Isiah Thomas Delivers Surprising “Bad Boy Pistons” Hot Take

Isiah Thomas ran the ship for one of the most iconic NBA teams of the 80s. The Detroit Pistons made their mark on the league with an attitude no one could duplicate. The physicality and talent of the “Bad Boy” Pistons were significant enough to earn the team two NBA Championships. Sadly, when discussing the greatest teams in league history, the Pistons are often forgotten. The franchise earned its back-to-back titles at a time when the league was having a changing of the guard. Thomas recently spoke about the Pistons’ place in NBA history.

During an interview on All The Smoke, Thomas told show hosts Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson his feelings on the issue. Thomas stated, “What I would say, who’s been the most impactful team on the NBA, it’s the Detroit Pistons. When you look at our style of play, pick-and-roll basketball, stretch 5 in Laimbeer, small guards, you know, shooting from the perimeter. We didn’t have a post-up player. The way we influenced the game, little guys like myself, we weren’t supposed to win championships.”

Isiah Thomas Claims Pistons Are Most Influential Team

The term dynasty is for the elite. For most, the elite are franchises that have won three or more titles. The Pistons technically do not fit that description. However, it would be hard to tell the story of the NBA without mentioning the 89-90 Pistons. Those teams could arguably be the biggest adversaries to Michael Jordan’s legacy. The ‘Bad Boys’ are the reason Jordan potentially doesn’t have more than six rings. There’s a reason Jordan has noticeably had disdain for Thomas after all these years.

The Pistons were a problem for the entire league during that era. Unfortunately, their success is sandwiched between two iconic eras. However, if you’re old enough to remember or even read up on NBA history. You’ll know how important Isiah Thomas and the Detroit Pistons truly are. Thomas should be proud of his time with the Pistons and what they accomplished. A franchise that was built by toughness and pure talent. For more on the latest stories from the NBA, stay locked in here at HNHH.

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Lonzo Ball Breaks Silence On Latest Injury Update

Lonzo Ball has gone through some serious injury issues over the last year and some change. Firstly, Ball was hit with the injury bug back in January of 2022. He hurt his knee and needed to get surgery. Unfortunately, the surgery didn’t help much as Ball was still in pain. Even at the start of the season, Lonzo had not shown signs of improvement. Consequently, he went out and got himself a second surgery. However, even that hasn’t helped. Ball is still in pain, and he cannot run or jump.

This has shocked doctors, and it has subsequently led to quite a few consultations across the country. On Thursday, it was revealed that Ball will actually get a third surgery. In fact, this will be a cartilage transplant, which is a pretty rare procedure. Needless to say, doctors just want to get to the bottom of all of this. Luckily, Ball and the Bulls or confident that this procedure will finally solve all of his issues.

Lonzo Ball Speaks

Lonzo Ball #2 of the Chicago Bulls watches from the bench as teammates take on the Milwaukee Bucks at the United Center on April 05, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bucks defeated the Bulls 127-106. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

“This has been a frustrating process, but I’m confident these next steps are the best path forward,” Ball said. “The support of my family, friends, fans and medical staff throughout my recovery is what keeps me moving forward. I can’t wait to get back to what I love doing most – playing basketball.” Unfortunately, it should be noted that Ball will have to miss a whole other season of basketball. He will likely have to return for the 2024-25 season.

Overall, it is a very unfortunate situation for all involved, especially Lonzo. We just hope that he is able to get his body right, as he deserves to have an opportunity in the league. It’s been tough to watch, and we’re sure Bulls fans have been going through it. Let us know what you think of Ball’s comments, down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the sports world.

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Lonzo Ball Could Miss Another Season Due To Third Surgery

Lonzo Ball was blossoming into one of the best point guards in the entire NBA. Although this might be a bit much, he was definitely one of the most versatile. He could pass the ball well, he was an elite defender, and his three-point shot was finally getting good. However, at the beginning of 2022, he ran into some issues with his knee. He had surgery for the issue, but shockingly, he never got better. In fact, his knee continued to hurt him and he was unable to do any physical activity.

Subsequently, he continued to consult with doctors. This led him to the decision that he needed to get a second surgery. Following this surgery, things still didn’t get any better for Lonzo. It was a stunning turn of events that confused doctors around the country. According to Tristan Thompson, Ball’s doctors had no idea what was going on. There was even a time when it seemed like Lonzo had an injury that was the first of its kind. Overall, one can imagine just how confusing this has all been for him.

