All 49 Articles With friday film

The Raptors bench mob has been a large part of what has propelled them to the level of play they've been seeking for years. What exactly is it that has made this unit work so well? Contributor Ryan Nguyen explores.

The Whole is Greater than the Sum

Why Robin Lopez, Mike D'Antoni, and a game played on beaches should change the way we discuss fit — and sports in general.

Anatomy of a Play: Thunder's Hawk Set

December 6, 2017

The Thunder ran their Hawk set on 9 of their final 10 halfcourt possessions last night. Let's break it down.

Ask Ben: Weak Hand and the D-League

December 5, 2017

Where I answer: (1) Many defenses try to force players to their weak hand, but how exactly do they determine this? (2) What is the philosophy behind D-League affiliates?

Ask Ben: Halftime, Changing Play Calls, and Technology Investment

November 28, 2017

Where I answer: (1) What happens at halftime? (1) How often do teams change their visuals? (3) How advanced are the techniques and technology used by NBA front offices?

The continuing evolution of the Sixers' Hawk sets lends insight into the Sixers-Raptors series and how tactics change between rounds.

Counters and Confusion

Xs and Os battles are what make the playoffs special. A survey of some of the tactical skirmishes that have taken place so far.

Shrinking the Floor

The Nets' offense was so effective in Game 1 because of their ability to attack the rim. To bounce back, Philadelphia will have to rely more on their off ball help.

Running on Empty

November 21, 2018

One variety of pick-and-roll seems to be used with increasing frequency—and it helps illuminate the subtle tactical battles of NBA coaches.

November 19, 2018

Ben Simmons and Jimmy Butler might not mesh in a traditional way. But that doesn’t mean they can’t make their pairing work.