The Athletic NBA Daily East + West Playoff check-in
Mar 2, 2026
Weekend marquee games get dissected to check the playoff picture with six weeks left. Conversation covers Denver's injury questions and why Minnesota troubles the Nuggets. Lakers inconsistency and OKC’s physical style get attention. Detroit’s surge and Charlotte’s chemistry are highlighted as intriguing Eastern storylines.
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Episode notes
Treat Nuggets Like A Long Term Investment
- Despite recent struggles, Dave and the panel view the Nuggets as a long-term 'senior investment' worth holding until health returns.
- The expectation is that once Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson return the team's performance will stabilize.
Lakers' Talent Undercut By Inconsistency And Role Fit
- The Lakers show talent but lack consistent effort and coherent minutes for their core trio, making them unreliable in the West.
- Role players like Jared Vanderbilt and Marcus Smart aren't solving spacing or defensive issues for LeBron, Anthony and Doncic-like lineups.
OKC-Denver Game Felt Like A Playoff Rematch
- The OKC vs Denver game carried playoff-series physicality and bad blood, with Lou Dort's trip on Jokic labeled a dirty play.
- Shea's return energized Denver, but Oklahoma City still pulled out the OT win without him.