The Pelicans are falling out of playoff contention as Anthony Davis nurses a minor wrist injury. Even with him and Jrue Holiday putting together strong campaigns, depth issues have kept NOLA out of playoff picture.
Luka Doncic should be an All-Star, which doesn’t happen for too many true rookies, much less teenagers. The roster around him leaves much to be desired, but the Mavs are tough to beat at home.
The Heat are the Heat. Perpetually solid, never quite good enough, but never quite bad enough. Erik Spoelstra is making the most out of what he has.
The Timberwolves, despite deeply rooted flaws, have found some new life under Ryan Saunders. Karl-Anthony Towns continues to assert himself as an elite offensive talent, while Robert Covington‘s return will eventually help the defense.
The Pacers are now at a momentary crossroads with Victor Oladipo out for the season. Depth should keep them competitive in his absence — a fifth seed feels likely — but the Pacers will take a clear step back without their All-Star guard.