Notes from NBA on TNT Playoff Coverage – Monday, April 20, 2015

TNT’s NBA coverage of the playoffs continues tonight, Tuesday, April 21, with doubleheader action featuring the Boston Celtics @ Cleveland Cavaliers at 7 p.m. ET and the Dallas Mavericks  @ Houston Rockets at 9:30 p.m

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TNT NBA Tip-off presented by Autotrader 

Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith

O’Neal on the Bucks’ ability to shut down power forward Pau Gasol in Game 1: “Pau is ok with that. When he gets double teamed, he is a great passer. They won’t slow him down the whole series. He has a championship pedigree. He knows what to do to get himself going.”  
Barkley on the Chicago Bulls’ place in the Eastern Conference: “I think they are the best team in the Eastern Conference if they’re healthy.  No disrespect to the Cleveland Cavaliers, but the Chicago Bulls have the highest ceiling. We’ve seen the Cavaliers play as well as they can play. If [point guard] Derrick Rose is healthy, the Chicago Bulls are the team to beat.”
Barkley on the most important question surrounding the Bulls: “They have terrific guards, a great bench and Joakim Noah and Pau Gasol down low. They have it all. It’s just the same question we’ve had all season; are they going to stay healthy?”
Smith on the playoff expectations of the Milwaukee Bucks: “They are happy to be there. This is an opportunity for his young players to gain some playoff experience. This is a great opportunity for Milwaukee.”

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Milwaukee Bucks (82) @ Chicago Bulls (91); Bulls lead 2-0
Brian Anderson (play-by-play) Steve Smith (analyst) with Allie LaForce (reporter)

 
Smith on Bulls point guard Derrick Rose’s Game 1 success: “All eyes are on Derrick Rose. He came out and played extremely well in Game 1. The gear in which he played was flashes of the old Derrick Rose.”

Smith on Bulls guard Jimmy Butler: “He is one of the elite two-way players we have in the game.”

Smith on Butler’s strengths on both ends: “Back in the day, we would label him one of those players that just doesn’t let you off the hook. Offensively he’s going to drive the basketball extremely hard, he’s going to cut, he’s going to keep his body moving. On the defensive end, he does not give up on plays. He’s a fabulous player to watch and I would love to be his teammate, the way he relentlessly keeps attacking on both ends.”

Smith on Butler: “You talk about setting the table. I love the way he approached this game. He didn’t take a lot of out-of-character shots. Defensively, he was fantastic. Beautiful job by the Bulls backcourt.”

Smith on Bulls center Joakim Noah: “You talk about the heart and soul of a team. Physically he looks much better [than the regular season]. He is locked in to these playoffs.”
Smith on the struggle for Rose to remain healthy: “He’s gone through three years of everybody breaking down his game and breaking down his body. He hasn’t been on the court that much. We understand his talent is there, but he has to get comfortable. I just look at the way he’s moving. He missed shots in the first half, but he’s moving well. That’s a good sign for the Bulls.”

Smith on the pace of the Milwaukee Bucks:  “[Head coach] Jason Kidd is happy. The pace is to his liking. They are moving bodies, moving the basketball and moving around. They aren’t making shots, but their pace is wearing down the Chicago Bulls, which is what Kidd is trying to do.”

Smith on the defensive-minded coaching style of Jason Kidd: “Jason Kidd has this team on a string defensively.”

Smith on the experience the young Bucks team is gaining in the playoffs: “As a young team, you just want them to be consistent, knock down shots, make the right basketball play and move the basketball side to side.”

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New Orleans Pelicans (87) @ Golden State Warriors (97); Warriors lead 2-0
Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) Reggie Miller (analyst) with Tracy Wolfson (reporter)

Miller on the defense of shooting guard Klay Thompson: “Look at his body frame. He’s 6’7 with long arms. We know about his shooting, but to me, what has separated him as a shooting guard is his on-ball defense.”

Miller on the Warriors’ home court advantage: “Can the Warriors win a championship? Absolutely. All they need to do is win all their home games. Who cares what they do on the road?”

Miller on the dangerous shooting prowess of the Warriors: “They are just too good and too lethal when they get good looks.”

Miller on why Stephen Curry deserves the 2014-15 MVP: “He’s the best player on the best team, and there were six or seven games where he didn’t even play in the fourth quarter. His numbers would have been even more inflated if he had.”

Miller on the pressure surrounding the top-seeded Golden State Warriors: “The last two years the Warriors were the underdogs in the playoffs. Now they have a bullseye on their back”

Miller on Warriors veteran Andre Iguodala accepting his role as a bench player for Golden State: “How about a veteran being able to accept the role, and be the consummate professional coming off the bench. He’s No. 2 in the NBA in taking the charge, and he’s a role player on this Warriors team. It’s the type of player [head coach] Steve Kerr was…he was one of those role players. Yes, he made a lot of big shots in San Antonio and Chicago, but he did all the little things as well.”

Miller on Warriors forward Draymond Green: “I love me some Draymond Green. This guy gives you everything.”

Miller on the defensive approach by the New Orleans Pelicans: “New Orleans does a wonderful job of wanting you off that three-point line. The problem is, once they did that it was a layup drill [for the Warriors] in Game 1. They have to have multiple efforts on the defensive end.”

Miller on the Pelicans’ playoff inexperience: “Everyone is talking about the playoff inexperience of this young team. Yes, they scratched their way to get into that eighth spot, but they are here now. They were a little bit shell shocked in Game 1, until they came alive in the fourth.”

Miller on Pelicans guard Norris Cole: “He does have two rings last time I checked. He’s used to this kind of playoff atmosphere, playing on the road in hostile environments.”

Miller on Pelicans star Anthony Davis: “This kid is too good, too skilled and starting to understand the game. I think playing last summer for Team USA with all of those other great superstars really did a lot for his game.”

Miller on how the Pelicans should use Davis to punish opponents: “When you have such a prodigy and young talent in Anthony Davis… I know he’s young and this is his first time in the playoffs, but I would come down and make every single possession would have to run through Anthony Davis. He doesn’t have to shoot the basketball, but he makes the defense react in such a way where it would make the game so much easier for the other guys on the floor.”

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Inside the NBA presented by Kia

Johnson, O’Neal, Barkley, Smith

Barkley on the Warriors bench: “The difference in the game was the Golden State bench. That’s when they made their run in the second quarter. Barbosa was great.”

Barkley on why the Warriors are beatable: “People think I dislike the Golden State Warriors, but that is totally wrong. They have the best backcourt in the NBA, but Steve Kerr is concerned. They turn the ball over and they are great shooters who take bad shots. When they play against Memphis, Portland, teams like that…their flaws are really going to show. They don’t put fear in your heart. That’s the problem they are going to have in the long run when they start to play elite teams.”

Smith on the fear the Warriors Splash Brothers [Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson] put in opposing backcourts:  “They could get punished. They might not put fear into guys like [Clippers center] DeAndre Jordan or [power forward] Blake Griffin, but I bet you there is fear in [Trail Blazers PG] Damian Lillard, [Clippers PG] Chris Paul and everyone who is in the backcourt. They will run a play, but they keep their dribble alive when most guards would have to pass. That causes the most unconventional defensive effort. That’s fear.”

Smith on the Bucks improvement in Game 2: “Did you not expect the Bucks to come out and play well? They lost Game 1. They are going to be focused in. This was a do or die type atmosphere.”

Barkley on Bulls power forward Nikola Mirotic: “He’s going to come in second for Rookie of the Year. They can’t afford to lose him. He’s a stud.”

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Notes from NBA on TNT Playoff Coverage – Sunday, April 19, 2015

TNT’s NBA coverage of the playoffs continues tonight, Monday, April 20, with doubleheader action featuring the Milwaukee Bucks @ Chicago Bulls at 8 p.m. ET and the New Orleans Pelicans  @ Golden State Warriors at 10:30 p.m

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TNT NBA Tip-off presented by Autotrader 

Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith
Smith on whether the Brooklyn Nets have a chance to win the series: “To me, this will be an Atlanta smacking… They are not better than the Atlanta Hawks. The Atlanta Hawks have been playing great basketball all year and they are mentally focused. They have heard all of the…not whispers…the are yelling that they are not good enough. Atlanta will smack Brooklyn.”

Barkley on the Hawks’ chance for success in the playoffs: “I’m concerned about the Hawks coming down the stretch. They took their foot off the pedal. I think they will win the series, but I don’t think you can turn it on and off.”

O’Neal on the Hawks: “No one expected them to win that many games. They are No. 1. They have never made it to the Conference Finals. I wonder if they really believe they can win a championship in their locker room. If they do, then they really have to take care of business.”

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Brooklyn Nets (92) @ Atlanta Hawks (99); Hawks lead 1-0
Marv Albert (play-by-play) Chris Webber (analyst) with David Aldridge (reporter)

Webber on Hawks guard Dennis Schroder: “He’s the longest short guy I’ve ever seen in my life. He uses his quickness very well. This team actually ups their pace when he comes in the game.”

Webber on the secret weapon of the Hawks offense: “So much has been made of this Atlanta Hawks offense. Their secret is they have two big guys in [center] Al Horford and [forward] Paul Millsap that can get out, play the pick-and-roll, contest jump shots and knock a few into the stands.”

Webber on the Hawks defense: “That chemistry they have on offense translates to the defensive end where they play for each other as well.”

Webber on the Hawks’ ball movement: “This is what they do and who they are. It’s also why they are so efficient defensively. They score, can set up their half-court defense, they don’t waste possessions by being careless and getting turnovers. You have to love how much this team values the ball.”

