<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a> has yet to make his NBA season debut, having missed all five of his team’s contests due to right sciatica, which he suffered in early October. However, for Hall of Famer Charles Barkley, the injury to the league’s all-time scoring leader is irrelevant and simply a matter of the star turning 40.



In an interview on The Dan Patrick Show, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley">Barkley</a> suggested that the injury preventing LeBron from playing this season is just a common back ache that comes with old age.



“He’s just old. Everybody gets old,” Barkley said. “He says it’s sciatica. You know what that means, Dan? Yeah, I know his back hurts. All old people’s back hurt, Dan. All old people’s back hurt. You can dress it up like sciatica. You can come up with all these medical terms. LeBron is old”.



Amid this backdrop, following the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Lakers</a>‘ victory against the Timberwolves, Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported that Coach JJ Redick indicated James’ return would likely be the second or third week of November.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251101_BUS_518956_lebron-james-lakers-bench-1024x576_32ecc625.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-518961" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>LeBron James sitting on the bench in Lakers’ game vs Blazers. (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



At 40 years old, LeBron James is set to compete in his 23rd NBA season, which would make him the only player in league history to reach that milestone, breaking the tie with Vince Carter, who played 22 seasons in the league.



<h2>Austin Reaves steps up in James and Doncic’s absence</h2>


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After losing the season opener to the Warriors and winning the second game against the Timberwolves without LeBron, Luka Doncic sustained an injury that sidelined him for the next three contests. However, with both superstars out of the lineup, Austin Reaves took over as the team’s primary leader and playmaker.



Over the last three contests, the Lakers have compiled a 2-1 record. Reaves scored a career-high 51 points in the win against the Kings, followed that with 41 points in the loss to the Blazers, and finally notched 28 points, sinking the game-winner in the victory against the Timberwolves.

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Charles Barkley sends bold message to LeBron James as he downplays Lakers’ star injury - Bolavip US

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> continues to be a pivotal figure in NBA history, consistently showcasing his extraordinary talent and impact on the game. Despite his achievements, he faces criticism, with some blaming him for certain changes in the league’s structure. Notably, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Barkley</a> pointed fingers at James, attributing the second apron arrival to him. In response, a former player swiftly countered him claims by scrutinizing his Barkley’s professional career.



“I remember Charles Barkley got drafted to a team with Moses Malone, maybe Dr. J and Maurice Cheeks. Then I remember Charles Barkley going to Houston and then he teamed up with Hakeem Olajuwon and then Scottie Pippen was also there. That sounds like teaming up if I’m wrong… And now we’re talking about the second acre and exists. Did we forget our history? His own history,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/richard-jefferson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Richard Jefferson</a> said, via Road Trippin’ podcast.



While Charles Barkley has often criticized LeBron James for forming superteams, he attempted something similar by joining the Rockets in 1996 for league dominance. His effort did not succeed, but blaming LeBron solely for the creation of the second apron seems unfair. Stellar teams have long been part of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>‘s history, as seen with the Lakers during the eras of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson or the Bulls with Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.



In 2023, the NBA introduced a second salary cap “apron” to rein in soaring player salaries and promote competitive balance. If implemented earlier, it might have complicated moves like LeBron James joining the Miami Heat or Kevin Durant’s shift to the Golden State Warriors. Similar scenarios in the late 1990s, such as Charles Barkley’s move to the Houston Rockets, demonstrate that it is not solely the fault of today’s veteran superstars.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250906_BUS_486984_leBron-James-heat-1024x576_c4c269bf.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="LeBron James playing for Miami Heat" class="wp-image-477363" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat during the NBA game.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Are the current salary cap rules helping the development of NBA’s young stars?</h2>



The NBA’s new salary rules have curtailed superteams, balancing competition and benefiting some franchises. Without the ability to stack lineups with stars, teams like the San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder are investing in youth. As a result, Victor Wembanyama, Anthony Edwards, Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have emerged as league stars, a feat less feasible if superstars were easily attainable.


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Although young players have emerged as key solutions for franchises, having multiple potential superstars in the roster may not be sustainable in the future. Rising salaries could limit the team in the future, potentially forcing them to part with some stars if they fail to win championships that justify such spending. Consequently, new rules will significantly impact franchise futures despite boosting young talent.

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> have secured their future by acquiring Luka Doncic as their cornerstone for both the present and upcoming years. Although some speculated that the Slovenian star’s arrival might unsettle <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a>, the seasoned veteran has embraced him, forming a formidable offensive partnership. Nonetheless, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Hall of Famer Charles Barkley has stirred controversy with his opinion on James’ future with the franchise.



“LeBron is going to have to move on at some point. It is what it is. You know. Even though he’s been there, even though he’s been putting up good numbers, they haven’t been successful in probably four years. It’s already Luka’s team now. You don’t sign and trade for Luka Doncic, give him all that money, and it’s not his team,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Barkley</a> said, via BETMGM Network.



