The Jazz need more offense. Donovan Mitchell is carrying a heavy burden, with varying levels of success. Rudy Gobert anchors an elite defense, but without more firepower, the Jazz might get stuck in Western Conference mediocrity.
The Kings are still, somehow, good at basketball. De’Aaron Fox should win Most Improved Player. Some might venture to dub him an All-Star. Buddy Hield and Bogdan Bogdanovic are rounding into solid cornerstones, while Marvin Bagley has shown promise when healthy. Sactown is trending upward.
The Clippers have enough depth and talent to stick in the postseason picture. Their early-season hot streak is no more, but Tobias Harris continues to propel a strong two-way attack. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will get All-Rookie consideration. Danilo Gallinari is back to his productive, underrated self.
The Spurs are piecing things together despite a flawed roster and countless injuries, which is a testament once again to Gregg Popovich’s coaching chops. DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge are still talented, even if the modern NBA shies away from their skill sets.
The Lakers are 1-2 without LeBron James, but the core pieces have all stepped up in his absence. Lonzo Ball had his best game of the season on Thursday, while Brandon Ingram‘s came on Sunday. That’s a positive sign moving forward.