Webber on the Nets: “Regardless of how the Brooklyn Nets got in the playoffs, you better respect them.”

Webber on the size of the Nets: “Even though Coach Hollins said his team doesn’t have an advantage over the Hawks, I disagree. I believe size is their offensive advantage.”

Webber on Nets guard Jarrett Jack: “Sometimes it’s just about heart. He’s not the most athletic or the quickest, but this is when he loves to shine and try to prove himself…in the playoffs.

“He’s ready to play. He’s a [Trail Blazers guard] Wesley Matthews type player. He has a lot of heart, does it on both ends, is aggressive and gives the offensive rebounders a chance to get a bucket even when he doesn’t make the shot.”

Webber on the body language of the Brooklyn Nets: “What’s disappointing to me about the Nets is their body language. They are acting too cool. You want to see [point guard] Deron Williams start to get mad and be aggressive.”

Webber on Brooklyn forward Joe Johnson: “He is always going to be an underrated superstar because he never talks about himself. The worst thing you ever hear about Joe Johnson is that he’s quiet.”

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Portland Trail Blazers (86) @ Memphis Grizzlies (100); Grizzlies lead 1-0
Kevin Calabro (play-by-play) Brent Barry (analyst) with Lewis Johnson (reporter)

Barry on guard Tony Allen: “Tony Allen is hugely important to Memphis, especially for what they do on the defensive end of the floor.”

Barry on Vince Carter’s role with the Grizzlies: “He’s replacing last year what Mike Miller meant to Memphis in that first round with OKC. It’s been a low year for Vince in terms of shooting. They just hope that Vince finds a little bit of confidence for one more go.”

Barry on guard Beno Udrih’s importance to Memphis: “It was just a matter of accepting what he was in this league in terms of coming in, backing up and finding a home. Memphis gave him his shot…and this is where he is going to make his living. A free agent at the end of this year but an important part of what they are going to do this offseason… He’s just an offensive spark. He’s very good and very aggressive. “

Barkley: “[Marc] Gasol and [Zach] Randolph are the best center / power forward combination in the league.”

Barkley on Mike Conley’s health: If Conley is healthy, I’ve always thought that Memphis has had the most complete team…the addition of Jeff Green has made them a totally different team.”

Barry on the Gasol brothers: “I believe that Marc and Pau [Gasol] have the best career that siblings have ever had in this league.”

Barry on power forward Zach Randolph: When he’s playing good, the team is pretty much unstoppable.”

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San Antonio Spurs (92) @ Los Angeles Clippers (107); Clippers lead 1-0
Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) Reggie Miller (analyst) with Jaime Maggio (reporter)

Barkley on the Clippers: “This is the year that the Clippers go deep in the playoffs. Chris Paul is on a mission. DeAndre [Jordan] is on a mission. This is the year that people are starting to criticize them. The guy that really has to step up is Blake.”

Barkley on the future of the Clippers: “If they don’t beat this old school Spurs team, they are going to have to break this team up.”

Miller on the pressure on forward Blake Griffin this series: “A lot of people are talking about Blake Griffin having to have one of those series if the Clippers are going to move on to the Western Conference Semis.  He has so much potential and athleticism, in a series like this going against [San Antonio forwards] Boris Diaw and Tim Duncan, he’s going to need to use all those skill sets to raise his level of play.”

Miller on the point guard battle between Chris Paul and Tony Parker: “It’s almost a wash.  Offensively, both know how to put the ball in the basket, and it’s going to be interesting to see who can stop the other on the defensive end.”

Barkley on forward Blake Griffin: “He’s the key to the entire series.  They can’t guard him.  When they put [Boris] Diaw on him, he can take him down low.  Blake has to understand, your move is dictated by who’s guarding you.  I want him to go to the basket more.”

Miller on forward Blake Griffin: “He can do so much. Not only can he score and rebound, but he’s a fabulous passer. That’s why people are expecting so much from him.”

Miller on Chris Paul: “He’s been so efficient with this shooting, not just in the playoffs but in all 82 games. Such balance and flow.”

Miller on the importance of bench play: “As this series goes on, it’s all about the benches. In my opinion, that’s how the Spurs won their last championship.”

Smith on the Spurs: “When Miami beat the Spurs, they had such superior talent in LeBron, [Dwyane] Wade and [Chris] Bosh.  However, they weren’t a smarter basketball team than San Antonio.  I’m not sure if Blake, DeAndre [Jordan] and Chris Paul are that level of talent over the Spurs, while the Spurs are still just as smart.”

Miller on the Spurs: “They don’t complain, they just go out and play; they are a machine.”

Miller on Coach Rivers and Coach Popovich: “This is a chess match. These are arguably the two best coaches in our game right now, going head to head in this first round.”

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Inside the NBA presented by Kia

Johnson, O’Neal, Barkley, Smith

Smith on the Spurs entering Game 2: “They are (very rarely) going to sweep people. They just weren’t making shots. They have had that happen before. They are the masters of the six, seven game series…You can’t say by one game the Spurs are the best team or they are going to lose a series.”
Smith on the flow of the game: “The Clippers did a great job of increasing the pace after halftime.”

O’Neal on the Clippers: “The key for the Clippers is, you’ve always been a good team, are you a great team?  Are you going to come out in Game 2 and put this team away or are you going let them hang around?”

Barkley on Blake Griffin’s impact: “The key was Blake’s rebounding.  If you can jump like that, you gotta average 10, 11, 12 rebounds a game.”

Smith on the Hawks passing: “This is called [true, redefined] ‘Hero Ball,’ when you have a wide open three or a wide open lay-up, EVERY time you take the lay-up.”

Barkley on Nicolas Batum on being the x-factor: “When he plays well, the Portland Trail Blazers have a good chance of winning. He’s the guy that can make up the difference.”<

Barkley on the Nets: “I like Deron Williams, but if he can’t play healthy, they have to go to Jarrett Jack.”

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Notes from NBA on TNT Coverage – Tuesday, March 31, 2015

TNT’s NBA coverage will continue on Thursday, April 2 with a doubleheader featuring Miami Heat at Cleveland Cavaliers at 8 p.m. ET, followed by the Phoenix Suns at Golden State Warriors at 10:30 p.m.

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TNT NBA Tip-off presented by AutoTrader.com 

Matt Winer, Shaquille O’Neal, Dennis Scott and Isiah Thomas

O’Neal on Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard: “He is a young gun that plays under control. They are giving him more freedom. They are saying, ‘You are the future. This is your team and your time to shine.’ He is super unselfish…sometimes too unselfish. He always makes the right play. When they need him, if they need a bucket or a defensive stop, he’s the guy that they go to.”

Thomas on Leonard: “He is a reluctant scorer. Some guys go out and chase 30-points, but Kawhi will get it when you need it. He gives them the versatility that they need.”

Thomas on Heat guard Dwyane Wade: “This is where you know Wade is a gamer. He is tough. When the playoffs come around, you’re not playing back to back nights, so consequently, he will be able to get rest. They still have championship pedigree and knowledge. They know how to win. They won’t be fatigued in the playoffs and will be able to lock in on an opponent. They are going to be a tough out for whoever is playing them because of the way they play and the intellectual knowledge they bring to the game.”

O’Neal on whether the Heat are an Eastern Conference team to be reckoned with in the playoffs: “The playoffs are all about matchups. I think if they get the right matchup, especially in the first round, they can go pretty far. Can they win a championship? Probably not. If you’re seventh and starting on the road, all it takes is one game…win one game at [the opponent’s] place and build some momentum, come back home and win a few games. If they get in, yes they can compete. Can they win a championship without LeBron? Probably not.”

Scott on whether Wade can carry the Heat: “When Wade is healthy, he’s still not enough to beat the Hawks or the Cavaliers. He cannot do it by himself.”

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San Antonio Spurs (95) @ Miami Heat (81)
Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) Steve Smith (analyst) with David Aldridge (reporter)

Smith on Kawhi Leonard on the defensive end: “I am so impressed by Kawhi Leonard’s defense. Everybody is talking about his improvement on the offensive end, but to me it seems like he is taking defensive challenges and attacking guys on the wing.”

Smith on Leonard: “He’s one of those players that you can take him with those big ole’ claws and say, ‘Guard anybody!’ You have to start looking at him as defensive player of the year and as one of the best two-way players, because his offense is catching up with his defense.”

Smith on if Spurs veteran Tim Duncan is nearing the end of his career: “Just look at the way he’s playing. He is still having fun and they are still winning. Obviously he can call it quits whenever he wants to, but he is still effective, still winning and still has his guys in Coach Popovich, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. I hope, from a standpoint of being a former teammate and a fan of the game, that he doesn’t give it up just yet.”

Smith on the Spurs’ success in March heading into the playoffs: “There’s an outside chance they could move up to the second spot in the West. If you look at where they are in the standings, it’s phenomenal they could land that high at the end of the season. They know how to finish the season off. Coach Popovich does an excellent job of having his team ready to go.”

Smith on the combination of Dwyane Wade and Goran Dragic: “It’s a great combination because both guys can play without the basketball, and both guys are terrific with it.”

Smith on Heat point guard Goran Dragic: “He’s a point guard that’s not afraid of contact. He gets to the line because of his physical nature and style at the point guard position.”

Smith on the injured Miami Heat: “This Miami Heat team is missing players, but if they keep coming out and playing like this, they are going to have a chance [in the postseason].”