While LeBron James may no longer be the sole cornerstone of the Lakers, suggesting he is no longer integral to the team is quite controversial. During his brief absences in the 2024-25 season, JJ Redick’s squad noticeably struggled. The veteran remains a critical contributor on offense as the team’s second-leading scorer. Moreover, his defensive prowess and playmaking abilities continue to play a vital role in the team success.



Considering a franchise better suited to LeBron James than the Los Angeles Lakers is challenging—not because he lacks talent, but because the team has built a roster around his strengths. LeBron is vital to the franchise both athletically and as a brand icon. Even though a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers or Miami Heat might offer a compelling story, the financial commitment alongside a likely short contract makes such a move risky and improbable.



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Lakers’ GM Rob Pelinka has repeatedly expressed his desire for LeBron James to finish his illustrious NBA career with the franchise. This clearly signals that the team will not pressure the seasoned superstar into retirement. Furthermore, even with Luka Doncic’s new contract in place, the financial structure accommodates James playing for some years, should he choose to continue.


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Not only has the Lakers’ front office shown interest, but Luka Doncic himself has also expressed a strong desire to continue playing alongside LeBron James. Moreover, the NBA insider Anthony Irwin reports that both players have stayed in direct contact throughout the summer, highlighting a solid relationship that looks to be collaborative rather than competitive, without threatening either player’s position on the roster.



Considering that the Lakers are committed to retaining the veteran, both Luka Doncic and LeBron James are eyeing the 2025-26 NBA season as a prime opportunity to win the championship. With significant roster upgrades this summer, the franchise aims to clinch the coveted title. Achieving this would potentially mark the veteran’s fifth championship and bring the Slovenian star closer to securing his first MVP award.

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Charles Barkley, one of the most dominant and charismatic figures in NBA history, left a lasting mark on the game—especially during his time with the Phoenix Suns, where he was the heart and soul of the team in the 1990s. Though he never captured a championship ring, his influence on the court remains undeniable. That legacy was underscored recently when a former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston Celtics</a> champion labeled Barkley “the greatest player in history to never win a title.”



During a recent episode of the Road Trippin’ podcast, ESPN analyst and former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins named Barkley the best player ever to fall short of an NBA championship. “Charles Barkley was ahead of his time,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kendrick-perkins">Perkins</a> said. “He had that ball on a string. The handles, the stepbacks—just think about what he had to do. I think his career average was something like 22 and 11, and he did it against monsters. He was a monster himself, but I’m talking about legit seven-footers guarding him night in and night out.”



Barkley was one of the most impactful power forwards the league has ever seen. Over 16 seasons, he reached the playoffs 13 times but made it to the NBA Finals only once—where he ran into the decade’s most dominant dynasty.



<h2>Charles Barkley’s journey</h2>



Barkley is widely regarded as one of the most skilled and complete players in NBA history, even without a championship to his name. Nicknamed “Sir Charles,” he burst onto the scene in 1984 after being selected in the first round of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite standing just 6-foot-6, he made a name for himself with his relentless rebounding, elite scoring, and unorthodox ability to dominate from the power forward position.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1980" height="1080" data-id="342892" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250803_BUS_459126_kendrick-perkins_c46f56e3.webp&amp;width=1980&amp;height=1080" alt="kendrick-perkins" class="wp-image-342892" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/23192842/kendrick-perkins.jpg 1980w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/23192842/kendrick-perkins-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/23192842/kendrick-perkins-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/23192842/kendrick-perkins-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/23192842/kendrick-perkins-1536x838.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1980px) 100vw, 1980px"></figure><figcaption>Kendrick Perkins attend the Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game during the 2022 NBA All-Star Weekend at Wolstein Center on February 18, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. </figcaption></figure>
</figure>



After his time in Philadelphia, Barkley reached his peak with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phoenix-suns">Phoenix Suns</a>, who acquired him in 1992. In his first season with the Suns, he won the league MVP award and led the team to the NBA Finals, where they faced off against Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls. Barkley averaged 27.3 points and 13 rebounds per game during the series, but even that wasn’t enough to overcome a Bulls team in the middle of their historic run.


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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley">Barkley</a> later joined the Houston Rockets in the twilight of his career, teaming up with fellow stars Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler—later replaced by Scottie Pippen—in a last-ditch effort to win a title. But injuries and a lack of chemistry derailed the Rockets’ plans, and Barkley never came as close to a championship again. He retired in 2000, ringless, but far from forgotten.



Despite the absence of a title, Barkley remains a revered figure in basketball. He was an 11-time All-Star, a member of the iconic Dream Team that won Olympic gold in Barcelona in 1992, and a 2006 inductee into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. His legacy lives on not only for what he accomplished on the court, but also for his candor and influence as a broadcaster in retirement. When the conversation turns to the greatest players never to win it all, Barkley is always at the top of the list—a generational talent who came within inches of finishing his career with the ultimate prize.

