We’re nearing the end of the NBA’s inaugural in-season tournament
The Western and Eastern semifinals are set for Thursday. However, the regular season continues as teams aim to end 2023 on
Chicago Bulls
Simone Fontecchio, a true wing player, has been a valuable asset for the Bulls. He has been averaging 11.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Fontecchio’s defensive skills have also been impressive as he often defends the opponent’s best wing scorer. His presence in the starting lineup could allow Lauri Markkanen to play his natural power forward position, but it would mean moving John Collins to a sixth man role.
Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets have had some positive moments this season, including a win against the Brooklyn Nets without LaMelo Ball. Terry Rozier has stepped up in Ball’s absence, scoring 37 points and dishing out 13 assists in that game. Miles Bridges has also provided a boost since his return from suspension, averaging 20.5 points and seven rebounds. However, the team’s defense has been a concern, as they currently rank last in the league.
Portland Trail Blazers
The Trail Blazers have some promising young players on their roster. Shaedon Sharpe has been impressive, scoring a combined 54 points over two games. Scoot Henderson also had a career-high 17 points in just 21 minutes of play. The team’s defense has improved, currently ranking 10th in the league. While most of their wins have come against weaker offensive teams, their victory over the Indiana Pacers shows that their defensive strategy is effective.
Memphis Grizzlies
Despite dealing with injuries and Ja Morant’s suspension, the Grizzlies have seen Desmond Bane step up. He is averaging career highs of 23.8 points and 5.2 assists per game. Bane’s efficiency has dipped, but he believes this experience will benefit his development. With Morant’s return, Bane expects to have less defensive attention and is prepared for any adjustments opponents may make.
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs are on the verge of setting a new franchise record for most consecutive losses for the second consecutive season. After losing 16 straight games last season, they have now lost 14 in a row. Breaking this streak won’t be easy as they face tough opponents like the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Chicago Bulls. It will be a challenging task for the Spurs to turn their season around.
Washington Wizards
The Wizards have struggled defensively, allowing their opponents to score at a high rate. Kyle Kuzma expressed his concerns about the team’s defense, stating that they “can’t guard a stop sign.” With 11 losses in their last 12 games, the Wizards are facing another tough stretch of games against the Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets, and Philadelphia 76ers again. It will be a challenging period for the Wizards to improve their record.
Detroit Pistons
The Pistons are currently on a 17-game losing streak, making them the first team since the 2015 Philadelphia 76ers to have such a record. Their best chance at ending this streak will be against the Memphis Grizzlies, who have a similar record. However, they will face tough opponents in the following games, including the Orlando Magic, Indiana Pacers, Philadelphia 76ers (twice), and Milwaukee Bucks.