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Golden State Warriors (110) @ Los Angeles Clippers (106)
Kevin Calabro (play-by-play) Mike Fratello analyst) with Jaime Maggio (reporter)

Fratello on Warriors sharpshooter Stephen Curry as an MVP candidate: “If you had to make a decision today on who’s your MVP, it’s a hard answer. You have [Rockets guard James] Harden, when you consider his value to his team, but this guy is the best player on the team with the best record in the NBA. Then you have LeBron [James] playing as well as he is with Cleveland’s record. It’s a hard call.”

Fratello on Curry: “Stephen Curry is putting on a show for the crowd. This guy is something special. He is digging in against [Clippers point guard] Chris Paul. He’s not backing off defensively.”

Fratello on injured Warriors forward Draymond Green: “He’s part of that glue that makes the team work, because he goes in there and plays multiple positions.”

Fratello on the Warriors bench: “They have one of the finest benches in the NBA. They have a number of guys who have started on other teams in the past and could start for other teams now, guys like Barbosa, Iguodala and Livingston.”

Fratello on the quickness of Stephen Curry: “You can not lose your concentration on Curry for one moment.”

Fratello on the point guard battle between Chris Paul and Stephen Curry: “Chris Paul knows that the young gun Stephen Curry is getting all the attention this season. He is really going after him defensively.”

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Inside the NBA presented by Kia

Winer, O’Neal, Scott, Thomas

O’Neal on Kawhi Leonard: “I love this kid because he guards everybody. He doesn’t run from any challenge. He plays great defense.”

O’Neal on Leonard: “It’s scary. [Guard] Manu Ginobli is not playing like Ginobli, but the Spurs still have a big 3. A guy like Kawhi is a confidence booster and he’s a very unselfish kid. He’s responsible and gets others involved. He’s a great player. I’m happy for him.”

Scott on if he feels any different about the Spurs now than he did a month ago: “I feel a whole lot different because of Kawhi. Now that his offense has caught up with his defense, we know the system is going to work. They are going to share the basketball, that part we already know. Now any time Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili or Tim Duncan aren’t feeling well, we know they can play through Kawhi Leonard.”

Thomas on the inconsistent Heat lineup heading into the playoffs: “Most of the teams going into the playoffs have a consistent rotation, they know their offense, they have a consistent style of play and they understand each other. Miami hasn’t experienced that this year. Even though they have been to The Finals as a team last year, this team, this new unit is still trying to find each other. They will be at a deficit going into the playoffs regardless of Wade’s health.”  

O’Neal on the Warriors switch: “It shows me that the Warriors have a switch…second half they clicked their switch…third quarter [guard] Klay Thompson takes over and these guys keep coming. If you stop Stephen Curry on one play, you better not give him any room. These guys are very, very impressive. I’ve watched them a lot this year and I don’t see any holes in their game. They are playing together and flowing right now. Golden State is my favorite right now.”

Thomas on what makes the Warriors so dangerous: “They have been the most dominant team all season. They believe that they can beat the L.A. Clippers any time they want. Whether it’s in Golden State or Los Angeles, they feel like they can show up at a neutral location and beat that team any time they want to or choose to.”

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Notes from NBA on TNT Coverage – Thursday, March 12, 2015

TNT’s NBA coverage will continue on Tuesday, March 24 with a doubleheader featuring the San Antonio Spurs at Dallas Mavericks at 8 p.m. ET, followed by Golden State Warriors at Portland Trail Blazers at 10:30 p.m. 

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TNT NBA Tip-off presented by AutoTrader.com 

Matt Winer, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith and Steve Smith

K. Smith on the Cavaliers path to the Eastern Conference Finals: “Their route got easier if [Bulls point guard] Derrick Rose doesn’t’ come back  [from injury]. Overall the Bulls are the team that could match up to the Cavaliers talent wise. Chicago has Pau Gasol, Jimmy Butler and Joakim Noah – three All-Stars. How many teams have three All-Stars when their best player is out?”

K. Smith on how the Cavaliers would match up against the West: “Whoever comes out of the Western Conference is going to be the favorite. They will have experience, coaching and talent. All the elements Cleveland is looking to have…they will have them.”

O’Neal on the Cavs since the All-Star break: “Ever since LeBron took those nine games off, the Cavaliers are starting to gel. [Guard] J.R. Smith is starting to play like the J.R. of old. He’s more focused. If they get on a little roll in the postseason they should be the favorites in the East.”

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Memphis Grizzlies (87) @ Washington Wizards (107)
Marv Albert (play-by-play) Mike Fratello (analyst) with David Aldridge (reporter)

Fratello on the Grizzlies’ recent slump: “That’s because of lack of practice. This time of year when you’re not practicing a lot, you get game slippage. All you need is one good day of practice, and it’s amazing how it comes back.”  

Fratello on Grizzlies guard Vince Carter: “They know that Vince Carter needs minutes on the floor. This is a rehab period to get him healthy.”

Fratello on Grizzlies center Kosta Koufos: “He has really improved. This is the case of a lot of hard work, understanding the game, getting better, realizing what you can do as a big man in the NBA.”

Fratello on Grizzlies forward/center Jarnell Stokes: “I like Stokes. He has some toughness about him, hangs in there and has done some good things. It seems like he has a very high basketball IQ.”

Fratello on Wizards center Kevin Seraphin: “I liked him when he was first in the league. I thought he had a big upside. I thought he could be a post-up guy on a regular basis, could rebound the basketball and protect the rim. He hasn’t developed as far as I thought he might at this point.”

Fratello on the Wizards quick start to the 2014-15 season: “Everybody knew they had a soft schedule and lot of home games in the beginning. They weren’t tricking those who follow basketball. It all eventually caught up to them.”

Fratello on the growth of the Wizards over the past two seasons: “[Wizards head coach] Randy Wittman went through the tough years in Washington with young players. Eventually there was a point when he decided they needed to add veteran guys. Nene, [Marcin] Gortat and [Rasual] Butler came in…guys with experience, who have been in the playoffs. Then this team really turned around.”

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Cleveland Cavaliers (128) @ San Antonio Spurs (125) in Overtime
Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) Charles Barkley and Chris Webber (analysts) with Rachel Nichols (reporter)

Barkley on Cavaliers center Timofey Mosgov: “This kid is the reason the Cavaliers are now contenders. They were too small, and he is a legit seven-footer. Mosgov and [power forward] Kevin Love fit great together.”   

Webber on Kyrie Irving’s 57-point game: “LeBron loves having some help. He is letting Kyrie do his thing, but could take over at any time.”

Barkley on Cavaliers center/forward Tristan Thompson: “He’s the best offensive rebounder in the NBA.”

Barkley on the matchups between LeBron James/Kawi Leonard and Kyrie Irving/Tony Parker: “How often do you get the four best players in a game guarding each other on both ends of the court? It’s pretty cool to watch.”

Barkley on the Cavaliers’ playoff picture: “They are playing in the East, which gives them an advantage. If the Cavs were in the West, they would have no chance. I don’t think they could win three seven-game series in the Western Conference. With a shorter bench, the Cavaliers can survive because they are in the East.”

Barkley on whether this game is an NBA Finals preview: “These two teams know they could actually play each other in The Finals. It’s impossible to play hard for 82 games, but when you face a really great player or team, your intensity goes through the roof. That’s what we are seeing from the Cavaliers and Spurs.”

Barkley on the Cavaliers offense: “The problem with the Cavs’ game is their half-court offense. They don’t get easy baskets.”

Webber on power forward Kevin Love in the fourth quarter: “The fact that Love is averaging only two points in the fourth quarter, I worry about that coming into the playoffs. You are going to need him to be engaged and get him involved in the fourth.”

Barkley on Kyrie Irving’s 57-point game: “The Spurs just need to shake Kyrie’s hand and say ‘you were better than me tonight,’ because he is making some shots that are ridiculous.”

Barkley on Kyrie Irving’s performance: “This is one of the best individual performances I’ve ever seen. He is making tough shots. It’s not like he’s been wide open.”

Webber on the Cavaliers heading into the postseason: “They are right where they want to be. They feel it, they have their chemistry going and their two leaders are hot like fish grease.”

Webber on the Spurs’ up and down season:  “They started out the season well, with wins on the road against teams like the Grizzlies and the Clippers. Then they had some injuries and tough times in the middle, but they have regained their identity.”

Barkley on the importance of point guard Tony Parker to the Spurs: “Tony Parker has been the best point guard in the NBA for the past five years. Guys like Marco Belinelli, Danny Green and Manu Ginobili need Tony Parker to be dominant. He is the guy who makes everything go.”

Barkley on the Spurs getting healthy and playing well at the right time: “We don’t really know what the Spurs are. This is the first time all season that [point guard] Tony Parker and [forward] Kawhi Leonard have been on the floor together in a while [due to injuries]. The next month is going to be interesting for San Antonio.”

Barkley on Kawhi Leonard: “I love his competitiveness. This kid is beautiful to watch.”

Webber on the aggressiveness of Leonard: “We always hear the word aggressive. Aggressive for Leonard means forcing the issue until he can score or pass. He keeps going.”

Barkley on the Spurs playoff picture: “What is interesting about the Western Conference is the Spurs could lose three games in a row and be the No. 7 seed. They are finally getting healthy, but are they going to have enough left in the tank to win three series on the road? I don’t think any team in the West could beat three really good teams in a seven-game series on the road.”

Webber on the Spurs success in March: “They are gearing up for another championship run. They play this time of year to get where they want to be at the end of the road.”

Barkley on Spurs veteran Tim Duncan: “He’s the greatest power forward ever. To be 39 years old and this excited for a regular season game is pretty cool.”

