Atlanta Hawks

• 3rd Overall: SG, R.J. Barrett
• 8th Overall: SF, Sekou Doumbouya
• 12th Overall: C, Bol Bol
• 17th Overall: PF, Brandon Clarke
• 52nd Overall: PG, William McDowell-White
• 58th Overall: SF, Jaylen Hoard

The Hawks have built their complete starting lineup now having 4 first round picks to build around their *rightful* Rookie of the Year, Trae Young. They found a hustle-guard in RJ to pair in the backcourt. They had the first surprise in the draft when choosing International Wing Sekou Doumbouya, who is a very raw prospect but has tremendous upside and they also traded up to 12 in order to draft the lengthy stretch-5 Center in Bol Bol. Brandon Clarke was a steal at Pick 17 and would hopefully fill in the role John Collins had, who was a double-double machine for the 2019 Champion Toronto Raptors. They also added some players that’ll likely spend time in the G-League, but show nice potential to become rotation player. McDowell-White was the only Euroleague player selected, so the Hawks will have to wait a season before using him, but Hoard shows nice defensive upside and could become a nice 3 and D player.

Draft Grade: A+

Brooklyn Nets

• 10th Overall: PF, Jaxson Hayes
• 18th Overall: PF, Rui Hachimura
• 36th Overall: SF, Louis King
• 37th Overall: PG, Corey Davis Jr.

The Nets’ seemed to be very active during Draft Night. A previous trade involving D’Angelo Russell sent them the 10th Overall Pick, which they selected a PF that shows really good potential. They also made a draft trade that got them Pick #18 from Detroit, which they got Rui Hachimura, a projected Lottery Pick for most of the season. The Nets are very strong in the frontcourt now pairing Jaxson Hayes with Jarrett Allen and Rui will likely see minutes at the 3. They drafted potential rotational players in Louis King and Corey Davis Jr, which should help bring some depth before trying to use their money on Free Agents.

Draft Grade: A

Boston Celtics

No Draft Picks from the team that held the best regular season record last season but was a 2nd Round Exit. It seemed as they were trying to gain a pick via trade, but were unable to. They’ll now have to hope Free Agency goes their way.

Draft Grade: C-

Charlotte Hornets

• 57th Overall: PG, Kyle Guy
• 59th Overall: C, Simi Sittu

The Hornets had one of the most disappointing seasons in Flight History this year, and they don’t own their First Round Picks for a while. However, they did use the picks they have to good use, drafting Virginia PG Kyle Guy, who knows tough moments and also picking up a steal in Center Simi Sittu, with Marc Gasol’s Free Agency coming up and Charlotte’s limited cap space, a Center was a must. Charlotte really needed a big boost in young talent however, and sadly it seems they’re stuck.

Draft Grade: C+

Chicago Bulls

• 4th Overall: SG, Jarrett Culver
• 30th Overall: PF, Eric Paschall

The Bulls’ tanking didn’t pay off, as they fell out of the Top-3 and went into the 4. Culver will likely spend some years playing for their G-League Affiliate, Windy City, alongside Lauri Markannen and Wendell Carter Jr. before spending a full NBA Season here, so it’s not the ideal spot for Culver either. However, he can provide a scoring boost for Chicago when they finish rebuiliding, and if the G-League does him right, he could become a superstar in Chicago. Eric Paschall seemed to be a reach at 30, but his potential is why he was chosen in the first round. He could be a nice, rotational stretch-4 or even a starter at his best.

Draft Grade: B

Cleveland Cavaliers

• 21st Overall: C, Goga Bitadze
• 25th Overall: SG, Tyler Herro

The Cavaliers’ found 2 quality players in great positions at the draft. They moved up in the draft, sending former 1st Overall Pick, Markelle Fultz, to Sacramento. Bitadze has the right weapons to become a quality Center, and Herro could be a starter at his peak. These two guys should fit alongside Collin Sexton, and the Cavaliers also patched up some holes that could’ve shown up after Free Agency. Good moves by the Cavs, and they had a pretty nice draft.

Draft Grade: B+

Dallas Mavericks

• 38th Overall: PF, Darius Bazley
• 49th Overall: PF, Isaiah Roby
• 53rd Overall: PG, Jaylen Hands

Mainly a Team Needs Draft for Dallas, the real victory comes after trading for the young star Jayson Tatum to pair up with Luka Doncic. It would’ve been nice to see Dallas try and make another move for another young star to build a Big-3, but they have Money in Free Agency anyway. Bazely, Roby and Hands are good fits for the Mavs and should see some minutes in a couple years.

Draft Grade: B-

Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets didn’t make any selections this draft following a First Round Exit in Game 7 to the eventual West Champs. Their young core should continue to develop, so it doesn’t matter much.

Draft Grade: C

Detroit Pistons

• 2nd Overall: PG, Ja Morant
• 26th Overall: C, Daniel Gafford
• 34th Overall: SF, Cameron Johnson
• 40th Overall: SG, Luguentz Dort
• 44th Overall: C, Jontay Porter
• 50th Overall: SG, Caleb Martin
• 54th Overall: SF, Admiral Schofield
• 60th Overall: PG, Tremont Waters

The Pistons finished this draft with a league-high 8 rookies to fill the 13 roster spots that were available entering the Draft. Theres already a lot of speculation as to what Detroit will do after this draft, with the most Cap Space in the League, they make look to make a splash. However, the Pistons seemed to hit on almost every one of these picks, and that’s always a rare sight in the draft. They have a very young team after just blowing up everything last season.

Draft Grade: A+

Golden State Warriors

• 27th Overall: SG, Talen Horton-Tucker
• 56th Overall: C, Elijah Thomas

With hopes of re-signing Kevin Durant, the Warriors draft based off needs. Being just one away from their 5th straight Finals appearance, even after trading away Klay Thompson, the team doesn’t need much change. The Warriors get Talen in hopes of replacing Dwyane Wade when he’s older and Elijah Thomas should help their big man depth incase DeMarcus Cousins jumps ship.

Draft Grade: B

Houston Rockets

The Rockets *once again* fell the hands of Golden State last season, however, they do not make a draft pick this year. Something I feel they’ll regret later.

Draft Grade: F

Indiana Pacers

• 9th Overall: SF, Nassir Little
• 16th Overall: PF, Grant Williams
• 33rd Overall: PG, Justin Robinson
• 39th Overall: C, Dedric Lawson

While Robinson and Lawson fit the idea of Team Needs and Grant Williams will look nice alongside Myles Turner, it’s hard to tell why Indiana chose Little so early when he was projected 9 picks later. He could be a quality player, but picking him at 9 is very questionable, and Indiana might regret choosing him this early.

Draft Grade: C

Los Angeles Clippers

• 32nd Overall: C, Nicolas Claxton

The Clippers’ tanking season got them D’Angelo Russell in a draft trade that involved the 10th Pick. They traded into the 2nd Round and drafted a projected first-round Center, a huge steal for LAC. He could provide good depth for the Clippers’ in future years, and as their only draft pick, could see some valuable minutes as the Clippers continue to look for more young talent.

