As the NBA season approaches, teams are gearing up for a fresh start. With new faces in new places, coaches are tasked with finding the perfect fit for their rosters. Our experts weigh in on the biggest questions heading into the season.
Which newcomer has the biggest adjustment ahead?
One expert believes Klay Thompson will face the biggest challenge, going from a system predicated on constant movement to a team where he’ll often be watching Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving dominate the ball. Another expert thinks Mikal Bridges will be a perfect fit for the Knicks, with his two-way game sliding in nicely with the team’s loaded lineup. Chris Paul is also expected to thrive alongside Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio.
Which star has the most to prove this season?
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard are under pressure to perform after a disappointing season. Joel Embiid, meanwhile, needs to stay healthy and lead his team to the conference finals. James Harden must prove he’s still a star, and Luka Doncic has to take his game to the next level after coming up short in the NBA Finals.
Which new coach needs to make the best first impression?
JJ Redick has the toughest job, taking over as coach of the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James. Doc Rivers must prove himself in Milwaukee, where time is running out for the Bucks’ core. Mike Budenholzer needs to deliver immediate results in Phoenix, and Kenny Atkinson must improve upon what’s already been established in Cleveland.
Which East contender has the toughest path to the conference finals?
The Philadelphia 76ers may struggle to find their stride, with Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George needing to figure each other out quickly. The Milwaukee Bucks have an older group with health issues and defensive challenges. The New York Knicks, meanwhile, sacrificed depth in the Karl-Anthony Towns trade and will be making a major adjustment on the fly.
Which West contender has the toughest path to the conference finals?
The Denver Nuggets lost critically important role players and vocal leaders, making their path back to the NBA Finals tougher. Nikola Jokic remains the best player in the world, but the players around him are slightly different. Christian Braun steps up into the starting five, and Russell Westbrook will be relied upon to bring energy off the bench.
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