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Inside the NBA presented by Kia

Winer, O’Neal, K. Smith, S. Smith

K. Smith on the Cavaliers victory over the Spurs: “The Spurs didn’t lose this game; the Cavs won it. Typically you lose games like this because you turn the ball over or make a bad decision. I didn’t think any decision they made was bad. All of the sudden the Cavaliers came and grabbed the bull by the horns. LeBron James and Kyrie Irving made some spectacular plays.”

S. Smith on Kawhi Leonard missing two free throws in the fourth: “When you have a chance to seal it, you are supposed to be that guy and they want to hand you the throne in San Anthonio…you have to make one [of the two free-throws]. The game was fabulous, but you have to make one. You send the Cavs home if you just make one.”

Visit the Turner Sports online press room for additional press materials; follow Turner Sports on Twitter at @TurnerSportsPR

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TNT’s NBA coverage will continue Thursday, March 5, with a doubleheader featuring the Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Chicago Bulls at 8 p.m. ET, followed by Dallas Mavericks vs. Portland Trail Blazers at 10:30 p.m. 

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TNT NBA Tip-off presented by AutoTrader.com 

Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith

	O’Neal on whether Cavaliers vs. Warriors is a potential NBA Finals preview: “A lot of people say, ‘W e’re only concentrating on our conference,’ but I guarantee you the Cavs are looking at what Golden State is doing. They realize they could play this team in The Finals. One team tonight is going to play to send a message to the other. I’m going to be looking for the intensity from both teams.” Smith on Warriors point guard Stephen Curry as an MVP candidate: “Right now, Stephen Curry is the MVP. He has the longevity, but there is a guy coming like a bullet named Russell Westbrook.” Barkley on Curry: “I love Stephen Curry, but he’s not the MVP. The MVP is [Rockets guard] James Harden.”
	Barkley on the Cleveland Cavaliers: “I think the Cavaliers are the team to beat now…because of the Derrick Rose injury, the Cavs are the front-runner in the Eastern Conference.”   Smith on the Cavaliers-Warriors matchup: “This is going to be the true test. We’ll see if they are the best team in the East. This is a litmus test game. This is one of the games that you look at on our schedule and say, ‘We are championship contenders,’ or this is when you make substitutions and changes because you aren’t good enough yet. This is a real statement game for both teams.”

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Golden State Warriors (99) @ Cleveland Cavaliers (110)

Marv Albert (play-by-play) Chris Webber (analyst) with Allie LaForce (reporter) 

Webber on Warriors forward Draymond Green: “The heart and soul of this team is Draymond Green. He is their best defender and their toughest guy. Having him on the floor is great for the Warriors.”  Webber on Warriors center Andrew Bogut: “Bogut may be one of the best passers in the NBA. He loves to pass and gets everyone involved.” Webber on All-Star point guards Stephen Curry and Kyrie Irving: “You love seeing two point guards with so many skill sets, that get their teammates involved and don’t just play super hero ball. It’s a pleasure to watch.” Webber on head coach Steve Kerr’s eighth technical foul of the season: “That’s just him putting his imprint on his team.” Webber on Warriors sharpshooters Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson: “I know these are the Splash Brothers, but they can score in the intermediate area, they can score with layups and they play defense. It’s not just a three-point scoring team. You can tell by the effort of this team against the Cavaliers.”

Webber on Cavaliers forward LeBron James: “He is so strong, he can’t be stopped inside and his vision is wonderful.”  Webber on James as an MVP candidate:  “This is what’s scary for the rest of the NBA; while we have all of those other MVP candidates out there, they still better remember who the man is. When he is coming out this aggressively in games, like he will the rest of the season, he is tough to guard.” Webber on the Cavaliers in the second half of the NBA season: “This team is getting their mojo back.” Webber on Cavaliers point guard Kyrie Irving: “[Warriors point guard] Stephen Curry is the best ball handler of any shooter in the NBA, but Kyrie Irving is the best ball handler in the game…period.” Webber on LeBron James: “I hope we never stop appreciating what he brings to the game. He brought the game back to a level where it was about the best player being part of a team, instead of the best player being the hero with his team just joining him. You have to love the way he gets his teammates involved. He loves to see them succeed.” Webber on Cavaliers reserve power forward Tristan Thompson: “He gets the crowd involved as a role player for this team. He isn’t a starter, yet he is second in the league in total rebounds. When you have an energy guy coming in, whether in the playoffs or regular season, and they do their jobs like Thompson does, it helps so much. Not only do you get extra possessions, he gives extra energy to the crowd. It also pumps the players up.” Webber on the rhythm of LeBron James in the second half: “When he starts off bullying, going to the paint, getting shots that he loves and getting his players involved, he seems to open up in the second half because he already has a great rhythm. Those shots are easy for him to knock down.”

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Oklahoma City (113) @ Phoenix Suns (117) in Overtime

Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) Reggie Miller (analyst) with David Aldridge (reporter) 

Miller on the dominant performance of Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook after the All-Star break: “To show leadership is one thing, but the dominance he has shown in the month of February, averaging almost a triple double with Kevin Durant out and a quarter of his roster new from the trades.  There is a reason why he’s in the MVP discussion.” Webber on the Thunder’s acquisition of center Enes Kanter before the trade deadline: “It was a great pick up to get Kanter. Now you have two young centers [Kanter and Steven Adams] to use with your superstars Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. You couldn’t tell [recently traded center] Kendrick Perkins to go down and get a bucket, he was more of a defensive guy. You can do that with Kanter.” Miller on how the Thunder are building their franchise: “I love everything that is going on with the Thunder and their organization. The two words they always talk about are commitment and sacrifice. That’s how they want to build the base of their franchise. They are trying to build through players that are going to be molded to play the way the Thunder approach and play the game.” Miller on Russell Westbrook: “Have we ever seen a point guard that can attack the lane like Russell Westbrook? Maybe Derrick Rose before his injury.” Miller on Westbrook as an MVP candidate: “There are 25 games left. Let’s say the Thunder go 20-5, get 52 wins and up to that sixth seed. Is that enough for him to win MVP, if he’s still playing like this?” Miller on Thunder guard D.J. Augustin:  “This is a guy who understands his role and can knock down shots.”

Miller on Suns point guard Brandon Knight: “Brandon Knight is going to be a great addition to this team. Playing with [guard] Eric Bledsoe, he is going to be ball dominant. Even though he is a point guard, he is more of a scoring point guard. He can catch and shoot.” Miller on the Suns recent trade of Goran Dragic to the Heat: “Dragic wanted to leave once the Suns signed [point guard] Isaiah Thomas. He felt a little threatened because of the competition, for whatever reason.” Miller on the impressive rebounding of the Suns: “I am shocked how the smaller Phoenix Suns are beating up on the Thunder off the offensive glass. The Thunder are normally the best rebounding team in the NBA…and it’s not even close.” Miller on the Suns lack of a closer: “Who is the closer for Phoenix? Who is the guy that you can just put the ball in his hands to get you a bucket?”

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Inside the NBA presented by Kia

Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

	Smith on Russell Westbrook taking 38 shots in the Thunder’s loss to the Suns: “Too much Russell. He is playing unbelievable basketball, but he took 38 shots tonight. No one else got into an offensive flow to help them win against Phoenix.” Barkley on Westbrook: “You can be a good player, you can even be a really good player, but you can’t become a great player until you learn how to make the guys around you better. When you are as explosive as Russell Westbrook is, you can take 38 shots a night, because you can get a shot every time down the court. However, he should say, ‘I’m going to get Ibaka a shot, I’m going to get Kanter a shot, I’m going to get Dion Waiters a shot.’ Just because you can get a shot doesn’t mean you should take it every time. It will make it easier on him.” Smith: “Westbrook abandoned the game plan tonight. What he needs to realize is when they lose, they should still lose a certain way. He really put himself in a position to lose. He didn’t put himself in a position to win.” O’Neal: “This guy can really play, but he has to utilize his help some more. Every time Kevin Durant is out there, he utilizes Durant as help. Westbrook can get his when Durant is not out there, but he needs to utilize his talents to draw defenders so he can kick it out to his teammates.”
	Barkley on the Cavaliers as a postseason team: “This is still basically a brand new team. Kevin Love, Kyrie Irving and Timofey Mozgov haven’t been deep in the playoffs. LeBron James is the best player in the world, and the addition of Mozgov changed the team. They went from a small team to a big team. Then Iman Shumpert and J.R. Smith gave them some athleticism around the perimeter. They are now the only team in the Eastern Conference that you would be afraid of [in the postseason].”
	Smith on the Atlanta Hawks: “We thought it was a three-team race, but now two teams are clearly ahead. Toronto is still in the boat, but they don’t have as many paddles as Atlanta or Cleveland. The one thing we haven’t seen is Atlanta in duress, in a playoff situation, seven games, meeting the same person over 10 nights and the same person is Super Man, LeBron James.” O’Neal on the Eastern Conference Finals: “I think it’s going to be Atlanta and Cleveland as the last two teams in the East.”

Visit the Turner Sports online press room for additional press materials; follow Turner Sports on Twitter at @TurnerSportsPR

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Notes from TNT’s NBA Tip-Off Presented by AutoTrader.com – Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015

2015 NBA All-Star Reserves Exclusively Announced on TNT

TNT is the exclusive home of extensive live NBA All-Star coverage including all of the marquee events from New York. Programming highlights include the BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge on Friday, Feb. 13; State Farm All-Star Saturday Night featuring the Degree Shooting Stars, Taco Bell Skills Challenge, Foot Locker Three-Point Contest and Sprite Slam Dunk on Saturday, Feb. 14; and the 2015 NBA All-Star Game on Sunday, Feb. 15.

