Pacers Host Wizards in 2023-24 Season Opener
The Washington Wizards go up against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday night in the opening game of the 2023-24 season for both teams.
The Wizards 35-47 record in the 2022-23 season was the exact same as the year prior as the team failed to make the playoffs for the second straight season. Washington brought in Michael Winger in as President and he took little time to make wholesale changes to the team. By sending out Kristaps Porzingis to the Boston Celtics and franchise shooting guard Bradley Beal to the Phoenix Suns, the Wizards received multiple players such as Jordan Poole (who was involved in a separate deal with the Warriors for Chris Paul, who was sent to Washington as part of the Beal trade), a protected first-round pick, four pick swaps with the Suns and eight second-round picks. They also moved up one spot in the 2023 NBA Draft to select Bilal Coulibaly from France and re-signed forward Kyle Kuzma to a four-year, $90 million contract. It’s a new era for the Wizards with a projected starting roster of Tyus Jones, Poole, Coulibaly, Kuzma and Daniel Gafford.
The Wizards will be without Landry Shamet (toe), Anthony Gill (hamstring) and Johnny Davis (elbow) for Wednesday’s contest.
The Pacers also finished with a 35-47 record last season, though their 11th-placed finish in the Eastern Conference has perhaps more room for optimism after point guard Tyrese Haliburton earned his first All-Star honors last season and was rewarded with a five-year, $260 million contract extension during the offseason. Indiana wasn’t done there after luring versatile forward and NBA Champion Bruce Brown from the Nuggets while acquiring Obi Toppin from the Knicks for two second-round picks. This campaign marks the third season for head coach Rick Carlisle in Indiana and will be pivotal in getting the most out of his young core – led by Haliburton – as they look to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2019-2020 season. The Pacers are projected to roll out a starting lineup of Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Brown, Toppin and Myles Turner.
The Wizards and Pacers have split the season series in each of the last two campaigns, with Washington getting the better of Indiana in their last matchup on Feb. 11, 2023.
The Wizards 35-47 record in the 2022-23 season was the exact same as the year prior as the team failed to make the playoffs for the second straight season. Washington brought in Michael Winger in as President and he took little time to make wholesale changes to the team. By sending out Kristaps Porzingis to the Boston Celtics and franchise shooting guard Bradley Beal to the Phoenix Suns, the Wizards received multiple players such as Jordan Poole (who was involved in a separate deal with the Warriors for Chris Paul, who was sent to Washington as part of the Beal trade), a protected first-round pick, four pick swaps with the Suns and eight second-round picks. They also moved up one spot in the 2023 NBA Draft to select Bilal Coulibaly from France and re-signed forward Kyle Kuzma to a four-year, $90 million contract. It’s a new era for the Wizards with a projected starting roster of Tyus Jones, Poole, Coulibaly, Kuzma and Daniel Gafford.
The Wizards will be without Landry Shamet (toe), Anthony Gill (hamstring) and Johnny Davis (elbow) for Wednesday’s contest.
The Pacers also finished with a 35-47 record last season, though their 11th-placed finish in the Eastern Conference has perhaps more room for optimism after point guard Tyrese Haliburton earned his first All-Star honors last season and was rewarded with a five-year, $260 million contract extension during the offseason. Indiana wasn’t done there after luring versatile forward and NBA Champion Bruce Brown from the Nuggets while acquiring Obi Toppin from the Knicks for two second-round picks. This campaign marks the third season for head coach Rick Carlisle in Indiana and will be pivotal in getting the most out of his young core – led by Haliburton – as they look to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2019-2020 season. The Pacers are projected to roll out a starting lineup of Haliburton, Bennedict Mathurin, Brown, Toppin and Myles Turner.
The Wizards and Pacers have split the season series in each of the last two campaigns, with Washington getting the better of Indiana in their last matchup on Feb. 11, 2023.
Knicks host Celtics in Season Opener
The Boston Celtics take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night in the opening game of the 2023-24 season for both teams.
