Nekias is a fan of tall passers, switch-y bigs, and Spain pick-and-rolls. He’s always here to remind you that the best way to beat a switch is with a slip.  He has written for Bleacher Report, SB Nation, Dime, Five Reasons Sports and Miami Heat Beat. Nekias is a writer and podcaster for BasketballNews.com. You can follow him on Twitter at @NekiasNBA.

Nekias Duncan

Writer & Podcaster

Nekias Duncan and former NBA video coordinator and assistant coach Steve Jones break down teams, players, and rumors around the NBA every week.

The Dunker Spot

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. recap the WNBA Finals, preview the Southeast Division, then give their predictions for the 2021-22 NBA season.
TIME STAMPS:

1:40 — Nekias and Steve recap the WNBA Finals.
13:40 — Nekias and Steve preview the Southeast Division, starting with the Atlanta Hawks.
32:20 — Charlotte Hornets discussion
58:05 — Miami Heat discussion
1:21:30 — Orlando Magic discussion
1:36:20 — Washington Wizards discussion
1:44:00 — Nekias and Steve rank the teams in the division, then list their top 10 players.
1:47:30 — Nekias and Steve make their standings and award predictions for the 2021-22 NBA season.
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NBA Southeast Division Preview and Season Predictions

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. recap Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, then preview the Pacific Division.

TIME STAMPS
1:15 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Chicago Sky’s Game 1 victory over the Phoenix Mercury
13:00 — Nekias and Steve preview the Pacific Division, starting with the Golden State Warriors
28:00 — Los Angeles Clippers discussion
48:00 — Los Angeles Lakers discussion
1:11:00 — Phoenix Suns discussion
1:32:00 — Sacramento Kings discussion
1:49:45 — Nekias and Steve rank the teams in the division, then list their top 10 players

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NBA Pacific Division Preview

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. recap the WNBA Playoffs, then preview the Central and Southwest divisions.

TIME STAMPS: 

1:35 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Chicago Sky’s series win over the Connecticut Sun, then look ahead to Game 5 of the Mercury-Aces series.
14:50 — Nekias and Steve preview the Central Division, starting with the Chicago Bulls
27:45 — Cleveland Cavaliers discussion
39:26 — Detroit Pistons discussion
54:41 — Indiana Pacers discussion
1:05:40 — Milwaukee Bucks discussion
1:15:40 — Nekias and Steve rank the teams in the Central Division, then list their top 10 players.
1:20:55 — Nekias and Steve preview the Southwest Division, starting with the Dallas Mavericks
1:38:40 — Houston Rockets discussion
1:53:50 — Memphis Grizzlies discussion
2:07:08 — New Orleans Pelicans discussion
2:20:25 — San Antonio Spurs discussion
2:29:15 — Nekias and Steve rank the teams in the Southwest Division, then list their top 10 players.
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NBA Central and Southwest Division Preview

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. give their thoughts on the WNBA playoffs, then preview the Northwest Division (DEN, MIN, OKC, POR, UTA). 
TIMESTAMPS:
2:00 — Nekias and Steve give their thoughts on the Sky-Sun series
11:25 — Nekias and Steve give their thoughts on the Mercury-Aces series
23:30 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Denver Nuggets
46:50 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Minnesota Timberwolves
1:05:55 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Oklahoma City Thunder
1:22:30 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Portland Trail Blazers
1:40:45 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Utah Jazz
1:57:30 — Nekias and Steve rank the teams, then give their top 10 players in the division.


