All-Star Break Grades + One Thing To Be Optimistic About
The NBA All-Star Break marks a needed pause foreach season, one where we can evaluate things. Here are my grades for all 30 teams.
Getty Images/Ringer illustration
Instead of watching the NBA Celebrity game, which is just an event to boost Quavo’s self-esteem, let’s do some grading. We’ve gone through about 75% of the NBA season, so we have a sense of everything we’ve seen. The All-Star Break is a perfect time to sit down and wonder where everything went wrong.
On top of that, I’ll add one thing every team can look forward to after the break. It won’t all be negative, I promise. Without further ado, let’s do some grading.
Grading Criteria
A = Exceeded all expectations this season, doing better than I thought they would
B = Having a solid season based on expectations, but could be doing better
C = Right around where we all thought they would be. Not bad, but not great either
D = Failing to meet expectations for one reason or another
F = Reserved for the Knicks, Lakers, and Kings
The one thing to be optimistic about could be a lot of things. From a specific player to the NBA Draft, I will find a way to make you a little less depressed about your team. Maybe.
Atlanta Hawks: D-
Record: (28-30)
Offensive Rating: 113.9 (2nd)
Defensive Rating: 113.3 (27th)
My Predicted Seeding: #3 in the East
The Hawks were my dark horse this season. I went all-in on after their surprise run last season. With their excellent depth, youth, and coaching, 2022 was their year. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
Sure, injuries and Covid played their role in this disappointing season. De’Andre Hunter has again struggled to stay on the floor. John Collins is hurt. But you know what? I don’t care. That’s not a good excuse.
Atlanta’s defense has been their major letdown. With no perimeter defenders in sight, opposing offenses have a field day. Clint Capela and Onyeka Okungwu can only do so much down low. A backcourt of Young, Huerter, Wright, and Bogdanovic can’t guard a parked car.
Atlanta’s spending is somewhat backfiring. Huerter, Bogdanovic, and especially Gallinari are struggling to live up to their paychecks. For a team two games away from the Finals, the All-Star Break couldn’t come soon enough for this dying team.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Onyeka Okungwu
If there’s one bright spot for this abysmal team, it’s Okungwu. The rookie flashed his potential in the playoffs. He missed the start of 2022 with shoulder surgery, but he’s continued to show his versatility. If you’re getting compared to Bam Adebayo coming out of college, you’re on the right track.
An injury to Capela thrust the youngster into the starting unit. Okungwu flashed his stardom. He was a monster defensively, affecting every shot that came his way. His pick-and-rolls with Young were deadly.
The Hawks are likely to make little to no noise in the playoffs, but hey, at least Okungwu is good. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I want to curl up into a ball and die.
Boston Celtics: A+
Record: (34-26)
Offensive Rating: 110.3 (18th)
Defensive Rating: 104.9 (2nd)
My Predicted Seeding: #6 in the East
The Celtics have ramped things up to ring in the new year. Their start to this season mirrored a sluggish, tumultuous 2021. A sluggish offense and poor body language highlighted the first 30 games of the C’s season. It’s safe to say things have changed. Just look at these numbers since the start of January;
Boston Celtics Since January 1st, 2022
17 Wins (T-4th)
100.9 Defensive Rating (1st)
12.6 Net Rating (1st)
113.5 Offensive Rating (10th)
41.1 Opponent FG% (1st)
98.1 Opp PPG (1st)
39.8 Opp PITP (1st)
While a Horford-Williams frontcourt is clunky on offense, it’s been elite defensively. Boston is keeping teams out of the paint, allowing them to be the 1985 Bears on that end. The trade deadline acquisition of Derrick White gives them another creator on offense.
This team is on a roll, streaking through the East. With how well they’ve been playing defensively, you can expect similar results after the All-Star break. A team with their All-Star wing combo along with that defense? I feel like the Celtics are built for the playoffs, the team you don’t want to face.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Timelord
Robert Williams is one of the few youngsters earning minutes for the Celtics. There’s a reason for that. Not only does he carry my fantasy team, but he’s also one of the best centers in the NBA. He can do it all on both ends of the floor.
He’s used as a vertical threat in the pick-and-roll. On top of that, he’s a decent passer for his position. On defense, he’s a force. One of the best shot-blockers in the league directs traffic down low. The combo of him and Horford is a nightmare for most teams.
Timelord is one of the brightest young stars in the NBA, an anchor to this Boston team.
Brooklyn Nets: C
Record: (31-28)
Offensive Rating: 111.4 (12th)
Defensive Rating: 111.2 (19th)
My Predicted Seeding: #1 in the East
Most people would put the Nets closer to an ‘F’ for how poor they’ve been this season, but can we cut them some slack? With everything they’ve been through, do we have any mercy? I have a little bit.
Kyrie Irving can hardly play this season due to his vaccination status. While the rule seems a bit broken, one of the best scorers is limited. Kevin Durant has missed weeks with a knee injury. Not to mention the whole James Harden fiasco.
The Nets Big 3 collapsed harder than the USSR. Despite playing just sixteen games together, that trio is a faded memory. It’s time for a new trio in Brooklyn, one that features another, totally not controversial “star.”