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TNT NBA Tip-off presented by AutoTrader.com

Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith

Western Conference All-Star reserves:

James Harden	Houston Rockets
Klay Thompson	Golden State Warriors
Kevin Durant	Oklahoma City Thunder
Russell Westbrook	Oklahoma City Thunder
LaMarcus Aldridge Tim Duncan Chris Paul	Portland Trail Blazers San Antonio Spurs Los Angeles Clippers

Barkley on Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins being left off the Western Conference All-Star team: “DeMarcus Cousins deserved to make the All-Star team…the kid is a hell of a player.”

Barkley on Portland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard: “I have a serious problem with Damian Lillard not making this team. That’s really not fair. I love [Thunder forward] Kevin Durant, but he hasn’t played enough games. This isn’t a lifetime achievement award. Lillard is having a terrific year.”

Barkley on Thunder forward Kevin Durant making the All-Star team: “Kevin Durant is the second best player in the world, but he has not played enough games to be an All-Star.”

Smith on Durant: “We all know he’s an All-Star. He’s an MVP. However, there is validity to [basing All-Star selections] off of the amount of games they’ve played and the type of season they are having to this point. Damian Lillard and DeMarcus Cousins have played well enough in the games that they’ve played this season to be on this list. I believe in Kevin Durant, but 21 games isn’t enough.”

Barkley on the two Thunder players, Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant, making the All-Star team: “If the playoffs started today, the Thunder wouldn’t be in it…and they get two All-Stars? That’s not right.”

O’Neal on choosing All-Stars based on individual accomplishments: “All-Star is singular. [Kings center DeMarcus] Cousins is an All-Star, he’s playing like an All-Star, and like the best center in the league. His feelings are hurt and my feelings are hurt for him. He definitely got snubbed today.”

Smith on choosing between Western Conference point guards Damian Lillard and Chris Paul: “Damian Lillard is having a better year than Chris Paul. Lillard got snubbed when he was left off of the USA Men’s Basketball team, and now the All-Star team.”

Smith on Rockets center Dwight Howard missing the All-Star team for the first time in eight years: “It’s because of injuries. He’s been hurt, and hasn’t played enough games consistently to say he’s an All-Star. He is arguably one of the top two centers in the league. For the same reason we said ‘no Kevin Durant,’ they said ‘no Dwight Howard.’ Also, the Rockets won games while Howard wasn’t there.”

Eastern Conference All-Star reserves:

Kyrie Irving	Cleveland Cavaliers
Chris Bosh	Miami Heat
Jimmy Butler	Chicago Bulls
Al Horford	Atlanta Hawks
Paul Millsap Jeff Teague Dwyane Wade	Atlanta Hawks Atlanta Hawks Miami Heat

Smith on who was snubbed in the East: “The guys I feel for in the East are [Milwaukee Bucks point guard] Brandon Knight and [Atlanta Hawks shooting guard] Kyle Korver.”

Barkley on Heat veteran Dwyane Wade as an Eastern Conference All-Star: “Dwyane Wade shouldn’t have made the All-Star team. He is a Hall of Famer, but he didn’t deserve to be an All-Star this year. [Heat center Chris] Bosh has been the best player for Miami this year.  Brandon Knight in Milwaukee, Brandon Jennings in Detroit or Kyle Korver in Atlanta should have been rewarded for having good seasons. This might be the only time Knight, Jennings or Korver have a chance to make the All-Star team. I always give the edge to guys who are winning. Dwyane Wade is not having an All-Star year.”

Barkley on why Hawks sharpshooter Kyle Korver deserves to be an All-Star: “I always give the edge to guys who are winning. I would fine guys who left him wide open if I coached a team. Even if you have to hold his hand, don’t leave him shoot.”

O’Neal on Wizards center Marcin Gortat: “I think Marcin Gortat got snubbed. I think he is having a wonderful year. Washington is playing very well, and he is a vital part of that.”

Barkley on naming veteran stars to the All-Star teams over players having better years: “We all know who used to be great, but you can’t keep rewarding guys for what they used to be.”

Barkley on whether Cavaliers point guard Kyrie Irving or Bucks point guard Brandon Knight deserved to be an All-Star more: “Kyrie is incredible. Irving is a better all-around player, but for the first half of the season, Brandon Knight was better. He lifted his team to greater heights.”

Notes from NBA on TNT Coverage – Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015

TNT’s NBA coverage will continue on Thursday, Feb. 5, at 8 p.m. ET with a doubleheader featuring the Los Angeles Clippers @ Cleveland Cavaliers followed by the Phoenix Suns @ Portland Trail Blazers at 10:30 p.m.

  

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Denver Nuggets (69) @ Memphis Grizzlies (99)
Brian Anderson (play-by-play) and Reggie Miller (analyst) with David Aldridge (reporter)

Miller on the Memphis Grizzlies: “Even before they went out and got [forward] Jeff Green, I thought this team was the best in the West. They have a great floor general in [point guard] Mike Conley and two bigs down low in [center] Marc Gasol and [power forward] Zach Randolph who pound the paint. They are tough to beat.” Miller on Grizzlies All-Star center Marc Gasol: “I think what Marc Gasol does at both ends, as well as his passing ability, really separates him from the other centers in the league.” Miller on Memphis forward Tony Allen: “This is why the Memphis Grizzlies are a special team. Tony Allen had been the starter on this team for the past few years, through all their success. When they went out and got Jeff Green, this young man basically gave up his starting position. Allen is all about grit, hard work and toughness at the defensive end. That is a selfless player. It makes the Grizzlies bench that much better.” Miller on the positive effect the Jeff Green trade has had on the Grizzlies: “[Memphis forward] Jeff Green brings a level of athleticism that this team has not seen. No disrespect to [Grizzlies guard] Courtney Lee or Tony Allen, but at 6’9” Green has an ability to both stretch the floor and knock down threes.” Miller on how the Grizzlies get it done on the defensive end: “They don’t put you on the free-throw line a lot. They don’t foul you, so you have to make shots against their stingy defense. That has always been the mark of a championship team.” Miller on the frontcourt duo of Marc Gazol and Zach Randolph: “We always get into the great debate of the best backcourt. We talk about the Splash Brothers, John Wall and Bradley Beal…but what about the best big man duos in the game today? I would certainly pick Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol as the best frontcourt duo.” Miller on Green replacing Allen in the Grizzlies’ starting lineup: “This is a team that is going to go much further with Jeff Green on the floor than it would with Tony Allen. That’s not to say anything bad about Allen. His minutes will be very valuable in the starting unit.”

Miller on Nuggets power forward Kenneth Faried: “There is no way Faried is going to be able to handle [Grizzlies power forward] Zach Randolph down low.” Miller on Nuggets point guard Ty Lawson: “Lawson leads the nuggets in scoring, assists and steals, but his game has been very inconsistent. If he wants to be the floor general on this team, he has to be consistent every night.” Miller on Faried: “He’s a high energy guy. When he is able to get the guy off the glass and go coast to coast, you can see that athleticism.” Miller on Nuggets guard Jameer Nelson: “Take away what he does on the court, his most valuable contribution has been in the locker room. His leadership and veteran savvy have really rubbed off on the young players on the Nuggets.” Miller on the future of the Denver Nuggets: “How are the Nuggets doing? I just don’t know what direction or path they want to take. Before the season started, they were supposed to be one of those teams fighting for that eighth spot. They have kind of been a rollercoaster team all season.” Miller on Faried: “I was expecting a bigger and better season from Kenneth Faried. I thought coming off that gold medal this summer and playing with USA Men’s Basketball, being that energy guy off the bench for Coach K, that confidence wise, he would come in and play like gangbusters. He hasn’t done that. His numbers are the same, but he’s not quite the same player confidence wise.” Miller on Nuggets center JaVale McGee: “He has loads of talent and great athleticism.”

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Chicago Bulls (118) @ Los Angeles Lakers (123)
Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) and Brent Barry (analyst) with Lewis Johnson (reporter)

Barry on newly named All-Star guard Jimmy Butler:  “He is absolutely remarkable this year. The things that he has been able to do and show regarding the growth of his game are great. He can post up at the 2-guard position. He can defend the best player on the opposing team whether that is a two or three man…well deserved All-Star appearance with many more to come. This guy works and goes about his business.” Barry on guard Derrick Rose learning how to be a great player: “The greatest players in our league motivate themselves just because they are out here competing.”  Barry on shooting guard Mike Dunleavy: “He doesn’t stop on the offensive end of the floor but is constantly moving…he’s one of the better three-point shooters in the league.”

Barry on Lakers guard Jordan Clarkson’s athleticism: “I saw him play last summer in Las Vegas and there were signs of what Jordan Clarkson can do on the court where you raised an eyebrow to his potential. Can he find his way to be a point guard in this league where most of them dominate the game? I’m not sure if he is ready for that test but this season will pay some dividends.” Barry on the Lakers’ bench: “The Lakers have guys coming off the bench that have started in the league: Carlos Boozer, Jeremy Lin…these guys are capable of putting points on the board.”