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Despite boasting a talented roster, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a> fell short of making the 2025 NBA Finals, succumbing to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Many fans pointed to the roster’s lack of depth, as Nikola Jokic appeared to be the lone standout among the players. For that reason, the franchise took swift action in the offseason, actively signing new talent to bolster its lineup. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Hall of Famer Charles Barkley provided insightful analysis on these strategic moves.



“I think (the Nuggets) and the Houston Rockets have probably had the best summers (in the NBA). And (the Nuggets), they’ve got the best player in the world (in Nikola Jokic)… They just needed some more depth… (They’ve) still got the best player. You want to give them as many opportunities as possible. But I thought they had a great summer,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Barkley</a> said, via The Denver Post.



The Nuggets’ performance in the postseason was solid, but their main problem was the lack of depth in their roster. As a result, they struggled to make game-changing plays from the bench, unlike the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder. To address this issue, they made significant additions with Jonas Valanciunas, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Cameron Johnson. They also reinforced their bench by bringing in Curtis Jones, Bruce Brown, and Tamar Bates.



<h2>Denver Nuggets make smart offseason moves that boost both roster talent and payroll flexibility</h2>



To make significant changes to its roster, the franchise needed to part ways with players carrying high-value contracts. One such player was Michael Porter Jr., whose contract was valued at $38.3 million. By trading him for Cam Johnson, the Nuggets reduced their salary cap by $17 million. This strategy focused on reducing the overall team payroll, allowing the team to strengthen its lineup with more depth and flexibility.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250729_BUS_450034_GettyImages-2212665462-1-1024x576_9ca2b909.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Nikola Jokic playing with Denver Nuggets" class="wp-image-398799" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15163315/GettyImages-2212665462-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15163315/GettyImages-2212665462-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15163315/GettyImages-2212665462-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15163315/GettyImages-2212665462-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15163315/GettyImages-2212665462-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15163315/GettyImages-2212665462-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15163315/GettyImages-2212665462-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/15163315/GettyImages-2212665462-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets drives to the basket during the first quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the LA Clippers</figcaption></figure>



According to ESPN, the Denver Nuggets are projected to maintain a payroll that is $34 million below the second apron for the 2026-27 season. This strategic financial move not only reduces their salary obligations but also enhances their roster with high-impact players poised to transform games from the bench. These acquisitions hold the potential to vie for starting roles, further elevating the team’s competitive edge.


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<h2>Can the Denver Nuggets contend for another NBA title after their latest roster moves?</h2>



In contrast to the 2024-25 season, the Denver Nuggets now boast significantly more talent coming off the bench. Jonas Valanciunas will likely play a pivotal role, providing valuable minutes to rest Nikola Jokic. Also, key additions like Tim Hardaway Jr and Cam Johnson are anticipated to make substantial contributions. With these enhancements, head coach David Adelman sets his sights high, eyeing a championship run with fewer constraints compared to other franchises.

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After falling short in the 2024-25 season, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> aim to revitalize their roster. Despite losing Dorian Finney-Smith, they added Jaxson Hayes and Deandre Ayton to strengthen the center position. With these changes and the influence of JJ Redick, fans are confident in their team’s potential to clinch the 2026 championship. Nevertheless, an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Hall of Famer has weighed in with a prediction about their chances of achieving that goal.



“Well, he’s (LeBron) on the downside of his career; it’s Luka’s team going forward. But they’ve got bigger problems than those guys. They got to worry about the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Houston Rockets and the Denver Nuggets. The Lakers gonna have a good team, but everything in the West is gonna start with OKC, the Houston Rockets and Denver Nuggets,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Barkley</a> said, via Yahoo Sports.



The Los Angeles Lakers’ roster looked vulnerable against the Minnesota Timberwolves, as head coach JJ Redick made minimal substitutions, highlighting his limited trust in his rotation players. Consequently, many expected the franchise to bring in impactful players to strengthen the lineup from the bench. However, General Manager Rob Pelinka has not secured additional acquisitions, leaving NBA experts skeptical about their chances to shine on the court.



Not only have they lacked new arrivals, but also Western Conference franchises have made significant changes. For example, the Houston Rockets have kept most of their roster intact and have managed to incorporate Kevin Durant, securing an elite scorer to enhance their postseason chances. Similarly, the Nuggets have added Cam Johnson, Bruce Brown, Tim Hardaway Jr, and Jonas Valanciunas. Consequently, the Lakers seem less competitive compared to their biggest rivals.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250716_BUS_441801_lebron-james-5-1024x576_27e05e76.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Lakers&apos; star LeBron James" class="wp-image-429141" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/29142728/lebron-james-5-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/29142728/lebron-james-5-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/29142728/lebron-james-5-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/29142728/lebron-james-5-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/29142728/lebron-james-5-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/29142728/lebron-james-5-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/29142728/lebron-james-5-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/29142728/lebron-james-5.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center on March 27, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. </figcaption></figure>



Moreover, Charles Barkley has made a bold prediction about the future of the NBA, identifying the franchise he believes will dominate the league in the coming years. “They’re (<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/oklahoma-city-thunder" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oklahoma City Thunder</a>) gonna be the favorites the next three or four years. They’re young, they’re talented, they’re very well coached,” he affirmed, via Yahoo Sports.