The Celtics finished second to the Milwaukee Bucks in the Eastern Conference in the 2022-23 season with a 57-25 regular season record. They were nearly the first team in NBA history to come back from a 3-0 deficit but ultimately fell short to the Miami Heat in game seven of the Eastern Conference Finals. Celtics president Brad Stevens decided to shake things up in the offseason, first in a move that brought in All-Star center Kristaps Porzingis while sending 2021-22 Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart to the Grizzlies and forwards Danilo Gallinari and Mike Muscala to the Wizards. Boston wasn’t done there, though, as they responded to the Damian Lillard trade to the Bucks by acquiring All-Star point guard Jrue Holiday from the Trail Blazers in exchange for 2022-23 Sixth Man of the Year Malcom Brogdon, center Robert Williams III and two first-round picks.
The Knicks are coming off a 47-35 record in the 2022-23 campaign -- good for fifth-best in the conference -- and made it to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since the 2012-13 season. New York’s roster looks mostly the same for the upcoming season, outside of forward Obi Toppin being sent to the Pacers for two second-round draft picks and Donte DiVincenzo signing a four-year, $50 million contract with the Knicks in free agency. The team is expected to field a starting lineup of Jalen Brunson, Quentin Grimes, RJ Barrett, Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson. Brunson, who earned his first All-Star nod in 2022-23, is coming off a season averaging 24.0 points, 6.2 assists and 3.5 rebounds in 68 games.
Despite the difference in the standings last year, the Knicks won the 2022-23 season series 3-1 and have won four of their last six contests.
The Celtics finished second to the Milwaukee Bucks in the Eastern Conference in the 2022-23 season with a 57-25 regular season record. They were nearly the first team in NBA history to come back from a 3-0 deficit but ultimately fell short to the Miami Heat in game seven of the Eastern Conference Finals. Celtics president Brad Stevens decided to shake things up in the offseason, first in a move that brought in All-Star center Kristaps Porzingis while sending 2021-22 Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart to the Grizzlies and forwards Danilo Gallinari and Mike Muscala to the Wizards. Boston wasn’t done there, though, as they responded to the Damian Lillard trade to the Bucks by acquiring All-Star point guard Jrue Holiday from the Trail Blazers in exchange for 2022-23 Sixth Man of the Year Malcom Brogdon, center Robert Williams III and two first-round picks.
The Knicks are coming off a 47-35 record in the 2022-23 campaign -- good for fifth-best in the conference -- and made it to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since the 2012-13 season. New York’s roster looks mostly the same for the upcoming season, outside of forward Obi Toppin being sent to the Pacers for two second-round draft picks and Donte DiVincenzo signing a four-year, $50 million contract with the Knicks in free agency. The team is expected to field a starting lineup of Jalen Brunson, Quentin Grimes, RJ Barrett, Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson. Brunson, who earned his first All-Star nod in 2022-23, is coming off a season averaging 24.0 points, 6.2 assists and 3.5 rebounds in 68 games.
Despite the difference in the standings last year, the Knicks won the 2022-23 season series 3-1 and have won four of their last six contests.
Magic, Rockets Collide In Sunshine State For Season Opener
The Orlando Magic will host the Houston Rockets at Amway Center on Wednesday.
The Magic open the season as a team that’s very hard to predict when it comes to their potential playoff chances. On the one hand, they feature one of the most exciting young players in the league in Paolo Banchero, as well as a decent young core that includes Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner, Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony. However, they also posted a 34-38 record in 2022-23, and it’s not like they added major pieces to their current roster. Orlando is banking on internal improvements and progression of their young players to take a leap forward in 2023-24. The Magic also added Anthony Black via the 2023 NBA Draft, but it’s hard to see him contributing right away in a guard-heavy roster.
The Magic are listing Gary Harris (groin) as questionable for the season opener, while Kevon Harris (knee) has been ruled out.
The Rockets might have similar expectations to the Magic, as they’re another rebuilding team that will rely on young talent to make an impact in 2023-24. However, the franchise seems ready to take a leap forward, especially given their offseason activity. They signed two coveted free agents, Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, and they also hired a proven head coach in Ime Udoka, who is expected to lead the second stage of the team’s rebuilding process. Having VanVleet could also benefit Jalen Green, who averaged 22.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game last season, to take the next step in his development. The Rockets might not make the playoffs in the Western Conference, but they should improve from their 22-60 record from last season.
Victor Oladipo (knee) and Tari Eason (lower leg) are out for the Rockets.
