NBA: One x-factor for every team heading into 2022-23

Brooklyn Nets – Ben Simmons

Despite all the dysfunction that the Brooklyn Nets went through during the offseason, there’s still a whole lot of talent on this roster. And if the Nets can put it together, led by Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, it shouldn’t surprise anyone if the Nets are a good team.

Ben Simmons, though, is the x-factor that can take the Nets from good to great.

Charlotte Hornets – Gordon Hayward

The expectation is that the Charlotte Hornets are going to take a bit of a step back. If that ends up happening, that shouldn’t be all that surprising. However, if there’s one player that could help stop that from happening, it’s Gordon Hayward.

He has the talent, and experience, and has had production to suggest he can rise and be the second-best player for the Hornets this season.