The NBA season is almost a month old and there have been some major surprises so far this year. Some thought the Warriors would struggle but did any expect this much? How bout the Trail Blazers struggles? Let’s look at some of the biggest surprises this year.
Luka Doncic
Most believed Luka Doncic would be strong this year, but he is in the early consideration for MVP. On the season he is averaging 29.9 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 9.4 assists. He has had a 42 point game and a couple of 35 point games already this season. Many wondered where the franchise would go after Dirk Nowitzki would retire but it looks like it’s in good hands with Doncic.
There are still some question marks surronding the rest of the Mavericks team but Doncic is going to make up for a lot of the flaws with the team.
This team might be a title contender yet, but if they can pick up a piece or two at the trade deadline, they are going to be a threat in the Western Conference.
Warriors injuries
The Warriors have a lot of issues right now, and they aren’t going to be favored a lot in games. If you want to know when it’s good to bet on the Warriors and when to fade them, check out our free NBA picks. Coming into the season people thought it might be a down year with Klay Thompson out, but the injury bug has hit the team. Stephen Curry is out until at least February, and D’Angelo Russell is out until early December. It’s going to be a long season but in the long run this could be really good for the long term.
Getting a top-three pick to go along with everyone getting healthy, the Warriors dynasty could be alive and well next season.
Devonte Graham
With Kemba Walker heading off to the Boston Celtics during the offseason there were some questions about how long it would take for the team to find someone to replace him.
Devonte Graham was taken in the second round last season by the Hornets, and many expected him to be a backup guard, or maybe even a good G-League player.
With Walker gone, Graham was given a chance and he has run with that. So far this year he is averaging 18.2 points, 6.9 assists, and 3.4 rebounds.
It is still a short sample size and he needs to continue his strong start, but it looks like he could be one of the few bright spots going forward for the Hornets.
