The NBA thrives on its media-driven narratives and hot takes. While they tend to border on the extreme, they keep the season interesting. Whether it be controversial or overreaction, the era of the hot take is constantly entertaining. But, even for such a job, there are the ones who are an expert at it. And, for the past 2 decades, Charles Barkley has been at the top of that list. However, his time as a media member might end as retirement looms in the background. Can the basketball world find a suitable replacement?
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As it turns out, we might already have one.
A Charles Barkley replacement? Gilbert Arenas says nah
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During his time on the TNT booth, Charles has become the epitome of the hot-take artist. Throughout that time, he’s undisputedly become the most prominent personality the NBA has in its media ranks. Although often incorrect, he is constantly entertaining and hilarious.
via Imago NEW YORK, NY – MAY 13: (L-R) Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley appear on stage during the Turner Upfront 2015 at Madison Square Garden on May 13, 2015 in New York City.
25201_002_TW_0792.JPG (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Turner)
To find a replacement for the Chuckster, someone similarly outlandish was of the utmost importance. And, it seems like the folks at the Point Forward podcast have done just that. Both Andre Iguodala and Evan Turner think Gilbert Arenas might be the quintessential man for the job.
“You would be like the real replacement of Charles Barkley. Like, that’s just a very unique position.” But, Agent Zero viciously disagrees. “So, the problem is…When you’re talking about the youth, you’re talking about trying to get to the next level.
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Taking a direct shot, Arenas feels that the crew does not provide any real analysis to the viewer. “When you sit back and actually watch them [Charles Barkley and co.], what actual, useful information do they actually give you?”
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With some of his outlandish takes, it’s easy to imagine why Gilbert could fill Barkley’s shoes, no matter how much he may disagree.
This is a developing story.