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Inside the NBA presented by Kia

Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

	Barkley on Bulls guard Derrick Rose: “Derrick Rose is still playing like the old Derrick Rose. He’s got to learn that he is not the same guy. He has to learn to play with Jimmy Butler. You are a great player when you play with other great players. You shouldn’t try to do too much.” Barkley on Derrick Rose: “He has to realize he’s not the MVP anymore.” Barkley on Rose sharing the field: “You have to adjust. He can’t shoot 33 times. It was like when he was a one-man crew…but, in my opinion, Jimmy Butler is the best player on the team and he is also playing with the best offensive big man he’s ever had.” O’Neal on what the Bulls need to work on: “They need to get their identity back on defense and create easy shots. Offense is not the problem, defense is.”
	Barkley on Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol: “The best power forward center combination in the NBA.”
	Barkley on Denver Nuggets: “We blame the coaches all the time and these players never take responsibility. It’s hard to lose an NBA game by 30 points. I feel bad because Brian is a really nice guy and a good coach. It’s a players league and sometimes the coach gets thrown under the bus.” Smith on how the Nuggets lack effort: “They have to beat you one way.  If they don’t play you that way, they are going to lose.”

Visit the Turner Sports online press room for additional press materials; follow Turner Sports on Twitter at @TurnerSportsPR

-30-

 

Notes from TNT’s NBA Tip-off presented by AutoTrader.com – Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015

2015 NBA All-Star Starters Exclusively Announced on TNT

TNT is the exclusive home of extensive live NBA All-Star coverage including all of the marquee events from New York. Programming highlights include the BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge on Friday, Feb. 13; State Farm All-Star Saturday Night featuring the Degree Shooting Stars, Taco Bell Skills Challenge, Foot Locker Three-Point Contest and Sprite Slam Dunk on Saturday, Feb. 14; and the 2015 NBA All-Star Game on Sunday, Feb. 15. 

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TNT NBA Tip-off presented by AutoTrader.com
Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith

Western Conference All-Star starters:

Stephen Curry	Golden State Warriors
Kobe Bryant	Los Angeles Lakers
Anthony Davis	New Orleans Pelicans
Marc Gasol	Memphis Grizzlies
Blake Griffin	Los Angeles Clippers

Barkley on Rockets guard James Harden as a deserving All-Star starter: “James Harden should be starting. I love Kobe Bryant, but James Harden is in the race for MVP with [Warriors point guard] Steph Curry. He deserves to be starting in the All-Star Game. The Lakers stink and Kobe hasn’t played enough games. James Harden should be starting…plain and simple. Harden has been fantastic.”

O’Neal on Bryant: “It’s been rumored that he may shut it down after this year. Fans are saying, ‘This could be Kobe Bryant’s last All-Star game. I want to see him one last time.”

Smith on Bryant vs. Harden: “This is a fan’s list. I’d rather see Kobe Bryant as a fan. If I’m a player, picking my team to win the championship this year, then I’m picking James Harden.”

Eastern Conference All-Star starters: 

John Wall	Washington Wizards
Kyle Lowry	Toronto Raptors
LeBron James	Cleveland Cavaliers
Pau Gasol	Chicago Bulls
Carmelo Anthony	New York Knicks

Smith on the Gasol brothers being the first set of brothers to ever face each other in an NBA All-Star Game: “It’s crazy. Two guys in the same household are two of the top 10 most popular players in the world and two of the top 10 players in the game at their position.”

Barkley on Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony being named an All-Star starter: “I do have a problem with Carmelo [being named a starter]. I just don’t understand. Fans have to be honest and realistic.”

Smith on Anthony: “He has accumulated a big amount of fans over his career who will ride or die with him.”

O’Neal on players from losing teams being named All-Stars: “We have to come to the realization that there are two types of fans. There are fans that think like Chuck: ‘His team’s not winning. I don’t care who he is, he’s not an All-Star.’ Then there are fans like me: ‘This guy has great numbers. As a single individual, he is an All-Star.”

TNT’s Inside the NBA team pick their Western Conference reserves:

Barkley
James Harden	Houston Rockets
Damian Lillard	Portland Trail Blazers
Klay Thompson	Golden State Warriors
LaMarcus Aldridge	Portland Trail Blazers
DeMarcus Cousins	Sacramento Kings
Russell Westbrook	Oklahoma City Thunder
Tim Duncan	San Antonio Spurs

Smith
James Harden	Houston Rockets
Damian Lillard	Portland Trail Blazers
Klay Thompson	Golden State Warriors
LaMarcus Aldridge	Portland Trail Blazers
DeMarcus Cousins	Sacramento Kings
Russell Westbrook	Oklahoma City Thunder
Dwight Howard	Houston Rockets

O’Neal
James Harden	Houston Rockets
Damian Lillard	Portland Trail Blazers
Klay Thompson	Golden State Warriors
LaMarcus Aldridge	Portland Trail Blazers
DeMarcus Cousins	Sacramento Kings
Kevin Durant	Oklahoma City Thunder
DeAndre Jordan	Los Angeles Clippers

Johnson
James Harden	Houston Rockets
Damian Lillard	Portland Trail Blazers
Klay Thompson	Golden State Warriors
LaMarcus Aldridge	Portland Trail Blazers
DeMarcus Cousins	Sacramento Kings
Russell Westbrook	Oklahoma City Thunder
Kevin Durant	Oklahoma City Thunder

Barkley on Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins: “He has played very well. He deserves to make the All-Star team. Shaq wants to anoint him as the best big man in the game and I cannot do that. If you put up good numbers, but your team loses all the time, you might be part of the problem. However, the kid is a terrific talent.”

O’Neal on Cousins: “He’s the best center in the league. When I was coming up, it was all based on numbers. Nobody is playing better than Cousins.”

Barkley on Spurs power forward Tim Duncan: “Tim Duncan has played well this year. He has been the best player on the Spurs, that’s why I put him on the team.”

Smith on his choice of Thunder point guard Russell Wesbtrook over Tim Duncan: “Any time you say Tim Duncan is an All-Star, you can’t be wrong. It’s just a personal preference. I was very close to putting Duncan in, but Russell Westbrook, without question, healthy or not healthy, is the most lethal guard in basketball. There is no one more lethal, not even Steph Curry. He has to be an All-Star.”

Barkley on Mavericks point guard Monta Ellis as an All-Star candidate: “There is just a glutton of point guards in the Western Conference. The best player on the Mavericks is Monta Ellis. He’s never going to be [center] Dirk Nowitzki, but Ellis is just going to be beat [out for All-Star] by [Warriors guard] Klay Thompson, who is the best two-guard in the league.”

Smith on the Mavericks: “If the Dallas Mavericks were in the Eastern Conference, they would have three All-Stars.”

TNT’s Inside the NBA team pick their Eastern Conference reserves:

Barkley
Jimmy Butler	Chicago Bulls
Jeff Teague	Atlanta Hawks
Paul Millsap	Atlanta Hawks
Chris Bosh	Miami Heat
Al Horford	Atlanta Hawks
Brandon Knight	Milwaukee Bucks
Kyle Korver	Atlanta Hawks

 

Smith
Jimmy Butler	Chicago Bulls
Jeff Teague	Atlanta Hawks
Paul Millsap	Atlanta Hawks
Chris Bosh	Miami Heat
Al Horford	Atlanta Hawks
Kyrie Irving	Cleveland Cavaliers
Dwyane Wade	Miami Heat

O’Neal
Jimmy Butler	Chicago Bulls
Jeff Teague	Atlanta Hawks
Paul Millsap	Atlanta Hawks
Marcin Gortat	Washington Wizards
Kevin Love	Cleveland Cavaliers
Kyrie Irving	Cleveland Cavaliers
Bradley Beal	Washington Wizards

Johnson
Jimmy Butler	Chicago Bulls
Jeff Teague	Atlanta Hawks
Paul Millsap	Atlanta Hawks
Marcin Gortat	Washington Wizards
Al Horford	Atlanta Hawks
Chris Bosh	Miami Heat
Kyrie Irving	Cleveland Cavaliers

Barkley on the Atlanta Hawks: “Atlanta Hawks deserve four All-Stars. I reward winning. The Hawks have the second-best record in the NBA.”

Smith on Bucks point guard Brandon Knight vs. Cavaliers point guard Kyrie Irving: “The toughest decision for me was Brandon Knight or Kyrie Irving. Knight is not a better player in the long run, but I would pick him for this season and what he’s doing for his team. When LeBron James was out, [Cavs center] Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving had an opportunity to separate themselves and show that they could carry a team without James…they didn’t’ do a good job of that. Knight is carrying the Bucks offensively. He is running the show.”

Barkley on Hawks sharpshooter Kyle Korver: “Steph Curry might be the best shooter in the NBA, but I would pay to see Kyle Korver. If I need one wide open jumper, I might go with Korver over Curry. He reminds me of Reggie Miller and Steve Kerr. ”

O’Neal on the Hawks: “They should have three or four guys that make the All-Star team, and I hope they do.”

Barkley on the Milwaukee Bucks: Milwaukee is one of the best kept secrets in the NBA. They lost [Bucks forward] Jabari Parker, who was arguably the Rookie of the Year, but they are still winning.”

Smith on Heat guard Dwyane Wade: “He gets the job done. You’re talking about an Eastern Conference that isn’t guard heavy.”

Notes from NBA on TNT Coverage – Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015

TNT’s NBA coverage will continue on Thursday, Jan. 29, at 8 p.m. ET with a doubleheader featuring the Denver Nuggets @ Memphis Grizzlies followed by the Chicago Bulls @ Los Angeles Lakers at 10:30 p.m.

