We are just a few days away from the best basketball in the world, the NBA, to start giving us new emotions again.
As we approach the 2023 NBA preseason, there is a palpable excitement in the air. Furthermore, the 2022/23 season was a roller coaster ride, with the Denver Nuggets emerging as champions, led by the towering presence of Nikola Jokić.
On the other hand, the dead season was punctuated with major trades, draft picks, and reinforcements, reshaping the NBA landscape and setting the stage for an exciting 2023 preseason.
2022/23 NBA Champion Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets’ 2022 championship run was a testament to their resiliency and team chemistry. With Jokic at the helm, the Nuggets displayed an impressive array of skills, from their defensive prowess to their offensive potency. In addition, with the contributions of Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon, the team beat the Miami Heat 4-1 comfortably.
On the other hand, the Serbian center was the team’s backbone, showing his versatility on both ends of the court. His ability to score, rebound, and distribute the ball was decisive for Denver’s success, and he will undoubtedly be a player to watch next season.
Major changes in the off-season
The offseason saw major player moves that could alter the balance of power in the NBA. Damian Lillard to the Milwaukee Bucks was one of the most notable trades. Adding the All-Star point guard to the Bucks’ roster could elevate them to a higher level, given his scoring ability and leadership skills. Moreover, it’s not just Milwaukee fans eagerly awaiting what will happen with the spectacular partnership between Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, which could make the Bucks a fearsome force in the Eastern Conference.
Jrue Holiday was traded from the Bucks to the Boston Celtics in a reciprocal move. Holiday’s defensive tenacity and playmaking ability could be a determining factor this season with the Celtics. In addition, his addition to the roster, along with Jayson Tatum and Jalen Brown, could bolster Boston’s chances of making the playoffs and, why not, fighting for the championship ring.
The Los Angeles Lakers, not to be outdone, bolstered their lineup with the acquisition of Christian Wood. The versatile small forward-center is famous for his scoring efficiency and rebounding ability. In addition, his signing with the California team, along with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, could make the Lakers more balanced and potent. Lakers fans hope this new addition will help them regain their championship status next season.
NBA Draft 2023
The 2023 NBA Draft also introduced a new crop of talent to the league. Rookies will look to make their mark in the preseason, and it will be interesting to see which players can quickly adapt to the rigors of the NBA. The preseason games will serve as a platform for these rookie players to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot in their respective team’s rotation.
The San Antonio Spurs selected 6-foot-9, 19-year-old French prodigy Victor Wembanyama with the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. Not only because of Wembanyama’s promotion but also because of the appearances of Brandon Miller (chosen by the Charlotte Hornets with pick #2) and Scoot Henderson (chosen by the Portland Trail Blazers with pick #3).
Finally, by becoming the first twins chosen in the Top 10 of the Draft, Amen and Ausar Thompson made NBA history. The Houston Rockets selected Amen Thompson with pick #4, while the Detroit Pistons selected Ausar Thompson with pick #5.
Interesting matchups from the first week of the 2023 NBA Preseason
Golden State Warriors vs. LA Lakers
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Chicago Bulls
Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers
Detroit Pistons vs. Phoenix Suns
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