‘The Core 4’ Podcast: Best First-Round Matchups

The Core 4 is back to break down who they want to see in the first round of the playoffs, Dillon Brooks’ play (and mouth) as of late, give their picks for the NBA awards, and share their list of guys they’re keeping an eye on during March Madness that could fit with the Grizzlies.

The Playoffs are approaching and in a stacked Western Conference the Grizzlies’ first-round matchup is up in the air. Few games separate every team and Memphis is still battling for the two seed. Dave and Matt agree, another matchup with the Timberwolves would be great to see. It was a battle of two young budding superstars dueling it out in the first round last year and this year the Wolves have added Mike Conley who is beloved in Memphis. Xavier isn’t ducking any smoke and wants some Golden State revenge in an early matchup.

Dillon Brooks has been making headlines by calling out various NBA stars and backing it up with solid defensive performances. But is all his talk a harmful distraction for Memphis? Going head-to-head with Draymond Green could only motivate Golden State more if they were to match up in the playoffs. One thing is for sure, Brooks has regressed back into poor offensive habits.

The C4 give their picks for this year’s NBA awards. Matt and Xavier are aligned that Jokic has done enough to win a third straight MVP but Dave thinks Joel Embiid deserves more respect. Everybody agrees Jaren is DPOY but Brook Lopez has made a great case for himself over the last few weeks. Xavier has a surprise selection for his rookie of the year.

To close out the show, the guys give their list of college players they’ll be paying close attention to during March Madness. Xavier wants one player to not even have to leave Memphis. Dave likes one of the top recruits and Matt is looking for more shooting.