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TSN Basketball Analyst

Archive

1. DEMAR DEROZAN (Raptors): Have faith Raptors fans. Yes, he has struggled with his game in the first two playoff games, but I'm confident he'll figure it out. From my viewpoint (and this isn't a knock on the referees), some of the contact and non-calls in the series so far have resembled the way NBA basketball was officiated back in the 80s and 90s. It’s not what you expect to see in the 2016 version of the game. DeRozan has to be able to adjust to it and handle it. Those calls that put you on the line in the regular season don’t always get made in the playoffs. You must go to the basket with relentless, empathic force and take on all comers. That’s what it takes to get baskets and get to the free-throw line at this time of the year. DeRozan is a terrific player and, more importantly, a very smart one. He'll watch video, prepare, chat with his coaches and figure it all out. He does a nice job moving without the ball and needs to trust that the ball will find him in good spots if he puts the necessary work in to be ready. DeRozan has to settle down, slow down and trust his instincts. He has to read the Pacers’ defence and take what it gives him. DeRozan is one of the best in the game, so this is no time for self-doubt. He should have total belief based upon his extensive preparation. If he pays that price success will come. You can't keep a good man down.

2. TIMBERWOLVES COACHING SEARCH: The Timberwolves are talking to two top-notch candidates in Jeff Van Gundy and Tom Thibodeau for the combined position of president of basketball operations and head coach. Either guy would be terrific for the franchise. I've known both a long time and have the utmost respect for them as coaches. Both would do an outstanding job with that organization, showing the players on that talented young team the light as they enter a new phase of their development.                

3. SHAUN LIVINGSTON (Warriors): I’ve always been a huge fan of his. It was nice to see him have a good outing, filling in for the injured Steph Curry on Monday night with 16 points and six assists. He's battled through career-threatening injury and persevered to become a productive player on the defending world champions. Livingston guards you, is a team-first guy and makes the plays to help teammates shine. Good for him.

4. KENNY ATKINSON (Nets): Atkinson has been hired as head coach by general manager Sean Marks to see his organization through some difficult days ahead due to their lack of draft picks and salary-cap situation. The current Atlanta Hawks assistant coach (he will stay on through the end of the playoffs) is a top-flight teacher who has paid his dues in the game. He is ready to take on the challenge of a team that needs a patient voice who holds people accountable in an environment of player development. Good hire by the Nets.

5. KEVIN DURANT AND RUSSELL WESTBROOK (Thunder): Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan caught a lot of flak from Raptors’ fans for their 12-32 shooting performance in Game 1 versus the Pacers. I think Thunder fans would be thrilled with those numbers from their two stars, who combined for an abysmal 15-55 in Game 2 against the Dallas Mavericks. These guys are two of the very best on the planet and it happened to them. I have no doubt that they'll be just fine. The sky isn't falling. Watch out for a ticked off Durant and Westbrook for Game 3 in Dallas!