Draft Grade: B+

Los Angeles Lakers

• 24th Overall: PG, Ty Jerome

Another Needs Pick here by LAL, they get a decent rotational player in Ty Jerome to back up Lonzo Ball and replace and expiring Rajon Rondo. It’s hard to tell if the Lakers needed to make moves or not after barely getting out of the West but losing in 5 in the Finals. Another young talent to help LeBron would’ve been nice, as his best guard, Reggie Jackson, is now expiring.

Draft Grade: C+

Memphis Grizzlies

The Grizz did not see a selection nor’ decide to move into the draft. Free Agency seemed to be the biggest question for them, but having atleast some young talent to pair up with Conley, JJJ and JV would’ve helped the Grizzlies get further into the playoffs.

Draft Grade: C-

Miami Heat

• 14th Overall: SG, Romeo Langford
• 15th Overall: SG, Kevin Porter Jr.
• 48th Overall: C, Tacko Fall

It’s hard to tell whether the Heat are going to regret trading down from 12 to 14 before their pick came along and seeing Cameron Reddish was still available, however, the situation isn’t as bad as it seems. They still pick up Romeo Langford, who has one of the cleanest releases of this draft class; Kevin Porter, Jr., who is a relentless scorer, and Tacko Fall, who is very tall. The Heat just barely missed playoffs, and they have Cap Space to sign a couple of role players. This should get them over the hump.

Draft Grade: B+

Milwaukee Bucks

• 51st Overall: Charles Matthews

The Bucks simply went by Best Available at 51, which there wasn’t much best at that point. After being beaten in the first round, it would’ve been nice to see the Bucks try to get some more young talent for Giannis, but now they have to worry about Free Agency.

Draft Grade: D+

Minnesota Timberwolves

• 43rd Overall: PG, Chris Clemons
• 45th Overall: SF, Kris Wilkes

The T-Wolves are now trying out different things, their lineup now has Oladipo, Hayward, Aldridge, Gobert and Drummond. It’s hard to tell what exactly they’re doing, but the picks might just fit in wherever at this point. Chris Clemons should help add depth at the PG while Kris Wilkes might see some minutes.

Draft Grade: D

New Orleans Pelicans

• 5th Overall: PG, Darius Garland
• 13th Overall: SF, Cameron Reddish
• 20th Overall: SG, Nickeil Alexander-Walker
• 35th Overall: C, Cameron Jackson

The Pelicans’ GM is up there in my list of Smartest Flight2K GMs. They have built a great lineup around Anthony Davis, who was recently extended, and still have a slot for a Max Contract. Garland has been on NOLA’s Radar forever, and the Pelicans got him. Cam Reddish and N.A.W. fell right into their hands with a bit of luck, and Cameron Jackson should make a nice rotational / depth player for them. The Pelicans’ draft could not have gone better.

Draft Grade: A+

New York Knicks

• 6th Overall: PG, Coby White
• 22nd Overall: PF, Luka Samanic
• 29th Overall: SF, Dylan Windler
• 55th Overall: SG, Josh Reaves

Not exactly an eye-popping draft by the Knicks, but it’s one that gave the Knicks what they needed to add to their young core. Coby White hopes to be the Point Guard Knicks fans have been waiting forever for. Samanic and Windler will be nice 3-point shooting rotational players while Reaves could provide nice scoring depth. A solid draft for New York.

Draft Grade: B

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder, despite being a 2nd Round Exit, did not move into the draft. It’s rumored they tried moving into the Top-3, but it didn’t work. OKC could really use a boost after a stunning playoff defeat, and this didn’t help. Now, Klay Thompson leaving could spell the end for OKC.

Draft Grade: D-

Orlando Magic

• 23rd Overall: PG, Carsen Edwards

The Magic seemed to go by Best Available at this pick, already with a great and talented young core, the Magic could basically pick any position here. Edwards will provide a nice scoring boost and should be a rotation player in the early years of his career, he’ll likely see minutes at the SG when in Orlando.

Draft Grade: B+

Philadelphia 76ers

• 31st Overall: C, Mfiondu Kabengele
• 46th Overall: SG, Terence Davis
• 47th Overall: PF, Jalen McDaniels

The 76ers fell in Game 7 of the 2nd Round, but they’re young and will continue to get better. These 3 Second Round Picks should help solidify their bench, which many face Free Agency within the next season. Nothing too special, just patching holes.

Draft Grade: B

Phoenix Suns

• 1st Overall: PF, Zion Williamson

The Suns draft once-in-a-generation talent, Zion Williamson, and are hopefully now set to win with the core of Booker-Ayton-Zion. It would’ve been nice for the Suns to add a quality PG or SF to the squad, but they also have Cap Room to do that. The Suns look towards a very bright future with this pick.

Draft Grade: A

Portland Trail Blazers

• 7th Overall: SF, DeAndre Hunter
• 42nd Overall: PG, Shamorie Ponds

DeAndre Hunter is probably the safest pick in this draft, being at the minimum a decent 3 and D player. Ponds adds some nice 3-point shooting off the bench for Portland as well. Overall, not a bad draft for Portland after blowing up the entire team. However, they should look to try and get better young talent next season.

Draft Grade: B

Sacramento Kings

• 19th Overall: PF, P.J. Washington
• 28th Overall: SF, Matisse Thybulle

The New Kings’ GM has been impactful in his first day. Drafting Washington at 19 was a huge pick up for a Kings franchise that seems to have no direction. Trading Pick 21 for former 1st Pick Markelle Fultz could also turn out to be a huge move in the future. Then they pick up defensive-stopper Matisse Thybulle in the last 1st. Good Looks from the Kings GM.

Draft Grade: B+

San Antonio Spurs

• 11th Overall: SG, Keldon Johnson
• 41st Overall: PF, KZ Okpala

We know the Spurs are in love with the Kentucky SG, Keldon Johnson, but from a basketball standpoint, it makes no sense for them to pick Keldon Johnson, especially when they have DeMar DeRozan, over Cameron Reddish. The Spurs let their love for KJ overcome a logical choice. Luckily, KZ Okpala was a steal at 41.

Draft Grade: C-

Toronto Raptors

No Moves needed for the Toronto Raptors, coming fresh off an easy NBA Finals Victory. They’re trying to focus on moving Winslow in order to open a Max Slot, no need to add a Rookie Contract.

Draft Grade: B

Utah Jazz

The Jazz just barely missed playoffs but for some reason decided not to move into the draft. Maybe they can make up for it by signing Free Agents, where they have a Max Slot and more room for 1-2 more role players.

Draft Grade: D-

Washington Wizards

The Wizards exceeded expectations in the playoffs, the backcourt of Kemba Walker and Zach LaVine proved to be a powerful duo. However, it wasn’t enough to atleast win the East, the Wizards should’ve made a move into the draft to boost their young talent and get over the hump.

Draft Grade: C

We are finally at the time of the Flight2K Draft! The Commissioner makes predictions on what each team will decide on doing, barring any trades. Our 14 Lottery Picks also include analysis on the predicted selection.

