The NBA’s opening weeks are filled with intoxicating hope. Heavyweights and up-and-comers alike are putting on show-stopping displays designed to break through! Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken the league by storm with a scoring average of 33.2 points per game over 12 games. In addition, Ja Morant and Cedric Coward are turning heads on the court. What a special season this is becoming! No doubt teams are starting to hit their stride, and players are rising to the occasion at crunch time.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s impressive scoring ability has not only placed him third in the league but highlights his dual role as a creator. He is indeed leading the entire league with a staggering 19.2 potential assists per night. Oh, and he generates 28.8 points per game from all those assists! His unique combination of scoring and playmaking ability makes him truly special, thus invaluable to the young Oklahoma City Thunder.
High Scoring Performances Stand Out
In a super-fun comeback overtime victory in late October, Stephen Curry treated fans to a magical night with 42 points. He showed yet again that he’s the Warriors’ most important player. This coincided with the time most teams are formulating their plans. More than anything, they seem to be on the hunt for players’ consistency as the season continues.
Jim Butler III, Al Horford and Draymond Green have shown out. Both players’ highly motivated closing performances have helped propel each of their teams’ interesting momentum trains full speed ahead. These veteran players understand the importance of leading by example, especially as young players gain experience alongside them.
Fellow Memphis Grizzlies castoff Desmond Bane has hit his stride, cutting lines through defenses like a young Jalen Rose in his new Magic uniform. He posted an impressive stat line of 25 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists in a recent game, further solidifying his position as a key player for the team moving forward.
Injury Concerns and Team Dynamics
The Boston Celtics have hurdles of their own as they deal with injuries and a reworked roster. With a torn Achilles, Jayson Tatum’s future—and the team’s depth—could be in jeopardy. Despite these improvements, players like Kristaps Porzingis, Jrue Holiday, and Al Horford have all recently departed and left big holes in their place.
In the wake of these losses, the Celtics are still still playing to coach Joe Mazzulla’s standards — they continue to prioritize getting up 3-point attempts. Their dedication to this way of thinking speaks to their desire to change and stay competitive in an ever-evolving league.
LaMelo Ball at least made his season debut on November 1, but he’s been off the court since. He’s been playing through a right ankle impingement. Even after the injury, he’s averaging 23 points, 10 assists and 8 rebounds per game. His return will be especially important for the Charlotte Hornets as they attempt to get back into playoff contention.
Rising Stars Make Their Mark
Victor Wembanyama’s rookie season is already historic. By scoring more than 35 points in a game, he made history by becoming the first player ever in the NBA to do that. On top of that, he logged 5+ blocks, 10+ rebounds and 5+ three-pointers made. His unorthodox skill set continues to wow fans and experts alike. He is most certainly one to keep your eyes on as the tournament progresses!
Whether you’ve been following along with LeBron James’ recovery or not, he is getting ready to return! He’s expected to suit up with the South Bay Lakers later this week. His leadership and experience will be sorely missed. Now as he returns to the lineup, he’ll lead his club past injury, through trials.
As teams assess their performance thus far, Giannis Antetokounmpo provided insight into team dynamics when he stated, “Good teams don’t lose two in a row.” This mentality is one every team will have to embrace as they enter the home stretch fighting tooth and nail for playoff spots.
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