It would be an understatement to say the Nets have dealt with a lot this season. They lost eleven straight games, for Christ’s sake! But, there is still a way for them to salvage the season.
Adding Curry and Drummond gives them greatly needed depth. Kevin Durant will be back, giving the Nets one of the three best players in the world. And if all goes right, Ben Simmons will get to get acclimated before the playoffs. It would be easy to write this team off, but I’m not sure they’re dead. Yet.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Playoff Seeding
The Nets losing eleven straight games might have been the best thing for their title chances. Let me explain. Since Irving can’t play at home, the idea of purposely getting a lower seed in the playoffs seemed smart. Why not have Irving for four games in a series instead of three?
Once they get into the second and third rounds, not having homecourt advantage is a good thing for Brooklyn. Having Irving on the floor is going to depend on seeding.
As of right now, things are shaping up nicely for the Nets. They have a considerable amount of work in front of them, but with a wide-open Eastern Conference, anything is possible*.
(*say in Kevin Garnett’s voice*)
Charlotte Hornets: C
Record: (29-31)
Offensive Rating: 111.3 (13th)
Defensive Rating: 112.0 (23rd)
My Predicted Seeding: #9 in the East
The Charlotte Hornets continue to underperform. After a solid start to the season, they’ve petered off considerably. The law of averages has slowed down their elite offense. Their defense is a lost cause at this point.
The Hornets have the roster in place to make noise. Not too many teams have the weapons they possess, but yet, they can’t breakthrough. Why is that?
For one, they need a new backcourt. While Ball is a dynamic floor general, Rozier is undersized and a one-trick pony. Pairing Ball with a player who doesn’t need the ball to be effective would be a much better fit. Sure, Rozier can score, but I don’t see this backcourt taking the Hornets to the next step.
On top of that, this roster is weird. It’s a bunch of scorers who can’t do much else. They’re paying Gordon Hayward $30 million a year to be meh. Mason Plumlee is their starting center. Mason. Plumlee.
I would love to love the Hornets. When they have things going, they’re one of the most fun experiences in the NBA. Miles Bridges slams are ten times better with Eric Collins screaming. But it’s no stretch to say this team isn’t blowing us away.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Lamelo Ball
If there’s one solace to Charlotte’s season, it’s ball. The Clorox rising star is indeed on the rise. He’s the epitome of excitement. He’s as box office as box office gets.
While his finishing needs work, Ball has improved across the board in 2022. He’s become a knockdown shooter, making 37% of his perimeter shots. His playmaking and ball-theft abilities remain impressive. We might need to tone down the use of emojis, however.
In all seriousness, Ball is the magnum opus of this franchise. While the playoffs seem unlikely, he’ll be the reason they get there if they make a run. He’s lightning in a bottle, the one beacon of hope for a team needing a direction.
Chicago Bulls: A
Record: (38-21)
Offensive Rating: 113.4 (4th)
Defensive Rating: 111.4 (20th)
My Predicted Seeding: #8 in the East
One could argue that the Bulls have been the unluckiest team in the league this year. They have dealt with injuries on injuries on injuries. All of their stars, save DeRozan, have missed extended action. Currently, Chicago’s backcourt combo of Caruso and Ball is out for weeks recovering from surgery.
Despite all the potholes and speedbumps, they’re first in the conference. DeMar DeRozan is having a season for the ages, scoring live never before. Role players like Javonte Green and Ayo Dosunmu have been superb. When healthy, this team is dangerous.
The battle for Chicago continues to be health. If they avoid any other major injuries, it’s simply a matter of getting the band back together again. Getting Ball, Caruso, Williams, and Lavine back to 100% is their goal from now until the postseason.
They’ve been the most consistent team in the league, even with the numerous hurdles thrown at them. I, like most, underestimated this team. I was wrong.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Ayo Dosunmu
One of the pleasant surprises about the Bulls’ season has been rookie Ayo Dosunmu. The Bulls went all-in during the offseason, moving multiple draft picks. This second-rounder from Illinois was one of the few picks the Bulls owned. They, of course, hit a grand slam with it.
His playmaking has been his biggest strength. He’s shown his ability to run an offense. He’s not a natural scorer, but he can hit open shots.
Dosunmu has been invaluable to Chicago. With all their injuries, he’s provided a safety blanket of minutes off the bench. When the Bulls get healthy, Dosunmu should still find playing time. He’s that talented.
The Illinois kid is helping the Bulls survive. He might also help them thrive in the postseason.
Cleveland Cavaliers: A+
Record: (35-23)
Offensive Rating: 110.0 (19th)
Defensive Rating: 105.8 (4th)
My Predicted Seeding: #13 in the East
The Cleveland Cavaliers have been the surprise team of 2022. Years of rebuilding have led them to assemble a dynamite young core. Their larger-than-life lineup has sprung a resurgent Cleveland squad. Major injuries and a flaccid bench be damned, this team is a top seed in the East.
Darius Garland has become an All-Star. He’s a three-level scorer who is also one of the best playmakers in the league. His breakout season has been the driving force for the Cavs offensively. Adding Caris Levert at the deadline should add more offensive punch.
The frontcourt combo of Allen and Mobley has transformed this defense. Allen is a force down low, while the rookie Mobley can do everything. The rookie of the year favorite has undoubtedly accelerated this rebuild. Thanks for picking Jalen Green, Houston!