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The Thunder may not have made any blockbuster moves heading into the 2025-26 season, but they secured long-term commitments from their key players. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren have all re-signed, positioning the team for future dominance reminiscent of the Chicago Bulls of the 1990s.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/devin-booker">Devin Booker</a> is set for a secure future, with a massive $70 million salary over the next two years—making him the record holder for the highest annual extension salary in NBA history. But Charles Barkley didn’t seem entirely thrilled about the Suns star’s new deal.



“$70 million a year… to dribble a ***** basketball,” Barkley began in classic fashion. But he also added, “God bless these guys,” recalling a time in his own career when he was making more than legends like Dr. J (Julius Erving) and Bill Russell.



To Barkley, players like Booker should be smiling all the time with paychecks like that. “…but these guys? They should be in a good mood 24/7.” With the extension, Booker now holds the highest salary among all Suns players.



<h2>What was Barkley’s highest salary as a player?</h2>



According to Spotrac, his final <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> paycheck was the largest of his playing career—$9 million for one season with the Houston Rockets in 1999. Just a year earlier, he had made only $1 million. His biggest contract overall was a five-year deal worth $18.98 million.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250714_BUS_440533_Charles-Barkley-1024x576_eb2cdc9c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Charles Barkley playing with the Sixers in 1984" class="wp-image-304868" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Charles Barkley playing with the Sixers in 1984.</figcaption></figure>



Had Barkley played deeper into the 21st century, he likely would’ve earned far more. But by the 1999 season, he was already 36 years old and in one of his final three seasons—well past his MVP-contending days.



<h2>Barkley does just fine as a broadcaster</h2>



Despite his remarks about the sky-high salaries of today’s NBA stars, Barkley reportedly earns $21 million per year as an analyst. Yahoo! Sports and Front Office Sports noted that his 10-year, $210 million contract with TNT was signed in 2022.


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Devin Booker’s $70M salary draws salty response from Charles Barkley

Devin Booker’s $70M salary draws salty response from Charles Barkley - Bolavip US

Booker’s $70M salary draws salty response from Charles Barkley

Charles Barkley was one of the NBA’s brightest stars during the 1980s and 1990s, which still gives his opinions weight today. Now, the former Phoenix Suns forward has shared his thoughts on how much money <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a> would make if he were playing in the modern NBA.



“Well, he’d be the first hundred-million-dollar player,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley">Barkley</a> said when asked about the kind of salary Jordan would command in today’s league, during an interview on The Dan Patrick Show.



To back up his take, Chuck pointed not only to MJ’s on-court talent but also to his off-court impact and the way it translated into dollars. “The three most important figures in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> history are Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Michael Jordan. There are a lot of great players, but there’s only a few guys who transcend the sport. I’ll throw Kobe (Bryant) in there, I’ll throw LeBron (James) in there, I’ll throw Steph (Curry),” said the 1993 MVP.



“Magic and Bird started the transformation, Michael Jordan took it to a whole another level. He got guys making a $100 million dollars for Nike now, and other shoe brands. That’s all Michael Jordan,” Barkley added. “When he started doing commercials, that changed everything for everybody. Because of Michael, I was making millions of dollars for wearing Nike. Nobody was doing that, nobody had a signature shoe.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250604_BUS_410702_charles-barkley-3-1024x576_ed899de9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-324469" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29195726/charles-barkley-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29195726/charles-barkley-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29195726/charles-barkley-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29195726/charles-barkley-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29195726/charles-barkley-3-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29195726/charles-barkley-3-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29195726/charles-barkley-3-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29195726/charles-barkley-3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Barkley takes aim at today’s NBA players</h2>



While discussing the kind of money Jordan might make today, Barkley also shared his thoughts on the current generation of players. “Well, first of all, we’re gonna have guys making $70-80 million in three to four years, you know. Man, bless these guys as long as they appreciate how lucky they are and don’t think they’re making all that money because they’re great players. They were just born at the right time,” Chuck said.


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“We got a bunch of great players, but man, these guys, I just hope they appreciate how lucky they are and stop this (expletive) with load management… You’re making $70 million dollars, you can’t play basketball four days a week? That’s the craziest stuff ever, man,” Barkley added.



<h2>Barkley weighs in on Michael Jordan joining NBA coverage</h2>



Just days ago, it was confirmed that Michael Jordan will be working with NBC on NBA coverage starting next season. Barkley also shared his thoughts on that move, though he seemed unsure about the role the Chicago Bulls icon will play. “I don’t know. I don’t see Michael being on television a lot. I find it hard to imagine, to be honest with you,” Charles said.



As for why NBC would pursue Jordan, the Phoenix Suns legend was blunt. “They have to do anything on their power to engage fans,” he said. Still, he was enthusiastic about the development: “I think it’s a very good thing that he’s back in the NBA landscape, knowing that he’s the greatest player in history in my eyes. I have no idea why he’s coming back, but he’s welcome.”