01 | Phoenix Suns

PF, Zion Williamson, Duke

An Easy Pick for the Suns to make, Zion is a franchise-changing superstar and will be a long-term piece alongside Phoenix’s young core with Devin Booker and DeAndre Ayton. That young frontcourt with back-to-back 1st Overall Picks is going to look VERY Scary in Flight, and the Suns future just got a lot more brighter (no pun intended).

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Hard to compare, too unique of talent.

02 | Detroit Pistons

PG, Ja Morant, Murray State

Detroit blew up everything this past season, sending Blake Griffin to Charlotte and Andre Drummond to Boston, and sending most of their core to various other teams. Detroit has the chance to start all over, and they decide to draft a franchise “Point God” in Ja Morant, who seems to be the next best pick. Detroit will have the most flexibility building around him than any other player, and this is a no-brainer as the Pistons celebrate getting a top-tier player.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Russell Westbrook, John Wall

03 | Atlanta Hawks

SG, R.J. Barrett, Duke

The Hawks showed great signs this season, their rookie Trae Young was 2nd in the league in PPG, behind MVP Stephen Curry. It only makes sense that the Hawks give Trae more support, adding a versatile but raw talent in R.J. Barrett to the backcourt. R.J.’s ability has yet to show its full potential, but he should fit well playing alongside Trae Young in that potentially dangerous backcourt.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Monta Ellis, Rudy Gay

04 | Chicago Bulls

SG, Jarrett Culver, Texas Tech

Tied for the worst record in NBA History at 9-73, the Bulls worst nightmare came true, they fell out of the Top 3. Luckily, this draft class has lots of depth, and they can still find talent at #4 in Jarrett Culver. He seems to be great when the ball is in his hands, and should be a good replacement for their recently shipped off SG, Zach LaVine, who killed it for Washington in their deep playoff run. The Bulls’ organization is definitely not trying to make that mistake again, as Culver provides Chicago the best opportunity to become an offensive powerhouse again with his versatility as a defender and his ability to create his own shot, rare for a player coming out of college.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Jimmy Butler, Khris Middleton

05 | New Orleans Pelicans

PG, Darius Garland, Vanderbilt

New Orleans has had their eyes on Garland all year, his stock has flown up and down throughout the season, but he’s been stabilized as a Top 8 Talent in this draft. It makes sense for the Pels to take a Guard here, as Jrue Holiday is in Charlotte now. Anthony Davis recently signed a 2-year extension, so the Pelicans have more time to surround AD with talent in order to make a deep run. Darius Garland is a great shooter and playmaker, and should have the best fit possible playing in New Orleans.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Damian Lillard, Kyle Lowry

06 | New York Knicks

SF, DeAndre Hunter, Virginia

The Knicks could potentially make a huge move here whether it’s a blockbuster trade or selecting PG Coby White, but ultimately it seems they’ll make a safe choice by selecting the safest player in the draft, DeAndre Hunter. The Knicks team is very long (as in length), and Hunter would add to that dynamic with guys like Mitchell Robinson and Kevin Knox on the squad. They ultimately don’t end up choosing a Point Guard because they’re in good positions to sign either Kyrie Irving or Kemba Walker this summer. Hunter would be another addition to the forwards selected in New York, hopefully at his best, he could be a smaller Kristaps. At his worst, he’s still a very solid 3 and D player.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Jae Crowder, Kristaps Porzingis

07 | Portland Trail Blazers

PG, Coby White, North Carolina

It’s hard to choose between Coby White or Cameron Reddish, but the Blazers are going to go with who they feel has more true potential to be a superstar. Coby White is nice 2-way guard who is fast, can defend and make efficient shots. After trading away Damian Lillard and then trading away Russell Westbrook, Portland decides it needs another Point Guard to fill their void, and Coby White seems to have the right résumé for it.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Jamal Murray, Kyrie Irving

08 | Atlanta Hawks (via DAL)

SF, Cameron Reddish, Duke

Reddish would join his Duke teammate, R.J. Barrett, in Atlanta if this happens, which is nothing bad. Reddish’s size and length would help Atlanta bring more a defensive identity to their team and his shooting definitely keeps pace with the offense Atlanta has envisioned for the future. His game complements Trae Young well, and it seems likely that Atlanta brings them together. Cameron Reddish will see himself as potentially the most talented wing player on the team, and should fit well into their roster.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Robert Covington, Trevor Ariza

09 | Indiana Pacers

SF, Sekou Doumbouya, France

Our first international prospect, Sekou Doumbouya didn’t exactly shine in France. He’s a very raw prospect that is clearly a risky project. However, the potential mismatches and the athleticism he can bring the table is a dream for NBA Teams, and the Pacers have clearly loved Sekou since the start. They decide to take a chance on him, and if they can progress him right, he has the potential to be a great.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Paul George, Pascal Siakam

10 | Brooklyn Nets (via LAC)*

PF, Brandon Clarke, Gonzaga

The Nets traded away D’Angelo back to LA (but this time to the Clippers) and got this pick back. It’s hard to tell who the Nets want, but it can be assumed they want to go after Free Agents in the PG and SF positions. If that’s the case, we think they’ll pair up a Power Forward with Jarrett Allen in their frontcourt. They take Brandon Clarke, someone who has continually made progress offensively and could be a double-double machine in Flight. He has a lot of defensive versatility as well, which could give the Nets a huge boost in the category they didn’t do so well in last season.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: John Collins, Jonas Valanciunas

11 | San Antonio Spurs

SG, Keldon Johnson, Kentucky

This one doesn’t need an explanation. Although, Personally, it could be a better pick, the Spurs love Keldon Johnson too much to pass on him. Apparently they’ve sent representatives to every Kentucky game he’s played in, and spoke with Keldon and his new agent several times. Popovich even had dinner with Keldon Johnson, they ate apples as Pop taught him the Spurs way. KJ has seemed to like the idea of playing there, and this Pick is pretty much locked.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Klay Thompson, Danny Green

12 | Miami Heat

SG, Romeo Langford, Indiana

The Heat game just one win short of making the playoffs this year, and with already nice depth on the forwards, they decide to go Guard on one of their most crucial draft picks in a couple years. Romeo Langford’s great form can mean big things for Miami, possibly even the second coming of Dwyane Wade. His decision-making does need to get better, but he just needs to translate his game into the NBA.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Dwyane Wade, JJ Reddick

13 | New Orleans Pelicans (via CHA)

C, Jaxson Hayes, Texas

Hayes’ college stats aren’t necessarily eye popping, but with one lottery pick already, the Pelicans feel they can take a chance here. His ability offensively and moreso, defensively, in the paint is what really excels his game, along with his efficient shooting in the post. Pairing that up with Anthony Davis could lead to a killer team in the paint, along with earlier mentioned Darius Garland’s ability to stretch the floor. This Pelicans Offense can find some life.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Clint Capela, JaVale McGee

14 | Atlanta Hawks (via UTA)

PF, P.J. Washington, Kentucky

A THIRD lottery pick by the Hawks in this draft alone gives the Hawks a nice young core around Trae Young. Already having drafted a SG and SF, they begin building a new frontcourt centered around the scoring big man, PJ Washington. His improvement has been well shown in the stat-sheet and he has great playmaking ability for a center. He’s a strong presence in the post, and could potentially be a star in the league if he continues to develop on defense.

