The Kevin O'Connor Show Lakers playoff chances, JDub’s return, Darryn Peterson tourney recap + are NCAA Cinderella teams gone for good?
Mar 23, 2026
Danny Parkins, FS1 analyst and sports radio voice, joins to break down NBA and college hoops. They debate the Lakers’ streak and playoff hurdles. Conversations cover Jalen Williams’ impact, Steph Curry’s return, tanking trends, Darryn Peterson’s tournament showing, and whether true NCAA Cinderella runs still exist.
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Lakers Streak Shows Offense Not Playoff-Proof
- The Lakers' nine-game streak shows elite offensive upside but raises playoff skepticism about their defense.
- Kevin O’Connor and Danny Parkins argue sustaining that defense vs. Nuggets, Thunder or Spurs in multi-round series is unlikely.
Jalen Williams' Return Solidifies Thunder Favoritism
- Oklahoma City becomes heavier favorite once Jalen Williams returns because he materially improves their two-way ceiling.
- Parkins stresses Williams is not a plug‑and‑play role filler and elevates OKC's defensive and roster balance.
Let Steph Decide Whether To Chase Playoffs
- Let Stephen Curry decide his return; the Warriors shouldn't shut him down for a 9.4% lottery chance.
- Parkins argues a ~10% top-four probability isn't worth denying Curry the chance to chase the play‑in and playoffs.
