Evaluating the defense awards, Jayson Tatum check-in + Derik Queen joins the show

We have a jam-packed episode of The Dunker Spot coming your way!

Nekias Duncan and Steve Jones have a broader discussion about the Defensive Player of the Year and All-Defensive team races. They discuss what they’re evaluating, how they weigh different types of defenders and the value of their responsibilities, what statistics they find useful, and a PSA to always, always #WatchTheTape.

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From there, the guys check in on Jayson Tatum ahead of a potential Finals preview between the Celtics and Thunder. They talk about his growing fit within the offense, growth areas they’re keeping an eye on (OTD shooting, drive, lower-body power generation), and have a mini-debate about the Celtics potentially tweaking his usage to aid his comfort in the offense.

Next, Nekias asks Steve about a couple of end-of-game defensive mishaps that led to game-winning baskets — Amen Thompson’s putback against the Heat, and Luke Kennard’s three against the Magic — to see where he thought blame, if any, should go.

Finally, New Orleans Pelicans rookie Derik Queen joins the show! In a wide-ranging conversation, the trio talks about Queen’s basketball journey, his stacked Montverde team, adjusting to the Pelicans vs. his teammates adjusting to him, the Baltimore Ravens’ offseason and more!

If you ever have NBA or WNBA questions, email us at [email protected].

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3:58 Defensive award discussion
35:38 Checking in on Jayson Tatum
49:28 What went wrong: Amen Thompson’s game-winner
52:26 What went wrong: Luke Kennard’s game-winner
56:22 Derik Queen interview

Mar 23, 2026; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) defends San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) during the first half at Kaseya Center. Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

(Jim Rassol)

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/nba/article/evaluating-the-defense-awards-jayson-tatum-check-in–derik-queen-joins-the-show-183000697.html

Author : Nekias Duncan,Steve Jones

Publish date : 2026-03-24 18:30:00

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