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WNBA thoughts & Northwest Division preview

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. give their initial thoughts and predictions for the WNBA Playoffs, then begin previewing the 2021-22 NBA season with thoughts on the Atlantic Division (BKN, BOS, NYK, PHI, TOR). Time-stamps are below!
3:15 &mdash; Nekias and Steve discuss the single-elimination playoff games around the WNBA, then preview the Sun-Sky and Aces-Mercury series.
16:40 &mdash; Nekias and Steve discuss a Rolling Stone article detailing vaccination distrust among some NBA players.
27:30 &mdash; Nekias and Steve discuss the Boston Celtics
44:30 &mdash; Nekias and Steve discuss the Brooklyn Nets
1:00:45 &mdash; Nekias and Steve discuss the New York Knicks
1:19:20 &mdash; Nekias and Steve discuss the Philadelphia 76ers
1:37:15 &mdash; Nekias and Steve discuss the Toronto Raptors
1:51:40 &mdash; Nekias and Steve rank the teams and the top 10 players in the division
1:55:35 &mdash; Nekias and Steve answer questions from the mailbag.
If you have questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.&nbsp;

It’s (Post) Season Preview Time

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. go over the NBA’s opening night and Christmas Day slate of games, then give their takeaways from Summer League play.

TIME STAMPS:

4:20 — Nekias and Steve discuss the opening night and Christmas Day schedule.

26:15 — Marcus Smart extension talk + Boston’s lineup questions.

35:35 — Analysis on three trades: Grayson Allen to Milwaukee, Eric Bledsoe to Los Angeles, and Patrick Beverley to Minnesota.

58:05 — Nekias and Steve begin their Summer League takeaways by listing the teams they did and didn’t enjoy watching.

1:19:20 — Performance breakdowns of Cade Cunningham, Jalen Green, Evan Mobley, Scottie Barnes, and Jalen Suggs

1:43:20 — Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that impressed, as well as some they wish they saw more from

1:52:26 — Nekias and Steve discuss the second-year (or later) guys that impressed, as well as some they wish they saw more from

2:01:15 — Mailbag segment

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Summer League Wrap-Up

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. recap the draft, break down Team USA’s win over Spain, then give their early thoughts on free agency.

TIME STAMPS:
4:12 — Nekias and Steve recap the 2021 draft, digging into their favorite teams and player fits.
10:45 — Nekias and Steve discuss Team USA’s 95-81 victory over Spain
22:55 — Nekias and Steve discuss all things free agency: their early winners and losers, questionable deals, and rotation decisions that intrigue them.


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2021 NBA Free Agency thoughts

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. are joined by Jackson Frank and PD Web to talk philosophy and answer draft questions. TIME STAMPS:
3:50 &mdash; Grizzlies-Pelicans trade discussion
11:50 &mdash; Bradley Beal (and Damian Lillard) trade discussion
23:05 &mdash; Team USA discussion
34:57 &mdash; Draft Q&amp;A

Prepping for the 2021 NBA Draft

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. wrap up the NBA Finals, giving flowers to both the champion Milwaukee Bucks and the runner-up Phoenix Suns.&nbsp;

Khristmas In July

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. discuss the pros and cons of the play-in tournament, react to the latest coaching hire (Wes Unseld Jr/Washington), discuss Team USA’s roster movement, dig into Damian Lillard’s situation in Portland, then breakdown Game 5 of the NBA Finals.

TIMESTAMPS
3:20 — Nekias and Steve discuss the play-in tournament coming back next season.
7:35 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Washington Wizards hiring Wes Unseld Jr. as their new head coach. 
11:50 — Nekias and Steve discuss the departures of Bradley Beal and Kevin Love from Team USA, as well as what their replacements (Keldon Johnson, JaVale McGee) bring to the table.
21:40 — Nekias and Steve discuss the smoke surrounding Damian Lillard’s future in Portland.
32:05 — Nekias and Steve break down Game 5 of the NBA Finals.


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NBA Finals Game 5 recap

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. discuss the shot-making duel between Khris Middleton (40 points) and Devin Booker (42 points), Milwaukee’s continued paint dominance, Phoenix’s offensive game plan and much more.

