April 23, 2026 | Edition #212
👋 {{readername | Hey NBA Fans}}
A lot happened last night. Phoenix’s Devin Booker was livid after a head-scratching decision mid-game and didn’t hesitate in speaking his mind. Despite the Thunder being on the front foot now, it won’t take long for that to flip as two fitness scares loom. Elsewhere, discussions around Steve Kerr’s successor continue.
Let’s tip things off…
Today’s Headline 🏀
Booker didn’t hold back after the Thunder game, voicing some serious concerns against the league.
Must-Reads ⛹️♂️
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OKC Head Coach Confirms Jalen Williams' Injury While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Also Faces Injury Trouble
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Adam Silver Sends Clear Message After LeBron James, Draymond Green’s Demand to Move Grizzlies
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EssentiallyDunk Originals 🔏
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Originals: How Nikola Jokic's Nuggets Can Crack Timberwolves' Gobert–McDaniels Defensive Duo?
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Alley-oop 🤝🏻
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Fan Zone 📣
Last Poll Result: The majority of you voted on which timezone you reside in. (ET) Eastern Time got the most votes, exceeding 35%. Central Time (CT) and Pacific Time (PT) came second and third, respectively. We also received mentions of a few other zones, and we’ll look to incorporate all those responses and bring you the best!
Play of the Day ▶️
Ausar Thompson, creating the opportunity after a swift steal mid-court, eases himself into the paint to smash the ball home in the third quarter.
NBA Playoffs ⚔️
Cade Cunningham finally had the help he needed against Orlando. Alongside his 27 points, 11 assists, and six rebounds contribution, five Pistons teammates also scored in double figures. Jalen Suggs scored 19, and Paolo Banchero had 18 for the Magic, but they also combined to miss 21 of 35 shots as the team shot only 33%.
SGA had 37 points and nine assists as OKC won their second straight game in the series. However, Jalen Williams left the game in the third quarter with a left hamstring injury. But the Thunder had already pushed the lead to 26 early in the fourth. On the other hand, Dillon Brooks led the Suns with 30 points, but it wasn’t enough.
Thank you for reading the latest edition of Essentially Dunk. As always, we appreciate your honest feedback. So please tell us…