against Denver on Monday before falling to 0-4. Things don’t look so bright in Sactown early this season.
Bontemps: I was out on the Pacers to begin with, but this has been a truly dreadful start. Two losses to the Detroit Pistons without Blake Griffin and being blown out by the Cleveland Cavaliers — perhaps the league’s worst team — is far from the way the Pacers hoped to start, even with Victor Oladipo sidelined. The Pacers badly miss Bojan Bogdanovic, and they’ve continued their blah offensive performances from the previous season. They have several more soft games coming up to try to get themselves right. Indiana better do it quickly.
Young: Zion Williamson‘s injury. The Pelicans mostly have been competitive without him, but not having Zion has been a major bummer for them and the league. The Pelicans need to tread some water in the weeks they’ll be without him, or they risk falling into a tough hole in a deep Western Conference. That’s especially important for a young team trying to find its way.
Marks: Sacramento. The Kings look more like a team that will be analyzing lottery combinations than one competing for a final playoff spot. They rank near the bottom in both offensive and defensive efficiency. Even the backcourt of the future of De’Aaron Fox and Buddy Hield looks less than formidable. Because the Kings have been so poor on defense, they can’t generate as many fast break points as they did last season, when they ranked first in the league.
4. Which rookie has made the best first impression?
Pelton: Nunn has made the most of his opportunity as a starter in Miami, averaging 22.3 PPG while making 58% of his 2-point attempts and 42% of his 3s. I’d like to see Nunn look to make more plays for teammates, but that won’t matter if he remains so efficient as a scorer.
Lopez: Yeah, take a bow, Kendrick Nunn. He showed out in the preseason with a 40-point contest against Houston and has made the most of Jimmy Butler’s paternity leave with efficient shooting in 31.7 minutes per night.
Marks: Agreed on Nunn. His play — and the early returns on Tyler Herro — make veteran guard Dion Waiters expendable, though Waiters is likely close to untradable.
Bontemps: Nunn has been terrific, but I can’t help but pick Ja Morant after watching what he did again the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday. Not only did Morant make a game-tying shot late in regulation, but he also blocked Kyrie Irving‘s potential game-winning jumper and assisted Jae Crowder on the clincher in overtime. The Grizzlies are in good hands with him running the show for years to come.
Young: Morant’s closing sequence in regulation against Kyrie and the Nets is going to stick in a lot of people’s minds all the way to Rookie of the Year voting. That’s the kind of early statement that can build momentum and carry throughout the season. One less splashy name: Rui Hachimura, who looks smooth and versatile as a hybrid 3/4 in Washington.
5. You get one preseason prediction do-over. What is it?
Bontemps: I thought the Bulls had a chance to be pretty good and contend for a playoff spot. That isn’t looking so hot after they lost to the Hornets, barely beat the Grizzlies, got pounded at home by the Raptors and blew a lead against the Knicks. Unless things change quickly, this could be another lost season for Chicago.
Young: The Warriors making the playoffs. It feels knee-jerky, but like I said, I was affected seeing it firsthand. If things get worse, there has to be some consideration to peeling back, resting Steph Curry and Draymond Green periodically and tanking the season. It takes all pressure off Klay Thompson to return quickly, letting the team focus on the young players and target a lottery pick to prepare for a retool.
Lopez: Before Zion Williamson’s knee injury, he was my pick for Rookie of the Year. Then I changed it to Michael Porter Jr. With my third shot at this, let me move on to Morant. In his first three games, Morant is averaging 18 points and six assists per game while shooting 51.2% overall and 50% from 3. Perhaps the most impressive thing has been his basketball IQ. His dish to Crowder for the game winner on Sunday was a veteran move.
Marks: Although my early July prediction of Golden State not making the playoffs is trending toward likely, I’ve missed the mark (so far) on the Kings getting in. If there were a do-over, Sacramento would be out, and the Mavericks would get the nod. Luka Doncic looks like an All-Star, and the return of Kristaps Porzingis has the Mavericks with two bona fide franchise players. This roster is deep enough to sustain an injury and still compete in the West for a 7- or 8-seed.
Pelton: If I were picking my eight West playoff teams today, I wouldn’t include the Warriors.
More: NBA Power Rankings | Reunion tour
Lowe: Philly's fit isn't great, but what if that doesn't matter?
