The Hot Hand Theory Podcast Xavier Justin and Geoff Rasmussen

On the second part of the twenty-seventh episode of the Hot Hand Theory Podcast, XJ and Geoff explore how the acquisition of Paul George gives the 76ers a uniquely synergistic Big 3, enhancing their championship prospects. They also highlight how the Raptors' signings of Quickley and Barnes set up a bright future for Toronto. The discussion then shifts to the Pelicans, analyzing why they're just one move away from pushing into the upper echelon of contenders. Finally, they delve into the Mavericks' offseason moves, debating why the team got better on paper but paradoxically might end up doing worse.

On the twenty-seventh episode of the Hot Hand Theory Podcast, Geoff and XJ are back to tackle a crucial question for Knicks fans: Is adding Mikal Bridges enough to make the Knicks title favorites despite losing Isaiah Hartenstein? The duo dive into how Bridges' utilization by the coaching staff will determine his and the team's ceiling. They also debate whether the Oklahoma City Thunder should be the title favorites in the NBA and discuss the impact of Paul George on the 76ers' prospects in the East. Tune in for a compelling analysis as Geoff and XJ deep dive into data to unpack some of the looming questions around the big off-season changes.

On the twenty-sixth episode of the Hot Hand Theory Podcast, XJ and Geoff recap the Knicks' heartbreaking seven-game series loss to the Pacers. The duo evaluates whether Thibs is the right coach to lead the Knicks to a championship, debating whether his tendency to focus on short-term success might come at the expense of the team's championship aspirations. They then discuss the Knicks' next moves to go from contender to title favorites, pondering if there's a single-player acquisition that could make all the difference. Join us for an in-depth analysis of the Knicks' current state and future prospects.

On the twenty-fifth episode of the Hot Hand Theory Podcast, Geoff and XJ dive into the Knicks' recent domination of the Pacers leaving them one win away from the Eastern Conference Finals. The duo dives deep into the critical role of spacing in the Knicks' offense, highlighting the biggest strategic adjustment made by Thibs and the coaching staff to propel them to a critical Game 5 victory. The two then discuss the Pacers' short- and long-term future and explain why the Siakam trade may have put a hard cap on their ceiling. Next, they break down Isaiah Hartenstein's unreal performance and explain how his rebounding dominance helped dictate the game. Finally, XJ and Geoff touch on the reports around the Knicks looking to extend Thibs and debate whether he is the right coach to lead the Knicks to a championship.

On the twenty-fourth episode of the Hot Hand Theory Podcast, XJ and Geoff are back to uncover some underrated aspects of the Knicks-Pacers playoff matchup! The duo begins by dissecting the key lessons the Knicks should have learned from their hard-fought series against the 76ers, exploring how these insights could influence their approach against the Pacers. They then delve into a surprising revelation about the key driver of the Pacers' offensive effectiveness, discussing potential strategies for the Knicks to counter it. Finally, XJ and Geoff tackle the controversial debate between Brunson and Haliburton, analyzing the distinct strengths of these two elite point guards.

Tune in for unique insights and predictions on this highly anticipated playoff matchup!

On the twenty-third episode of the Hot Hand Theory Podcast, Geoff and XJ are joined by Knicks Twitter LEGEND, Shaun Geddes! Together, the three give an in-depth recap of the Knicks' incredible 50-win season. They also unpack the standout performance of Jalen Brunson and debate his surprisingly strong candidacy for MVP. Finally, the trio delves into the Knicks' potential first-round playoff matchups, breaking down the strategic nuances of facing either the Miami Heat or the Philadelphia 76ers. Listen in as Shaun, Geoff, and XJ analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the Heat and Sixers and share why they think the Knicks will make a run to the Eastern Conference Finals. Don't miss this must-listen episode!

NOTE: We apologize for XJ's audio in this episode. The audio was mistakenly recorded to the webcam mic. Thank you for bearing with us, we strongly believe the content of this one is worth it!