Looking back at 2022 NBA Training Camp observations from 10-2-22.
Health & deep roster looking good so far for Philly
I’ve been saying it for more than a year now that the play of Joel Embiid & James Harden and coaching decisions will impact how far Philly goes. Well, I’d say that’s just what happened again this past postseason, as Embiid & Harden had poor Game 7s vs. Boston and versatile defender Jalen McDaniels wasn’t in the rotation (9.0 MPG on the series, Jayson Tatum scored 51 points in Game 7).
Toronto’s Pascal Siakam ready to hit prime, Scottie Barnes improving jumper
Siakam averaged career highs in PPG (24.2) and APG (5.8) while Barnes improved his shooting mechanics, but still only shot 28.1% from three-point land. I think it’ll be crucial for Scottie to become an efficient jump shooter with season #3 approaching.
Alex Caruso staying healthy will mean even more for Bulls without Lonzo Ball
Adding Patrick Beverley brought a spark to the Bulls thanks to his leadership/communication skills, which took the pressure off Alex Caruso defensively. With Lonzo Ball likely out again for next season, re-signing Beverley should be at the top of their summer to-do list in my opinion.
Steve Nash is right, Ben Simmons doesn’t have to shoot
I really wanted to see what Ben Simmons could have done as the Nets’ best defender with Kevin Durant & Kyrie Irving leading the charge on offense. Let’s just say we didn’t even come close to that happening (Durant & Irving traded, Simmons injured for playoffs).
Cavs need a legit wing defender to go along with Jarrett Allen & Evan Mobley
Knicks star Jalen Brunson’s dominance over the Cavaliers showed that wing defense is still a major concern. I also noticed during the New York series that Cleveland needs another reliable scorer and frontcourt player.