It’s hard not to like this team. They have an underdog mentality, like a small school in March Madness. You can’t help but get behind them. And things can only get better for this team.
After a brutal first-half schedule, Cleveland has a very relaxed second half. Their defense will continue to anchor them, so it’s time for the offense to step things up. More scoring is required for them to make noise in the postseason.
Other than that, you couldn’t have drawn up a better season for the Cavs.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – The Young Core
Cavs fans will get to watch this core for the next decade. Talk about being spoiled.
Darius Garland has emerged as a top 10 point guard in the league. Jarrett Allen is an interior force on both ends. Evan Mobley is an alien, an enigma, a player that makes no sense. Not to mention players solid like Okoro and Markkanen.
The Cavs’ meteoric rise is because of this young core. This core will also be the reason we, hopefully, have more fun Cavs teams for years to come.
Dallas Mavericks: A+
Record: (35-24)
Offensive Rating: 110.8 (16th)
Defensive Rating: 107.2 (5th)
My Predicted Seeding: #7 in the West
After firing Rick Carlisle and hiring Jason Kidd, the Mavericks should have taken a step back. Not only were they getting a worse, less experienced coach, but the roster also didn’t change. Luka Doncic can only do so much.
If you notice the offensive/defensive ratings of the Mavs above, there’s a stark difference. Instead of being an offensive powerhouse, their defense sets the tone. Jason Kidd, I will grudgingly admit, has done a fantastic job. This defense was ranked 21st last season with Rick Carlisle. As we talked about, the roster didn’t change over the offseason. This jump in defense is all on Kidd.
After a slow start to the season, Doncic rapidly picked things up before the All-Star break. A trade deadline move for Bertans and Dinwiddie is risky, but it could be just what Dallas needs. The more weapons for Luka, the better.
If the defense continues to play this well, there’s a ballroom ceiling on this team. It won’t matter how bad Tim Hardaway Jr. has been. The trade deadline swap won’t hold as much importance. With Luka and this defense, teams will want to avoid the Mavericks in the playoffs, not the other way around.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Luka’s Back
| Unhealthy Luka Doncic (First 29 Games) | Healthy Luka Doncic (Last 15 Games) |
| 24.6 points | 33.3 points |
| 8.6 rebounds | 10.3 rebounds |
| 8.8 assists | 9.3 assists |
| 29% 3-PT (7.9 attempts) | 41% 3-PT (9.1 attempts) |
| 53% True Shooting | 60% True Shooting |
It’s safe to say the Wunderkind has regained his form.
Denver Nuggets: A+
Record: (33-25)
Offensive Rating: 111.9 (7th)
Defensive Rating: 109.9 (14th)
My Predicted Seeding: #4 in the West
Jamal Murray: Hasn’t played this season
Michael Porter Jr: 9 (crappy) games before undergoing back surgery
Denver Nuggets: 6th seed
It’s unfathomable how this team is afloat. They should be like Chuck Noll when he first got to the island. Instead, they’re using portable toilets to survive. A more logical answer to their success is Nikola Jokic.
The Joker is having another season for the ages. He is three steps ahead of everybody else on the floor. The Nuggets win if they’re able to keep up. His passing, vision, and (relative) elegance is something we’ve never seen before. If not for a man who can’t jump over a quarter, Denver would be one of the worst teams in the league.
Not to give the reigning MVP all the credit, but the role players haven’t been half bad, either. Monte Morris, Aaron Gordon, Bones Hyland, and Jeff Green highlight a solid cast of shooters and scorers. Bryn Forbes gives them another weapon on the perimeter.
If the report that both of Denver’s stars could return before the postseason is true, then this season is still salvageable.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic is the frontrunner for MVP in my eyes. Not only are his numbers enough to make Stephen Hawkins roll in his grave, but he’s also carrying Denver. Without his second and third options, this team is avoiding the play-in.
I get that Embiid will get all the love because he’s scoring more, but Jokic is not only the better play, but he’s having the better season. Hopefully, word gets around by the time the votes are collected. If not, we riot.
26.0 points
13.8 rebounds
7.9 assists
2.0 stocks
65% TS
14.0 BPM (1st in NBA)
7.0 VORP (1st in NBA)
.296 WS/48 (1st in NBA)
32.6 PER (1st in NBA)
Jesus Christ, just give this guy the award anyway.
Detroit Pistons: C
Record: (13-45)
Offensive Rating: 103.0 (29th)
Defensive Rating: 113.0 (25th)
My Predicted Seeding: #14 in the East
I won’t drag this one out for long. The Pistons aren’t doing anything out of the ordinary. We aren’t surprised that they’re 32 games under 0.500. Even with Cade Cunningham in town, this team has a long way to go.
Not trading Jerami Grant is likely the “highlight” of their season. Other than those two plus Saddiq Bey, this roster isn’t exciting. Killian Hayes looks like a bust. Isaiah Stewart isn’t the answer down low.
This team still has a long way to go before they start contending.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Cade Cunningham
One of the few bright spots of this team is Cade. With Jerami Grant missing considerable time with injury, the Pistons gave Cade the keys to the offense. He’s shown flashes of the player he can become in a few years.
