NBA: 5 biggest surprises from the opening week of 2018-19

LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 02: Head coach Michael Malone of the Denver Nuggets reacts during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on October 2, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Breaking down five of the biggest surprises from the opening week of the 2018-19 NBA season

We’re practically a week into the 2018-9 NBA season, and there is certainly plenty to talk about. From LeBron James‘ debut with the Los Angeles Lakers to Kawhi Leonard‘s with the Toronto Raptors, the NBA is different but still pretty much the same.

Especially considering that the Golden State Warriors will still be the overwhelming favorites through the season. Although, there are some interesting sub-storylines that have begun to sprout.

For example, the Raptors look like real contenders in the East with Kawhi on the roster. They beat the Boston Celtics, and have looked mightily impressive. The Milwaukee Bucks looked improved under new head coach Mike Budenholzer.

Out West, the Lakers still have a lot of work to be done, the Oklahoma City Thunder look off and the Utah Jazz might be the best-kept secret in the NBA.

Here are five of the biggest surprises in the NBA through the opening week of the 2018-19 season.