The NBA In-season tournament had a lot of skeptics when it was announced. However, since then, the benefits of the structure of the tournament have resonated with players and the media alike. Especially among fans, the tournament has seen a surge in popularity, upping the stakes of an otherwise stagnant regular season.

So far, the in-season tournament can be called a success as it stood on its two primary goals: one, being more eyeballs on regular season matchups, and two, revenue generation for the league. More recently, Sir Charles Barkley came through to give props to Adam Silver, and perhaps apologize for making up his mind hastily.

Charles Barkley hails Adam Silver’s genius decision

In the most recent episode of the ‘Steam Room’, the round mound of rebound and Enrie Johnson discussed the in-season tournament. Despite initially not being pleased by the idea of it, Chucks admits to understanding the value of it now. “I have to give a shout-out to Adam Silver. I thought that this in-season tournament was the stupidest sh*t ever when it first started. I will say it’s been very entertaining; it’s worked,” said Barkley. He further added, “You know you have to give credit; you have to admit when you’re wrong. I thought it was going to be a stupid bad idea, but it’s been great. We were blessed last night to have two awesome games with the arenas going nuts.”

Chuck was referring to fanfare around the semi-finals of the in-season tournament. Last night two teams emerged as victors and the first finalists of the competition with the Eastern and Western Conference. The Los Angeles Lakers dominated the New Orleans Pelicans and The Indiana Pacers snatched the finals spot from Giannis and Dame. Now the only question that remains is who will lift the first trophy?

NBA In-season Tournament Finals: Lakers v. Pacers Preview

The NBA Cup offers a historic chance for both the LA Lakers and Pacers. Remaining undefeated throughout the 2023 NBA In-Season Tournament, both teams excelled in the group and knockout stages.

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Despite Saturday’s game not affecting the regular season standings, the historical context is rich, with the two teams having clashed 98 times before. The Lakers lead the all-time head-to-head matchup 64-34, although the recent ten encounters have resulted in a 5-5 split. With that considered, who do you think will win?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.

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