The Magic open the season as a team that’s very hard to predict when it comes to their potential playoff chances. On the one hand, they feature one of the most exciting young players in the league in Paolo Banchero, as well as a decent young core that includes Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner, Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony. However, they also posted a 34-38 record in 2022-23, and it’s not like they added major pieces to their current roster. Orlando is banking on internal improvements and progression of their young players to take a leap forward in 2023-24. The Magic also added Anthony Black via the 2023 NBA Draft, but it’s hard to see him contributing right away in a guard-heavy roster.
The Magic are listing Gary Harris (groin) as questionable for the season opener, while Kevon Harris (knee) has been ruled out.
The Rockets might have similar expectations to the Magic, as they’re another rebuilding team that will rely on young talent to make an impact in 2023-24. However, the franchise seems ready to take a leap forward, especially given their offseason activity. They signed two coveted free agents, Fred VanVleet and Dillon Brooks, and they also hired a proven head coach in Ime Udoka, who is expected to lead the second stage of the team’s rebuilding process. Having VanVleet could also benefit Jalen Green, who averaged 22.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game last season, to take the next step in his development. The Rockets might not make the playoffs in the Western Conference, but they should improve from their 22-60 record from last season.
Victor Oladipo (knee) and Tari Eason (lower leg) are out for the Rockets.
Hornets Open Season By Hosting Hawks
The Charlotte Hornets will host the Atlanta Hawks at Spectrum Center on Wednesday.
The Hornets are coming off another disastrous season in 2022-23, where they finished near the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a 27-55 record, and to make things even worse, they couldn’t secure the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. The addition of Brandon Miller should be positive for the long-term future of the franchise, but outside of him, LaMelo Ball and the frontcourt combo of Mark Williams and P.J. Washington, the Hornets do not have a lot to be excited about in the short-term or even medium-term future. Charlotte posted a disappointing 13-28 mark at home last season as well, and things are not expected to change drastically for the Hornets in 2023-24. Reaching the Play-In Tournament would be a massive success for them.
Bryce McGowens (ankle) has been tabbed as a game-time call for Wednesday, while Cody Martin (knee), James Bouknight (knee), Miles Bridges (suspension) and Frank Ntilikina (knee) have been ruled out.
The Hawks are on a different spectrum compared to the Hornets when it comes to analyzing the Eastern Conference hierarchy, and while they’re not contenders to make a deep postseason run, they should have enough in them to, at least, battle for a playoff spot. The franchise traded away John Collins in the offseason and are ready to go all in in their backcourt duo of Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, but ultimately, the franchise lives and dies with what Young can do on the offensive end of the court. Atlanta also has some interesting pieces, such as Deandre Hunter, Saddiq Bey and the center duo of Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu, so they should be a playoff contender in the East.
Ahead of the season opener, the Hawks are listing Wesley Matthews (calf) as out, but the rest of the roster is healthy and ready to go.
The Hornets are coming off another disastrous season in 2022-23, where they finished near the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a 27-55 record, and to make things even worse, they couldn’t secure the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. The addition of Brandon Miller should be positive for the long-term future of the franchise, but outside of him, LaMelo Ball and the frontcourt combo of Mark Williams and P.J. Washington, the Hornets do not have a lot to be excited about in the short-term or even medium-term future. Charlotte posted a disappointing 13-28 mark at home last season as well, and things are not expected to change drastically for the Hornets in 2023-24. Reaching the Play-In Tournament would be a massive success for them.
Bryce McGowens (ankle) has been tabbed as a game-time call for Wednesday, while Cody Martin (knee), James Bouknight (knee), Miles Bridges (suspension) and Frank Ntilikina (knee) have been ruled out.
The Hawks are on a different spectrum compared to the Hornets when it comes to analyzing the Eastern Conference hierarchy, and while they’re not contenders to make a deep postseason run, they should have enough in them to, at least, battle for a playoff spot. The franchise traded away John Collins in the offseason and are ready to go all in in their backcourt duo of Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, but ultimately, the franchise lives and dies with what Young can do on the offensive end of the court. Atlanta also has some interesting pieces, such as Deandre Hunter, Saddiq Bey and the center duo of Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu, so they should be a playoff contender in the East.
