Our basketball writers share their observations and insights throughout the NBA conference semifinals.
Monday, May 4
Can Spurs stay hot from three?
The San Antonio Spurs led all teams in 3-point percentage during the first round, connecting on 41.8% of their attempts. Entering the postseason, 3-point shooting was a major concern surrounding San Antonio's title chances. It ranked 15th in the league in 3-point percentage. The Spurs attempted the most corner threes in NBA history, largely because of Victor Wembanyama's gravity when he rolls to the rim. Even when he doesn't touch the ball, he creates shots for his teammates.
However, despite the shots Wembanyama created, the Spurs' inconsistent shooting often hurt their offense. That went away in the opening round, but Minnesota's defense is better than Portland's, and the Timberwolves also own a better opponent 3-point shooting percentage than the Blazers.
A greater challenge awaits the Spurs when they open their conference semifinal series tonight (9:30 p.m. ET). Whether San Antonio stays hot from beyond the arc will ultimately decide if Wemby and Co. can reach the conference finals. - Sam Oshtry
Depth, health will decide Knicks-Sixers series
The New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers are the two most talented teams remaining in the East. They both have the top-end talent to earn a trip to the NBA Finals. These teams match up incredibly well, which should create a thrilling series. But health and depth are even more important than talent and matchups. The playoffs are a war of attrition. The Sixers just played a thrilling Game 7 on Saturday, and begin their second-round series tonight (8 p.m. ET). Can they withstand another physical battle after such a short turnaround?
It's a fair question to ask, considering Joel Embiid was limping on the court for the final few minutes of Game 7 and Paul George just turned 36. Embiid is probable for Game 1 with a hip contusion, and there is only one day of rest between each game for the first six games of this series. Philly also barely plays its bench, while the Knicks, who are more well-rested, have a reliable second unit. Those factors are ultimately more important than who has the best player in the series or who matches up the best. - Sam Oshtry
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