LA Clippers: The LA Clippers have the best record in the NBA as of right now at 10:00 AM on 11/18/2016. Now that's really not a big deal, being that it's so early in the season, but maybe we are seeing the Clippers finally putting the pieces together to make it to the WCF. I bet is that they'll slip on and choke in the playoffs as they normally do. I would love to see them knock of the Spurs or Warriors, but I won't give them the benefit of the doubt until they do.
Golden State Warriors: After their embarrassing loss to the Spurs on opening night, the Warriors are right where they left off last season, dominating. They are currently on a 5 game winning streak and play the Boston Celtics tonight, the team that ended their 54-game regular season home winning streak. That was last year, but don't think the Warriors core hasn't forgot about that loss. I think it will be a close one tonight in Boston.
One thing I wanted to touch on was the drop in PPG by Klay Thompson. Everybody knew that with the signing of KD, somebody would be losing some touches/shots per game. I think it's most noticeably Klay Thompson. Yes, it's early in the season, but he is currently averaging 18.5. Last year he averaged 22.1. I had a discussion with my basketball minded friend Erik Sandberg (@Esands6) regarding what possibilities GS could do with Klay and KD. One scenario was to sign KD long term and trade Klay Thompson for some solid defenders and role player that would make an immediate impact. I don't think that is too improbable, but probably won't happen.
James Harden moving to point guard might be the best move a coach has ever made for his usage. He already has 3 triple-doubles this season. Although his defense hasn't seemed to improve, his offensive play and mindset has the Rockets poised to return to the playoffs after missing them last year.
LA Lakers: Similar to the Clippers, but in a different position, both are starting off really well and are surprising everyone with their success thus far. Like the Clippers, they will have to prove they are legit before anybody even considers them a threat, but as of now, they look like they could be on the edge of a #8 seed. I personally don't think they can sustain this success and make the playoffs, but I love how the young players like Russell and Julius Randle are playing.
As for the East:
The Cavs look like they will be the #1 seed at the end of the year. The Hawks seem like they built the perfect nest for Dwight Howard to flourish. They are currently tied for the best record in the East. The Hornets have to be the biggest surprise with their early success. Kemba is really becoming a superstar that can control the game. I hope they continue to win and be a top 5 seed in the playoffs. The "super-team" Knicks are a laughing stock right now. It seems KP is coming around and starting to score more. The Celtics' struggles are disappointing. Obviously it's early, but I for sure thought they would end up as Top 4 seed. Lastly, DeMar DeRozan is on Jordan like scoring terror.
Those are just some of my thoughts at this point in the season. I'm always up for discussion. Tweet me @jpsweets and @basketballguy61 and make sure to like my Facebook page Basketball Guy JP.