The shooting could use some work, but his physical tools are all there. His ability to get downhill and carve out space is akin to Luka Doncic. That driving ability is complimented by his pick-and-roll decision-making.
He’s a cool customer, someone who doesn’t get rattled. Now, it’s time to get this guy a supporting cast.
Golden State Warriors: A
Record: (42-17)
Offensive Rating: 111.4 (11th)
Defensive Rating: 104.6 (1st)
My Predicted Seeding: #5 in the West
A lot has changed since the Warriors lost in the play-in tournament. They spent the offseason adding veterans off the bench. They drafted Jonathan Kuminga. A Klay Thompson return was on the horizon. But, I wasn’t ready for what immediately followed.
The dynastic Warriors returned in full force. Draymond Green engineered a top-flight defense. Steph Curry might not be an MVP, but Wiggins and Poole have been capable, secondary threats. The return of Klay gives the Warriors even more firepower.
No Draymond Green for the past few weeks has slowed them down, but they remain a dominant team on both ends. Not many teams go as deep as the Warriors do. And, of course, you don’t want to play the 3x champs in the playoffs.
A part of me thought that we’d never see the dominant Warriors again. Instead, this old dog is trying to claim one more title before riding off into the sunset.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – The Return of Draymond
I was tempted to put Jonathan Kuminga here, but I refrained. Without their leader, their heartbeat, the Warriors haven’t been the same. You wouldn’t notice any difference in their record, instead in their level of play.
The offense has sputtered at times without Green. He knows the offense like the back of his hand, able to direct traffic whenever. His connection with Steph Curry is telepathic, something we haven’t seen before. It’s one of the reasons that the greatest shooter of all time hasn’t been as unstoppable as he was last year.
Whenever the defensive player of the year returns, the Warriors will return to full strength. And when they do, they’ll give any and everybody their best shot.
Houston Rockets: D
Record: (15-43)
Offensive Rating: 107.1 (27th)
Defensive Rating: 116.4 (30th)
My Predicted Seeding: #13 in the West
Houston has quietly been disappointing this year. Despite having numerous exciting young pieces, they have more questions than answers at the All-Star Break.
#2 overall pick Jalen Green has been terrible. I wasn’t high on the G-League product for a reason. Who knew that a one-sided prospect would struggle in the NBA? Not me.
The Rockets don’t have a floor general, just Kevin Porter Jr. pretending he is one. The offense is sluggish and not free-flowing as a result. What makes less sense is signing Daniel Theis and subsequently trading him in the span of a few months.
Alperen Sengun, another one of their first-rounders, doesn’t play enough. Josh Christopher hasn’t knocked my socks off and Usman Garuba, the last of their first-round picks, hasn’t even put his socks on this season.
They’ve had behavior issues, long losing streaks, and did I mention they passed on drafting Evan Mobley? I don’t think I have, so here’s your reminder! A few months ago, I thought the Rockets rebuild was on the right track. At the All-Star Break, things are looking bleak.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Uhh….
I’ll get back to you on this one.
Indiana Pacers: D
Record: (20-40)
Offensive Rating: 110.4 (17th)
Defensive Rating: 113.1 (25th)
My Predicted Seeding: #10 in the East
For the 1000th straight season, I thought the Pacers would be decent. How couldn’t they be? Sabonis, Brogdon, Levert, and Turner are a solid foursome, enough to make the play-in tournament. A Rick Carlisle reunion made 2022 seem promising.
Instead, Indiana lost every close game imaginable and watched as injuries destroyed their season. They fell towards the bottom of the conference, wasting away their core. So, they made the right decision by retooling.
Levert and Sabonis were shipped off. The return for both of those guys was more than ok, but that’s not the point. For a team with this much talent, being 20 games under 0.500 is underwhelming. Ownership won’t commit to rebuilding, even if that’s what they need to do.
Enough with my negatively. Let’s talk about what really matters.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – TYRESE HALIBURTON
I don’t think its fully hit me that he’s a Pacer. My favorite prospect from the 2020 NBA Draft seemed untouchable, the face of the Kings. Now, he’s the face of a team closer to home.
Haliburton returning to the Midwest is perfect for more than more family dinners. The Pacers flipped Sabonis for Haliburton, one of the biggest steals of my lifetime. I don’t know how it happened, and I kind of don’t want to.
It takes teams years to find their leader. One trade with one idiotic team gave Indiana their leader. Now, it’s time to build a team around him.
Los Angeles Clippers: B+
Record: (30-31)
Offensive Rating: 107.6 (26th)
Defensive Rating: 108.4 (7th)
My Predicted Seeding: #9 in the West
Without Kawhi Leonard, my expectations for the Clippers were modest. Without PG-13? It seemed like their season was over. Instead, similar to last year, they’re finding ways to win.
They’ve found production out of unlikely outlets. Amir Coffey is a staple of the bench. Luke Kennard is the second coming of JJ Redick. Brandon Boston is prone to a big night now and then.
A fleecing of my Blazers gave them Powell and Covington for free. While Powell is out with a foot injury, Covington is good depth. If Paul George comes back healthy, then this team will be scary.
They’re firmly in the play-in mess, so the playoffs aren’t out of the question. And on the astronomically low chances we see The Klaw return this season, a ring, too?