NBA Play-Style Comparison: Marc Gasol, Nikola Jokic

15 | Miami Heat (via BKN)

SF, Rui Hachimura, Gonzaga

16 | Indiana Pacers (via SAC)

C, Bol Bol, Oregon

17 | Atlanta Hawks (via CLE)

C, Goga Bitadze, Georgia

18 | Detroit Pistons (via MEM)

SG, Kevin Porter Jr., USC

19 | Sacramento Kings (via ORL)

SG, Tyler Herro, Kentucky

20 | New Orleans Pelicans (via MIN)

SF, Nassir Little, North Carolina

21 | Sacramento Kings (via DEN)

SF, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Virginia Tech

22 | New York Knicks (via WAS)

PF, Grant Williams, Tennessee

23 | Orlando Magic (via MIL)

SF, Dylan Windler, Belmont

24 | Los Angeles Lakers

PG, Carsen Edwards, Purdue

25 | Cleveland Cavaliers (via HOU)

SF, Cameron Johnson, North Carolina

26 | Detroit Pistons (via GS)

PF, Mfiondu Kabengele, Florida State

27 | Golden State Warriors (via OKC)

SG, Matisse Thybulle, Washington

28 | Sacramento Kings (via PHI)

SG, Luguentz Dort, Arizona State

29 | New York Knicks (via BOS)

PG, Ty Jerome, Virginia

30 | Chicago Bulls (via TOR)

PF, Jalen McDanies, San Diego State

We’re officially 4 months into the 3rd official season of Flight2K and the teams that are contending, tanking, just suck, or stuck in the middle are now apparent this late in the season. As the Trade Deadline rumors, moves, and playoff races heat up, this is where I, the Commissioner, would rank each team as of late.

#30 Indiana Pacers (12-42)

It’s been a rough season for the Pacers, and there’s not even much to look forward to in the offseason either. Indiana sits last place in a tough Eastern Conference and their 1st Round *Unprotected* Pick belongs to the Miami Heat, hence why you should always use protection. Victor Oladipo’s prime years (91 overall w/somehow positive chemistry) are being wasted in Indiana right now, and that will surely impact his free agency decision this summer. Indiana is an entire dumpster fire right now where nothing is right, and frankly, that’s the most positive way I can put it.

#29 Los Angeles Clippers (10-44)

Odd, odd, did I mention, an odd season for LAC. They were expected to be playoff contenders at the minimum this season and they have severely missed out on those expectations. With the worst record in the league, LAC continues to have one of the weirder seasons in Flight2K History. The only reason they’re not #30 is due to Lonzo Ball and James Wiseman balling out.

#28 Seattle Supersonics (16-38)

In Seattle’s inaugural season since the relocation, they were up and down. They began as playoff contenders and have just fallen drastically since. With several mediocre players on their squad, the team’s direction is confusing for its future and something should be done ASAP, but who knows what will go down.

#27 Charlotte Hornets (20-34)

Charlotte is sort of a weird team this season. They’re being lead by good players like Kevin Love and have several nice players on the bench, however, due to them being in the East, they sit near the bottom of the league in record. What’s even weirder is they aren’t flipping their completely tradeable assets for younger players in picks. Now, they’re the GM and they could potentially have a plan, so all we can do is sit back and watch what goes down in Charlotte.

#26 New York Knicks (20-33)

Another team that’s in the middle of the league but bottom of the East, New York is in a bad situation right now. Several of their players are in large, long-term contracts for the next 2-3 seasons and they are not producing. New York has time to improve, but something should be done soon to avoid being near the bottom of the league as long as their players are stuck on their contracts.

#25 Memphis Grizzlies (16-39)

Memphis is sort of in a testing phase right now. They’ve got a bunch of decent bench players and low level starters that just can’t seem to come together after 2 seasons. Knowing the team, that’s likely what they’ll stay as unless they can use those assets to trade for a defined leader or superstar or atleast pull a rebuild and then take over in a weaker Western Conference. The starters in Memphis seem to change every other month and their offense is too inconsistent to be considered a serious playoff contender, while their defense is too good to be a team that’s tanking.

#24 Sacramento Kings (25-31)

The Kings may be playoff contenders by a very tiny string in the West, but their recent trade that involved sending Westbrook to be a 6th Man in Boston has sent them crashing to the ground. The Kings are now in the midst of a needed rebuild after their glorious 2 seasons of being mediocre playoff contenders. Good job, Kings. The new GM is doing his job right.

#23 Atlanta Hawks (23-30)

It has not been the ideal season Atlanta has hoped for. Damian Lillard was acquired last season in order to help them become contenders in the East, however, even this season it has not worked. The Hawks’ recent acquisition of Draymond Green could potentially help their defense, despite giving up what seemed too many good future assets and current bench players. The Hawks’ best hope is some mid-season turn around as their Head Coach should be fired soon if the GM has any common sense.

#22 Dallas Mavericks (17-39)

The Mavericks’ season has been almost exactly what we expected. Their team isn’t a playoff contender just yet but their Rookie PG Cole Anthony has been putting up great numbers and is making a case for Rookie of the Year. The Mavs SG Luka Doncic’s progression has continued and Dallas needs maybe 1-2 more nice pieces to become contenders in the West.

#21 Golden State Warriors (21-33)

Golden State has been quiet this season. They’ve been an okay team and the position they’re in has them 4-5 games within a playoff spot. The team obviously won’t be the same without Harden, but Bol Bol and Nassir Little have had nice Sophomore years and their rookie Edwards has been putting up great numbers as well.

#20 Utah Jazz (23-30)

Utah is right within playoff reach in the Western Conference and their roster is low-key threatening too. The Jazz just needs some sort of push to get their hopes up; so this Trade Deadline will be extremely important. While they’re on the borderline of irrelevancy, it’s definitely a team to keep your eye out on, as their rookie has been very dangerous this season.

#19 Oklahoma City Thunder (23-32)

PG13, Mike Conley, DeAndre Jordan, and Marvin Bagley should be a playoff contender at the least in the West, yet, so strangely, they aren’t. Who has an idea why? No one. Jordan leads the league in rebounds, Bagley has provided a scoring spike for the team, PG13 and Conley are leaders in defense this season, but their bench has been their downfall this season. With most their bench degressing, the Thunder have taken a huge fall from the 1 seed last season to barely in the playoff race.

#18 Miami Heat (26-26)

The Heat blew up their team in the offseason and are now in a rejoiced rebuilding period. Their rookies (all 7 of them to be exact) have made very nice impacts, as 6 of those rookies are Top 5 in atleast one stat of all the Rookies in the league. The recent trade that got them Cam Reddish proved to be useful too, as Cam’s scoring bumped up big time as the first option. Miami’s youth has led them to a .500 record at the trade deadline and are just in the race for the playoff spot. They also own Indiana’s pick, which is slated at #2, so that helps.

