With the NBA playoffs getting underway, all eyes are on the stars in this Thursday Rising Stars Challenge. Visit the future James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, Cade Cunningham and Jalen Brunson are tired of stealing the spotlight. Each player has put up some of the best performance metrics of the entire series. Teams are in a heated battle for critical wins. The focus now becomes whether these athletes will be able to transform their impressive regular-season stats into playoff triumphs.
Whatever the reason, James Harden has taken his place as the most important player to his team in this postseason. He ranks first overall averaging an impressive 38.7 FPTS/G. His contributions are 19.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, 7.1 assists and 2.8 threes made. His ability to take over moments will be crucial as his team plays their yet-to-be-determined playoff opponent.
In second place is Kawhi Leonard, who comes in right behind him at 37.9 FPTS. He’s been a revelation, averaging a solid 22.1 PPG, 5.3 RPG, and 3.0 APG. Leonard’s scoring proficiency and defensive prowess combined make him a truly scary matchup, especially when playoff games tend to tilt towards important moments of time possessions.
Emerging Stars and Their Impact
I have a full post play-off on Cade kicking up into stardom, as of right now he’s averaging 40.9 FPTS. His numbers show an impressive talent level at 23.6 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.7 assists on the year. Cunningham’s all-around game will be vital for his team’s aspirations as they push forward in the postseason.
Another stud to keep an eye on is Jalen Brunson, who’s averaging a whopping 41.3 FPTS to pace the pack. He’s been the driving force behind his team’s success, averaging 25.0 points, 2.8 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game. His playing-making prowess and scoring efficiency is what will ultimately make him a man-theoretical in closer playoff games.
That support squad is just as vital to the playoff picture. Ivica Zubac is playing well, averaging 28.9 fp. Dungeon’s made a huge difference at 13.3 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. Norman Powell a close third with 28.5 FPTS, scoring an average of 17.4 points per game and providing a large boost to his team’s offensive production.
Injury Updates and Their Implications
As expected injuries can completely change playoff fortunes and every team is on high alert to protect their rosters. Jaden Ivey has officially been ruled out with a lower leg injury. His absence will be felt greatly through his team’s rotation and depth during big-time matchups to come.
Isaiah Stewart is a game-time decision with a knee injury. Yet this uncertainty hangs over his club as they prepare for the postseason. The possible lack or reduced effectiveness of major players such as Stewart might change game plans and overall results.
“It’s the playoffs, and ‘Playoffs Jamal’ has entered the building. Jamal Murray is averaging 24.6 PPG in the series, but his 43-point explosion in Game 5 announced he has reached his postseason level. Fun fact: the last eight times Murray has scored at least 35 points in a playoff game, the Nuggets are 7-1 in the following game.” – André Snellings
Leave a Reply