As we move into the second half of the NBA regular season, plenty of notable stories have generated intrigue from around the league. Significantly, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards will miss at least two weeks with a strained hamstring. This setback occurred at a manageable point in the Timberwolves’ schedule, allowing the team some leeway as they navigate the early season. While other teams are watching the former studs continue to dominate. Meanwhile, other athletes are shaking off rust from injuries that might not impact their results much longer.
Besides Edwards’ injury, it’s that teams are recalibrating their strategies at every turn with so many players on the move or now suddenly healthy. The Memphis Grizzlies even created a PR blitz to show they’re not overusing Steven Adams. He played 31 minutes combined in the season’s first two games. Further, there appears to be a realization that his minutes must be managed to allow him to remain as effective as he’s been through the early season stretch.
Timberwolves Struggle with Injuries
Much like the Minnesota Timberwolves, they’re running into some early season obstacles. Read more about how Edwards is expected to miss at least two weeks with a left hamstring injury. His absence brings into question how willing the team will be to adapt. Edwards has emerged as a key playmaker, having even more of an effect on their absence.
Even with this setback, the timing of the injury might end up being advantageous to the Timberwolves. Head coach Chris Finch thinks the schedule coming up is very doable. Second, it provides the team an opportunity to retune and find creative new solutions to bridge the gap.
Now without Edwards, it’ll be on others to pick up the slack. The team has proven resilience over the last few years, and that would give the Tigers a chance to stay competitive while he recovers.
Rising Stars and Impressive Performances
These four players indeed set the stage with their breakout performances to start this season. Cedric Coward is certainly taking the world by storm! He ended up tying for the second-most made three-pointers by a rookie without a miss, going 6-of-6 from deep. His shooting prowess will be a huge asset as the year wears on.
Collin Gillespie has emerged as a reliable third-string point guard for the Phoenix Suns. He’s currently averaging 10.3 points, 5.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per contest. His contributions have been imperatively needed and missed in being the cog that keeps the team’s electric offense moving smoothly.
Defensively, the Cavs prominence on defense is second to none and Evan Mobley should be the player to focus on. The Cavaliers’ defense has been the true force behind their strong start. Beyond that, it ensures they stay competitive and in close matchups if nothing else.
Team Strategies and Player Health
Just like agencies are recalibrating their approach depending on who is healthy and performing, so too are many players dealing with the specter of injury. Aside from Christmas, Embiid will still be under a minutes limit as he looks to fully recover from last year’s injuries. Even with this limitation, he continues to be an indispensable part of the Philadelphia 76ers’ success.
The 76ers, fresh off to a phenomenal 4-0 start this season! Their success has been fueled by major contributions from players like Paul George and Jared McCain, both of whom are nearing returns from injury now. This newfound depth has the potential to make an already loaded one-through-nine even more dangerous.
Jerami Grant has been a huge factor for the Portland Trail Blazers going off at 22.5 points per game off the bench. His offensive output has paired nicely with Jrue Holiday’s stabilizing effect on defense, which is checking in at sixth overall on a per-possession basis.
Desmond Bane’s precarious start with the Memphis Grizzlies. He’s averaging 19 points per game, but he’s currently struggling from three at 27.3% clip.
As the year progresses though, new stars such as Ajay Mitchell are leaving their footprint on the conference. You could see it coming and now he’s showing it—the Washington Wizards’ budding young star guard, lead the team at 18.7 points per game through five games.
“As long as we win, I don’t care. That’s the last thing on my mind.” – Karl-Anthony Towns
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