The Timberwolves fired Tom Thibodeau and are short Robert Covington for the next few weeks. Ryan Saunders might provide a nice boost in the head coaching gig, but the Wolves need to prove they can maximize Karl-Anthony Towns and his unique offensive talent.
It appears as though the Pelicans are struggling to convince Anthony Davis his long-term future lies in New Orleans. Despite several helpful contributors — Jrue Holiday, Nikola Mirotic, Julius Randle — depth continues to drag the Pelicans down in the cutthroat Western Conference.
The Mavericks are great at home but seem incapable of winning on the road. Luka Doncic is a bona fide star, but questionable roster fits and dreadful performances away from Dallas continue to limit the Mavs’ ceiling.
The Nets are just two games below .500 over halfway through the season, despite losing Caris LeVert to injury. D’Angelo Russell and Spencer Dinwiddie are stepping up in a big way, with the former finally showing glimpses of what made him the No. 2 pick.
The Heat are finding their groove after a slow start to the season, with Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow stepping up in Goran Dragic‘s absence. Erik Spoelstra remains an underrated (and elite) coach who maximizes the talent he’s given.