NBA way-too-early takeaways from opening games, including a concerning start for Knicks

After an offseason that felt too long, and gave most of us withdrawal symptoms, the first two days of NBA opening week are behind us.

So, here are some WAY-too-early takeaways from 30 hours of hoops, because … well, why not?

Rough start for Knicks’ new acquisitions

The New York Knicks might have some significant shooting concerns. Mikal Bridges’ altered jumper is extremely discouraging and has added to the level of concern. His shooting motion is almost divided into three actions, none of which seem to play nice with one another. He lifts the ball slowly above his head, initiates the power build-up from his legs, and then almost pushes the shot toward the basket.

Bridges did have a better second half against the Celtics, but the jumper remains a major question mark moving forward, particularly as he was viewed as one the cleanest fits in the NBA. If Bridges is to become a dramatically worsened shooter this season, New York’s starting five will have to lean heavily on Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns for all their spacing needs. If only they had someone like Donte DiVincenzo.

There’s also the matter of New York using Towns in drop coverage which, uh, wasn’t great. But that could be a Celtics thing more than a Knicks thing. Time will tell if Tom Thibodeau continues that strategy.

Hot start for the defending champs

As for the Celtics, they seemingly have decided to keep playing like the Celtics, which seems like a pretty good strategy. They did seem to make one significant adjustment, however, as they look even more aggressive in seeking the 3-ball, making 29 of those bad boys to tie the league record for most makes in a game.

It’s extraordinarily difficult to view that as a bad thing when you consider their marksmanship, and the steady flow of players they keep throwing at opponents who can stretch the floor.

The NBA hasn’t seen a repeat champion since 2018, but these Celtics are making quite the case to be seen as the team to break the streak of onesies.

Historical night, ugly win for Lakers

The Lakers won an ugly game against the Wolves which would have been enormously forgettable had it not been for…

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Author : Yahoo Sports

Publish date : 2024-10-24 14:30:00

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