3. Powerhouses Struggling Out Of Gates
The NBA standings are a little topsy-turvy at the beginning of the regular seasons. Teams are still working themselves into shape and gearing up for the long haul of the season. But, some powerhouse teams are struggling out of the gate.
The 2021 NBA Finals participants, the champion Milwaukee Bucks and runner-up Phoenix Suns are both under .500, starting 3-4 and 2-3 respectively. The Bucks are dealing with a multitude of injuries, putting a lot on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s shoulders in the early going.
The Brooklyn Nets, among the favorites to win the title, are finding life without Kyrie Irving difficult to adjust to. They are 3-3 on the season and getting very little production from anyone outside of Kevin Durant and James Harden.
The Atlanta Hawks and Boston Celtics are two teams many thought would make noise in the Eastern Conference but have started slowly. Atlanta is 4-3 while Boston is 2-5.
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In the Western Conference, the Staples Center co-tenants have stumbled out of the gate. The Los Angeles Lakers are 4-3 but haven’t looked great as LeBron James has already missed two games. But, the LA Clippers would assuredly take those stumbles compared to their own, as they are 2-4. Paul George is doing everything he can to carry the team with Kawhi Leonard sidelined.
The New Orleans Pelicans are working their way around an injury as well. They are 1-6 to start the season as they await the return of the injured Zion Williamson.
