BBall Breakdown

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Coach Nick, Combo, and Referee Chip break down a wild Day 1 of the NBA Playoffs! Despite missing Luka and Austin Reaves, the Los Angeles Lakers took down the Houston Rockets, who were missing Kevin Durant due to a late-reported knee contusion.

Luke Kennard was the story of the night, dropping 27 points and shooting a perfect 5-for-5 from deep. We analyze how JJ Redick out-coached the Rockets’ staff and why Houston’s offense looked “boring” without KD’s gravity.

• Lakers vs. Rockets: Why LeBron James was throwing “energetic” dimes early and why Alperen Sengun was underutilized in the high post.

• Nuggets vs. Timberwolves: Nikola Jokic coasts to a triple-double as Denver “outclasses” Minnesota.

• Cavs vs. Raptors: Max Strus earns the game ball while Brandon Ingram struggles to find his shot.

• Knicks vs. Hawks: Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson prove why New York is the team to beat in this series.

• Ref’s Corner: Chip explains the “domino play” rule on the Sengun/Ayton contact and breaks down Jaden McDaniels’ reckless close-out on Jamal Murray.

  We also discuss whether the Golden State Warriors are entering the end of an era after their elimination loss and where LeBron might fit next season.

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