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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/oklahoma-city-thunder" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oklahoma City Thunder</a> and the Indiana Pacers will face off in the highly anticipated 2025 NBA Finals. The Thunder stand as clear favorites, having maintained consistent performance since the season’s start. On the other hand, the Pacers have emerged as the season’s biggest surprise, capturing the basketball world’s attention. Both teams come into the Finals with strong momentum. However, NBA legend <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Barkley</a> believes one crucial factor could decide the outcome of this series.



“The Pacers have got a good team. But OKC, they’re one of the best teams I’ve seen in a long time. They might be the deepest NBA team I’ve ever seen… That’s going to really negate the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indiana-pacers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pacers</a>‘ bench, which helped them beat the Knicks…The Thunder, they’re bringing better players off the bench than the Pacers… (Indiana) have got a terrific bench, but Oklahoma City got better bench players,” Charles Barkley said, via Dan Patrick Show.



In this postseason, franchises boasting greater depth and superior bench quality have emerged as definitive game-changers. While the Thunder enjoy a substantial edge with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP who consistently impacts games, the true strength of Mark Daigneault’s squad lies in its versatile supporting cast. Players like Alex Caruso, Isaiah Joe, and Cason Wallace possess the ability to alter the game’s trajectory decisively.



Moreover, Jalen Williams stands poised to be another pivotal factor in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Finals. Throughout the season, Williams has repeatedly demonstrated his capacity to lead the offense, even stepping up when the MVP needed to play more conservatively. His ability to shoulder the offensive load at crucial junctures solidifies his role as an indispensable asset for the Thunder.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250603_BUS_410671_OCK-Pacers-1024x559_a3302306.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="Thunder vs Pacers" class="wp-image-410049" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/02212331/OCK-Pacers-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/02212331/OCK-Pacers-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/02212331/OCK-Pacers-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/02212331/OCK-Pacers-1536x838.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/02212331/OCK-Pacers.jpg 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket around Myles Turner #33 of the Indiana Pacers during the third quarter Paycom Center on March 29, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. </figcaption></figure>



Despite entering the series as underdogs, the Indiana Pacers have proven themselves as formidable contenders. They boast impressive form and possess both the quality and bench depth to rival the Thunder. In the Conference Finals, Bennedict Mathurin and Obi Toppin delivered pivotal performances off the bench, significantly impacting the game’s outcome. For that reason, Oklahoma City cannot afford to underestimate this resilient Pacers team.


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In a press conference ahead of the Finals, Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault praised the Indiana Pacers’ development: “We have a lot of respect for them from afar…The program they’ve built, the way that they play, the identity they’ve built on the court, the way their guys play together. The whole is better than the sum of the parts with their team, which I think is the sign of a good team.”



Daigneault’s comments acknowledge the formidable challenge they face against a strong Pacers squad. Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam, in particular, stand out with their stellar postseason performances. Fans eagerly anticipate a thrilling series, expecting a competitive and entertaining showdown between these two talented teams.


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Despite not having won an NBA championship, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Barkley</a> built a legacy as one of the best players of his era. Even, he earned 11 All-Star selections and won the MVP award in the 1991 edition of the All-Star Games. Moreover, he cemented his place in the history of both the Philadelphia 76ers and the Phoenix Suns. Despite his dominance, Barkley once admitted that one player actually scared him on the court, surprisingly it was not <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a>.



“Derrick Coleman was one of the few guys that I ever said that guy scared me right there…If that guy had got his stuff together, they would have had to change the rules. That guy had it all, he could shoot 3s, he could post up, he was ambidextrous. That guy, I said, ‘Woah, this is a handful right there’,” stated Charles Barkley.



Barkley did not suggest Derrick was a dirty player. Instead, he highlighted how rare Coleman’s talent truly was. Although he stood 6-foot-10 and was able to attack the paint with power. Also, he had a smooth shooting stroke. Additionally, the former Nets star excelled on defense thanks to his elite physical capacity. He blocked shots with ease and disrupted opposing offenses. Therefore, he dominated every area of the game and became nearly impossible to contain.



Even though Coleman was special, his numbers never reached elite levels such as Michael Jordan’s impressive numbers. Throughout his career, he averaged 16.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 781 games. Still, his value could not be measured by stats alone. He affected games in ways that did not show up on the box score. His most productive years came with the New Jersey Nets. There, he averaged 20.7 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250524_BUS_404424_derrick-coleman-1024x559_b51391fa.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="Derrick Coleman playing for Philadelphia 76ers" class="wp-image-404438" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24184251/derrick-coleman-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24184251/derrick-coleman-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24184251/derrick-coleman-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24184251/derrick-coleman-1536x838.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/24184251/derrick-coleman.jpg 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Derrick Coleman #44 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives against Erick Dampier #25 of the Golden State Warriors during the game at the Arena in Oakland on November 1, 2003 in Oakland, California. The Warriors won 104-90. </figcaption></figure>



Not only did Charles praise Derrick Coleman, but former New Jersey Nets guard Kenny Anderson did the same. Anderson played with stars like Paul Pierce. However, he still named Coleman as the best player he ever shared the court with. He also offered a strong explanation to back up his claim.