It often feels like inexorable forces are driving the Philadelphia 76ers toward disharmony — and eventually to the breakup of their star core.
Jimmy Butler, the newest star, popped off about the team’s idiosyncratic offense. The Sixers don’t run many pick-and-rolls because their best ball handler, Ben Simmons, practically refuses to shoot outside the restricted area. Joel Embiid conceives of the restricted area as his territory; he beat Butler to moaning about his place in Philly’s new three-star ecosystem.
Every time the Sixers lose a high-profile game — especially to Boston — there are calls across the media for them to trade Simmons. Embiid is the superior player. Philly has built its half-court offense mostly around him. Simmons’ lack of a jump shot becomes more of a liability in the postseason, when the game slows.
The young cornerstones do not complement each other, at least not as much as you’d like. They run about 4.5 pick-and-rolls between them per 100 possessions, about the same frequency with which New York busts out the dreaded Allonzo Trier/Mario Hezonja two-man game, per Second Spectrum tracking data. Both need more shooting around them. Butler wants to bulldoze to the rim, too.
After a blowout loss Wednesday to the Washington Wizards, the Sixers have now scored 105.7 points per 100 possessions in 366 minutes with Simmons, Embiid and Butler on the floor — about equivalent to Detroit’s 23rd-ranked offense, per NBA.com.
The Sixers aren’t worried — yet. A lot of those minutes have come with wobbly backups starting in place of Wilson Chandler and JJ Redick. The sample size is small. Lots of indicators — namely the team’s shot profile in those 366 minutes — suggest the three-star alignment is working better than that 105.7 figure would have you believe. All three are elite defenders when engaged.
The Sixers went into the Butler experience with eyes wide open, and still hope to re-sign him this summer, sources say. He objected during that recent film session only after coach Brett Brown asked if anyone wanted to add something — and after an assistant coach nudged T.J. McConnell to speak about his concerns, sources say. Butler didn’t mention just his own role; he mentioned McConnell’s too.
“When you ask the team, ‘What do you see?’ you’d better be prepared to listen,” Brown told ESPN.com. “I’m OK with it. I have to be. I am the instigator.”
The Sixers know Embiid and Simmons are an awkward fit on offense. They know the history of young star duos portends a clash for control. They notice when two stars duck into the post at the same time, almost bumping each other:
They understand stashing Simmons in the dunker spot is an inelegant solution to getting him out of the way while Embiid posts up:
They feel the tension between a fast-break sprinter and a back-it-down bully. “That Ben is one of the three or four fastest players in the league — and that the game can sometimes just run past Joel — is both a blessing and a curse,” Brown says. “Joel needs the ball. This isn’t the 100-meter dash. Ben is getting better at recognizing that.”
Philly just got Butler, like, yesterday. Simmons has played 122 regular-season games. Philly is 18-9 since Butler suited up, and ranked eighth in points per possession. The Sixers’ healthy starting five is obliterating opponents by 15 points per 100 possessions — evidence that the stars work fine with legit starters around them.
All three have the talent and smarts to eventually wring more from what will always be an imperfect stylistic fit.
Embiid can trail fast breaks, grow into an average-ish 3-point shooter, and pump-and-drive past centers who can’t sniff his skill level. He touches the ball in the post about 12.5 times per 100 possessions when all three stars share the floor, per Second Spectrum. He gets more when Simmons is on the bench — about 19 per 100 possessions — but that 12.5 figure is on par with his pre-Butler average. It would rank sixth leaguewide. Embiid’s post game has not been marginalized.
Simmons and Butler are smart cutters who can post mismatches. Butler has hit more than 40 percent of his catch-and-shoot 3s over the last three seasons. The Sixers’ shot quality with all three stars on the floor is a hair higher than their overall average, per Second Spectrum; they feast in the restricted area. Three-star lineups have forced a preposterously low number of turnovers for reasons that are unclear and likely random. Toss in more easy transition points, and the numbers look different.
Still, there will be games when it doesn’t flow. Philly has scored more efficiently with any two of the threesome on the court, and the other resting, per NBA.com. Brown senses the strain of pleasing all three.
“I don’t enjoy feeling like a waiter — like I’m serving each of them food,” he says. “Although at times you have to be. Joel needs a touch. Ben needs to be posted. Jimmy needs a play. You hope the offense will dictate who gets shots, but it has been challenging.”
