The NBA takes a break this Thursday for Thanksgiving, in a season marked by outstanding individual performances and surprises in both conferences.
Doncic leads the Lakers
The Slovenian Luka Doncic has had a spectacular start to the season with the Los Angeles Lakers. He averages 35.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game. His most recent performance, 43 points in the derby against the Clippers, consolidated a start that has led the Lakers to second place in the West, with a record of 13-4.
In contrast, the situation in Dallas is different. The Mavericks, who traded Doncic, are in a complicated position, with a record of 5-14.
Anthony Davis, acquired in exchange for Doncic, has had little participation due to injuries. The crisis led to the dismissal of general manager Nico Harrison.
Rookie Cooper Flagg hasn’t fully adapted to the league yet.
Thunder Dominate the West
The Oklahoma City Thunder, the current champions, lead the league with an 18-1 record. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, averaging 32.6 points per game, is the team’s key player.
Surprises in the East
The absence of Jayson Tatum in the Boston Celtics has opened the way for other teams to stand out in the East. Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors have surprised with their performance.
The Pistons lead the conference with a 15-3 record, fueled by a 13-game winning streak. The Raptors, with nine straight wins, are at 14-5 and secure their spot in the NBA Cup quarterfinals.
Uneven situation in the Eastern Conference
The Miami Heat, with Jaime Jáquez as a key player, have risen to third place in the East. The Celtics remain in the ‘play-in’ zone.
The Milwaukee Bucks, on the other hand, are going through a difficult time, with six consecutive losses and out of the postseason positions. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury has affected the team.