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“Now these guys shooting threes, he could shoot threes, but he didn’t because it was a different type of game. Left-handed, 6’9, dunk on you, pass the ball extremely well, just was an awesome player and a good person too,” stated on The Mark Jackson Show.



Perhaps Coleman’s inconsistency after leaving the Nets hurt his image with fans. He never posted the same numbers with another team. However, he stayed relevant as a top-tier defender. He brought impressive versatility during the final years of his career. Moreover, his legacy stands out. He was one of the first big men to dominate with both size and skill. His rare mix of talent and physicality set a different standard in the league.

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Charles Barkley played most of his NBA career at the same time as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a>, and the two were also teammates on Team USA during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, so they knew each other well on the court. Based on that experience, the former power forward made an unexpected claim.



“Listen. Michael, he can’t guard me in the post. He’s too little,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley">Barkley</a> said in a recent interview on The Dan Patrick Show. “I said it to him a thousand times. ‘Little man, you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time.’”



The host immediately pointed out to Chuck that Jordan is actually taller than him (though both are officially listed at 6’6”). “He’s too little, though,” insisted the 1993 NBA MVP. “He can jump,” Patrick replied. “Yeah, he’s gonna fly. Because I’m going to hit him with my elbow, he’s going to fly,” responded the former forward.



The conversation then shifted to the opposite scenario—Barkley guarding Jordan. “I can’t guard him,” Charles admitted, before sharing a story from his playing days. “It was really funny. One time, we switched out, and I got in my defensive stance, and he just started laughing. He did. He looked at me and just started laughing. He just said, ‘Are you serious right now?’ And he actually passed the ball because he was laughing so hard.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250511_BUS_395239_Charles-Barkley-1024x576_96c8b8ce.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Charles Barkley" class="wp-image-304868" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/02104435/Charles-Barkley.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Charles Barkley playing with the Sixers in 1984.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Barkley’s picks for the best defenders in NBA history</h2>



The topic of Jordan’s defense came up in response to a recent comment from Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who called Draymond Green the best defender he’s ever seen. “Draymond is a heck of a player, he’s a really good player, he’s a really good defender… But he’s not a better than Michael (Jordan), Kobe (Bryant), Dennis Rodman,” said the former Phoenix Suns star.


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Dan Patrick then pointed out that Barkley hadn’t mentioned Scottie Pippen, claiming the Chicago Bulls legend could guard everybody. “He couldn’t guard me,” said Barkley. “They doubled me with Horace Grant. Let’s get that out the way. But I’ll agree. Scottie is a better defender than Draymond, I give him his flowers.”



<h2>Barkley felt unstoppable in his playing days</h2>



Finally, Charles Barkley shared his view on defense against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> superstars. “There is no great player who can be stopped,” he said. “You can make him work hard. But that notion that you’re gonna stop a great player, that’s insane.”



Reflecting on his own NBA career, the former forward was candid. “I never had to worry about that… I felt like I was going to get double teamed 95% of the time. I never thought that one guy could guard me,” he said. “I’m not even worried about the guy that guards me. Because I’m always looking past the defender. I don’t care who it is. I don’t care if it’s Rodman, I don’t care if it is Kevin McHale, who was a great defender, the best player I ever played against.”


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The New York Knicks shocked the NBA world by stealing the first two games of their series against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-celtics">Boston Celtics</a> on the road at TD Garden. Despite holding a 2-0 series lead, Charles Barkley delivered a strong warning to the Knicks about staying focused as the series shifts to Madison Square Garden.



The Knicks proved their resilience in both games, overcoming 20-point deficits to secure comeback victories. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley">Barkley</a> cautioned that the Knicks cannot let their guard down, emphasizing the importance of Game 3. Drawing on his own playoff experiences, the Hall of Famer described the pivotal nature of such moments.



Speaking on NBA on TNT, Barkley described Game 3 as a “must-win” for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-knicks">Knicks</a>, referencing his playoff battles with the Suns against the Lakers and Rockets.



“I’m one of the few people in the world who have been in this situation twice. We played the Lakers when we were the No. 1 seed in the West. We lost the first two games at home in a five-game series,” Barkley recalled. You got to win the third one because then the pressure switches“. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250508_BUS_394063_new-york-knicks-1024x576_02e46bf6.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-394095" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08183338/new-york-knicks-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08183338/new-york-knicks-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08183338/new-york-knicks-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08183338/new-york-knicks-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08183338/new-york-knicks-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08183338/new-york-knicks-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08183338/new-york-knicks-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/08183338/new-york-knicks.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>OG Anunoby #8 of the New York Knicks reacts against the Boston Celtics in Game Two of the Eastern Conference NBA Playoffs semifinals at TD Garden. (Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



“When we won the first 2 games in Houston. I remember telling the guys ‘We cannot go back to Houston 2-2.’ This is going to sound stupid. Game Three is a must-win for the Knicks,” he added.