Lonzo Ball Wants To Get Right

Now, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Lonzo Ball is going to get a third surgery on his knee. No, you are not reading that incorrectly. The Bulls’ point guard will now get a third surgery. However, there actually seems to be quite a bit of optimism about this. They think this could bring Ball back into the game. Although, the catch is that he will likely have to miss a whole other year of basketball. It is a brutal situation, but it is a necessary evil when you consider all that Lonzo has been through.

At this point, fans just want Lonzo to be okay. They are hoping that he will be able to come back to the game he loves at some point. It’s hard to watch a player go through something like that, and hopefully, his third surgery is a success. Let us know what you think of this ongoing situation, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the sports world.

SOURCE SPORTS: Don C Teams with Klarna to Present New Sneakers to Benny the Bull

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Benny the Bull, the enduring mascot of the Chicago Bulls, received a pair of brand-new sneakers from Klarna on Friday, March 3, in collaboration with internationally known designer and artist Don C.

The sneakers were created by Don C and Klarna and were inspired by the team’s 2023 City Edition Uniform. They have a rust color that is reminiscent of Chicago’s bridges and hot pink accents that match Klarna’s pink logo.

“For a kid from Chicago that grew up going to Bulls games with my dad, it’s an honor to be able to design a pair of shoes for the iconic Benny the Bull,” shared Don C. “Even beyond that, I am inspired by the opportunity to work with Klarna to connect fans just like me all around the world with this beloved team through fashion.” 

Limited-edition Just Don Courtside Hi basketball shoes were released exclusively through the Klarna app and are now available at www.klarna.com/us/justdon for $460.

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Speaking with The Source, Megan Gokey, Head of B2C Marketing & Brand Partnerships for Klarna, details the partnership, the Just Don collection, and more.

Klarna has activated in the United Center, specifically with merch. How has the response from fans been, and are there any additional components on the way that we haven’t seen yet?

Fan response has been overwhelmingly positive. We are always looking for ways to make a fan’s experience smoother and have found that the community has responded to our innovative tactics. Not only are they eager to get the new merch we collaborate on, but they are also leaning into shopping smarter with our Klarna Smoooth Delivery in-seat shopping experience that allows them to purchase Bulls merch, split the cost into four interest-free payments, and get it delivered directly to their seat, so they don’t miss a moment of the game.

In an executive role, how have you felt about the partnership with the Bulls so far?

We’re now in our second year of Klarna’s partnership with the Bulls and we’re really taking the fan experience to the next level. We are continuing to challenge ourselves to deliver something truly extra to the fans in an effort to bring them closer to the game and athletes they love through unique in-arena experiences like designing and unveiling the limited edition Don C Benny the Bull shoes, delivering a new in-seat shopping experience and introducing shoppable content such as the exclusive Just Don sneakers inspired by the design for Benny.

There are so many integral features to the Bulls – including players, personnel, and announcers. What made Benny the Bull the person to wear this sneaker?

Benny is beloved by everyone, from fans to players. He is such an integral part of the Bulls, both on game day and on social media.This is our second consecutive year partnering with a Chicago artist and designer on new shoes for Benny and it’s a tradition we hope will continue as everyone needs to upgrade their kicks after a while!

The Just Don sneaker was a Klarna exclusive – will additional items be solely available on the platform?

We are constantly looking to bring moments and offerings that will create the best and smoothest experience for fans – including new merch – to fans in-arena and outside. Previously, we worked with Zach LaVine to put together collections of his game-day essentials that fans could easily shop on the Klarna app.

There is basketball family synergy here between your team, the Bulls, and Don C. How hard was it to collaborate across all entities for this specific campaign?

Not hard at all. Especially having Don C on board as Creative Strategy and Design Advisor for the Bulls, it made working together pretty seamless throughout the design process.

What is your favorite component of Benny’s sneakers?

I love how the passion for the team and the city of Chicago really shines through in Benny’s sneakers. The rust coloring is reflective of downtown Chicago’s bridges, and of course, I love to see the hot pink of Klarna in there as well.

As we are heading into this stretch run – what do you hope to see from the Chicago Bulls? and do you have any predictions?

Like all Bulls fans in Chicago and around the world, we’re going to support the team every game. Bulls fans are some of the best in all of sports, and we’re thrilled to be a part of helping them cheer on their team.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Don C Teams with Klarna to Present New Sneakers to Benny the Bull appeared first on The Source.

SOURCE SPORTS: Patrick Beverley Suggests He Asked for a Trade From Lakers

Patrick Beverley Aims to Keep Lakers Out of Playoffs in Forthcoming Battles with Bulls

Patrick Beverley is opening up more about his time with the Lakers. Returning to The Pat Bev Podcast, the point guard revealed that he was the one who wanted out of Los Angeles and not the other way around.