Ahead of the season opener, the Hawks are listing Wesley Matthews (calf) as out, but the rest of the roster is healthy and ready to go.
Pistons and Heat Open Season in South Florida
The Detroit Pistons take on the Miami Heat at Kaseya Center on Wednesday night in the opening game of the season for both teams.
The Pistons underwent some changes on both the coaching and personnel front during the offseason following a league-worst 17-65 record in the 2022-23 campaign. Head coach Dwane Casey moved up to the front office and was replaced by ousted Suns head man Monty Williams, who'll now oversee a roster that counts rookie fifth overall pick Ausar Thompson and veteran Monte Morris as its most noteworthy additions. Williams will also have the benefit of a healthy Cade Cunningham to open the season after the 2021 first overall pick played in just 12 games in the prior campaign due to a shin injury.
The Pistons will be without Morris (quadriceps) for Wednesday's game.
The Heat are the defending Eastern Conference champions after getting through a gauntlet of dangerous opponents to vault into the NBA Finals against the Nuggets. Miami ran out of gas against Denver, but Erik Spoelstra's squad once again has elevated expectations going into the new season. The Jimmy Butler-Kyle Lowry-Tyler Herro-Bam Adebayo core that helped the Heat reach such heights is back for another run, and the team also welcomed back veteran wing Josh Richardson this offseason. The Heat also fortified its depth at center with the signing of Thomas Bryant this offseason, and the team was heavily linked to Damian Lillard before he was moved to the Bucks. Miami could still be a destination for James Harden if the disgruntled All-Star ever parts ways with the 76ers, but nothing appears imminent on that front for the time being.
The Heat will be without Richardson (foot) and Haywood Highsmith (knee) for Wednesday's contest.
The Heat won the 2022-23 regular-season series against the Pistons by a 2-1 margin.
The Pistons underwent some changes on both the coaching and personnel front during the offseason following a league-worst 17-65 record in the 2022-23 campaign. Head coach Dwane Casey moved up to the front office and was replaced by ousted Suns head man Monty Williams, who'll now oversee a roster that counts rookie fifth overall pick Ausar Thompson and veteran Monte Morris as its most noteworthy additions. Williams will also have the benefit of a healthy Cade Cunningham to open the season after the 2021 first overall pick played in just 12 games in the prior campaign due to a shin injury.
The Pistons will be without Morris (quadriceps) for Wednesday's game.
The Heat are the defending Eastern Conference champions after getting through a gauntlet of dangerous opponents to vault into the NBA Finals against the Nuggets. Miami ran out of gas against Denver, but Erik Spoelstra's squad once again has elevated expectations going into the new season. The Jimmy Butler-Kyle Lowry-Tyler Herro-Bam Adebayo core that helped the Heat reach such heights is back for another run, and the team also welcomed back veteran wing Josh Richardson this offseason. The Heat also fortified its depth at center with the signing of Thomas Bryant this offseason, and the team was heavily linked to Damian Lillard before he was moved to the Bucks. Miami could still be a destination for James Harden if the disgruntled All-Star ever parts ways with the 76ers, but nothing appears imminent on that front for the time being.
The Heat will be without Richardson (foot) and Haywood Highsmith (knee) for Wednesday's contest.
The Heat won the 2022-23 regular-season series against the Pistons by a 2-1 margin.
Cavaliers and Nets Tip Off Season in Big Apple
The Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on Wednesday night in the opening game of the season for both clubs.
The Cavaliers finished the 2022-23 regular season with an impressive 51-31 record, but that was followed by a surprisingly quick ouster from the postseason during the quarterfinal round at the hands of the Knicks. Despite the abrupt ending to the playoff run, Cleveland largely stood pat during the offseason, with its one major addition former Heat sharpshooter Max Strus, who's projected to slot into the starting small forward role. The second unit also gained a key new component in the form of Georges Niang, who should give the second unit a scoring boost. The Cavs' fortunes should once again largely rest on the shoulders of Donovan Mitchell -- who was a hit during his first season in Cleveland with a career-high 28.3 points on career-best 48.4 percent shooting -- with important complementary contributions from the likes of Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
The Cavaliers will list Garland (hamstring) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Dean Wade (illness) is doubtful, while Allen (ankle) will be out.