 

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<h2>Barkley’s warning draws from experience</h2>



Barkley reflected on a pair of memorable playoff series to back up his claim. In the 1993 first round, his Suns dropped the first two games to the Lakers but rallied to win the series. 



Conversely, in the 1994 and 1995 semifinals against the Rockets, Barkley’s Suns jumped out to 2-0 leads after road victories but ultimately failed to close out the series, losing both in heartbreaking fashion.



<h2>Knicks make NBA history with back-to-back comebacks</h2>



The Knicks’ victories in Boston not only gave them a commanding lead but also made <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> history. New York became the first team ever to overcome 20-point deficits in back-to-back playoff games and win both.



This historic achievement gives the Knicks added confidence heading into Game 3, set to tip off Saturday, April 10, at Madison Square Garden. With a 2-0 series lead and home-court advantage, the stage is set for another electric showdown.


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NBA legend Charles Barkley issues strong warning to Knicks ahead of Game 3 against Celtics - Bolavip US

The Western Conference semifinal series between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Golden State Warriors tipped off Tuesday night at Target Center. Things didn’t go as planned for the home team, which dropped Game 1, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/anthony-edwards">Anthony Edwards</a> drew criticism from a former NBA MVP over how he played.



“First of all, you brought all this smoke, you said you wanted the smoke. ‘I want the Warriors.’ And you got them,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley">Charles Barkley</a> said of Edwards on Inside the NBA after the game. “You had 1 point at halftime. And his energy level was down.”



Barkley went on to highlight how the high profile that comes with being a star has both upsides and downsides, comparing Edwards’ situation to his own experience and that of co-host Shaquille O’Neal. “Shaq’s been in this situation, I’ve been in this situation. When you’re the man, you get all the credit, but you get all the blame. That’s the way it works,” explained the 1993 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> MVP with the Phoenix Suns.



“You can’t come out and talk all that noise and have one point. Plain and simple,” said Chuck, making it clear that in his view, Edwards’ performance didn’t live up to his superstar status.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250507_BUS_393317_Charles-Barkley-1024x576_ebb6d02b.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Charles Barkley in 2024" class="wp-image-348227" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04113200/Charles-Barkley-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04113200/Charles-Barkley-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04113200/Charles-Barkley-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04113200/Charles-Barkley-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04113200/Charles-Barkley-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04113200/Charles-Barkley-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04113200/Charles-Barkley-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04113200/Charles-Barkley.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Former NBA star Charles Barkley </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Anthony Edwards’ performance vs the Warriors</h2>



While Edwards’ numbers were surprisingly low at halftime against the Golden State Warriors, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/minnesota-timberwolves">Timberwolves</a> shooting guard improved in the second half and finished with 23 points, 14 rebounds, and 2 assists in 43 minutes on the court.


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Asked about his performance after the game, Anthony didn’t express any frustration with how he played. “I feel like I played great defense. I just couldn’t do anything on offense,” he said in the press conference. “I got everywhere I wanted to get, just couldn’t finish. I think that was the only thing. I got everything I was looking for in the first half, just couldn’t finish.”



<h2>Minnesota coach was not happy with Edwards</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/timberwolves-head-coach-delivers-strong-message-to-anthony-edwards-ahead-of-game-2-against-warriors">Despite Anthony Edwards’ comments, head coach Chris Finch delivered a strong message</a> regarding his young star. “You’re the leader of the team. You’ve got to come out and set the tone. If your shot is not going, you still have to carry the energy,” he said. “If I’ve got to talk to guys about having the right energy coming into an opening second-round game, then we’re not on the same page.”



That response earned Finch praise from Charles Barkley. “I was really impressed with coach Finch in that press conference,” said Chuck. “He called Anthony out… That to me is what coaching is about.”


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Anthony Edwards’ performance in Game 1 vs the Warriors draws criticism from former NBA MVP - Bolavip US

After a hard-fought first-round series, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/denver-nuggets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Denver Nuggets</a> opened the second round of the NBA playoffs with a statement win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1. Leading the charge was Nikola Jokic, whose impact extended far beyond the box score. His leadership and scoring presence were pivotal in the victory. As a result, former NBA player <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Barkley</a> offered high praise for the Nuggets star impressive leadership skills.



“<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nikola-jokic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jokic</a> is coaching right now. He is talking about control of that team…You’ve seen him be more animated and emotional. It’s all happened in the last month. We’ve been covering this team for years, and The Joker, we’re like, ‘He don’t ever show emotions!” But in the last month, he has been doing that. So it goes back, obviously the coach is important, but Joker is like, ‘No, no, no. This is my team. We’re gonna keep winning.’ Because he’s the one constant, and it’s great to watch, man,” stated Charles Barkley on TNT.



