NBA Recap 11/3/23

Bucks Off To A Slow Start

As the 2023-24 NBA season unfolds, the Milwaukee Bucks, a team with high expectations, have found themselves off to a surprisingly slow start. This early phase of the season has been marked by unexpected struggles, raising questions about the team's prospects and the challenges they face.

Defensive Woes and Offensive Struggles

A significant factor in the Bucks' slow start has been their defense, which has not been as impenetrable as in previous seasons. May have to do with trading away one of their best defensive players Jrue Holiday, this defensive slump has led to the team conceding more points than usual. Offensively, the team has also struggled to find its rhythm, with shooting percentages and scoring efficiency not up to their usual standards.

Looking Ahead

Despite the slow start, it's still early in the season, and the Bucks have ample time to turn things around. The team's track record and talent pool suggest that they can overcome these early hurdles. As players return from injuries and the new lineup solidifies, the Bucks are expected to regain their form and reassert themselves as one of the top contenders in the league.

Celtics Starting Off Hot

With the Celtics making a lot of off season trades and signings, people were curious how it would turn out in Boston this season. So far though they are the hottest team in the NBA right now. With the additions of Porzingus and Holiday they have added must needed roles in the offense. Jrue as a little bit of an upgrade from Smart on the defensive side of things, he is a big upgrade on offense. Porzingus has added some much needed 3 point shooting to a team that has struggled with that in years past.

The team has started 4-0 now and is 1 of 2 NBA teams still undefeated. They just capped off their 4th win Wednesday night beating the Pacers by 51 points. Not a typo…51 yep. Hopefully they can continue this run throughout the season and not have to deal with any major injuries to their star players. And Tatum can finally win his first championship at only 19 years old.

Outstanding Performances

Stephen Curry - 42 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists

• In Monday's game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Steph Curry showcased his exceptional skills, scoring 42 points in just 30 minutes. He shot an impressive 15-of-22 from the field, including seven 3-pointers, contributing significantly to the Golden State Warriors' dominant 130-102 victory.

Dejounte Murray - 41 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists

• Dejounte Murray delivered a standout performance in the Atlanta Hawks' victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, scoring a career-high 41 points. His remarkable effort included shooting 17-of-24 from the field, along with contributing seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Murray's explosive play was crucial in the second half, where he scored 22 points in the third quarter alone

Grant (Tubby) Williams - 25 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist

• Even with being the fattest guy in the NBA he still had a great performance Wednesday night. Tying his career highs with 25 points and seven 3-pointers. His contribution was pivotal in the Mavericks' 114-105 victory, marking their improvement to a 4-0 record for the first time since the 2004-05 season.

Thursday Night Football Preview

I doubt anyone predicted that Will Levis would make his NFL debut with four touchdown passes, including three that were over 45 yards, leading to a surprising victory. It certainly wasn't on my radar.

But there he was, shining brightly. Levis delivered an outstanding performance against the Atlanta Falcons' pass defense, which had been quite solid until this matchup. Initially, Levis was to alternate drives with Malik Willis, but after Willis' fumble on his first attempt, Levis ended up taking most of the snaps.

He seized the opportunity, throwing three touchdowns to DeAndre Hopkins and essentially securing his position as the new starting quarterback, especially considering Ryan Tannehill's inconsistent performances.

On the other side, Kenny Pickett has committed to playing despite suffering a significant rib injury that sidelined him for the remainder of last week's game. Mitchell Trubisky, who filled in for Pickett, didn't impress much. Even though the Titans' pass defense is only ranked 25th in Pass DVOA, I'm leaning towards a lower score prediction due to Pickett's rib condition.

Rookies often face challenges in their initial road games, and it's likely that Levis will experience some difficulties in this match. Nonetheless, the evidence suggests that Pittsburgh isn't performing particularly well and is dealing with a quarterback who's playing through an injury.

Injury Report

1. Durham Smythe (Ankle): The Miami Dolphins TE returned to practice on Thursday after being a DNP on Wednesday. Smythe has been involved in Miami’s offense but is not a significant factor in their passing game.

2. Raheem Mostert (Ankle): Miami Dolphins RB returned to practice on Thursday. Mostert has had less than 50 yards rushing in three of the last five contests.

3. DeAndre Hopkins (Toe): The Tennessee Titans WR is expected to play against the Pittsburgh Steelers despite being listed as questionable.

4. Saquon Barkley (Ankle): The Giants RB was limited in practice on Wednesday. His status for Sunday's game is to be monitored.

5. Wan'Dale Robinson (Knee): The Giants WR was limited in Wednesday's practice.

6. Daniel Jones (Neck): The Giants QB was listed as a full participant on Wednesday, indicating he's likely to start in Week 9.

7. Ryan Tannehill (Ankle): The Titans QB has been ruled out for Thursday Night Football against Pittsburgh.

8. Josh Allen (Shoulder): The Bills QB was officially listed as a DNP on Wednesday.

9. Darren Waller (Hamstring): The Giants TE is dealing with a multiple-week injury.

10. Deshaun Watson (Limited Practice): The Cleveland Browns QB's status for Week 9 is uncertain.

11. Jevon Holland (Concussion): The Dolphins safety is cleared to play in Week 9.

12. Kenny Pickett (Rib Injury): The Steelers QB confirmed he will play on Thursday night.

13. Trent Williams (Ankle): The 49ers OT is hopeful to return to practice after the Week 9 bye.

14. Stetson Bennett (Illness): The Rams QB is less likely to return this season.

15. Derrick Henry (Ankle): The Titans RB was limited in practice on Monday.

16. Tyjae Spears (Ankle): The Titans RB was limited in Monday’s practice.

17. Curtis Samuel (Foot): The Commanders WR will undergo further examination.

18. Al Woods (Achilles): The Jets DT suffered a season-ending injury.

19. Justin Fields (Thumb): The Bears QB is considered week-to-week.