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NBA Finals Game 4 reaction

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. give their takeaways on the NBA Finals through the first three games. 
TIME STAMPS: 
1:30 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Orlando Magic hiring Jamahl Mosley as their new head coach.
6:00 - Nekias and Steve discuss Team USA’s exhibition loss to Nigeria.
18:55 - Nekias and Steve discuss the NBA Finals.

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Checking in on the NBA Finals

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. say goodbye to the Conference Finalists (Clippers, Hawks), then dig into the Bucks-Suns matchup.

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2021 NBA Finals preview

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. discuss the controversial hire of Chauncey Billups in Portland and then break down the Conference Finals.

TIME STAMPS

3:17 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Chauncey Billups hire in Portland.

25:55 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Hawks-Bucks series.

47:40 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Clippers-Suns series.
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Trouble in Portland + NBA Playoff takes

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. react to the new coaching hires made this week, then give their early thoughts on the Conference Finals.

TIME STAMPS

1:48 — Nekias and Steve discuss the new coaching hires in Indiana (Rick Carlisle), Boston (Ime Udoka), and Dallas (Jason Kidd).

19:30 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Team USA rosters.

27:00 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Suns-Clippers series.

45:15 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Bucks-Hawks series.
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Coaching hires and NBA Playoff takes

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. recap the remaining second-round series, then preview the Eastern and Western Conference Finals.
TIME STAMPS
3:50 - Nekias and Steve recap Game 6 of Jazz-Clippers.
12:30 - Nekias and Steve recap Game 7 of Nets-Bucks.
22:50 - Nekias and Steve begin talking about the Suns-Clippers series, but quickly pivot to Sixers talk.
58:10 - Nekias and Steve continue their discussion of Suns-Clippers.
1:22:50 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Bucks-Hawks series.

NBA Playoffs: Conference Finals Preview

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. recap the award teams, dig into the coaching changes around the NBA, then discuss the remaining second-round matchups.
TIME STAMPS

3:40 - Nekias and Steve discuss the voting results for the All-NBA, All-Defense, and All-Rookie teams.

25:40 - Nekias and Steve discuss the weirdness happening in Dallas and New Orleans, then rank the current head coach openings.

47:55 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Nets-Bucks series.

1:12:44 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Sixers-Hawks series.

1:31:28 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Jazz-Clippers series.

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Coaching Carousels and Playoff Takes

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. bid farewell to the Denver Nuggets, then give their thoughts on the other second-round series.

2:42 — Nekias and Steve give their lasting thoughts on the Suns-Nuggets series.

23:08 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Nets-Bucks series.

52:55 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Jazz-Clippers series.

1:26:30 — Nekias and Steve discuss the Sixers-Hawks series.


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NBA Playoffs: Second round check-in

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. discuss the coaching changes around the league, then dig into the playoff games from the weekend.

TIME STAMPS:

2:11 — Nekias and Steve discuss the recent coaching firings in Portland and Orlando.

20:05 — Nekias and Steve discuss Game 1 of the Nets-Bucks series.

56:45 — Nekias and Steve discuss Game 1 of the Sixers-Hawks series.

1:20:48 — Nekias and Steve discuss Game 7 of Clippers-Mavericks, then preview the Jazz-Clippers series.

1:47:10 — Nekias and Steve preview the Suns-Nuggets series.
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NBA Playoffs: Early Round 2 Thoughts

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. bid farewell to some first-round exits, then look ahead to the weekend games.

3:25 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Celtics’ front office overhaul, and what may come next for them.

19:10 - Nekias and Steve give their lasting thoughts on the Grizzlies, Wizards, Knicks, and Blazers.

1:19:00 - Nekias and Steve preview Bucks-Nets.

1:51:40 - Nekias and Steve preview Sixers-Hawks.