  

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San Antonio Spurs (81) @ Chicago Bulls (104)
Marv Albert (play-by-play), Reggie Miller and Grant Hill (analysts) with Rachel Nichols (reporter)

	Hill on Bulls point guard Derrick Rose getting over his injuries: “It is about trusting your body. The mental hurdle is the last hurdle to accomplish. Derrick Rose is there but he has to continue to trust his body that he’ll be okay.” Hill on the potential of the Bulls team once all healthy: “When they get healthy, they have a chance to make up some ground.”   Hill on the Bulls’ loss in Cleveland earlier this week: “Tonight is a drastic change from Monday night in Cleveland. They are bringing energy and effort, and playing with a sense of urgency they didn’t have against the Cavs. That game might have been the lowest point for Chicago this season. They had team meetings and a lot of speculation in the media. It’s encouraging to see them come out and play Chicago Bulls basketball.” Miller on Bulls guard Jimmy Butler and Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard: “Both are fabulous talents who get it done at both ends of the floor. More importantly, on defense. They are hard, gritty and they both rebound. Butler is only the second guard behind James Harden in free throw attempts. That shows he’s aggressive.” Miller on Butler: “You should book a ticket to New York for Jimmy Butler. He deserves to be an All-Star reserve for the Eastern Conference.” Hill on Derrick Rose: “I love the explosion of Derrick Rose tonight. He’s getting to the basket, getting up high and elevating in traffic. It’s a great sign for the Bulls.” Hill on the success of Bulls power forward Pau Gasol in Chicago: “He was marginalized and forgotten the last two or three years in Los Angeles. That [Lakers former head coach] Mike D’Antoni style of play didn’t really fit him. People forgot how talented he is. Here in Chicago, he gets a chance to show that he’s still got it.”
	Hill on the value of a deep bench: “It’s a great luxury to have a deep bench. [Spurs head coach Gregg] Popovich learns to trust them and they typically come through in the playoffs when he needs them. A lot of coaches don’t trust their bench through the season.  Popovich empowers these guys and makes them believe in themselves. He can rely on them when he needs them down the stretch.” Miller on the Spurs offense: “The Spurs are so patient at the offensive end when the shot clock is running down. They constantly have movement.” Hill on Spurs center Boris Diaw: “Boris Diaw is yet another playmaker for San Antonio and a very talented defender.” Miller on Diaw: “This guy is so crafty with the basketball. What makes him even tougher to guard is his passing ability at that size.” Hill on whether the Spurs can repeat as NBA Champions this year: “Without a doubt. There is no real team in the West that is sticking out. The Spurs have an easy schedule, and it’s conceivable that by All-Star they could be third or fourth in the conference. They are gaining momentum, which they usually do this time of year. You can’t count out the San Antonio Spurs…I’ve learned that.”

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Brooklyn Nets (84) @ Los Angeles Clippers (123)
Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) and Brent Barry (analyst) with Jaime Maggio (reporter)

 

Barry on the weakness of the Nets defense: “There are gaps all over the Brooklyn Nets defense that the Clippers are exposing.” Barry on the lack of consistent shooters on the Nets: “No shooter has gotten hot and stayed consistent for the Nets this season. It takes so much away from your offense when your point guards are pitching it out to opportunities and no one is able to knock those shots down.” Barry on whether Lionel Hollins’ new system in Brooklyn has been a success: “The Nets have a new coach and new perspective, as well as veteran guys learning a new system. Hollins will admit he’s had to make adjustments around those guys, once he found out if they were capable of carrying out their assignments. Then you have the injuries, with [center] Brook Lopez and [power forward] Kevin Garnett in and out of the lineup. Hollins feels like he’s done a pretty good job in the first half of the year. Hopefully they can get some consistency and a good run in the second half.” Barry on the Nets offense: “[Nets point guard] Deron Williams does so much offensively, but they are only going to be as good as their shooters start to take them. Williams is gearing up, they need more consistent minutes for Garnett, and the [center] Mason Plumlee is improving. They need to win a stretch of games before we can start believing in what this team can do.” Barry on bench players getting an opportunity to play in blowout games:  “Whether you are up, or you see the hole that’s been dug and you know you’ll stay buried for the rest of the game, you have to play the game the right way. There is some karma that can carry over. If you play hard as a bench player, you compete and you do the right things, the next game, something good might happen to you. Don’t come in and think ‘this is embarrassing’ when the game is well out of hand. It’s a difficult thought, but you have to avoid it.”

Barry on the Clippers this season: “It just feels different. They are dealing with something they haven’t ever experienced…expectations.”     Barry on Clipper center DeAndre Jordan: “What he does on the interior on a nightly basis for [head coach] Doc Rivers puts the Clippers in a great position to win.” Barry on Clippers guard Jamal Crawford: “Jamal continues to be a bright spot for the Clippers. There are so many nights when they rely on him. He comes in and saves them offensively.” Barry on the improvement of Clippers star Blake Griffin: “He’s shooting the ball well. I think he has expanded his game a little bit and has taken some criticism for doing the things he needed to in order to start being a better player.” Barry on head coach Doc Rivers bringing in his son, guard Austin Rivers: “It is very interesting. There is lots of chatter about Doc making the move to bring Austin in. His career has gotten off to a rough start. This might be Doc’s attempt to try and save Austin River’s career moving forward, to simplify things for him and give him this great opportunity. It tells you a lot about the trust he has in the rest of the team, to take on Austin as a player, add him to this roster and give him minutes as they try to make progress throughout the season.” Brent on the monster dunks of DeAndre Jordan: “There are two or three dunks a year that DeAndre Jordan gets on an opposing player, and it’s talked about all summer long. Makes for a miserable summer for his defenders.” Barry on the inconsistency between the Clippers starters and bench players: “The Clippers bench is like when you are a parent and you have kids. You have friends come over, you give your kids to them and they wind them up and get them all excited. But when the kids start crying and fussing the friends hand them back to their parents. That’s what the bench and the starters are for the Clippers. The starters get the game going, hand it over to the bench and the kid is crying when they come back in. The bench has to be able to maintain and take care of the game.” Barry on the impending trade deadline and if Doc Rivers will bring any players in to positively affect his team: “We’ve already seen teams that are in the hunt make significant moves on their roster, to bring in guys that will be significant in their rotation. Doc Rivers is content to wait, because he wants to add veteran presence. He wants to make sure he can pick guys that he knows what they can bring to the team. Sticking with the known and leaving the unknown alone. That’s the M.O. of Doc Rivers when it comes to adding players to the roster.”

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Inside the NBA presented by Kia

Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

	Smith on the Chicago Bulls: “They are a team that could contend. They have all the elements in every position. One out of three nights they will have the advantage, minimum. Especially when [center] Joakim Noah is back.” O’Neal on Bulls power forward Pau Gasol: “Pau is playing unbelievable. It’s hard to believe this is his 14th year [in the NBA]…and his best year.”   Smith on Bulls point guard Aaron Brooks: “Everywhere he’s been, he’s been able to score. Even when he went overseas, he was able to score.”
	Barkley on the Spurs loss to the Bulls: “I think Coach Popovich was surprised at the level of competitiveness. You can’t judge the Spurs until everybody gets healthy. They are just getting Kawhi Leonard back and Tony Parker has been in and out. They are going to be tough because they play hard, smart and they have the best coach in the NBA. It’s going to be interesting now with the injury to Aldridge. It’s just ridiculous out West right now.”   Smith on his NBA finals prediction: “I wouldn’t be surprised if we saw the Spurs and Bulls playing each other in June.”   O’Neal on the Spurs chances in the playoffs: “I’m not worried about the Spurs. Yes, they are older, but they can win on the road. It’s not checkers; it’s chess. If the playoffs started today, I think the Spurs could go into Portland and win.”
	Barkley on the fast play of the Clippers: “The Clippers are the best full-court team in the NBA. You can’t let them play fast. When you let them dunk and everything, they are going to be tough to beat.”

Visit the Turner Sports online press room for additional press materials; follow Turner Sports on Twitter at @TurnerSportsPR

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Notes from NBA on TNT Coverage – Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015

TNT’s NBA coverage will continue with a special Martin Luther King, Jr. Day doubleheader on Monday, Jan. 19, at 7:30 p.m. ET with a doubleheader featuring the Chicago Bulls @ Cleveland Cavaliers followed by the Los Angeles Lakers @ Phoenix Suns at 10 p.m. 

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TNT NBA Tip-off presented by AutoTrader.com

Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith

	Barkley on the rumors of tension between Cavaliers head coach David Blatt and the players in Cleveland: “I don’t know what is true and not, but if these rumors that these guys on the cavaliers are trying to get their coach fired and assistant coaches are trying to undermine their head coach, they are punks in my opinion.”

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Oklahoma City Thunder (101) @ Houston Rockets (112)
Marv Albert (play-by-play) and Chris Webber (analyst) with David Aldridge (reporter)

Webber on the quick release of Rockets guard James Harden: “He doesn’t have as quick of a release as [Warriors point guard] Steph Curry, but he’s right up there.” Webber on the team play of the Rockets: “The Rockets are winning games because of sharing and penetration, and it all starts with [James] Harden.” Webber on Rockets forward Josh Smith: “He’s athletic and a willing passer. He is a good defender and keeps guys involved, but [for Smith to be successful in the NBA] it’s going to take somebody like Rockets head coach Kevin McHale believing in him.” Webber on the winning style of the Rockets: “The great thing about Houston is they have defenders, guys that can steal; they shoot threes and they have the personnel to switch. If [center] Dwight Howard goes out, [power forward] Donatas Motiejunas comes in to stretch the floor. It seems like the perfect team for the defensive and offensive style that [head coach] Kevin McHale wants to see his team play.” Webber on Josh Smith’s poor three-point shooting: “If you don’t shoot well, it affects your aggressiveness. Smith needs to improve his three-point shooting or teams are going to hack-a-Josh in the fourth quarter, and the Rockets don’t want that.” Webber on Rockets point guard Patrick Beverley: “We all know he is a capable offensive player but, with his defense, any offense that you get is just extra. Usually you have a specialist on your team that just plays defense. No one in the league guards the ball or turns guys like he does. Having his offense is just the icing on the cake.” Webber on the recent incident between Kevin Garnett and Dwight Howard: “I would like to see Dwight Howard protect himself and show other players that you can’t do that to him, but that’s not his personality or his character.”