After the surprise dismissal of head coach Michael Malone, Nikola Jokic stepped up and took full control of the team. Instead of falling to the Los Angeles Clippers, the Nuggets rallied and pulled off an impressive comeback. Jokic has also been much more vocal than ever, embracing his role as a leader. During a second-quarter timeout, cameras caught him giving instructions as if he were the coach, showcasing his growing influence.



At the same time, Jokic continues to dominate on the court and take control of the offense. In Game 1 against the Thunder, he played 42 minutes and scored 42 points. He also grabbed 22 rebounds and added 6 assists, delivering an all-around performance. With those numbers, he clearly stood out as the best player on the floor. Statistically, he outperformed Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and set the tone for the series.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250507_BUS_392663_nikola-jokic-3-1024x559_faf90644.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="Nikola Jokic handing a ball with Denver nuggets" class="wp-image-386747" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/27174101/nikola-jokic-3-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/27174101/nikola-jokic-3-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/27174101/nikola-jokic-3-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/27174101/nikola-jokic-3-1536x838.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/27174101/nikola-jokic-3.jpg 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets brings the ball up the court during the first quarter against the Los Angeles Clippers in Game Two of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at Ball Arena on April 21, 2025 in Denver, Colorado. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Denver Nuggets got it right by naming David Adelman interim head coach</h2>



Although Nikola Jokic has taken the spotlight during the team’s postseason surge, David Adelman’s work has been equally impressive. He took over with little time before the playoffs and still guided the team to the semifinals. That alone is a major achievement, especially given the emotional pressure that came with it. Besides, his leadership helped players like Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray elevate their game.


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<h2>Nikola Jokic poised to make strong case for fourth NBA MVP award in 2025 season</h2>



Facing the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round is the best thing that could have happened to Nikola Jokic. This matchup gives him a chance to tip the scales in the MVP race. Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are the top two favorites to win the award. 



One of them will almost certainly reach the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Finals. If Jokic can shine and lead the Nuggets to another Finals appearance, he could become a two-time MVP awarded. That doesn’t mean the winner of this series will win it all, but it could shift the narrative significantly.


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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> have struggled throughout the playoffs. Steve Kerr’s team has not found the right balance between offense and defense. Jimmy Butler’s change in role has exposed the team defensively. Because of that, their overall level has fallen short of expectations. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen Curry</a> has not been at his best either scoring only three points in the first two quarters of the Game 7. Hours before that game, Former NBA player Charles Barkley shared a bold prediction on Curry’s playoff performance.



“I don’t think he’s capable of getting 50 (points)…I’m talking now, this season. This is not January or February. This is the playoffs and he is wearing down,” stated <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/charles-barkley" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charles Barkley</a> on TNT Sports. He has delivered a few strong performances. However, he has not maintained consistency throughout the playoffs. Because of that, his current form supports Barkley’s opinion.



Many fans blame Steve Kerr’s minutes management for Stephen Curry’s low form. All this because, he has played almost every game without rest. He also logged heavy minutes in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> playoffs. As a result, he looks visibly drained during games. His performance has not necessarily declined due to skill, but rather due to a lack of proper workload management, a point that has drawn increasing criticism toward Kerr.



Due to his poor performance in Game 7, Buddy Hield had to step up on offense being an essential piece in the development of the game. In addition, Draymond Green returned to give a great performance. He played a key role on both ends of the court. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250505_BUS_391166_GettyImages-2212815946-1-1024x576_30df76cd.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="stephen-curry-dissapointed" class="wp-image-389419" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/01153600/GettyImages-2212815946-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/01153600/GettyImages-2212815946-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/01153600/GettyImages-2212815946-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/01153600/GettyImages-2212815946-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/01153600/GettyImages-2212815946-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/01153600/GettyImages-2212815946-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/01153600/GettyImages-2212815946-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/01153600/GettyImages-2212815946-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors reacts during the second quarter in Game Five of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Houston Rockets</figcaption></figure>



However, the minutes load on Jimmy Butler and Stephen Curry hurt the team. Fans felt disappointed by their low output. Their poor performance came after Steve Kerr’s mismanagement of the rotation. As a result, the two offensive leaders looked worn out when it mattered most.


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<h2>Warriors head coach Steve Kerr faces criticism over handling of young talent Jonathan Kuminga</h2>



At the beginning of the season, Jonathan Kuminga seemed to have an increasingly relevant role. He averaged solid numbers and gained trust alongside Brandin Podziemski emerging as the leaders of the new generation of the franchise. However, everything changed with Jimmy Butler’s arrival. Kuminga lost playing time and slowly disappeared from the rotation.



It is difficult to second-guess Steve Kerr’s decisions as he sees the players every day. Still, the situation feels unusual. Kerr stopped relying on a young player the team had been developing. Nonetheless, Kuminga still received some minutes on some games, but he failed to make a real impact. As a result, his departure from the franchise seems more likely now.

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