The Ringer NBA Show Are the Thunder the Biggest Threat to the Spurs in the West? Plus, a Lackluster Lakers Christmas. | Real Ones
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Dec 27, 2025 Christmas Day was a rollercoaster for the NBA, highlighted by the Lakers’ slump against the Rockets. Is LeBron's influence waning? The Spurs have emerged as a serious threat, toppling the Thunder three times recently, raising questions about Oklahoma City's trajectory. Meanwhile, Victor Wembanyama is solidifying his status as an MVP contender. Nikola Jokic’s jaw-dropping 56-point game stole the spotlight. Plus, discussions on the Warriors' internal drama and Cooper Flagg's rapid development add flavor to the mix.
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Lakers' Problems Look Structural
- The Lakers' recent collapse revealed structural problems rather than one bad game.
- Howard Beck highlights defensive decline, negative net rating, and worrying coach comments as systemic alarms.
Add Young Two-Way Wings
- Acquire young, athletic two-way wings to help defend and space the floor around Luka and Austin Reaves.
- Prioritize versatile, energetic bench depth to shore up defense and sustain pace.
Spurs Have Thunder's Number Right Now
- San Antonio beat OKC three times in 13 days, exposing vulnerabilities in the Thunder's matchup handling.
- Howard Beck notes Spurs' spacing, ball control, and Wembanyama's physical edge changed OKC's confidence.