‘The Core 4’ Podcast: Memphis is Peaking at the Right Time

In this week’s Core 4, the guys break down the X’s and O’s of how they have overcome some of their most significant weaknesses, give their ideal playoff rotations, rank the NBA’s championship contenders, and give out some awards.

In Xavier’s X’s and O’s, he looks at how the Grizzlies have become a better fourth-quarter team when they struggled to put teams away in January. Dave praises the shooting improvement thanks to the addition of Luke Kennard. Matt takes a close look at the current winning streak.

The C4 Boys Embrace Debate about who they trust in a playoff rotation. Matt and Dave like a shorter rotation but injuries could force Coach Taylor Jenkins to rely heavily on his bench. Xavier breaks down what will be needed from a lineup if Memphis and Minnesota have a rematch in the first round.

The College Football Playoff Committee has released its latest NBA Title Contender Rankings. Matt and Dave have the same four teams with some differences in order. Xavier has to break the tie to solidify this week’s rankings. One thing is for sure, Milwaukee has separated from the pack.

To close the show, the guys give out some awards at the Trophy Case. Jaren Jackson Jr. walks away with a stash of awards after taking his game to the next level during Ja Morant’s absence.