#17 Cleveland Cavaliers (26-27)

The Cavs era with James Harden did not last long at all. A 3-9 start the season sent Harden flying to Phoenix while the Cavs added 2 great young pieces in Tobias Harris and Devin Booker. The Cavs’ move to get younger won’t get them as many wins now, but they won’t regret it in the future. Their young, starting lineup looks killer right now and they just hang in the balance near a playoff spot.

#16 Milwaukee Bucks (29-25)

The Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo is the league’s PPG leader and he’s the sole reason the Bucks are even above .500. Just half a game away from a playoff spot, Giannis will have to turn it up even more or the Bucks GM will have to make a move to get Giannis some more help.

#15 New Orleans Pelicans (27-28)

The Pelicans have a nice, young roster that’s continually progressing and getting them into the playoff race in the West. While the Pelicans currently look as mediocre as the other teams on here, they’re definitely a team to watch for for the next couples of seasons to come. NOLA’s addition of Kristaps Porzingis has boosted the team’s progress as KP is Top 5 in terms of PPG this season.

#14 Minnesota Timberwolves (28-25)

The Wolves have surpassed expectations of most people in the league right now. Holding a playoff spot by a firm grip, the new-look Timberwolves have been on a roll and are just barely in a position to make a move to snag home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. A big move for this team would help their chances greatly, as the West seems vulnerable still and the Wolves can take advantage.

#13 Toronto Raptors (31-25)

The Raptors have been on the low end of the East Playoff Race this season. Trading away contending assets to get younger and prepare for the future has been the focal point of the franchise this season and they’ve done all of that while they’ve continued to win games and stay in the East Playoffs. There are not many expectations from them in the playoffs, but they can certainly still make a run.

#12 Washington Wizards (30-24)

The youth in Washington have gotten Washington much further than expected this season. The Wizards are holding onto the 8th seed in the East at Trade Deadline, led by the Trae Young and Carsen Edwards backcourt. Moving Draymond brought in Omari Spellman and Justice Winslow, even more young assets for the future of Washington; They’re dangerous now and will be even more dangerous in the future.

#11 Denver Nuggets (32-21)

The Nuggets are a quiet contender in the Western Conference right now. None of their players have been A1 this season and nothing really stands out about them. They’re just your average team right now and that’s a team that won’t make it too far unless they make a move ASAP.

#10 Houston Rockets (26-27)

Houston a lot of star power and their team is now clicking before the trade deadline. With back to back wins against West Contenders such as PHX and Denver, the Rockets are now in the position to make a run late in the season and steal home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. This team has the potential to upset almost any team in the West.

#9 Orlando Magic (30-24)

The Magic are finally getting into a groove late into the season. Bradley Beal has been killing it on the court, being Top 10 in terms of PPG. The Magic’s bench has taken off and their young players are now progressing into the low 80 overalls off the bench. A slow start the season really had this team worked up, but their recent games have proved them to be a dangerous sleeper team in the East.

#8 Los Angeles Lakers (37-18)

The Lakers have hit a slump now this season. They were rolling fine and now their season has just hit a halt. Curry is having the worst season he’s ever had in a while and the pieces around him just haven’t seemed to fit together again yet. The Lakers will desperately need a spark again this season if they wish to go to their 3rd straight Finals matchup because they’ve been looking bad lately.

#7 San Antonio Spurs (32-22)

Another team with a strong youth movement that’s holding up in the playoffs is the Spurs. De’Aaron Fox and Keldon Johnson are having breakout years that have led them to be prime Most Improved Player Candidates this season and the emergence of 27th Pick Okungwu has them 1st in the league in Rebounding. The youth in SA is crazy and it’s getting them wins right now.

#6 Detroit Pistons (34-20)

Guess what, another team led by stacked youth is a playoff contender. That seems to be the trend here, except Detroit is the King when it comes to youth. R.J. Barrett, Zion Williamson and Jaden McDaniels have been having good seasons for Detriot, KAT has been doing his job, SGA is now fitting into the team mentored by Rajon Rondo and the Detroit bench is playing well. The Pistons should pretty much be a playoff lock now, and their youth is leading the way.

#5 Philadelphia 76ers (41-14)

LeRoid James has now hit a block in the season too. The 76ers, who were sailing so smoothly are coming to a rough approach to the Trade Deadline after going 8-7 in their last 15 games (only 1 of those wins against a Contender). The 76ers could potentially be out to get LeBron even more help, or just hope for the best right now. Either strategy makes sense.

#4 Boston Celtics (34-20)

The Celtics now have Russell Westbrook, a 95 overall, coming off the bench as a 6th man. Yes, that’s right. They just got their spark and now they have a team that can compete yet again with any other team in the conference and potentially punch a ticket to their 2nd Finals matchup in all 3 seasons of Flight2K. The Celtics boast 3 all stars this season, Kyrie, Boogie and Russ; and their bench is slowly climbing up the rankings. The Celtics are yet another threat in a tightly contested East.

#3 Brooklyn Nets (38-16)

There’s the Nets that won a championship last season. The Nets last season proved they didn’t need to be a 1 seed to win it all, and they’re following the same strategy again. The Nets stand 3rd in the East after big wins against contenders and sent Kemba Walker into 4th Place in PPG. The Nets’ season is back and possibly better than last season.

#2 Phoenix Suns (39-14)

The Suns made MOVES this year that has them as an early favorite for the GMoTY. Getting James Harden and Blake Griffin on the squad has given the Suns a 3.5 game advantage over the 2nd Place LA Lakers and make themselves a clear favorite in a weaker Western Conference. It would be very surprising to see anyone but the Suns come out the West. An incredible starting lineup that features FIVE All-Stars and a nice bench too, their team is OP.

#1 Chicago Bulls (44-9)

Chicago yet again boasts the best record in the league at this point in the season. Their lineup, the same as last year, is still very deadly. Their bench, which is ranked Top 5 in the league continues to dominate opponents as well. Their fear of LeBron James has seemed to vanish as they’ve taken 2 straight matchups against the 76ers as well. The Bulls have established themselves as East favorites and one of the best offenses in Flight2K History (up there with Last Year’s Nets at least).

We’ve arrived to the 2nd ever Flight2K playoffs and this bracket is VERY interesting. Most seeds were determined before we finished the season except that Western 8 Seed which had to be decided by 1 final game. Nevertheless, the playoffs are here and the energy from the teams are incredible. Heartbreaks to come and celebrations for others. Thats the spirit!

#6 Milwaukee Bucks vs #3 Toronto Raptors

So here we are again, for the 2nd straight year the Raptors and Bucks will face off in the first round but for Round Two. Last year, the Raptors squad won this series in an easy 5 games. While the Raptors did not make many changes to their squad, the Bucks surely did. Expect this to be a somewhat closer series this time around.

