NBA: Buy or sell 20 of the most surprising early-season trends

Joel Embiid (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports)
Joel Embiid (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) /
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We play the buy or sell NBA game as we explore and break down 20 of the most surprising early-season trends through the first weeks of the season.

Most teams around the league have played close to 10 games so far this season. Two and a half weeks into the regular season, it’s only natural to begin to notice a few trends that may be taking place.

Taking a whip-around look at the NBA, we’ll explore 20 of the most surprising early-season trends and come to a verdict if we “buy” or “sell” them. Let’s begin with a blockbuster in-season trade that just took place.

Buy or sell the 20 most surprising early-season trends

The LA Clippers made a mistake trading for James Harden

It may be a bit early but the LA Clippers haven’t looked great at all with James Harden in the fold. With Harden in the starting lineup, the Clippers are 0-3 and they have the second-worst net rating in the league. It’s early and a learning curve when adding new players isn’t that shocking, but you’d think that a trio as talented as Kawhi Leonard, Paul Goerge, and James Harden would’ve clicked a bit sooner.

At the very least, they would’ve been able to win one of their first three games. That hasn’t been the case thus far. It’s something to keep an eye on. The good news is they have time to figure it out. Generally speaking, talent wins out in the NBA. For now, I still believe the Clippers will figure it out.

Verdict: Sell