Butler has given up the most. He has finished only 18.7 percent of Philadelphia’s possessions when he plays with Simmons and Embiid — the usage rate of a role player. “At times, Jimmy doesn’t get the touches he needs,” Brown says. “That is true.”
Tough. This is usually how you win championships: join three great players, and figure out who needs to sacrifice what, and when, to beat top teams. The Warriors spoiled us into thinking that process is clean and easy. They are an anomaly, blessed with three of the greatest shooters ever — guys who remain useful and comfortable (to varying degrees) off the ball.
If Butler wants to run 50 pick-and-rolls per game, he should ask Kemba Walker about one-star purgatory.
Simmons thrived as a solo drive-and-kick star down the stretch last season, guiding Philly to 10 straight wins with Embiid injured. That run came mostly against bad teams. How would a Simmons-and-shooters team do in the postseason? (In that sense, the playoffs will be a fascinating test for the Milwaukee Bucks. Khris Middleton and Eric Bledsoe are too good to label the Bucks merely “Giannis-and-shooters,” but the gap between Milwaukee’s best and next-best players is larger than that of a typical championship team.)
Fit isn’t everything. You need a baseline of top-level talent to compete for titles, even if that talent overlaps. These Sixers hinge on how willing each of Simmons, Embiid, and Butler is to spend snippets of every game as Chris Bosh.
“I constantly remind all three of them: You do not always get to win on your terms,” Brown says.
Bosh was a perennial All-Star entering his late 20s when he became the third wheel in Miami. Big men make more natural third wheels; they don’t initiate possessions, and find offense screening for wheels Nos. 1 and 2.
Butler is the most natural analog to Bosh in terms of age, but he’s not a big man. Embiid and Simmons are in their early 20s, eager to establish dominance. Maybe inexorable forces — age and time — really are working against Philly.
But what are the Sixers supposed to do? You don’t shop for superstar talent at some player grocery store. You take what you can get, when you can get it.
For now, Philly mitigates fit issues by staggering minutes. Each star logs over 30 per game even while the trio gets only about 17.
Substitution patterns have worked against Butler playing the ball-dominant role he might crave. Embiid and Redick are so good together, Brown has them tied at the hip. He prefers to keep one of Simmons and Embiid on the floor. That naturally means more of Butler-Simmons without Embiid, and less Butler-Embiid without Simmons — an alignment tailor-made for Butler-Embiid pick-and-rolls.
There is plenty of time to engineer more of that. Brown has found some extended spots for it. Meanwhile, the team is coaxing Simmons into trying midrange jumpers. The long 2 is out of fashion, but Simmons being able to hit it when guys duck under picks would introduce more organic flow. The shot clock lasts only 24 seconds; you aren’t guaranteed a better look against postseason defenses.
Simmons has run only 11.7 pick-and-rolls per 100 possessions this season, a steep drop from his average — 26.2 — last season, per Second Spectrum. That isn’t enough. At the same time, he’s posting up and working as the screener in pick-and-rolls a bit more. He and Butler have a nice two-man chemistry.
Simmons should screen more often for Butler, Redick, and even Embiid in random semi-transition situations. If he rounds out his game, Simmons will chip away at some of the fit incongruences.
But they will always be there, and the playoffs will test them. In that setting, Philly will need to stretch the three-star minutes beyond 17 per game. They need it to work.
The calls to trade Simmons for multiple shooters will not stop until the Sixers advance to at least the conference finals. I’ve even seen it suggested Philly deal Simmons to Minnesota to get Robert Covington and Dario Saric back.
Those guys are good. But it is really hard to overstate how much talent — raw, supernova talent — you need to win at the very highest level. You know who looked worse than Simmons against Boston in last season’s playoffs? Covington. Shooting is one talent, but it is not on its own a capital-T talent.
Trading Simmons for complementary shooters also amounts to betting the franchise on Embiid’s continued health. Philly isn’t ready to do that, and shouldn’t be.
If you dreamt up a Simmons-for-multiple-shooters deal, you might land upon a pairing like Gary Harris and Jamal Murray — 3-point gunners who make plays off the bounce. Even if Philly would flip Simmons for those two — and they wouldn’t — Denver isn’t risking this season’s good vibes to see what a Simmons-Nikola Jokic pairing looks like.