The Nets were also a playoff team a year ago, getting into the postseason as the No. 8 seed with a 45-37 record. Yet, like Cleveland, Brooklyn didn't make it past the first round, and in the Nets' case, they were victims of a clean four-game sweep at the hands of the Philadelphia 76ers. Nevertheless, Jacques Vaugh's squad will largely run it back with the same group, and the hope is that mid-season trade acquisitions Spencer Dinwiddie, Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson will be that much better after having had a full offseason, training camp and preseason together. Promising big man Nicolas Claxton is also back to man the paint and protect the rim, and if Brooklyn can get solid contributions at minimum from a reportedly fully healthy Ben Simmons, the Nets could certainly surprise.
The Nets will be without Dariq Whitehead (foot) for Wednesday's game.
The Cavaliers won the three-game regular-season series with the Nets by a 2-1 margin.
The Cavaliers finished the 2022-23 regular season with an impressive 51-31 record, but that was followed by a surprisingly quick ouster from the postseason during the quarterfinal round at the hands of the Knicks. Despite the abrupt ending to the playoff run, Cleveland largely stood pat during the offseason, with its one major addition former Heat sharpshooter Max Strus, who's projected to slot into the starting small forward role. The second unit also gained a key new component in the form of Georges Niang, who should give the second unit a scoring boost. The Cavs' fortunes should once again largely rest on the shoulders of Donovan Mitchell -- who was a hit during his first season in Cleveland with a career-high 28.3 points on career-best 48.4 percent shooting -- with important complementary contributions from the likes of Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.
The Cavaliers will list Garland (hamstring) as questionable for Wednesday's game. Dean Wade (illness) is doubtful, while Allen (ankle) will be out.
The Nets were also a playoff team a year ago, getting into the postseason as the No. 8 seed with a 45-37 record. Yet, like Cleveland, Brooklyn didn't make it past the first round, and in the Nets' case, they were victims of a clean four-game sweep at the hands of the Philadelphia 76ers. Nevertheless, Jacques Vaugh's squad will largely run it back with the same group, and the hope is that mid-season trade acquisitions Spencer Dinwiddie, Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson will be that much better after having had a full offseason, training camp and preseason together. Promising big man Nicolas Claxton is also back to man the paint and protect the rim, and if Brooklyn can get solid contributions at minimum from a reportedly fully healthy Ben Simmons, the Nets could certainly surprise.
The Nets will be without Dariq Whitehead (foot) for Wednesday's game.
The Cavaliers won the three-game regular-season series with the Nets by a 2-1 margin.
Raptors, Timberwolves Clash In Toronto
By Dan Bruno
The Toronto Raptors play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday evening.
The only major change the Raptors underwent during the offseason was at the point guard position, as Fred VanVleet left for the Houston Rockets, while Dennis Schroder has joined the team in the starting role. The Raptors dealt with injury trouble last season and finished with an underwhelming result. Pascal Siakam led the team with an average of 24.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 0.9 steals per game. OG Anunoby averaged 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.9 steals, while Scottie Barnes averaged 15.3 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.8 assists last year. Schroder averaged 12.6 points, 2.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 30.1 minutes per game for the Lakers last season.
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves are coming off a good season where they made the playoffs for the second straight year, only to result in back-to-back first-round exits. On the plus side, heading into his fourth season, Anthony Edwards gives the team a lot of promise after averaging 24.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.6 steals per game last year. Karl-Anthony Towns dealt with injury trouble last season and missed almost four months of action, but he averaged 18.2 points and 10.2 rebounds in the postseason. Rudy Gobert is heading into his second year with the team and after averaging 13.4 points, 11.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game last season, he is set to continue to thrive in his role.
The only major change the Raptors underwent during the offseason was at the point guard position, as Fred VanVleet left for the Houston Rockets, while Dennis Schroder has joined the team in the starting role. The Raptors dealt with injury trouble last season and finished with an underwhelming result. Pascal Siakam led the team with an average of 24.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 0.9 steals per game. OG Anunoby averaged 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.9 steals, while Scottie Barnes averaged 15.3 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.8 assists last year. Schroder averaged 12.6 points, 2.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 30.1 minutes per game for the Lakers last season.
