Unc, Ocho & Iso Joe react to Brunson & Knicks STORM BACK to beat Harden & Cavs + Kidd OUT | Nightcap

The New York Knicks achieved their largest playoff comeback in franchise history, overcoming a 22-point deficit against the Cavaliers. With less than eight minutes left in the fourth quarter, the Knicks had only a 0.1% chance of winning, yet they rallied to force overtime and secure a 115-104 victory.

Knicks down by as many as 22 points, 0.1% chance to win with under 8 minutes left in the 4th quarter. They won 115-104 in overtime. The Knicks used a 44-11 run over the final 7.5 minutes of the fourth quarter and overtime.

James Harden's performance was severely criticized for being 'atrocious,' particularly in the clutch. He struggled offensively and was a defensive liability, repeatedly targeted by Jalen Brunson. This performance is framed as a recurring issue in his postseason career.

Harden was 1 of 8 from three and 5 of 16 overall, with 6 turnovers. He had more turnovers than made baskets for the sixth time this playoffs. Brunson scored 11 straight points on Harden. The hosts stated Harden 'refused to summon that up' to get a stop.

The Cavaliers' collapse was attributed to playing 'not to lose' instead of 'playing to win,' a lack of defensive resistance, and Donovan Mitchell's decision to defer to a struggling James Harden in critical moments. The hosts questioned the coaching staff's adjustments.

Cleveland was playing 'not to lose versus playing to win.' They 'couldn't get a stop' when needed. Donovan Mitchell 'kept deferring to James down the stretch' despite having a good game himself. The Cavs' offensive rating was 50.6 during the Knicks' comeback run.

Jason Kidd was fired as the Dallas Mavericks head coach despite leading them to the NBA Finals. The decision was influenced by his desire for a promotion to President of Basketball Operations, his exclusion from key front office decisions (like the Luka Doncic trade and Ujiri's hiring), and a perceived need for a new direction under new management.

Kidd had 4 years/$40 million left on his contract. He wanted to be promoted to President of Basketball Operations. He was kept out of the loop on Luka Doncic's move and Ujiri's hiring. The new GM, Masai Ujiri, likely wants 'his guy' to coach.

The discussion around Kidd's firing and general NBA dynamics highlights a power struggle between players and front office/ownership. New GMs like Masai Ujiri are attempting to re-establish control and prevent players from dictating team decisions, contrasting with previous regimes where players held significant sway.

Players 'hold all the power' and 'get coaches fired.' Masai Ujiri is 'trying to run the ship a little differently,' not wanting players to 'feel like they're in control.' This approach is likened to Roger Goodell's NFL commissioner tenure.

The emergence of young, talented teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs (led by Victor Wembanyama) is seen as a significant threat to established Western Conference contenders. Their youth and hunger necessitate major roster changes for other teams to compete.

OKC and San Antonio are 'too young and too hungry.' Wembanyama is described as a 'baby Wilt Chamberlain' who will be 'hell over the next 10-15 years.' The hosts believe 'status quo ain't going to cut it' for other teams.