Is the NBA season unfolding as we expected, or are we witnessing some major overreactions? Let's dive into the latest buzz, separating fact from fiction in the world of basketball. This week, we're asking: Is this cap or no cap? Buckle up, because we're about to dissect some hot takes!
MVP Embiid is Back?
It seemed like a changing of the guard was happening in Philadelphia. Tyrese Maxey was putting up MVP numbers, and rookie VJ Edgecombe looked like he'd be part of the best backcourt in the league. Meanwhile, Joel Embiid, and his contract, seemed like a drag on the roster. He didn't look healthy, his performance was down, and he slowed down the offense. He played in just nine of the team’s first 23 games, averaging a career-low in points, field goal percentage, 3-point percentage, rebounds, and pretty much every other stat.
But here's where it gets interesting: After a rough game against the Lakers on December 7th, Embiid found a new gear. In his next game, he hit his season high of 39 points. Since then, he's averaged 29 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists. The 76ers have won 3 out of their last 4 games with Embiid, Maxey, and Paul George all in the lineup.
Verdict: Cap
While the East is wide open, I'm not convinced Embiid will lead the 76ers on a deep run. We've seen too many health issues to believe this hot streak will last.
Are the Boston Celtics Legitimate Contenders?
After Jayson Tatum's injury last May, many thought this season would be a gap year for the Celtics. Yet, they're near the top of the East. They're second in 3-pointers made per game, second in offensive rating, and third in net rating.
Jaylen Brown has taken a huge leap, even having an historic feat of being the first player ever to complain about being snubbed for player of the month. Yes, it was nonsensical to care that much about an award that not many people care about, but it did motivate him to have his best game of the season – a 50-point domination of the Clippers, where he also locked up Kawhi Leonard. But can Brown carry the Celtics to the Finals?
Verdict: No Cap
I don't think Brown alone is enough. His shooting is unsustainable, and the Celtics are relying on young bigs. However, if Tatum can return and play like he did last year, the Celtics have a real shot.
The 65-Game Rule: Does it Need to Change?
When Jokic went down with a knee injury, the NBA world held its breath. He was solidifying another MVP season and making the Nuggets real contenders. The injury will keep him out for at least a month.
This means he risks playing fewer than 65 games – the threshold for winning awards. Jokic could finish the season as the leading rebounder and assist leader, and be disqualified from MVP.
Verdict: No Cap
This rule is nonsensical. If Jokic plays fewer than 65 games, someone like SGA will likely win the award. The rule robs Jokic of a chance to be top 2 or 3, which hurts his Hall of Fame resume. The rule should have been changed last year when Victor Wembanyama was disqualified due to injury, even though he was the best defender. Voters are smart enough to make their own judgments.
The Oklahoma City Thunder: Cursed?
Before, the Thunder were on fire, and I predicted they'd dominate. Since then, they've been struggling, losing to the Spurs and other teams. They're 30-7, but their shot at greatness is fading.
Verdict: Cap!
I take no responsibility for the Thunder's struggles. Have a good day!
What do you think? Are these takes accurate, or are we missing something? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