2:10:00 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Clippers-Mavericks series.
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NBA Playoffs: Prepping for Round Two

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. give their final thoughts on the Heat-Bucks sweep, then break down the rest of the first-round series.
2:40 - Nekias and Steve discuss what&rsquo;s next for the Milwaukee Bucks (in the second round) and the Miami Heat (in the offseason).
29:30 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Lakers-Suns series.
49:00 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Hawks-Knicks series.
1:08:45 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Grizzlies-Jazz series.
1:22:30 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Celtics-Nets series.
1:39:00 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Blazers-Nuggets series.
1:50:00 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Sixers.
2:05:00 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Mavericks-Clippers series.

NBA Playoffs: Checking in on each first-round series

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. discuss Kyrie Irving’s recent comments about Boston, then offer thoughts and potential adjustments for most of the first-round series.
The series, in order: WAS-PHI, BOS-BKN, MEM-UTA, POR-DEN, LAL-PHX, MIA-MIL.


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Reacting to NBA Playoffs, sharing adjustments for first-round series

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. give their thoughts on the NBA potentially adding a mid-season tournament, then analyze the Game 1s from the weekend.&nbsp;

The Dunker Spot: Game 1 Reactions

Playoff Preview, Part 2

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. recap the opening weekend in the WNBA, then preview the NBA play-in tournament and two Eastern Conference playoff series (NYK-ATL, MIL-MIA).
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Playoff Preview, Part 1

Chris Herring of Sports Illustrated joins Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. to talk about his book, "Blood on the Hardwood: The Flagrant History of the 1990s New York Knicks." Then, the three give their fictional NBA award ballots.

TIME STAMPS
0:46 - Nekias and Steve catch up Chris about the challenges of NBA coverage in a season like this, gives an update on his book, then talks about his excitement for the Chicago Sky.
15:40 - Nekias, Steve, and Chris discuss Coach of the Year.
26:53 - Nekias, Steve, and Chris discuss Most Improved Player.
34:34 - Nekias, Steve, and Chris discuss Rookie of the Year.
40:30 - Nekias, Steve, and Chris give their All-Rookie teams.
53:20 - Nekias, Steve, and Chris give their All-NBA teams.
1:14:25 - Nekias and Steve give their All-Defensive teams.
1:21:57 - Nekias, Steve, and Chris discuss Defensive Player of the Year.
1:33:33 - Nekias, Steve, and Chris discuss Sixth Man of the Year.
1:40:28 - Nekias, Steve, and Chris discuss MVP -- and Chris goes on a bit of a rant.
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Awards Talk with SI's Chris Herring

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. change the format this week, opting to ask each other their most pressing questions heading into this year's postseason.
TIME STAMPS

2:45 - Nekias and Steve discuss James Harden's absence (hamstring) and the importance of him getting reps before the postseason begins, then review Tyrese Haliburton's rookie campaign.

14:40 - Steve gives his perspective on the noise surrounding the Indiana Pacers and head coach Nate Bjorkgren.

33:00 -- Nekias and Steve ask each other their most pressing questions heading into this year's postseason.


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Prepping for the Playoffs

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. check in on a few title hopefuls, bounce around the league with general observations, and discuss proper gamewear etiquette. 
TIME STAMPS
3:30 - Nekias and Steve discuss the latest injuries around the league, the returns of LaMelo Ball and LeBron James, then evaluate John Wall's season.
19:52 - Nekias and Steve discuss the teams that have impressed them the most as of late.
1:02:25 - Nekias and Steve discuss a couple of teams they have questions about heading into the postseason.
1:20:30 - Nekias and Steve discuss the players that have impressed them as of late.
1:35:05 - Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that have caught their eyes.
1:44:10 - Nekias and Steve answer questions from their weekly mailbag. If you would like to send in a question, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.
2:03:00 - Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with their Free Throw segment.

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Contender Check-Ins and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. dissect the latest injury news around the league, talk about the returns of Anthony Davis and Jaren Jackson Jr, then bounce around the league with their observations.