Meanwhile, the Timberwolves are coming off a good season where they made the playoffs for the second straight year, only to result in back-to-back first-round exits. On the plus side, heading into his fourth season, Anthony Edwards gives the team a lot of promise after averaging 24.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.6 steals per game last year. Karl-Anthony Towns dealt with injury trouble last season and missed almost four months of action, but he averaged 18.2 points and 10.2 rebounds in the postseason. Rudy Gobert is heading into his second year with the team and after averaging 13.4 points, 11.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game last season, he is set to continue to thrive in his role.
Bulls Host Up-And-Coming Thunder
By Dan Bruno
The Chicago Bulls play host to the Oklahoma City Thunder at United Center on Wednesday evening.
The Bulls enter the season with mostly the same roster as last year. They did acquire a couple of additions in Jevon Carter and Torrey Craig, who will mostly add depth and stability to the second unit. Otherwise, the team is content to continue relying on DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine to carry the offense, while Nikola Vucevic and Coby White will also be looked towards as key contributors. DeRozan averaged 24.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.1 steals last season, including 20 games with at least 30 points. LaVine averaged 24.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists in the 2022/23 season and also had 20 games where he hit the 30-point mark. Vucevic also delivered a solid campaign, as he averaged 17.6 points, 11.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. Lonzo Ball (knee) has already been ruled out for the season.
Meanwhile, the Thunder are set to make some noise in the West, after they finished with a 40-42 record last season but failed to make it through the play-in tournament. The Thunder's wealth of young talent was problematic for a number of opponents last season, but now they add the 2022, second-overall pick, Chet Holmgren to the mix. Holmgren will fill the center position, which was a weak point for the team last year and should give them a refreshed look, with another strong scoring option and defensive presence. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is coming off a fantastic season, where he averaged 31.4 points, 4.8 rebounds. 5.5 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. Josh Giddey also continued his impressive play last season, averaging 16.6 points, 7.9 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game.
The Bulls enter the season with mostly the same roster as last year. They did acquire a couple of additions in Jevon Carter and Torrey Craig, who will mostly add depth and stability to the second unit. Otherwise, the team is content to continue relying on DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine to carry the offense, while Nikola Vucevic and Coby White will also be looked towards as key contributors. DeRozan averaged 24.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.1 steals last season, including 20 games with at least 30 points. LaVine averaged 24.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists in the 2022/23 season and also had 20 games where he hit the 30-point mark. Vucevic also delivered a solid campaign, as he averaged 17.6 points, 11.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. Lonzo Ball (knee) has already been ruled out for the season.
Meanwhile, the Thunder are set to make some noise in the West, after they finished with a 40-42 record last season but failed to make it through the play-in tournament. The Thunder's wealth of young talent was problematic for a number of opponents last season, but now they add the 2022, second-overall pick, Chet Holmgren to the mix. Holmgren will fill the center position, which was a weak point for the team last year and should give them a refreshed look, with another strong scoring option and defensive presence. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is coming off a fantastic season, where he averaged 31.4 points, 4.8 rebounds. 5.5 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. Josh Giddey also continued his impressive play last season, averaging 16.6 points, 7.9 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game.
Grizzlies Host Pelicans In Opener
By Dan Bruno
The Memphis Grizzlies play host to the New Orleans Pelicans at FedEx Forum on Wednesday evening.
The Grizzlies will be kicking off the season without their star, Ja Morant (suspension), who will remain out for the first 25 games. On a positive note, the team brought in defensive specialist, Marcus Smart and also veteran, Derrick Rose to bolster the point-guard position. Smart averaged 11.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.5 steals for the Celtics last season and should be able to provide high-level play until Morant is ready to return. Jaren Jackson is coming off a career year, where he averaged 18.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 1.0 steals and 3.0 blocks per game and also won the Defensive Player of the Year award. He will remain a defining presence in the Grizzlies' lineup, giving them one of the league's best interior defenses right off the bat. Steven Adams (knee) will be out for the season, while Brandon Clarke (achilles) also remains out, meaning there is a major opportunity for Xavier Tillman to make his mark as a starter.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans are bringing back mostly the same lineup, one which hardly got to play together last season due to a rotation of injuries. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram both missed significant time but also shined when they were able to play, and especially when playing together. CJ McCollum was a steady presence all season, averaging 20.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 5.7 assists through 75 games. Guys like Dyson Daniels, Trey Murphy and Herbert Jones all showed impressive flashes last season and should be ready to take another step to contribute to greater success this time around. Murphy (knee) and Naji Marshall (knee) will be sidelined to start the season.