• Bucks PG Terry Rozier III vs Raptors PG Kyle Lowry
• Bucks SG Donte DiVincenzo vs Raptors SG Zach LaVine (MIP)
• Bucks SF Giannis Antetokounmpo vs Raptors SF Kawhi Leonard (DPoTY)
• Bucks PF Ersan Ilyasova vs Raptors PF Jaren Jackson Jr
• Bucks C Hassan Whiteside vs Raptors C Nikola Vucevic

Prediction: Raptors win, 4-2.

#5 Philadelphia 76ers vs #4 Cleveland Cavaliers

These two teams are completely different in every way. However, the real storyline in this series is LeBron James coming to Cleveland for a playoff series. Smart moves made by the Cavaliers GM has allowed them to contend in the East even without LeBron, and now they own homecourt advantage. The 76ers, however, come into the postseason in a HOT streak, winning their last 7, compared to the Cavs who are in the midst of a 4 game losing streak.

• 76ers PG Goran Dragic vs Cavs PG Collin Sexton
• 76ers SG C.J. McCollum vs Cavs SG Dennis Smith Jr.
• 76ers SF LeBron James vs Cavs SF Aaron Gordon
• 76ers PF Joel Embiid vs Cavs PF Kevin Love
• 76ers C LaMarcus Aldridge vs Cavs C Montrezl Harrell

Prediction: 76ers win, 4-2.

#6 Utah Jazz vs #3 Denver Nuggets

This game was featured last time they played, and the Jazz blew out the Nuggets by 43 points (most ever in Flight2K Primetime History.) While it is doubted that the Jazz can pull off something like that again, they outmatch Nuggets when it comes to speed and 3s. The Nuggets have Nikola Jokic though, and that might be enough to make up for it. This is definitely a matchup to circle because this could go either way.

• Jazz PG Ricky Rubio vs Nuggets PG Ja Morant
• Jazz SG Donavon Mitchell vs Nuggets SG Gary Harris
• Jazz SF Joe Ingles vs Nuggets SF Michael Porter Jr
• Jazz PF Derrick Favors vs Nuggets PF Paul Millsap
• Jazz C JaVale McGee vs Nuggets C Nikola Jokic

Prediction: Jazz win, 4-3.

#5 Los Angeles Clippers vs #4 Phoenix Suns

LAC and Phoenix are two wildly different rosters. The Clippers have young stars in Jaylen Brown and Khris Middleton, who will be expected to lead this squad to a playoff run. The Suns are 4/5 players in their prime right now and need to start winning ASAP. The Suns having homecourt advantage helps, as they were #5 in Home Record this year with the Clippers having one of the worst road records of all the playoff teams.

• Clippers PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs Suns PG John Wall
• Clippers SG Jaylen Brown vs Suns SG Devin Booker
• Clippers SF Khris Middleton vs Suns SF Jimmy Butler
• Clippers PF Julius Randle vs Suns PF Tobias Harris
• Clippers C Bam Adebayo vs Suns C DeAndre Ayton

Prediction: Suns win, 4-1.

#7 Orlando Magic vs #2 Brooklyn Nets

Orlando’s team is still growing and after a slow start to the season, they slowly got on the same page and clinched a playoff spot in the final 2 weeks. For the Nets, they’re also on a roll, after clinching the 2 seed which was a very close race all season, they’re very confident. They have potential to make a deep playoff run and their offensive starpower will be a lethal weapon in this series.

• Magic PG Spencer Dinwiddie vs Nets PG Kemba Walker
• Magic SG Bradley Beal vs Nets SG Caris LeVert
• Magic SF Gordon Hayward vs Nets SF DeMar DeRozan
• Magic PF Lauri Markkanen vs Nets PF Enes Kanter
• Magic C Mo Bamba vs Nets C Andre Drummond

Prediction: Nets win, 4-0.

#8 Detroit Pistons vs #1 Chicago Bulls

After the Pistons clinched the 8th seed with a team made up of mainly young stars and superstars, they knew they would be entering the arena of the best team in the league, Chicago Bulls. The Bulls finished with 69 wins this season and are the favorites to win the championship, but this young and gritty Pistons team might give them a challenge in Round 1.

• Pistons PG Elfrid Payton vs Bulls PG Chris Paul (MVP)
• Pistons SG R.J. Barrett vs Bulls SG Klay Thompson
• Pistons SF Zion Williamson (RoTY) vs Bulls SF Anthony Davis
• Pistons PF Domantas Sabonis vs Bulls PF Kevin Durant
• Pistons C Karl-Anthony Towns vs Bulls C Clint Capela

Prediction: Bulls win, 4-2.

#7 Sacramento Kings vs #2 Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers have had a rough ending to the season, losing the 1 seed and Steph Curry’s MVP, they will have to bounce back against a below .500 Kings playoff squad. The Lakers superteam seems to outmatch the Kings in almost every way, I wouldn’t be surprised if this was the most lopsided series in the playoffs.

• Kings PG Russell Westbrook vs Lakers PG Stephen Curry
• Kings SG Bogdan Bogdanovic vs Lakers SG Victor Oladipo
• Kings SF Thabo Sefolosha vs Lakers SF Draymond Green
• Kings PF Skal Labissiere vs Lakers PF Marc Gasol
• Kings C Willie Cauley-Stein vs Lakers C Rudy Gobert

Prediction: Lakers win, 4-0.

#8 Golden State Warriors vs #1 Oklahoma City Thunder

The OKC Thunder have possibly been the surprise team of the year, clinching the 1st seed in the West was a gigantic shift of events. Meanwhile in Golden State, despite clinching a playoff spot on the last day of the season, it’s been a somewhat disappointing season. However, their draft pick Bol Bol is having an amazing season and paired with James Harden, they’ve been quite the duo. OKC’s starpower could prove to be too much here though.

• Warriors PG Derrick Rose vs Thunder PG Mike Conley
• Warriors SG James Harden vs Thunder SG Marcus Smart
• Warriors SF Nassir Little vs Thunder SF Paul George
• Warriors PF Jordan Bell vs Thunder PF Blake Griffin
• Warriors C Bol Bol vs Thunder C DeAndre Jordan

Prediction: Thunder win, 4-2.

We are coming to a fast ending to our season and the playoff races and seeding are heating up, so here are some matchups we’ll keep you updated on.

Nuggets (33-20) @ Jazz (32-22)

These two teams have been neck and neck in the standings all season long, it was only right to get them a featured game. They’re right now in a battle with the Clippers and Suns for seeds 3-6 as the Lakers and Thunder have 1 and 2 by far. This game means a lot to both sides.

• Nuggets PG Ja Morant VS Jazz PG Isaiah Thomas
• Nuggets SG Gary Harris VS Jazz SG Donavon Mitchell
• Nuggets SF Michael Porter Jr. VS Jazz SF Joe Ingles
• Nuggets PF Paul Millsap VS Jazz PF Derrick Favors
• Nuggets C Nikola Jokic VS Jazz C JaVale McGee

76ers (29-26) @ Bulls (45-8)

The 76ers have recently fired Brett Brown for Lucas Lucas and that is their storyline for Post-Trade Deadline. Lucas Lucas will have his primetime debut on the road against the league leading Chicago Bulls in what should be a godly battle at the 3.