TIME STAMPS

2:18 - Nekias and Steve discuss the season-ending injury to Wizards forward Deni Avdija, give their thoughts on the early returns for Anthony Davis and Jaren Jackson Jr., then check in with the Nets in light of James Harden's hamstring injury.

16:14 - Steve discusses the team that has impressed him most.

31:40 - Nekias discusses the team that has impressed him most.

40:30 - Nekias discusses a team that has confused him.

47:12 - Steve discusses a team that has disappointed him as of late.

57:15 - Nekias and Steve discuss the players that have stood out as of late.

1:14:28 - Nekias and Steve give their rookie reports.

1:17:54 - Nekias and Steve answer questions from their weekly mailbag. If you have a question you'd like to send in, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.

1:35:00 - Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with their Free Throws segment.


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Win Streaks and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones, Jr. are joined by ESPN's Mark Jones as they discuss the Kings, the Heat, the upcoming NBA playoffs and more.
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Kings, Heat and NBA Playoffs with ESPN's Mark Jones

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. discuss LaMarcus Aldridge's abrupt retirement, break down the wild week of injury news around the league, then give their weekly observations.

DESCRIPTION: Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. discuss LaMarcus Aldridge's abrupt retirement, break down the wild week of injury news around the league, then give their weekly observations.

TIME STAMPS

1:12 -- Nekias and Steve discuss LaMarcus Aldridge's retirement, his HOF case, and what his absence means for the Nets moving forward.

9:45 -- Nekias and Steve briefly discuss Kevin Durant's thigh contusion, and how concerned (if at all) the Nets should be.

11:47 -- Nekias and Steve discuss Jamal Murray's season-ending ACL tear, and how the Nuggets will try to manage without him.

21:21 -- Nekias and Steve discuss Zach LaVine's absence, and dig into what's plaguing the post-trade deadline Bulls.

26:55 -- Nekias and Steve give their early impressions on the Jabari Parker signing in Boston.

32:12 -- Nekias and Steve discuss Dwyane Wade's ownership stake with the Jazz.

36:28 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the teams (PHI, MEM) that have impressed them recently.

1:00:30 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the teams (MIA, LAC) that have disappointed or confused them.

1:23:48 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the players that have impressed them recently.

1:44:54 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that have caught their eyes.

1:50:28 -- Nekias and Steve answer questions from their weekly mailbag segment. If you'd like to send in a question, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.

2:05:13 -- Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with their Free Throws segment.

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LaMarcus Aldridge Thoughts and Weekly Observations

ESPN's Monica McNutt joins Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. to recap the 2021 WNBA Draft, preview the WNBA season, talk about the state of the New York Knicks, and identify the favorites in the Eastern and Western conference.
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(W)NBA Talk with Monica McNutt

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. discuss the latest injury news around the league, dig into the Nets, then bounce around the league.

TIME STAMPS: 

3:55 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the Minnesota Timberwolves being sold.

8:26 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the Victor Oladipo injury, and what it means for the Miami Heat.

14:56 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the tumultuous nature of James Wiseman's rookie season.

17:58 -- LeBron James and Anthony Davis are on the way back! Nekias and Steve reflect on the Lakers' run without their two superstars.

25:03 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the Nets and their center rotation.

42:53 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the teams that have impressed them as of late.

1:05:00 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the teams that have disappointed them as of late.

1:20:04 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the players that have impressed them.

1:35:05 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that have caught their eyes.

1:42:20 -- Nekias and Steve answer questions from the weekly mailbag. If you have questions, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.

2:02:45 -- Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with general observations.
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State of the Nets and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. react to the Gordon Hayward injury, discuss DeMarcus Cousins and Isaiah Thomas landing temporary homes, then dissect a couple of Western conference powerhouses.

TIME STAMPS

1:35 -- Nekias and Steve discuss Gordon Hayward's foot sprain, and what it means for the Hornets moving forward.

7:37 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the Jrue Holiday extension, and what it means for the Bucks.