“To some people, it could be that Pat Bev got traded when all reality, I didn’t like what was going on, and let’s find a better home for me. Not so, that he ain’t good enough, let’s get rid of him. All that shit was my decision. So, you gotta think, I’m making the decision, it was my decision, they honored my request, but at the same time, I’m sitting here without a home.”

Patrick Beverley is now a Chicago Bull. After a stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, Pat Bev joins his hometown squad and now has a new goal: “Beat LA.”

The Bulls have two games against the Lakers still coming this season, and they are on back-to-back nights. The Bulls are like the Lakers and attempting to push into the playoffs. For the Lakers, Beverley wants to be the reason they fail.

“Knock them out the playoffs,” Beverley said on the Pat Bev Podcast.

The Bulls visit Staples Center on March 26, and the Lake Show comes to Chicago on March 29.

For a focus on his team, Beverley is looking to amplify the talent on the roster. “You know me, I’m going to be on Zach LaVine ass. I’m going to give him all the energy he needs. Destroy people. Me and DeMar DeRozan, we good.”

Patrick Beverley will make his Bulls debut on Friday when the new-look Brooklyn Nets come to town.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Patrick Beverley Suggests He Asked for a Trade From Lakers appeared first on The Source.

SOURCE SPORTS: Patrick Beverley Aims to Keep Lakers Out of Playoffs in Forthcoming Battles with Bulls

Patrick Beverley Aims to Keep Lakers Out of Playoffs in Forthcoming Battles with Bulls

Patrick Beverley is now a Chicago Bull. After a stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, Pat Bev joins his hometown squad and now has a new goal: “Beat LA.”

The Bulls have two games against the Lakers still coming this season, and they are on back-to-back nights. The Bulls are like the Lakers and attempting to push into the playoffs. For the Lakers, Beverley wants to be the reason they fail.

“Knock them out the playoffs,” Beverley said on the Pat Bev Podcast.

The Bulls visit Staples Center on March 26, and the Lake Show comes to Chicago on March 29.

For a focus on his team, Beverley is looking to amplify the talent on the roster. “You know me, I’m going to be on Zach LaVine ass. I’m going to give him all the energy he needs. Destroy people. Me and DeMar DeRozan, we good.”

Patrick Beverley will make his Bulls debut on Friday when the new-look Brooklyn Nets come to town.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Patrick Beverley Aims to Keep Lakers Out of Playoffs in Forthcoming Battles with Bulls appeared first on The Source.

Tristan Thompson Provides Sobering Update On Lonzo Ball’s Injury

If you are a Chicago Bulls fan, then you are certainly worried about the health of none other than Lonzo Ball. Ball is someone who was a huge contributor to the team last year. Overall, the Bulls were at the top of the Eastern Conference standings, and they were looking like true contenders. However, Lonzo eventually went down with a knee injury, and it became a massive issue for the Bulls. They immediately regressed, all while Ball began a rehab process that has turned into a complete disaster.

Months after his first surgery, it was revealed that Lonzo was still feeling pretty awful. According to reports, the point guard was not getting better at a rate that made sense. Consequently, the team opted to give Lonzo yet another surgery. However, this didn’t help either. Ball still can’t run or jump, and the team has shut him down for the remainder of the season. It’s a sobering development that is hard to fathom. Overall, Lonzo’s condition remains a mystery, and it seems like even the doctors themselves are confused.

Critical Lonzo Update

According to reporter Daniel Greenberg, Tristan Thompson had an update about Ball on ESPN. Essentially, Thompson spoke with Lonzo’s agent and got a very interesting response. In his report, Thompson revealed that Ball has gone all across the country to speak with doctors. Pretty well every single doctor has been stunned by his condition. They even say it is a “unique injury that they have never seen before.” This is very scary stuff for both Lonzo and the Bulls organization. At this point, there is no telling if and when he will come back. It’s unfortunate, and it’s hard not to feel empathy for Lonzo.

Typically, injuries are things that doctors have seen before. If a guy tears his ACL or tears his Achilles, it becomes clear what needs to be done. For Ball, however, there is no telling what the cure for him might be. Hopefully, he is able to figure it out soon. This is a developing story, so stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the NBA world.

Ball Highlights

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Patrick Beverley Sends Warning To The Lakers

Patrick Beverley started the season on the Los Angeles Lakers. Initially, fans were very excited to have him on the team thanks to his toughness and defense. However, he was unable to live up to some of the expectations. Moreover, with the Lakers floundering in the Western Conference, it became clear that the team just needed to move on. Consequently, the team shopped him around at the deadline. The Orlando Magic eventually took him in, all while giving up Mo Bamba. Subsequently, Beverley was bought out and became a free agent this week.