• 76ers PG Goran Dragic VS Bulls PG Chris Paul
• 76ers SG C.J. McCollum VS Bulls SG Klay Thompson
• 76ers SF LeBron James VS Bulls SF Kevin Durant
• 76ers PF LaMarcus Aldridge VS Bulls PF Anthony Davis
• 76ers C Joel Embiid VS Bulls C Clint Capela

Magic (26-28) @ Hawks (20-34)

The Magic and Hawks are both now fighting for playoff spots in the Eastern Conference. Bradley Beal’s career has not died in Orlando yet and it’s impressive, but they’ll go out on the road in Atlanta where the Damian Lillard will make his Hawks debut. This will be the first time the Hawks have gotten a primetime game in the Sim League’s history.

• Magic PG Spencer Dinwiddie VS Hawks PG Damian Lillard
• Magic SG Bradley Beal VS Hawks SG Kent Bazemore
• Magic SF Gordon Hayward VS Hawks SF Justice Winslow
• Magic PF Lauri Markkanen VS Hawks PF Bobby Portis
• Magic C Mo Bamba VS Hawks C Greg Monroe

Trade Deadline and the All-Star Break has officially passed by us and we now stand in the part of the season where the playoff races begin heating up. Surprisingly, there’s already 1 team that’s punched their ticket into the playoffs, and that’s the 48-8 Chicago Bulls. But for everyone else, they’re in a tight race for some sort of seeding.

Dame Lillard in ATL

The biggest trade deadline moved occured in the Eastern Conference where Damian Lillard now braces the lights in Atlanta. They’re currently 21-36 in the East, 14th Place. They’re 6.5 games out of the playoffs, so they’ll need some Damian magic to make it, but they’re automatic playoff contenders with this move and it’s definitely something to watch for.

Philly hires Lucas Lucas

The Brett Brown era has ended in Philadelphia at trade deadline. The 76ers have been disappointing this season, sitting 6th in the East at 32-27. A new Head Coach (who has good ratings all over and has a +45 rating increase in Philadelphia’s system compared to Brett Brown) could get the 76ers back where they need to be. If not, Philadelphia could blow it up this offseason.

East’s 2nd Seed

The race for the 2nd Seed in the East is insane. The Cavs, Nets and Raptors are in the 2-4 spots all within a game of eachother. Both the Cavs and Raptors made deals at the deadline while the Nets stayed pat. A 2 seed would tremendously help any of these teams, as it gets them a home court in the 2nd round against the 3/6 seed and getting either the 2 or 3 seed keeps that team away from the league-leading Chicago Bulls until the ECF.

Steph Curry Struggles

The 2018-19 MVP and the formerly leading 2019-20 MVP Candidate has hit a slump in the season. His team entered the All Star Break in the midst of a 3 game losing streak and his 27% combined shooting hasn’t helped either. It could be fatigue, as he’s averaging 40.5 MPG. This is a concern for the Lakers, as the Bulls recently surpassed them in record and they lose homecourt advantage in a potential Finals matchup.

Eastern Conference Teams, this is for you. This sim features one major interconference matchup and then 3 close playoff matchups in the East. Each one of these games is significant for both squads and could prove which team is better.

Bulls (32-8) @ Lakers (34-7)

Saving the best for first, these two teams are not only first in their conferences, they boast the best records in the league. The Bulls started their season 3-3, now they sit on top at 32-8. The Lakers started 1-6, and went 33-1 in the next stretch to sit at a 34-7 record. Both these teams have superstar squads and is a likely preview of what’s to come in June.

• Bulls PG Chris Paul VS Lakers PG Stephen Curry
• Bulls SG Klay Thompson VS Lakers SG Victor Oladipo
• Bulls SF Kevin Durant VS Lakers SF Draymond Green
• Bulls PF Anthony Davis VS Lakers PF Marc Gasol
• Bulls C Clint Capela VS Lakers C Rudy Gobert

Cavaliers (30-13) @ Nets (26-15)

The Cavs and Nets are 2nd and 3rd place in the Eastern Conference as of right now. The Nets offense is ranked #1 in the league and the Cavs defense sits at #3. Two completely different playing styles and teams, it should be fun to watch these teams head to head.

• Cavaliers PG Collin Sexton VS Nets PG Kemba Walker
• Cavaliers SG Jordan Clarkson VS Nets SG Caris LeVert
• Cavaliers SF Aaron Gordon VS Nets SF DeMar DeRozan
• Cavaliers PF Kevin Love VS Nets PF Enes Kanter
• Cavaliers C Montrezl Harrell VS Nets C Andre Drummond

Raptors (26-16) @ Celtics (23-21)

The Toronto Raptors are in the midst of a slump right now, after starting the season hot, they’ve fallen to the 4th seed and have got to get back on track. They’ll travel to Boston to take another struggling Celtics squad, in a classic Atlantic Division rivalry.

• Raptors PG Kyle Lowry VS Celtics PG Markelle Fultz
• Raptors SG Zach LaVine VS Celtics SG Kyrie Irving
• Raptors SF Kawhi Leonard VS Celtics SF Jayson Tatum
• Raptors PF Jaren Jackson Jr. VS Celtics PF Davis Bertans
• Raptors C Nikola Vucevic VS Celtics C Jusuf Nurkic

Bucks (23-18) @ 76ers (23-21)

Both these teams had high expectations entering the season, but both have struggled all year. In a game between two low playoff seeds, Giannis and Bucks hope to win their first ever primetime game against Mr. Primetime himself.

• Bucks PG Terry Rozier III VS 76ers PG Goran Dragic
• Bucks SG Josh Hart VS 76ers SG C.J. McCollum
• Bucks SF Giannis Antetokounmpo VS 76ers SF LeBron James
• Bucks PF Ersan Ilyasova VS 76ers PF LaMarcus Aldridge
• Bucks C Hassan Whiteside VS 76ers C Joel Embiid

Another day, Another 4 Primetime Games in Flight2K. The season is well in process and the playoff races are now just beginning. Here are your featured matchups:

76ers (16-14) @ Thunder (20-8)

The 76ers are still struggling and just barely in the playoff race at the 8th seed. The Thunder, on the other hand, have got things going for them, they’re in the 2 seed in an intense battle against the Lakers for the 1. This game is equally important for both sides, as there is no room for error if they wish to get where they want to be.

• 76ers PG Goran Dragic VS Thunder PG Mike Conley
• 76ers SG C.J. McCollum VS Thunder SG Dennis Schroder
• 76ers SF LeBron James VS Thunder SF Paul George
• 76ers PF LaMarcus Aldridge VS Thunder PF Blake Griffin
• 76ers C Joel Embiid VS Thunder C Tyson Chandler

Suns (18-9) @ Lakers (22-6)

The Lakers are on a 21-game win streak as of now and hold 1st place in the Western Conference after starting last. The Suns have come to a wall in their season and somewhat struggling. In this New Year’s Day matchup, the Suns will try to get back on track, on the road in Los Angeles and make a statement against the 2018-19 Champions.