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Paul George’s Return
If Powell didn’t get injured, the need for George wouldn’t be as substantial. He’s been out for months with an elbow injury from hell. Before that, he was the reason LA was worth a damn.
George accepted the #1 role on this team without Kawhi. The Clippers need him to reclaim that role in time for the playoffs. If they want another fantasy run so Steve Balmer can go crazy, that’s the only answer.
Los Angeles Lakers: F-
Record: (27-31)
Offensive Rating: 108.8 (23rd)
Defensive Rating: 110.3 (16th)
My Predicted Seeding: #2 in the West
How it started;
How it’s going;
That’s the best way to describe the Lakers. Speechless.
The trade for Russell Westbrook has sent this franchise back to the days of Jack Kent Cooke. While Lebron James wanted a star, he got a black hole. It doesn’t help that Anthony Davis is out for another four weeks with yet another injury.
Lebron James can break all the records he wants. This team is dead, lifeless, any adjective in the book. Ignore that I predicted them to be the second seed in the West. Ignore that.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – uhhhh…
I don’t think Lakers fans are looking forward to anything anymore.
Memphis Grizzlies: A+
Record: (41-19)
Offensive Rating: 113.1 (5th)
Defensive Rating: 108.6 (9th)
My Predicted Seeding: #8 in the West
After two years of steadily improving, the Grizzlies have taken the leap. Their young core, led by Ja Morant, has exploded. They’ve kept pace with other juggernauts in the West, sitting comfortably in third place right now.
Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. are having breakout seasons. Ja Morant is attempting to break rims every single night. Taylor Jenkins has all the depth he could ever want, perhaps too much.
Memphis dominates the paint, get out in transition, and have fun. It’s a remixed version of grit and grind basketball. They’ve captivated the basketball world. With the playoffs approaching, it’s time to talk about the Grizzlies more.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Ja Morant
When a 6’3″ guard is leading the league in points in the paint, the sky must be falling. The third-year guard has put things together, delivering his best season to date.
His game-breaking athleticism is on full display. Highlight plays are a given whenever he’s on the court. The undisputed leader of this team is just getting started. If you’re a Memphis, sit back and watch the show.
26.8 points / 5.8 rebounds / 6.9 assists / 58% TS / 6.2 OBPM / Temetrius
Miami Heat: A
Record: (38-21)
Offensive Rating: 111.9 (8th)
Defensive Rating: 107.4 (6th)
My Predicted Seeding: #4 in the East
The Heat, like the Bulls, can be considered unlucky. Their two All-Stars, Butler and Adebayo, have each missed considerable time this year. Kyle Lowry just returned after missing a few weeks. With a questionable bench, I left Miami out to dry.
Instead, they are the #1 seed in the East. How?
When healthy, they’ve flexed their muscles. A defensive core with four of the best defenders in the NBA has worked out as you’d expect. Kyle Lowry gives them the floor general they missed last year. Miami’s one of the best shooting and passing teams in the NBA.
Herro and Robinson provide an extra scoring punch. The rest of their production comes from a whos who bunch of role players. They’re not important, if I’m being honest.
What is important is that this team is built for the playoffs. They can match up with anybody. Their edge in experience is immense. On top of all of that, what if they get homecourt advantage? Another finals run doesn’t seem impossible.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – The Two White Guys
Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson stand out on Miami for more than one reason. On a team filled with veterans, they’re the two young bucks. In my opinion, they’re going to make or break Miami’s season.
For the most part, we know what we’ll get from the stars. These two are the x-factors. Herro can score from anywhere on the floor. Duncan Robinson is one of the best shooters in the NBA.
If these two get going for the postseason like they did in the Bubble? That would make Miami even more deadly, that much harder to stop on top of everything else they can throw at you.
The two white guys are the driving force for Miami’s success.
Milwaukee Bucks: B
Record: (36-24)
Offensive Rating: 112.5 (6th)
Defensive Rating: 109.4 (12th)
My Predicted Seeding: #2 in the East
The defending champions have had a rough pre-All-Star break. Injuries have headlined most of their problems, as they can’t seem to stay on the floor. They’ve been without Brook Lopez for the entire season save 28 minutes.
The Bucks haven’t been able to flex their might this season. Their Big 3 has been just as good as they were last year, but with a much smaller sample size. If Milwaukee hadn’t dealt with injuries this season, they would be running away with the East.
If they can get to full strength, there’s no beating them. The trio of Holiday, Middleton and that one Greek guy might be the best in the business. They proved they can get things done last year, so why not an encour?
They upgraded Donte DiVincenzo with Grayson Allen. Losing PJ Tucker will leave a mark in the postseason, but I’m confident this team can survive that. If this team gets going, clear the runway.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Brook Lopez’s Return?
The Bucks have tried many things to fix their problems at center. From Boogie Cousins to Serge Ibaka, nothing has worked out. Not that I’m a big proponent of Brook Lopez, but do they need him back.
He offers them a stopgap down low. A different look from Giannis or Bobby Portis, both of whom are the only decent options down low.
If Lopez returns in time for the playoffs and gets his legs under him, the Bucks can ramp things up. They’ve already started before the All-Star break, but if they get their interior beast back?
