10 takeaways from the first quarter of the 20170-18 NBA season
The NBA is starting to stabilize itself now that most teams have played nearly a quarter of the season.
Surprise teams that started fast are coming down to earth while teams that had a rough start are beginning to find their footing. Injuries have already been a significant factor. Mike Conley’s injury has cooled the Grizzles he starts, the Clippers have been devastated by injuries and are in a downward spiral. Even though it’s early, a lot of teams have already dug themselves a hole due to injuries or poor play.
A lot has stood-out so far. Kristaps Porzinigs has got Madison Square Garden rocking, Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis are making the Pacers look more competent than we thought, Giannis is destroying everything in his path, Orlando started fast but is cooling down, and Miami is not as frisky as last season.
In the West, Denver is figuring things out on the fly, Portland has been inconsistent, Minnesota still has defensive issues, but they are winning close games, Utah has lost Rudy Gobert, San Antonio is keeping the machine going without Kawhi, the Warriors are still outstanding. All of that is interesting, but here is what has stood out to me so far in the NBA season.
*All stats are as of 11/21/17