And remember: Every discussion about dealing Simmons for shooters and playmakers is really a discussion about Markelle Fultz. Fultz was supposed to be the shooter-playmaker to meld everything. Instead, he is a zero. The Sixers coughed up a pick — Sacramento’s 2019 first-rounder — to move up for Fultz. Keep it as trade ammo, and perhaps the Sixers could have nabbed Butler without losing both Covington and Saric.
Depth is the Sixers’ biggest current problem. There may be more depth coming. Jonah Bolden has been solid. There is still hope within the team that Zhaire Smith may return this season. The buyout market looms. Philly will have cap space again this summer.
For those eager to deal Simmons, finding a two-man package as young, talented, and plug-and-play ready as the Murray/Harris duo is almost impossible. You veer quickly into “dollar for three quarters” trades. If the Sixers ever reach the point of investigating Simmons’ trade value, they should look for one youngish blue-chipper and some minor supplementary piece.
Even if you could construct such a deal that makes sense for both teams, executing it would require each to simultaneously feel ready for a franchise-altering shakeup. Blockbuster synchronization is rare.
Some non-Anthony Davis examples that fit the template:
• Simmons to Washington for Bradley Beal. Beal would not represent enough return for Philly. He’s three years older than Simmons, two years from his third contract. Simmons is on his rookie deal. Philly would demand more, and Washington would get queasy. You run into this valuation disconnect again and again.
• Simmons to Phoenix for Devin Booker. Booker is actually younger than Simmons. Philly likely demands enough additional stuff to turn Phoenix off.
• Simmons to Portland for C.J. McCollum. McCollum is five years older than Simmons. Ask for Zach Collins and a first-rounder, and the Blazers say bye-bye unless they are ready to exit the Damian Lillard era.
• Simmons to Charlotte for Walker, Miles Bridges, and an unprotected first-round pick. Interesting, but Walker is about to sign a massive contract at age 29.
• Simmons to the Clippers for Tobias Harris, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and an unprotected first-round pick. This probably makes both teams a little uncomfortable. The Clippers love SGA. Harris likely isn’t enticing enough as a centerpiece for the Sixers.
• Simmons to Utah for Donovan Mitchell. Spicy! If Simmons and Embiid struggle with pick-and-roll chemistry, how would Simmons and Rudy Gobert manage? Philly likely demands a sweetener anyway.
• Simmons to Sacramento for … who? The Kings aren’t trading both De’Aaron Fox and Buddy Hield. Any other combination of Sacramento assets probably isn’t getting it done.
• Simmons to Chicago for Lauri Markkanen, Kris Dunn, and another asset. Dunn is 2½ years older than Simmons, with a blah NBA track record. Markkanen has played 86 games. Is he even old enough for election to the Bulls Leadership Council? I’m super high on him, but you couldn’t blame Philly for having questions today about his ceiling.
• Simmons to Indiana for Victor Oladipo. Oladipo is really good. He was better than Simmons last season. Simmons has a chance to be all-time good. That has to hold some appeal for an Indiana franchise that has — admirably — not drafted above No. 10 since 19-freaking-89. But the Pacers are happy where they are. Philly likely (again) demands something more.
• Simmons to Miami for Justise Winslow, Josh Richardson, and at least one unprotected first-round pick. Winslow’s surge has been one of the biggest under-the-radar stories of the last month. If he’s really this good, Miami’s trajectory looks different. But Philly isn’t doing this.
• Simmons for Luka Doncic. Ha. Never happening. You wouldn’t blame Philly for calling, though, right?
The Sixers have time to play this out, even after the Butler trade accelerated their timetable. Simulate the next five seasons of Sixers basketball a thousand times, and a lot of simulations would include the Sixers trading Simmons. Stars are traded toward the end of their second contracts all the time. The fit issues are real.
But that is one outcome among many. In the interim, a dozen events could shift the odds against it: another Embiid injury; a home run draft pick; nailing free agency; an out-of-nowhere trade that boosts the roster around them; injuries, trades, and free agency defections among their Eastern Conference rivals; a championship.
Yeah, that last one, too. It could be in play for this core. Right now, in early 2019, at the halfway point of Simmons’ second season playing in the NBA, two things can be true at once: The Sixers can win a championship at some point with Simmons, Embiid, and Butler; and the Sixers may come to a realization that they need to trade Simmons during his prime.
The possibility of the first thing is why you don’t rush the second.