"A month into the NBA season, dividing lines are beginning to take shape in both conferences. Although there is still a surprising leader in the East (the Detroit Pistons, who look like they have the defensive chops to stay in the mix), the rest of the top five teams in net rating are now the contenders we expected. Meanwhile, a bottom tier has separated itself, with fans and executives alike dreaming of snagging a top prospect in what looks like a strong 2026 NBA draft."
"Jalen Williams hasn't played this season, while Chet Holmgren, Luguentz Dort, Alex Caruso, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe have missed at least four games apiece. The Thunder have been cold from deep, making just 34% of their 3-point attempts to rank 21st in the league. And yet, the 2024-25 champs are still on pace for a 76-6 record as they mount a title defense, with a league-best plus-15.4 point differential that's even better than their record-setting mark last season."
Dividing lines are forming early in the NBA season as teams separate into clear tiers across both conferences. The Detroit Pistons unexpectedly lead the East with strong defense, while the remainder of the top-five net-rating teams match preseason expectations. A distinct bottom tier has emerged, fueling hopes among fans and executives for top prospects in a promising 2026 NBA draft. Numerous teams are battling for home-court advantage and to secure or avoid the play-in tournament. The Oklahoma City Thunder have endured multiple injuries and poor three-point shooting (34%, 21st), yet remain dominant with an exceptional plus-15.4 point differential and an on-pace elite record.
Read at ESPN.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]