Once again, clear the runway.
Minnesota Timberwolves: B-
Record: (31-28)
Offensive Rating: 111.5 (9th)
Defensive Rating: 110.0 (15th)
My Predicted Seeding: #10 in the West
The Minnesota Timberwolves were my sleeper team in the West this season. While most disregarded the worst franchise in NBA history, I took them under my wing. It took a bit to iron out the wrinkles, but they’re proving me right.
Karl Anthony-Towns, winner of the 3-PT contest, is having a phenomenal bounce-back season after injuries plagued him for the prior two years. Minnesota sometimes goes away from him, for some reason, but when he gets going, he’s so hard to guard. Opposing centers simply can’t deal with his range and versatility.
Anthony Edwards has also taken the next step. I’d love for him to attack the basket more and be like his Georgia Bulldogs, but his sophomore campaign has been solid.
D-Lo might be the third option, but he and Edwards are interchangeable. It depends on the night. These three lead an offense that has gotten better by the month.
A solid cast of defensive players like Patrick Beverley and Jarred Vanderbilt has transformed this defense. I expected this team to be able to score, but I wasn’t expecting them to be a respectable defense. That has been by far the most surprising thing about this team.
The T-Wolves are the highest play-in seed entering the All-Star Break. They’re on a roll, playing with house money. For decades, this team has been the laughing stock of the NBA. Maybe it’s time for a change.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Karl Anthony-Towns
As he displayed in the 3-PT contest, Karl Anthony-Towns can do it all. We don’t talk about him when we talk about the best centers in the league, but we should. The best scoring/center we’ve seen in a long time deserves some love.
Fun fact: KAT is shooting 41% from 3 and 82% from the free-throw line. The last big guy to do that was Dirk Nowitzki in 2013. Not bad company if you ask me.
When you look at Towns’s numbers, it makes even less sense that he doesn’t get talked about a lot. Not too many guys in the 75-year history of the NBA can put up these numbers, much less a 7-footer.
24.4 points / 9.7 rebounds / 52% FG / 41% 3-PT / 82% FT / 2.1 stocks / 4.7 OBPM
Another elite big guy in Minnesota? Where have I seen this one before?
New Orleans Pelicans: C
Record: (23-36)
Offensive Rating: 108.8 (24th)
Defensive Rating: 111.7 (21st)
My Predicted Seeding: #11 in the West
Already without Zion Williamson, the Pelicans looked dead. A 1-12 start made sure their playoff ambitions were toast. They’ve looked ok since those first 13 games, but they’ve still underperformed. I get that Zion is out, but for the second straight season, the Pelicans are unlikely to make any postseason buzz.
Trading for CJ McCollum will only serve to push the needle next season, not in 2022. Their timer on Zion is ticking. This year is basically down the drain, another missed opportunity.
We’re already three years into the Zion experiment. The Pelicans don’t have a single damn thing to show for it. Let’s not talk about it.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – CJ McCollum
The CJ trade might not help the Pels out this year, but I think next year is where it will show its true value. He might not be good at shooting jumpers from a rack, but he sure can score.
CJ has been on a tear in his very shot Pelicans tenure. We haven’t seen him play with Zion, but I think he gives them more scoring. If only they had kept Lonzo Ball for this season, then they wouldn’t have to rely upon Devonte’ Graham.
Anyway, watching CJ for the last 20-ish games of this season should be fun. In an otherwise morbid season, McCollum represents what could be next season. Now it’s Zion’s turn to get on the treadmill.
New York Knicks: F-
Record: (25-34)
Offensive Rating: 108.4 (25th)
Defensive Rating: 110.3 (17th)
My Predicted Seeding: #5 in the East
Yeah, that about sums things up.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Quintin Grimes
The last hope for Knicks fans has been Quintin Grimes. I didn’t love the Grimes pick coming into 2022, but he’s been solid.
He’s one of the few shooters the Knicks have that can actually shoot. He’s a solid defender. He plays hard every night, which is more than you can say about some of his teammates.
Ok, enough with the hope, back to the misery. See you in hell, Knicks fans.
Oklahoma City Thunder: B
Record: (18-40)
Offensive Rating: 102.0 (30th)
Defensive Rating: 108.6 (8th)
My Predicted Seeding: #15 in the West
The Thunder might be atrocious, but their draft picks aren’t. If there’s one thing Sam Presti can do, it’s draft. And draft he did in 2021.
Josh Giddey is a gadget forward who has four triple-doubles this season. The Australian needs some polishing, but should turn out to be a great player.
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl is a solid center down low. His name is also fun to say.
Along with SGA and Lu Dort, OKC is on the rise. They have an unlimited amount of resources for the future thanks to Presti. Their rebuild is running on schedule. Take notes, Houston.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Josh Giddey
Read this article where I listed out every possible reason to like Josh Giddey.
Orlando Magic: B
Record: (13-47)
Offensive Rating: 103.8 (28th)
Defensive Rating: 112.4 (24th)
My Predicted Seeding: #15 in the East
The Magic are in the same boat as OKC. They might suck, but they’ve hit some home runs with their draft selections.
Cole Anthony has taken his sophomore leap, just not in the dunk contest. Frank Wagner is another gadget forward from this draft. Wagner has been one of the more consistent rookies in the NBA this season.
