It’s been a turbulent time in the NBA of late, with the controversy surrounding their relationship with China dominating the headlines. But on the court, preseason is in full swing and has served up some interesting storylines.
Aside from some big stars debuting for their new teams, the other top news involve No. 1 overall pick Zion Williamson and two-time MVP Stephen Curry, who have had some noteworthy preseason performances. Anthony Davis has also made news, but for a slightly different reason.
As always, SBOBET NBA fans need not fear since a quick breakdown of those top stories to know is here.
Zion Williamson dominating preseason
Zion Williamson had a strong preseason debut against the Atlanta Hawks. But the New Orleans Pelican forward is showing why he was the much-hyped No. 1 overall pick in this year’s draft with some spectacular performances over the past three games.
During those three games, Williamson has shot a sizzling 29 of 36 from the field, good for 80.5 per cent, while averaging 25.7 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, as well as multiple NBA 2019 highlights.
Team-mate Josh Hart put it perfectly as he described Williamson as “a force.”
“You can’t compare it to nobody,” Hart said. “Nobody can do that. He does a really good job of being able to use his body. I mean, he’s a force.”
Although, it should be noted that aside from one made 3-pointer, all of Williamson’s baskets have been right at the basket. And with opposing defences not trying as hard in the preseason, that could explain why his numbers have looked so impressive.
No one will know just how good Williamson truly is until he faces off against more committed defences.
But still, the early signs have been promising for the Pelicans, who have high expectations for the talented rookie. It may only be preseason, but the fact that Zion is dominating is the best outcome possible.
Stephen Curry drops 40 points in 25 minutes
Stephen Curry put on quite a show for the Chase Center crowd as he dropped 40 points in just 25 minutes of action to lead the Golden State Warriors to a 143-123 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Chef Curry cooked to the tune of 14-of-19 from the field and hit 6-of-9 3-pointers, while also adding six rebounds and six assists.
This is shaping up to be a big season for Curry, who will be tasked to take on a heavy burden for a Warriors team that will be without Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson. The two-time MVP will need to rediscover that sort of form for Golden State to remain in playoff contention in the loaded Western Conference.
Head coach Steve Kerr certainly believes Curry is capable of having such a season as he remains at his peak both physically and mentally.
“Just the usual,” Kerr said. “I’m not looking for anything different than what he’s done for five years, but what he’s done is pretty special: two MVP’s and a perennial top-five player. He’s had an incredible camp. To me, he’s at his peak physically, mentally. He’s seen every defence that people have thrown at him now during his career, and he’s ready to have a great year.”
SBOBET’s NBA 2019 odds for MVP currently have Curry priced at 6.00, the second-favourite behind Giannis Antetokounmpo. It will be a tall order, but if he can manage to stay healthy this season — which is a big if — it’s certainly possible.
Anthony Davis suffers sprained thumb in China
Anthony Davis impressed in his debut with the Los Angeles Lakers. But the big man might miss the remainder of preseason after he suffered a sprained thumb against the Brooklyn Nets in China.
Davis sprained his thumb in the first quarter and did not return. He finished with just six points on 2-for-7 shooting, three rebounds and two blocks in 12 minutes.
Thankfully, the Lakers don’t believe Davis suffered any ligament damage and figures to be just a mild sprain. However, they could still hold Davis out of their remaining preseason assignments as a precautionary measure.
The Lakers have every reason to exercise caution with Davis. The big man has a history of picking up niggling injuries, which have seen him miss game time. He has never played more than 75 games in a season in his seven-year NBA career.
If Davis’ injury is as minor as suspected, he should be ready to go for the Lakers’ season opener against the Clippers on Oct. 23. And moving forward, expect them to continue to star big man with care as he holds the key to their championship aspirations this season.
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