"My grades, based on performance to date, are strongly influenced by a team's expectations entering the season. For context, I've included preseason win projections for each team alongside the current projection provided by ESPN's Basketball Power Index, which incorporates win-loss record and accounts for injuries. Beyond wins and losses, I'm also considering how well teams are executing their goals, including developing young talent and securing lottery positioning."
"However, even knowing that, we wouldn't likely have picked Boston to have the NBA's third-best point differential at midseason. Brown has leveled up as a scorer (averaging a career-best 29.7 PPG); Neemias Queta has filled the void left at center with Al Horford, Luke Kornet and Kristaps Porzingis all departed; and Jordan Walsh has been a revelation in Tatum's spot in the starting five."
Midseason grades evaluate all 30 NBA teams by comparing current performance to preseason expectations, ESPN Basketball Power Index projections, and stated team goals such as player development and lottery positioning. Meeting preseason expectations typically results in a B or C grade, while A grades are reserved for clear overperformance; a handful of teams earned A or A-minus marks. The grading incorporates preseason win projections and updated BPI projections that account for win-loss records and injuries. The Boston Celtics have outperformed expectations despite Jayson Tatum rehabbing a right Achilles injury, with Jaylen Brown scoring at a career-best rate, Neemias Queta filling the center role, Jordan Walsh emerging in the starting five, and coach Joe Mazzulla organizing the roster effectively.
Read at ESPN.com
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