NBA Updates 2: The Game
Adu Reghuram
Welcome back basketball fans! What a series of events that we have been watching this past week. The season has been exhilarating to watch, and I am very excited to share all the updates and thrillers that have jump-started the 22-23 NBA season for us. Without further ado, let’s dive into the analysis.
Scottie Barnes Leaves Heat Game With Injury
Last year's most dominant and assertive rookie put on a show for us last year averaging 15 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists. There was a reason he won the 2021-22 NBA Rookie of the Year award. However, he suffered a sprained right ankle while playing the Heat. Medics took initial x-rays which were negative and projections for his return are not yet available.
The All-Stars We Have Been Waiting For
We have been waiting a long time for certain all-stars who haven't made an appearance in a long time. Let us take a better look into the players who came back from injury.
Zion Williamson: After an astonishing rookie season, Zion Williamson had been off basketball for a solid year. Unfortunately, Zion got body shamed by many influencers and critics around social media. After watching his debut this week putting up 25 points, Zion shocked the rest of the world. Zion Willaimson expanded on his strengths while keeping his athleticism in shape. I cannot wait to see what he has to offer in the future.
Kawhi Leonard: It had been nearly 500 days since Kawhi has been on the NBA floor, and Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue made us wait an additional 15 minutes before bringing Kawhi off the bench. He scored 14 points and 7 rebounds while only playing 21 minutes. The ACL tear that he had to go through was appalling and I can't wait for what he has to show off this year.
Ben Simmons: In his first game back after missing all of last year, he had a disappointing performance only putting up 4 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in 23 minutes. However, he had the difficult task of defending Zion Williamson. Simmons still has the whole season ahead of him to prove what he can do.
Damian Lillard: Lillard came out aggressive after missing last year. He scored 20 points in his first game but did not shoot efficiently, finishing 5-of-18. Lillard has a lot of pressure because of the expectations that are forced on his shoulders. This year, we will see what he is capable of and how much he can handle.
Kia MVP Ladder: Names To Watch For The Upcoming Weeks
The “Greek Freak” was ranked the number one player according to ESPN. The former two-time MVP spent the summer competing with his national team (Greece) and gradually ramped up his workload during the preseason. We will all be on the edge of our seats watching Giannis as he strides to the basket.
Luka Doncic enters the campaign as the betting favorite to win this award. Luka also spent the summer playing with his national team, Slovenia. Critics and NBA analysts are telling social media that Luka Doncic is a player to look out for.
The reigning two-time MVP Nikola Jokic could become the 4th NBA player to capture 3 MVP titles this year. Nikola Jokic exhibits his unique skill set towards passing and playmaking. This unique skill set sets him apart from other centers. He has been quite the “joker”.
Joel Embiid finished second in last year's voting after averaging 30.6 points. His combination of grace and agility makes him who he is. The five-time NBA all-star will also likely be in the hunt to capture what would be his first Kia MVP award.
Special Matchups To Look Out For This Week
Oct.25, 2022 - Golden State Warriors vs. Phoenix Suns
Oct. 26, 2022 - Milwaukee Bucks vs. Brooklyn Nets
Oct. 26, 2022- Denver Nuggets vs. Los Angeles Lakers
Oct. 27, 2022- Dallas Mavericks vs. Brooklyn Nets
Oct. 28, 2022- Philadelphia 76ers vs. Toronto Raptors
Oct. 28, 2022- Boston Celtics vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
