Bucks
The Bucks have been trying to figure out how to get star Giannis Antetokounmpo to stay long term while he dealt with injuries and the team is limited in moves. The big move for C Myles Turner has brought mixed results as he continues to be inconsistent scoring and rebounding. Young PG Ryan Rollins has developed into a solid starter improving his outside shooting and overall play. Addition PG Cole Anthony has been a solid piece off the bench. G Kevin Porter has been a solid scorer and all-around playmaker once he returned from injury. Veteran PF Bobby Portis filled in nicely increasing his play while Giannis was out. F Kyle Kuzma continues to provide offense off the bench, but he is inconsistent. Giannis needs to decide if he can win with this cast, or the team needs to transition.
Hornets
The Hornets have crawled out of the bottom but haven’t played up to their talent level and have dealt with injuries. PG LaMelo Ball continues to lead the way with solid passing and outside scoring. Rookie G/F Kon Knueppel has been solid filling in nicely with the injuries and never letting up his spot as the #2 option. F Brandon Miller has returned from injury giving the team a boost showing solid athleticism and scoring. F Miles Bridges continues to provide consistent all-around play. G Colin Sexton has been a solid scoring piece starting or off the bench. Through the injuries, the team has found a good Center combo in rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner and veteran Moussa Diabate who have been solid on the boards.
Nets
Despite being near the bottom, the Nets have played better than expected as the move for F Michael Porter Jr. has paid off increasing his scoring, but also rebounding and passing being a true leader while being healthy. The team has just gotten back scorer SG Cam Thomas who should help going forward. C Nic Claxton has improved his all-around play increasing his passing and scoring while continuing to rebound at a high level. Veteran G/F Terrance Mann has provided good perimeter defense. The team continues to develop their young players like C Day’Ron Sharpe, F Noah Clowney, and rookies PG Egor Demin and PF Danny Wolf who have made an impact.
Wizards
The Wizards have made a big move for PG Trae Young without touching any of their young players. SG C.J. McCollum was part of the trade after being the leader and #1 option providing veteran presence. The team continues to grow their draft core of C Alex Sarr, F Kyshawn George, SG Tre Johnson, PG Bub Carrington, and F Bilal Coulibaly. George has shown solid all-around play, Johnson can score especially from deep, Carrington can pass and score, Coulibaly can play defense and offers all-around play. Sarr continues to grow as a player showing good promise also as the new #1 option. The team has some young pieces, and they are hoping the trade can take them forward next season.
Pacers
The Pacers have completely bottomed out after a NBA Finals run and the injury to PG Tyrese Haliburton and the loss of C Myles Turner. F Pascal Siakam has led the way as the #1 option bringing consistent scoring and all-around play. The team has dealt with injuries along the way that hasn’t helped relying on younger players. G Andrew Nembhard continues to grow along with G/F Bennedict Mathurin, but both have dealt with injuries as well. The team has struggled to stay in competition due to the lack of depth with no help in sight.