11:38 -- Nekias and Steve discuss DeMarcus Cousins (LAC) and Isaiah Thomas (NO) signing 10-day contracts.

17:17 -- Nekias and Steve discuss Grant Hill's eventual role as the managing director of USA Basketball.

21:09 -- What teams impressed Nekias the most this week?

38:53 -- What team impressed Steve the most this week?

49:29 -- What team disappointed Steve the most?

52:03 -- What team disappointed Nekias the most?

1:04:40 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the players that have caught their eyes as of late.

1:19:47 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that have caught their eyes.

1:29:38 -- Nekias and Steve answer questions from the weekly mailbag. If you'd like to send in a question, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.

1:54:10 -- Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with general observations.
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Northwest Love, Breaking Down Western Conference Powerhouses

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. break down player movement and observations from the past week.

TIME STAMPS:

0:51: Nekias and Steve give their winners and losers from the trade deadline. If you'd like a more detailed discussion, check out our Trade Deadline live stream from Thursday night.

https://twitter.com/bballnewsdotcom/status/1375267261443792897?s=20

9:45: Nekias and Steve discuss the updated timelines for LeBron James and LaMelo Ball, and what it means for their teams.

14:28: Nekias and Steve give their thoughts on the buyout signings of Austin Rivers (MIL), LaMarcus Aldridge (BKN), Gorgui Dieng (SA), and Andre Drummond (LAL).

59:48: Nekias and Steve discuss the teams that impressed them the most.

1:15:40: Nekias and Steve discuss the teams that disappointed them the most.

1:30:20: Nekias and Steve praise the players that caught their eyes this week.

1:40:30: Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that caught their eyes this week.

1:47:27: Nekias and Steve answer questions from the weekly mailbag. If you have questions you'd like to submit, email us at dunkerspot@yahoo.com.

1:59:15: Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with general observations.
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Buyout Madness and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. are joined by Marcus Thompson of The Athletic to talk about the Warriors season to this point.

Time Stamps:

1:21 -- Nekias and Steve ask Marcus about the difficulties of covering the Warriors during a pandemic.

4:50 -- Nekias, Steve and Marcus give their general thoughts on the Warriors' .500 start to the season.

9:20 -- Nekias, Steve and Marcus discuss the Warriors' offense.

20:34 -- Nekias and Steve ask Marcus about Steve Kerr's handling of the young players on the roster.

27:13 -- Nekias, Steve and Marcus discuss the development of James Wiseman.

39:00 -- Nekias, Steve and Marcus discuss Draymond Green's back-and-forth with Tony Allen, as well as where he ranks among all-time defenders.

50:42 -- Nekias and Steve get Marcus' opinion on how the Warriors should approach the trade deadline and the rest of the season.

57:20 -- Marcus gives some background on his Stephen Curry/Nas story.
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What's up with the Golden State Warriors?

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. dive into a wild week of injuries, break down Blake Griffin's debut. and debut the #BigMad segment.

TIME STAMPS

1:51 -- Nekias and Steve discuss LeBron James' ankle sprain, and what it means for the Lakers moving forward.

10:22 -- Nekias and Steve discuss LaMelo Ball's fractured wrist, and what it means for the Hornets moving forward.

19:25 -- Nekias and Steve analyze the PJ Tucker trade from Milwaukee's perspective.

23:25 -- Nekias and Steve analyze the Trevor Ariza trade from Miami's perspective.

27:08 -- Nekias and Steve discuss Blake Griffin's debut with the Brooklyn Nets. There were dunks.

33:48 -- What team impressed Steve the most this week?

37:57 -- What team impressed Nekias the most this week?

44:49 -- What team disappointed Nekias the most this week?

1:02:42 --What team disappointed Steve the most this week?

1:09:37 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the players that impressed them the most this week.

1:21:10 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that impressed them over the week.

1:28:22 -- Nekias unveils the first #BigMad segment of the podcast.