In the end, Beverley decided to go and sign with the Chicago Bulls. There were a couple of teams that were considering Beverley. Ultimately, he had the last choice and went with the Bulls. During an episode of his podcast, Pat Bev stated that he considered the Golden State Warriors. However, he chose the Bulls because it is his hometown. Moreover, he felt as though he had a better chance of making a playoff run. Simply put, Beverley is locked in and is ready to get his new team into the postseason.

Patrick Beverley Speaks

Hilariously, Beverley has a side mission in all of this. While speaking on the latest episode of his show, Pat Bev has made it clear that he wants to keep the Lakers out of the playoffs. The Bulls have two more games against the Lakers before the end of the season, and the point guard is already circling those two dates. “Oh, we play the Lakers twice,” Beverley said. “[I want to] knock ’em out the playoffs. … Yeah, we got to get in the playoffs so excuse us. Like, a little scooch.”

The Lakers are a team that needs to win at least two-thirds of its remaining games in order to make it to the postseason. This is definitely a lot easier said than done, however, the new-look Lakers could definitely get it done. As for Beverley’s Bulls, it remains to be seen how good they will really be. After all, the Bulls are a team that has struggled this season. Only time will tell how this all plays out.

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Patrick Beverley Finds A New NBA Home

Patrick Beverley is one of those players in the NBA that you hate to play against, but love to have on your team. Overall, he is a gritty player that is known for his defense. While he won’t put up incredible offensive numbers, he will still make his presence felt, night in and night out. However, his time with the Los Angeles Lakers this season saw a bit of a regression. Although this could be attributed to that disjointed roster, there is no doubt that the Lakers felt like they could get better. Consequently, this led to a trade that brought Mo Bamba to Los Angeles.

Subsequently, the Orlando Magic decided that they would prefer to buy out Beverley’s deal. This was an expected move that would ultimately turn Beverley into a free agent. With Beverley on the market, there were plenty of teams looking to sign him. One such team was none other than the Chicago Bulls. The Bulls are his hometown team, and it would have made sense for him to go there. In the end, that is exactly what he did as it was announced that the Bulls were officially signing him.

Patrick Beverley Chooses His Team

Interestingly enough, Beverley revealed that there was a second team vying for his services. That team was none other than the Golden State Warriors. Overall, the Warriors are a team that could use some help, and Beverley is among those that could aid the squad. However, as he explained on his podcast, he felt like it was a smarter move to head to Chicago. “It was between Golden State and the Bulls…I figured I make a playoff push with the Bulls right now. The East kinda weak,” Beverley explained.

The Chicago Bulls aren’t in a great position to contend right now. After all, the East boasts teams like the Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, and the Philadelphia 76ers. Although, Beverley seems to have a ton of confidence in his new roster. Only time will tell whether or not this Bulls team can pull it together in time for the postseason. Let us know what you think of the move, in the comments below.

Headed Back Home

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Russell Westbrook Talking With These Teams

Russell Westbrook is one of the most talked about point guards in the entire NBA. Unfortunately for Westbrook, this isn’t always for the best reasons. During his last few years with the Lakers, he has not been great. Overall, there is this narrative surrounding him that is fairly negative. People aren’t rocking with him the way they used to, and no one knows whether he can still be effective in the league. Subsequently, his future is truly up in the air.

As it stands, Westbrook is playing for the Utah Jazz. For now, however, the team is simply sitting him until further notice. While the team has stated that they could very well keep him, they would rather buy him out, allowing him to go as he pleases. Although, some reporters like Shams Charania believe there is no market for Russ. That said, it is clear that some teams are actually very interested.

Russell Westbrook Future

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the game against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 02, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, Russ is currently engaged in conversations with four teams. These squads are the Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, and even the Washington Wizards. Overall, there is only one real title contender here, and that’s the Clippers. Although, there is no real guarantee that this Clippers team goes anywhere considering their injury history. Either way, players like Paul George want to see Russ join the roster, which is a point in the point guard’s favor. No matter what, it is clear that this is going to be an interesting few weeks for Westbrook.

Hopefully, he is able to find an NBA home that truly wants him. We’re sure these past few weeks have been difficult for him and his family. It is clear that Russ can still play at a high level. Overall, he just needs a chance to showcase that. Having said this, let us know where you think Russ should play next, in the comments down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from the NBA.

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