Looking back at 2022 NBA Training Camp observations from 9-28-22.
Michael Porter Jr. needs to play well for Denver to go far
Coming into the season, CBS Sports had Porter Jr. ranked ahead of Aaron Gordon in their NBA top 100 players rankings for 2022-23. However, by now, Gordon has become the new 3rd best player on Denver’s roster behind Nikola Jokic & Jamal Murray. The soon-to-be 28-year-old played at a different level this year and looks like he’s hit his prime.
Magic & Pacers need to focus on daily progression with young players
Orlando’s Paolo Banchero won Rookie of the Year and sophomore Franz Wagner’s numbers increased in almost every category while Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton (3rd NBA season) made the All Star Game and Bennedict Mathurin earned All-Rookie First Team. Both teams will be hungry for a play-in /playoff spot in 2024.
Kings have the offense now, defense will determine if they make the postseason
Sacramento achieved their goal of making the playoffs and had a season to be extremely proud of. I just think their electric offense carried them so much that it covered up defensive flaws the team still has.
Suns have an awkward media day, Ayton’s bad defense on switches during playoffs
Phoenix had another embarrassing West Semi-Final playoff ending, this time losing by 25 points to Denver in Game 6 at home. Head coach Monty Williams was fired after the season, so hopefully the newly hired Frank Vogel can help Deandre Ayton become more disciplined/engaged as a big man.