1:34:00 -- Nekias and Steve answer questions from the mailbag. If you have questions you'd like answered on the podcast, send them to dunkerspot@yahoo.com.

1:48:24 -- Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with general observations.
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Victory Laps and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. discuss the Joel Embiid injury, the Spurs and LaMarcus Aldridge deciding to part ways, and the polarizing nature of Carmelo Anthony. From there, the two give their first impressions of post-All-Star break play.

TIME STAMPS:
0:35 -- Nekias and Steve give their thoughts on the Joel Embiid injury, then dig into Philadelphia's center rotation.

3:40 -- Nekias and Steve discuss LaMarcus Aldridge's eventual departure from San Antonio, as well as potential landing spots.

15:22 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the still-polarizing nature of Carmelo Anthony.

30:08 -- Nekias and Steve give way-too-early progress reports on the teams they planned to track closely in the second half of the season.

1:05:20 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the players that have impressed in the second half so far.

1:24:03 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that have caught their eyes.

1:33:35 -- Nekias and Steve answer questions from the mailbag.

1:58:02 -- Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with general observations.
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Post All-Star Break Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. talk about their favorite moments from All-Star Sunday. From there, they examine the Nets' signing of Blake Griffin, answer mailbag questions, and discuss what they'll be keeping an eye on during the second half of the season.

TIME STAMPS

1:05 -- Nekias and Steve talk about the highlights of All-Star Sunday.

11:48 -- Nekias and Steve debate the pros and cons of the Nets adding Blake Griffin

35:46 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the teams that surprised them the most during the first half of the season.

49:40 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the teams that disappointed them during the first half of the season.

58:09 -- Nekias and Steve answer a wide range of mailbag questions.

1:52:20 -- Nekias and Steve discuss what they'll be keeping an eye on during the second half of the season.
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The Mailbag Episode

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. react to the end of Sunday's Bucks-Clippers game. From there, they take a different angle on the "analytics vs eye test" debate. After that, they bounce around the league with general observations.

TIME STAMPS

1:22 -- Nekias and Steve break down the end of the Clippers-Bucks game from Sunday afternoon, and discuss the Clippers' need for a point guard.

25:50 - Nekias and Steve review the All-Star reserves, and if the coaches got it right.

32:00 -- Nekias and Steve discuss Adrian Wojnarowski's report about Victor Oladipo turning down a contract extension.

36:23 -- Nekias and Steve explore the racial undertones of the "analytics vs eye test" debate.

50:55 -- Which team impressed Steve the most this week?

57:03 -- Which team impressed Nekias the most this week?

1:04:20 -- Which team disappointed Nekias the most this week?

1:14:50 -- Which team disappointed Steve the most this week?

1:26:00 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the veterans that impressed them this week.

1:37:35 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that impressed them this week.

1:46:45 -- Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with general observations.
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The Analytics "Debate" and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. reveal their All-Star reserve picks, then react to the news of the Minnesota Timberwolves firing Ryan Saunders and hiring Chris Finch. Time stamps:
1:16 - Nekias and Steve discuss the upcoming reveal of the second-half schedule, and the potential pitfalls the NBA may have to navigate.
11:40 - Nekias and Steve discuss Anthony Davis' absence, and what questions the Lakers will have to answer during their stretch without him.
19:40 - Nekias and Steve discuss D'Angelo Russell's surgery, and what that means for the Timberwolves in the short and long-term.
29:25 - Nekias and Steve discuss the report of DeMarcus Cousins and the Houston Rockets parting ways, and whether Cousins can thrive in a limited role elsewhere.
45:08 - Which team has impressed Steve the most?
51:00 - Which team has impressed Nekias the most?
1:01:08 - Nekias and Steve discuss their All-Star reserve picks.
1:28:38 - Nekias and Steve react to the firing of Ryan Saunders, and the hiring of Chris Finch.
1:37:39 - Nekias and Steve answer questions from their weekly mailbag.
1:47:32 - Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with observations.&nbsp;

