Top 5 NBA Duos, Trae Young's Contract, and More | The Ringer NBA Show

NBA Duo Rankings and Criteria

• The hosts discuss their criteria for ranking NBA duos, including combined talent, fit, durability, offensive and defensive compatibility, and self-sufficiency.
• They also touch upon historical NBA duos, identifying two archetypes: the guard/big man (e.g., Shaq & Kobe, Stockton & Malone) and the wing/wing (e.g., Jordan & Pippen).

Trae Young's Contract Situation

• The discussion touches on Trae Young's reported disappointment with the Atlanta Hawks regarding a contract extension.
• The hosts note the increasing complexity of contract decisions in the NBA's 'second apron' era, where teams must carefully assess max extensions for star players.
• De'Aaron Fox's recent max extension with the Spurs is mentioned as a potential benchmark that might influence the Hawks' approach to Young's situation.

Top 5 NBA Duos Revealed

• Number 5: Jaylen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns are ranked for their offensive potential, despite defensive concerns.
• Honorable Mentions: Luka Dončić and LeBron James are discussed, with their compatibility and LeBron's uncertain future with the Lakers being key factors.
• Number 4: Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley are highlighted for their strong on-court performance and potential, though their long-term fit and defensive capabilities are debated.
• Number 3: Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox are projected as a future dominant duo, with Wembanyama's anticipated league impact being a major factor.
• Number 2: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams are praised for their two-way play, youth, and championship pedigree, making them a clear top-tier pairing.
• Number 1: Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray are identified as the undisputed best duo, owing to their offensive synergy, self-sufficiency, and championship success.

Honorable Mentions and Future Outlook

• Several other duos like Kawhi Leonard & James Harden, Anthony Edwards & Rudy Gobert, and Giannis Antetokounmpo & Brook Lopez (referred to as 'Giannis & Sadness') were mentioned as honorable mentions.
• The hosts also briefly discuss the potential of Tatum & Brown and the Orlando Magic's young core.
• The conversation concludes with predictions for the upcoming NBA season, with Denver Nuggets favored to contend.