The Ringer NBA Show Can the Rockets and Pistons Pull Off History? Plus, the Cavs Are Kinda Back and More Bad Lottery Reform.| Group Chat
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Apr 30, 2026 They break down Detroit and Houston staving off elimination and the factors that made those comebacks possible. Cleveland’s late surge and key lineup changes get a close look. They debate proposed NBA lottery reform and how rule tweaks might reshape tanking and draft outcomes.
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Cade's Aggression Can Flip A Series
- Cade Cunningham can singlehandedly flip a series when he plays aggressively and exploits smaller defenders.
- In Game 5 he dominated early, forced pace, and Detroit's offensive rebounding (16 offensive boards) amplified his impact against Orlando.
Paolo's Outbursts Hide Season Flaws
- Paolo Banchero's playoff bursts can mask regular-season inefficiencies when he gets downhill and sprays to shooters.
- In the same game he hit threes and created paint looks, showing the ceiling Orlando leans on despite inconsistency.
Rockets Athleticism Exploits Lakers' Short Bench
- The Rockets' athleticism and hyperactive defense can overwhelm an older, short-bench Lakers team when they stay engaged.
- Game 5 showed Houston grinding LA's offense to a halt by pressuring ball handlers and covering for miscues.