The Grizzlies will be kicking off the season without their star, Ja Morant (suspension), who will remain out for the first 25 games. On a positive note, the team brought in defensive specialist, Marcus Smart and also veteran, Derrick Rose to bolster the point-guard position. Smart averaged 11.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.5 steals for the Celtics last season and should be able to provide high-level play until Morant is ready to return. Jaren Jackson is coming off a career year, where he averaged 18.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 1.0 steals and 3.0 blocks per game and also won the Defensive Player of the Year award. He will remain a defining presence in the Grizzlies' lineup, giving them one of the league's best interior defenses right off the bat. Steven Adams (knee) will be out for the season, while Brandon Clarke (achilles) also remains out, meaning there is a major opportunity for Xavier Tillman to make his mark as a starter.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans are bringing back mostly the same lineup, one which hardly got to play together last season due to a rotation of injuries. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram both missed significant time but also shined when they were able to play, and especially when playing together. CJ McCollum was a steady presence all season, averaging 20.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 5.7 assists through 75 games. Guys like Dyson Daniels, Trey Murphy and Herbert Jones all showed impressive flashes last season and should be ready to take another step to contribute to greater success this time around. Murphy (knee) and Naji Marshall (knee) will be sidelined to start the season.
Utah Hosts Sacramento in Opener
The Sacramento Kings travel to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Jazz at Vivint Arena on Wednesday.
The Kings were one of the biggest surprises last season, finishing with the third-best record in the Western Conference. Unfortunately, they had to face the Golden State Warriors in the opening round and were outed by one of the best franchises in the NBA. That's a growing pain for a young team, and it looks like Sacramento wants to run it back. They haven't made many notable moves, with De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis expected to run things yet again. Those two are All-Star caliber players at this point, but they need another player to come for the ride. Keegan Murray looks like the best candidate after a breakout rookie campaign, and it'll be fun to watch these three develop together!
The Jazz were also one of the biggest surprises in the opening months of the 2022-23 season, but they collapsed in the second half. They still barely finished below .500, and that's quite the accomplishment for a team that was supposed to be in the middle of a rebuild. They got rid of Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell but are much better off than many people anticipated. Lauri Markkanen has turned into a star player, while Walker Kessler looks like a stud as the starting center. They've also got promising guards like Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson to lean on, and it'll make Utah a competitive team once again, despite making such big moves less than two years ago.
Sacramento won three of their four matchups with Utah last year, with all four games being decided by eight points or fewer.
The Kings were one of the biggest surprises last season, finishing with the third-best record in the Western Conference. Unfortunately, they had to face the Golden State Warriors in the opening round and were outed by one of the best franchises in the NBA. That's a growing pain for a young team, and it looks like Sacramento wants to run it back. They haven't made many notable moves, with De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis expected to run things yet again. Those two are All-Star caliber players at this point, but they need another player to come for the ride. Keegan Murray looks like the best candidate after a breakout rookie campaign, and it'll be fun to watch these three develop together!
The Jazz were also one of the biggest surprises in the opening months of the 2022-23 season, but they collapsed in the second half. They still barely finished below .500, and that's quite the accomplishment for a team that was supposed to be in the middle of a rebuild. They got rid of Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell but are much better off than many people anticipated. Lauri Markkanen has turned into a star player, while Walker Kessler looks like a stud as the starting center. They've also got promising guards like Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson to lean on, and it'll make Utah a competitive team once again, despite making such big moves less than two years ago.
Sacramento won three of their four matchups with Utah last year, with all four games being decided by eight points or fewer.
Spurs Host Mavs in Season Opener
The San Antonio Spurs play host to the Dallas Mavericks at AT&T Center on Wednesday.
The Mavericks were one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA last season, missing the postseason. That's embarrassing for a team that has arguably the best guard duo in the league, with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving dominating this offense. Everyone knows those two can do whatever they want, but there's not much on this roster outside of them. It remains to be seen if that recipe can get it done, especially with how much talent is spread throughout the NBA right now. Another disappointing season could be a nightmare for this Dallas franchise because who knows if Luka and Kyrie will stick around for a team that's simply not competing.