Wendell Carter Jr. and Mo Bamba form an unlikely, but effective center tandem. Bamba may not be on the Magic long-term, but this duo is fascinating.
Jalen Suggs got off to a slow start, but since his return from injury, he’s shown why he was the #5 overall pick. That winning player from Gonzaga is translating to the NBA.
Orlando is still waiting for the returns of Jonathan Isaac and Markelle Fultz. Those two guys add to an already weird and messy core. Nonetheless, 2022 has been quite promising for Orlando.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Franz Wagner + Jalen Suggs
The Magic’s two rookies inside the top ten have both looked great. Wagner especially, but Suggs has been coming on strong over the past few weeks.
Wagner can do everything. Shoot, pass, handle, defend, everything. He’s been one of the more NBA-ready rookies thanks to his experience overseas. I liked Wagner coming into the NBA, but never thought he’d be this good as a rookie.
Suggs’s thumb injury made his slow start to his rookie season look slower. However, he picked things up leading to the All-Star Break;
Jalen Suggs’s Last Eight Games Before The Break
13.9 points – 5.4 assists – 1.5 steals – 14% 3-PT
We’re going to have to work on that last stat, but Suggs is rounding into form. Let’s see if he can continue this to end the season.
Philadelphia 76ers: A-
Record: (35-23)
Offensive Rating: 111.0 (14th)
Defensive Rating: 109.2 (11th)
My Predicted Seeding: #7 in the East
God knows where this team would be without Embiid. The Cameroonian is having the best season of his career, this time without injuries to get in the way of his MVP chances. With no Ben Simmons for the entire year, Embiid has been magnificent.
A trade deadline move for James Harden will be Philly’s fate to end the year. They gave up quite a bit to get him, but it could net them the ultimate prize of a title.
They’ll need more from Tobias Harris and the bench to get it done, but it’s possible. If Embiid continues to play like Prime Shaq, the 76ers can do just about anything they want.
Hopefully, Doc Rivers doesn’t screw this up.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Joel Embiid
29.6 points – 11.2 rebounds – 2.4 stocks – 61% TS – 9.9 BPM – Unstoppable
Instead of running from Philly like Simmons, Embiid has become their savior. His MVP chances are great, barring another untimely injury. No matter how good Harden is with the 76ers, Embiid will be their best player. The force to take them to their first conference finals with him at the helm.
Phoenix Suns: A+
Record: (48-10)
Offensive Rating: 113.5 (3rd)
Defensive Rating: 105.4 (3rd)
My Predicted Seeding: #1 in the West
The Suns are a machine. I talked about why I loved them at length in my previous article. Read that if you want any more reasons to believe this team is a contender.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Aaron Holiday
One of the more under-the-radar deadline pickups also happened to be one of my favorites. The young point guard acquired from Phoenix has a chance to make a mark.
With Cameron Payne struggling, Holiday gives the Suns a new look. He’s a better defender than Payne, a trait that all Holiday brothers can say. For his career, he’s shot 37% from behind the arc.
At just 25 years old, he’s another young body who can give Monty Williams energy off the bench. I can’t say if they’ll give him minutes in the playoffs, but these next 20 games will be an audition for such. If he plays like I think he can, then I’m sure he’ll find no problem getting minutes on the biggest stage.
Portland Trail Blazers: D
Record: (25-34)
Offensive Rating: 109.5 (20th)
Defensive Rating: 113.7 (28th)
My Predicted Seeding: #6 in the West
We should have traded CJ after 2018. I’m not giving Joe Cronin any brownie points after being five years late to the party. I’m glad we finally did it, but we wouldn’t be in this situation if we had bit the bullet years ago.
My Blazers were supposed to be a decent team again in 2022. With Powell and Covington able to fully gel with the core, I figured we’d be around a 6th-8th seed in the West. Instead, everybody got hurt and we sucked.
The only rewarding thing about this season has been Anfernee Simons, who is flashing his true colors. Other than that, it’s been a miserable 2022.
I can’t wait for the offseason, where we inevitably waste all of our new cap space! Yay!
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Anfernee Simons
Simons has always been someone I wanted to get more minutes. But, we were too stubborn at being mediocre to give him minutes for a couple of years.
With the ball in his hands, Simons is thriving. He’s an elite 3-PT shooter. He’s a natural scorer, using his burst and athleticism to attack the rim. His playmaking has also surprised me.
These last few months have guaranteed Simons a lot of dough in free agency. Whether he gets that from Portland or elsewhere is anybody’s guess. With that in mind, I will cherish these last couple of months of watching him go berserk.
Sacramento Kings: F-
Record: (22-38)
Offensive Rating: 109.4 (21st)
Defensive Rating: 114.3 (29th)
My Predicted Seeding: #12 in the West
Enough said.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – De’Aaron Fox
With his max extension already looking shaky, trading Haliburton puts even more pressure on Fox. If you’re a Kings fan, you have to hope he can make diamonds.
Fox’s 2021 season proved he can be an All-Star level player. Regardless of if he’s worse than Haliburton, the Kings need that version of Fox.
To trade Haliburton and not get an All-Star caliber Fox in return would make things even worse than they already are, if that’s even possible at this point.