All-Star Edition + Ryan Saunders Live Reaction

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. briefly discuss the drama surrounding the national anthem being played pre-game and key injury news, then dive into their weekly observations around the league. TIME STAMPS:
0:57 -- Nekias and Steve give their thoughts on the national anthem being played before games.
7:45 -- How will the Mitchell Robinson injury (fractured right hand) affect the New York Knicks?
12:07 -- How will the Nets navigate the absence of Kevin Durant due to his hamstring injury?
16:40 -- Which team impressed Nekias the most this week?
25:35 -- Which team impressed Steve the most this week?
37:52 -- Which team disappointed Steve the most this week?
48:33 -- Which team disappointed Nekias the most this week?
1:05:13 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the veterans that have impressed them this week.
1:12:05 -- Which veterans disappointed Nekias the most?
1:23:49 -- Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that stood out to them this week.
1:29:29 -- Nekias and Steve answer mailbag questions.
1:46:23 -- Nekias and Steve bounce around the league for general observations.

The Anthem Controversy and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. dig into all things defense: schemes, pet peeves, standouts and more.

Time stamps
0:50 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Derrick Rose trade.
7:16 - Nekias and Steve discuss the Larry Nance Jr. injury, and what it means for the Cavaliers moving forward.
10:42 - Nekias and Steve give their general thoughts on defense in this COVID-affected season.
39:05 - Nekias and Steve discuss the teams that have impressed them the most defensively to this point of the season.
1:01:26 - Nekias and Steve discuss the teams that have disappointed them the most defensively.
1:26:20 - Nekias and Steve give their DPOY frontrunners.
1:42:13 - Nekias and Steve give their early All-Defensive team selections.
1:54:05 - Mailbag segment
2:08:04 - Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with general observations.
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The Defense Episode

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. give their takes on the viability of an All-Star game in March. From there, they give their takes on teams and players that have impressed or disappointed them.
Time Stamps:
0:45 - Nekias and Steve discuss the potential All-Star game in March, and if it's a good idea or not.
12:20 - Nekias and Steve discuss what Marcus Smart's injury means to the Boston Celtics.
18:42 - Which team impressed Steve the most?
35:00 - Which team impressed Nekias the most?
55:28 - Which team disappointed Nekias?
1:10:50 - Which players impressed Steve the most?
1:17:55 - Which players impressed Nekias the most?
1:23:00 - Which players disappointed Nekias the most?
1:38:27 - Nekias and Steve discuss the rookies that caught their eyes this week.
1:49:20 - Nekias and Steve answer questions from the mailbag.
2:05:00 -- Nekias and Steve bounce around the league with observations.

All-Star Talk and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. give their scouting reports on the Lakers and Clippers. From there, they discuss the teams, players and rookies that have caught their eye. There's also Spongebob talk.

The Fight for L.A and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones Jr. have a serious discussion about the way Kyrie Irving is covered. From there, they give their takes on teams and players that have impressed or disappointed them.

The Kyrie Irving Dilemma and Weekly Observations

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones, Jr. break down the four-team trade that finally sent James Harden to the Brooklyn Nets. They discuss how the Nets will scheme around Harden on both ends of the floor, and name the teams that are equipped to attack and defend them. Then, they examine the fits of Victor Oladipo, Caris LeVert, and Jarrett Allen on their new teams.

How They Fit: Breaking down the James Harden Blockbuster 

Nekias and Steve discuss the COVID outbreak within the league and its effect on chemistry building, youth development, and analysis. From there, they give their takes on teams and players that have impressed or disappointed them.

Early Season Observations

Subscribe to BasketballNews.com's newest podcast The Dunker Spot as Nekias Duncan and former NBA video coordinator and assistant coach Steve Jones break down teams, players, and rumors around the NBA every week.