The Spurs had one of the worst records in the NBA last season, but it might be the best thing to happen to this franchise. They landed the top pick in the 2022-23 draft, getting Victor Wembenyama. The Frenchman truly looks like a star in the making, and it's amazing to land such a talented player. This is a 7'4" big man who plays like a guard and can protect the paint like any big man in the league. He could truly be a revolutionary player, and Spurs fans can't wait to see him grow this season. With that said, this is still expected to be one of the worst teams in the league. They were last in every defensive metric last season and will likely struggle on that end once again, despite what Wembenyama brings to the table.
Dallas has dominated this series over recent years, winning seven of their last eight games over San Antonio.
The Mavericks were one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA last season, missing the postseason. That's embarrassing for a team that has arguably the best guard duo in the league, with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving dominating this offense. Everyone knows those two can do whatever they want, but there's not much on this roster outside of them. It remains to be seen if that recipe can get it done, especially with how much talent is spread throughout the NBA right now. Another disappointing season could be a nightmare for this Dallas franchise because who knows if Luka and Kyrie will stick around for a team that's simply not competing.
The Spurs had one of the worst records in the NBA last season, but it might be the best thing to happen to this franchise. They landed the top pick in the 2022-23 draft, getting Victor Wembenyama. The Frenchman truly looks like a star in the making, and it's amazing to land such a talented player. This is a 7'4" big man who plays like a guard and can protect the paint like any big man in the league. He could truly be a revolutionary player, and Spurs fans can't wait to see him grow this season. With that said, this is still expected to be one of the worst teams in the league. They were last in every defensive metric last season and will likely struggle on that end once again, despite what Wembenyama brings to the table.
Dallas has dominated this series over recent years, winning seven of their last eight games over San Antonio.
Clippers Host Blazers in Opener on Wednesday
The Los Angeles Clippers play host to the Portland Trail Blazers at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday.
The Trail Blazers have been a contender throughout the last decade, but this is a new squad. The final piece hanging around was Damian Lillard, but they shipped him off to Milwaukee in the offseason. That has Portland in full-on rebuild mode, but they have a ton of young pieces that have fans excited about the future. DeAndre Ayton was the focal point of that Lillard deal, while Scoot Henderson was taken with one of the first picks in the draft. There are also veterans like Jerami Grant and Malcolm Brogdon on this team, so, it's not a squad anyone should overlook, despite looking like a rebuilding team!
The Clippers have been one of the focal points of the James Harden trade talks, but nothing has come to fruition yet. That means this is relatively the same squad we saw last season, and it's just a matter of health for this talented team. Everyone knows Los Angeles is one of the most dangerous squads when Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are both healthy, but that's been a rare occurrence over the last few years. Missing two superstars would kill any unit, but both guys are fully healthy coming into the 2023-24 season. That has this as a make-or-break campaign for this team because they can't continue to underperform with such talented and pricey players.
Los Angeles swept the season series over Portland last year and have won 12 of their last 13 games over them in total.
The Trail Blazers have been a contender throughout the last decade, but this is a new squad. The final piece hanging around was Damian Lillard, but they shipped him off to Milwaukee in the offseason. That has Portland in full-on rebuild mode, but they have a ton of young pieces that have fans excited about the future. DeAndre Ayton was the focal point of that Lillard deal, while Scoot Henderson was taken with one of the first picks in the draft. There are also veterans like Jerami Grant and Malcolm Brogdon on this team, so, it's not a squad anyone should overlook, despite looking like a rebuilding team!
The Clippers have been one of the focal points of the James Harden trade talks, but nothing has come to fruition yet. That means this is relatively the same squad we saw last season, and it's just a matter of health for this talented team. Everyone knows Los Angeles is one of the most dangerous squads when Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are both healthy, but that's been a rare occurrence over the last few years. Missing two superstars would kill any unit, but both guys are fully healthy coming into the 2023-24 season. That has this as a make-or-break campaign for this team because they can't continue to underperform with such talented and pricey players.
Los Angeles swept the season series over Portland last year and have won 12 of their last 13 games over them in total.