The rest of the season and the years that follow will be pivotal for Fox. He’s a few steps from becoming the face of the Kings. He’s also a few steps away from falling into freezing water.
San Antonio Spurs: C+
Record: (23-36)
Offensive Rating: 111.0 (15th)
Defensive Rating: 110.6 (18th)
My Predicted Seeding: #14 in the West
If not for Dejounte Murray, my prediction for this team would be correct. The Spurs still don’t have a direction. Trading Derrick White, among others, still doesn’t change anything for their long-term plans.
I understand that coaching legend Gregg Popovich doesn’t want to rebuild, but they need to. They don’t have any chance of signing free agents. If they want another Tim Duncan, they have to suck, not be average.
Drafting Josh Primo is a risk, but if you’re not going to play the youngest player from that draft class, what was the point of taking him?
Until this team chooses a definitive direction, I can’t get behind them. No matter how many triple-doubles Dejounte puts up, I will be frustrated with them.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Dejounte Murray
Speaking of Murray, he’s having a great season. The departure of DeRozan in free agency all but guaranteed a jump in production. Murray’s season isn’t as good as some play it out to be, but it’s still his best season to date.
A perimeter jumper is foreign to him, but everything else is there. He’s a ball-hawking defender who leads the league in steals per game. He went from averaging 5.4 assists last season to 9.3 this year. He became an All-Star.
Murray is the only reason this team isn’t near the bottom of the standings. I doubt they wiggle their way into the play-in tournament, but with Murray, they have a chance.
Toronto Raptors: B+
Record: (32-25)
Offensive Rating: 111.5 (10th)
Defensive Rating: 109.8 (13th)
My Predicted Seeding: #11 in the East
I can’t figure out the Toronto Raptors. They have all the versatility in the world, but they are weird. I don’t love their bench options and neither does Nick Nurse.
They don’t have a lot of playmaking outside of VanVleet. Nor do they have a lot of perimeter shooting options.
Yet, all that versatility leads to a defense nobody wants to face. Try going against Siakam, Anunoby, and Barnes and see how you’re night would go.
The Raptors have a firm hold on the seventh seed in the East. They could get out of the play-in tournament fairly easily. Despite their weirdness, playoff basketball seems inevitable in Toronto.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – ALL THAT VERSATILITY
Scottie Barnes
Pascal Siakam
OG Anunoby
Thaddeus Young
Chris Boucher
That’s a lot of damage.
Utah Jazz: B
Record: (36-22)
Offensive Rating: 115.9 (1st)
Defensive Rating: 109.0 (10th)
My Predicted Seeding: #3 in the West
The Jazz struggling this season could bring me no greater joy. I didn’t think they were contenders last season due to their lack of perimeter defenders. I don’t think they’re contenders this season due to their lack of perimeter defenders.
The Jazz are the same team they were last season. Only this time around, they aren’t going to be the #1 seed. Rudy Gobert missing time has exposed how weak this team is without him.
Utah’s only hope is that they make 20 3’s per game. That’s the only way they can win the title. If that doesn’t happen, a lot of other teams in the West can dismantle them.
The Clippers, without Kawhi, did it last year. It’s only logical to expect similar results this go around.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Donovan Mitchell
Donovan Mitchell has had a quiet 2022. He’s having a statistical season on par with last season, but things just don’t feel the same.
He missed extended time with a concussion, but it’s more than that. I feel like we haven’t talked about Mitchell as much as have in previous seasons. I don’t know why that is.
Jazz fans should be appreciative of Mitchell, however. When healthy, he’s the catalyst to this offense. If there’s one thing Utah can do, it’s score. And Mitchell is at the forefront of that strength.
Washington Wizards: C-
Record: (27-31)
Offensive Rating: 109.1 (22nd)
Defensive Rating: 111.7 (22nd)
My Predicted Seeding: #12 in the East
After a 10-3 start, everything has gone downhill for the Wizards. Their defense went from elite to porous. They traded Spencer Dinwiddie just one season into his new contract. They paid Davis Bertans $80 million dollars.
Trading for Kristaps Porzingis makes this team even weirder. They should be rebuilding, but they won’t, for reasons unknown to me.
Bradley Beal wants the supermax, a contract he doesn’t deserve. With that in mind, they will give him the money and set themselves back five more seasons. It’s a Wizards thing.
Overall, their season has been on par with what I expected them to be. That doesn’t mean I still hate them for wasting Deni Avdija.
One Thing To Be Optimistic About – Young Forwards
Deni Avdija, Daniel Gafford, Thomas Bryant, and Rui Hachimura. Think of these guys like the Fantastic Four. I never watched those movies, but these four guys are good. Ok? You get it.
Avdija has turned into an elite defender. I wished they didn’t just stand him in the corner on offense. Let him be the playmaker he was overseas.
Thomas Bryant is still regaining his footing from that ACL tear last season. Daniel Gafford straight up doesn’t play anymore.
Rui Hachimura had that weird period where he wasn’t playing. Now he’s back, and wouldn’t you know it? He’s having the worst season of his career.
The Wizards can’t even develop their youngsters right. Delete the franchise, please.
What Are Your Thoughts On These Grades? What Would You Change? Leave A Comment Down Below!
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