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TSN Basketball Analyst

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FIVE QUICK NBA THOUGHTS:

1. MASAI UJIRI (Raptors): I loved the Toronto Raptors president’s candour at his closing press conference on Tuesday. There isn’t a lot of detail he can really go into at this stage, but he fired a shot over the bow of everyone in the organization by saying that things have gotten stale and that won't be tolerated. I'm sure there will be some changes between now and July 15. I have complete faith that he'll get to the core of the issues and begin the process of adjustment.

2. KYLE LOWRY (Raptors): I read an article today from Philadelphia saying the 76ers are going to make a run at the local guy who also played collegiately at Villanova. That makes total sense in my book. Philly needs an elite veteran starting point guard and he fits the bill. GM Bryan Colangelo is a big fan of Lowry. Rumours and speculation are all part of the negotiating process. Let the off-the-court games and shenanigans begin!

3. JAMES HARDEN (Rockets): The Rockets guard was very disappointing late in the fourth quarter and in overtime of Game 5 against the Spurs. Turnovers, horrible shot selection and passive play were the norm. He's a terrific talent who has carried his team to this point. I just didn't like his body language and decisions late. He's better than that. A lot better.

4. MANU GINOBILI (Spurs): I loved his Game 5 performance against the Rockets. For a 39-year-old grizzled vet, he had enthusiasm and big-time bounce in his game with clutch buckets and a huge block of Harden late to seal the win. It’s nice to see him turn back the clock. Ginobili is one of the great competitors/winners we've seen in the league in past 25 years.

5. KELLY OLYNYK (Celtics): I find all this talk about him being a dirty player kind of amusing. Does he play hard? Sure. I look at him as more of a finesse player than anything else. Has Olynyk had a few moments that he's walked right to the line? Yes. Dirty? No. I don't see it.