We are now just DAYS away from the new NBA season! The summer has caused so much heartbreak and happiness for basketball fans everywhere. With legendary players, Kobe Bryant, Tim Duncan, and Amar’e Stoudemire off the court, what else does the NBA have in store for us?
The Year of Russell Westbrook
Back in July when Kevin Durant announced that he was leaving Oklahoma City, fans from all around were devastated and also infuriated. Questions for Westbrook that automatically came to mind, “What now?”
What now?
Now, Westbrook is the big man in charge in OKC. There was never any doubt about Westbrook’s talents. Even with Durant on his team, Westbrook averaged 20.2 PPG, 8.9 APG, and had a 38.4 FG percentage. However, when Westbrook was on floor without his then, partner-in-crime, he averaged 35.8 points, 7.8 APG, with an improved 46.3 FG percentage. He had 18 triple-doubles last season and could possibly average a triple-double this upcoming season. No one knows what to expect from this man, which makes it even more exciting. He is already one of the fiercest and most passionate players in the League who wears his heart on his sleeve, you’re not going to want to miss him.
Dwayne Wade in Chicago, Derrick Rose in New York
As one all-star shocked the sports world and went home, another all-star left home for a new start.
Kevin Durant in his new “home”
NBA fans blew up when KD made his decision of taking his talents to Oakland. Durant spent the entire summer responding to criticism about choosing the Warriors and confirming that he and Westbrook are still friends, whereas Westbrook says they don’t talk. Westbrook has recently been encountered with questions about Durant’s latest comments on how his now teammates are “selfless,” Westbrook responded saying, “That’s cute.”
Watching Durant adjust to his new environment will be an interesting topic throughout the entire season.
Warriors’ new additions
With a new superstar added to the lineup, will the Warriors’ break their record of 73-9 or will they find difficulty in handling the talents on the team?
Kyrie & LeBron
At one point during last season, Kyrie Irving averaged 31.5 PPG, 5.3 APG, 3.5 RPG, with a .477 FG percentage. LeBron James, through 41 games, averaged 25 PPG, 6.2 APG, 7.3 RPG, with a 50 FG percentage. After an exhilarating finals series against Golden State, Cleveland and the rest of the sports world are anxious are what these two stars are going to bring.
Celtics’ Season
From the smart draft picks to the brilliant trades, Isaiah Thomas will have an even bigger spotlight on him as the Celtics (potentially) grow to be the Cavs’ biggest rival of the season.