• Suns PG John Wall VS Lakers PG Stephen Curry
• Suns SG Devin Booker VS Lakers SG Victor Oladipo
• Suns SF Jimmy Butler VS Lakers SF Draymond Green
• Suns PF Tobias Harris VS Lakers PF Marc Gasol
• Suns C DeAndre Ayton VS Lakers C Rudy Gobert

Bulls (19-7) @ Pistons (16-12)

Both of these teams have been on fire as of late, the Bulls have claimed the 1-seed and the Pistons are back in the playoff race with their young core. The Pistons will be at home against the Eastern Conference favorites, in a potential playoff preview.

• Bulls PG Chris Paul VS Pistons PG Elfrid Payton
• Bulls SG Klay Thompson VS Pistons SG R.J. Barrett
• Bulls SF Kevin Durant VS Pistons SF Zion Williamson
• Bulls PF Anthony Davis VS Pistons PF Domantis Sabonis
• Bulls C Clint Capela VS Pistons C Karl-Anthony Towns

Clippers (17-11) @ Pelicans (15-12)

This could be a matchup of the future. Two of some of the Western Conference’s best young teams will go head to head in New Orleans in one of the first of many primetime battles. This should be an interesting one.

• Clippers PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander VS Pelicans PG Dejounte Murray
• Clippers SG Jaylen Brown VS Pelicans SG D’Angelo Russell
• Clippers SF Khris Middleton VS Pelicans SF Kyle Kuzma
• Clippers PF Julius Randle VS Pelicans PF Pascal Siakam
• Clippers C Bam Adebayo VS Pelicans C Harry Giles

For the first time this season, we will be simming 4 weeks now that the season is fully underway! We will have 4 featured games this Sunday, and here they are:

Spurs (9-4) @ Lakers (7-6)

Both these teams are HOT, HOT, HOT! The Spurs youth has them as a Western Conference Contender while the Lakers are on a 6 game win streak after a slow start the season. A potential WCF preview, the young Spurs will go into LA and face the 2019 Champions featuring 2019 MVP, Steph Curry, who is the league’s leading scorer.

• Spurs PG De’Aaron Fox VS Lakers PG Stephen Curry
• Spurs SG Keldon Johnson VS Lakers SG Victor Oladipo
• Spurs SF Andrew Wiggins VS Lakers SF Draymond Green
• Spurs PF Guerschon Yabusele VS Lakers PF Marc Gasol
• Spurs C Al Horford VS Lakers C Rudy Gobert

76ers (7-8) @ Nets (9-5)

LeBron James is struggling with this 76ers squad and they need a turn around fast. They’ll go on the road in Brooklyn to face one of the most dynamic offenses. (#1 Ranked last season.) This could be a statement game for either side, and not to mention, an Atlantic Division Rivalry game is always fun.

• 76ers PG Goran Dragic VS Nets PG Kemba Walker
• 76ers SG C.J. McCollum VS Nets SG Caris LeVert
• 76ers SF LeBron James VS Nets SF DeMar DeRozan
• 76ers PF LaMarcus Aldridge VS Nets PF Enes Kanter
• 76ers C Joel Embiid VS Nets C Andre Drummond

Nuggets (7-7) @ Warriors (5-9)

The Nuggets and Warriors have struggled early this season, but these teams are familiar with eachother. Last season, the Nuggets lost in 7 games in the 2nd Round to this Golden State squad. This should not only be a crucial Western Conference Battle for both squads, but this game is personal.

• Nuggets PG Ja Morant VS Warriors PG Derrick Rose
• Nuggets SG Gary Harris VS Warriors SG James Harden
• Nuggets SF Michael Porter Jr. VS Warriors SF Nassir Little
• Nuggets PF Paul Millsap VS Warriors PF Jordan Bell
• Nuggets C Nikola Jokic VS Warriors C Bol Bol

Raptors (11-4) @ Bulls (10-3)

The battle of the 2 Eastern Conference superpowers. These two teams are the 1st and 2nd seeds in the East as of right now, and both teams look unstoppable. This could be a preview of an epic ECF. The Raptors will be on the road in a tough environment against the Bulls who are on a 7-game winning streak.

• Raptors PG Kyle Lowry VS Bulls PG Chris Paul
• Raptors SG Zach LaVine VS Bulls SG Klay Thompson
• Raptors SF Kawhi Leonard VS Bulls SF Kevin Durant
• Raptors PF Jaren Jackson Jr. VS Bulls PF Anthony Davis
• Raptors C Nikola Vucevic VS Bulls C Clint Capela

It’s officially a month into the new season and some teams are still not clicking together, this likely means they’re taking a new approach to this season and as usual, the stars are being traded.

Victor Oladipo (LAL)

Oladipo has been on the watch list lately. The Lakers have been negotiating with several teams on deals concerning Oladipo. He’s been averaging a mere 19.2 ppg under Stephen Curry, who averages 35.5 ppg. Oladipo’s production and inefficiency is not enough for the Lakers if they wish to defend their championship this year.

Potential Targets: Boston, Philadelphia, Denver, Houston, Sacramento

Al Horford (SA)

The Spurs have been fire as of late thanks to their electric youth core of De’Aaron Fox and Andrew Wiggins, and late 1st round draft pick Keldon Johnson. Whether they move Al Horford to get younger, to get rid of salary or to make a move to make them legitimate contenders, it makes reasonable sense why Al Horford could be moved.

Potential Targets: Sacramento, Atlanta

Cameron Reddish (BOS)

The 4th Pick of the 2019 Draft may be out of Boston already. The Celtics, while not entirely struggling, realize they need to make a big move if they want to catch up to Toronto and Chicago. Moving Cameron Reddish might be required if they wish to add another star to their team to play with Kyrie Irving and MIP Candidate Jayson Tatum.

Potential Targets: Cleveland, Orlando, Washington, Dallas, LA Lakers

Jrue Holiday (DAL)

The Mavericks hold the worst record in the league, and at this point, it looks better for them that they decide to tank. That means moving a prime Jrue Holiday (21.7 ppg, 7.2 apg, 1.2 spg) to get a good pick and young player. Holiday, despite having an amazing year, will not help Dallas’s effort on the tank and they can get a lot out of him right now with the way he’s playing.

Potential Targets: Boston, Houston, Oklahoma City, Cleveland

LeBron James (PHI)

This is happening, AGAIN. LeBron has been traded once in this league and it became an infamous meme. Philadelphia struggled last season with a core of LBJ/AD/Embiid and they traded AD to end up with 2 more guards that could help LeBron’s workload. However, they’re now sitting below .500 one month into the season, and this may no longer be AD’s fault. LeBron is on the hot seat in Philly, and if he doesn’t start winning games, he’s out.

Potential Targets: LA Lakers, Houston, Washington, New York, Utah, Oklahoma City, Denver