Webber on Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook’s unselfish play:  “Until Kevin Durant came back [from injury], Westbrook was carrying the team on his shoulders. Right now he is trying to make sure his team wins regardless of his stats.” Webber on Thunder’s recent trade for guard Dion Waiters: “They are starting to get their mojo and their groove back, and they are very excited about Waiters. They are saying that he is a defensive player and he really helps the facilitating.” Webber on the versatility of Westbrook: “I love the different speeds of Westbrook…he can speed it up or slow it down. He can also shoot from anywhere on the court.” Webber on the three-team trade between the Cavaliers, Knicks and Thunder: “I like the trade for everyone, especially [Thunder guard] Dion Waiters. Whenever you are traded it’s a deflation of your ego, but you have to remember someone wanted you and asked for you. It’s a great opportunity for guys to revaluate themselves, be honest and reinvent themselves.” Webber on reported trade involving Nets center Brook Lopez to the Thunder: “I know it’s just speculation, but Brook Lopez is what OKC might need. He can block shots and finish. If I’m a Thunder fan; I’m very excited about that prospect.”

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Cleveland Cavaliers (109) @ Los Angeles Lakers (102)
Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) and Reggie Miller (analyst) with Rachel Nichols (reporter)

Miller on the speculation surrounding unrest between the Cavaliers players and head coach: “Where there’s smoke, there’s fire. There is probably a little validity to what everyone is saying. However, there is one person in this building who can stop all this nonsense, and it’s [Cleveland star] LeBron James. If LeBron were to get in front of a microphone and say, ‘I’m tired of hearing all this noise,’ we wouldn’t hear anything. We’re rolling with this guy. But it’s silence from LeBron James…I understand he’s in a tough predicament, but he could stop all of this.” Miller on the reason it is taking this Cavaliers time to find their rhythm: “There are a lot of moving parts. You are adding a center, two shooting guards [J.R. Smith and Iman Shumpert], a new system and a rookie coach who has never coached in the NBA before.” Miller on Cavs head coach David Blatt: “The thought when he first came to Cleveland was that he was going to expand the Cavaliers’ game offensively. The reason why we haven’t seen that is all the injuries and trades.” Miller on the relationship between LeBron James and Kobe Bryant: “I equate these two to Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan on the original Dream Team. Kobe and LeBron are the best of their generation, obviously. They have a special relationship. They are the best players on the planet.” Miller on Cavaliers center Kevin Love’s back spasms: “You can tell Kevin Love is very uncomfortable by the way he is walking. His back is really acting up. If you’re [head coach] David Blatt that is something to really think about. There are a lot of games left to play.” Miller on Love playing through the pain: “It sends a message to your team. ‘I play hurt. I’ll do whatever it takes to win.’”

Miller on a 36-year-old Kobe Bryant: “I know exactly what Kobe is going through. In my 17th and 18th year, there were some games where I didn’t even know I had legs because they were so fatigued and sore. I like that [head coach] Byron Scott and the trainers have come up with a game plan [to keep him healthy]. They are going to stick to Kobe playing only 32 minutes a game.” Miller on the notion that the Lakers might shut Kobe down after the All-Star break: “If that ever happens, I would love to be in the room for that conversation. There is no way Kobe will ever think about shutting down. He wants to compete at the highest level, all the time. It’s already tough enough that the Lakers have cut his minutes down to 32, but Father Time is undefeated for a reason.” Miller on the mutual respect shared by Kobe Bryant and LeBron James: “LeBron looks up to Kobe, but it’s mutual respect and admiration. At the end of the day, these two want to beat each other, but they’ll have a good time while doing it. It’s been a while since we’ve seen them going against each other on the court due to injuries. It’s a great scene.” Miller on how the Lakers can improve next season: “In a perfect world, this team wants to be bad enough to have a top five pick. Then they will get an injured [Lakers rookie] Julius Randle back, have a top draft pick and still have money to go out and get a top free agent.” Miller on the impressive play of Kobe Bryant: “I hope people appreciate this. We aren’t going to see it much longer. There are only two guards in the history of the game that I would take over Kobe Bryant. One being Michael Jordan, the other being Magic Johnson. After that, Kobe Bryant is the best guard who has ever played this game.”

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Inside the NBA presented by Kia

Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

	Smith on early MVP candidate James Harden: “James Harden is the best one-on-one player in the NBA. He took the title over from Carmelo Anthony.”
	Barkley on the Memphis Grizzlies as a contender: “I really like what Memphis has done, going out and getting [forward] Jeff Green. It makes them a three-headed monster.”
	Barkley on the Milwaukee Bucks 21-19 record so far this season: “Jason Kidd has done a fantastic job. One of the most underrated things in sports is the ability to play hard. Everybody gets so enamored with talent, but energy is a talent.”

Visit the Turner Sports online press room for additional press materials; follow Turner Sports on Twitter at @TurnerSportsPR

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 NBA TV to Tip-Off Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Coverage with Western Conference Showdown — Mavericks vs. Grizzlies — at 5 p.m.

TNT Updates NBA Telecast Schedule to Include Nuggets vs. Grizzlies on Thursday, Jan. 29, at 8 p.m.

NBA on TNT presented by State Farm regular season coverage continues with a special Martin Luther King, Jr. Day doubleheader on Monday, Jan. 19, with the Chicago Bulls and Derrick Rose visiting the Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James at 7:30 p.m. ET, followed by the Phoenix Suns and Eric Bledsoe hosting the Los Angeles Lakers and Kobe Bryant at 10 p.m. Marv Albert will call the Bulls/Cavaliers game alongside analysts Grant Hill and reporter David Aldridge, while Brian Anderson will provide play-by-play for the Lakers/Suns matchup with analyst Reggie Miller and reporter Rachel Nichols. TNT’s coverage will begin at 7 p.m. with TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by AutoTrader.com.

TNT’s Sports Emmy Award-winning Inside the NBA presented by Kia with host Ernie Johnson and analysts Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal will recap the night’s action following the doubleheader.

Additionally, NBA TV will tip-off the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day game lineup with two of the best teams in the Western Conference in action when the Dallas Mavericks and Dirk Nowitzki visit the Memphis Grizzlies and Marc Gasol at 5 p.m. Coverage will begin at 4:30 p.m. with the AutoTrader.com Pregame Show hosted by Matt Winer alongside analysts Steve Smith and Brent Barry.

Live streaming coverage of all NBA on TNT games is available via www.tntdrama.com/watchtnt and the Watch TNT app.  Fans are able to access the games whenever and wherever they desire by logging in with the user name and password provided by their TV service provider. Additionally, enhanced live streaming coverage of select NBA on TNT games is available via TNT Overtime (http://www.nba.com/tntovertime/).

TNT Updates NBA Telecast Schedule

TNT has updated its upcoming NBA regular season schedule to include the Grizzlies hosting the Denver Nuggets and Ty Lawson on Thursday, Jan. 29, at 8 p.m.  The game telecast will replace the previously scheduled New York Knicks vs. Indiana Pacers matchup.  The NBA on TNT schedule over the remainder of the month:

Date	Time (ET)	Game / Commentators
Thursday, Jan. 15	8 p.m.	Oklahoma City Thunder @ Houston Rockets Marv Albert, Chris Webber, David Aldridge
	10:30 p.m.	Cleveland Cavaliers @ Los Angeles Lakers Kevin Harlan, Reggie Miller, Rachel Nichols
	Post-game	Inside the NBA presented by Kia Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith
Monday, Jan. 19	7 p.m.	TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by AutoTrader.com Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal, Smith
	7:30 p.m.	Chicago Bulls @ Cleveland Cavaliers Albert, Grant Hill, Aldridge
	10 p.m.	Los Angeles Lakers @ Phoenix Suns Brian Anderson, Miller, Nichols
	Post-game	Inside the NBA presented by Kia Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal, Smith
Thursday, Jan. 22	8 p.m.	San Antonio Spurs @ Chicago Bulls Albert, Miller, Hill, Nichols
	10:30 p.m.	Brooklyn Nets at Los Angeles Clippers Harlan, Greg Anthony, Jaime Maggio
	Post-game	Inside the NBA presented by Kia Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal, Smith
Thursday, Jan. 29	8 p.m.	Denver Nuggets @ Memphis Grizzlies Albert, Miller, Aldridge
	10:30 p.m.	Chicago Bulls @ Los Angeles Lakers Harlan, Brent Barry
	Post-game	Inside the NBA presented by Kia Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal, Smith

Turner Sports, marking its 31^st consecutive year of NBA coverage, will feature a 53-game regular-season schedule on TNT.  Additionally, TNT is the exclusive home of NBA Thursday Night doubleheaders, the NBA All-Star Weekend and more NBA Playoff games than any other network including first and second round action along with the exclusive presentation of the 2015 NBA Eastern Conference Finals.

Visit the Turner Sports online press room for additional press materials; follow Turner Sports on Twitter at @TurnerSportsPR.

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