Step Back, 5 notes from the NBA week: episode 4
Fourth episode of the new Dunkest segment: this time we’ll talk about Bronny James, Joel Embiid, the Bucks, Jalen Williams, and the Lakers
In the past week, the NBA scene has offered an intriguing mix of developments, reflecting the performances of emerging players, established superstars, and teams battling for the postseason. Here are five highlights from the NBA week that we’ve left behind.
Bronny James aims for the upcoming Draft, but the numbers aren’t in his favor.
With less than 5 points and 3 rebounds on average, shooting at 27% from the arc and struggling physically, Bronny James – LeBron’s son – has stated through his agent that he wants to find the right NBA team to grow with. First and foremost, it remains to be seen if there’s anyone willing to pick him.
Embiid leads in win percentage this season.
The Sixers with Joel Embiid on the court surpass 77% of success this season: no one has done better in the NBA, but the 37 games played remain a question mark regarding the long-term stability of a franchise currently entangled in the Eastern Conference play-in zone: they’ll need to start climbing first.
Milwaukee stumbles, but Giannis is always there when it counts…
The Bucks’ fluctuating results have reopened the debate about the team’s resilience, given that things will change in the playoffs. The consolation lies in the fact that Giannis always knows what to do in the finals: he’s one of the two players with 400+ points and at least 55% shooting in the fourth quarters this season, providing an excellent starting point.
… as Jalen Williams for OKC, the unexpected name.
Indeed, Antetokounmpo is “one of the two” who manages to make such an impact in the final moments without losing shine and precision (with 400+ points and at least 55% shooting in the fourth quarter): the other is Jalen Williams, one of the many bright spots of OKC’s season – ready to enjoy a postseason as unpredictable as it is electrifying.
The Lakers have attempted over 400 more free throws than their opponents.
It’s called “Free throw attempt differential”, which is how many free throws a team gets compared to their opponents: in this regular season, now almost at its end, the Lakers are leading by a wide margin with over 400 more free throws than their opponents. However, these free throws might not be enough to secure a spot in the NBA Playoffs.