Plus, Kawhi Leonard, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook in their new colored jerseys
By Nicole Ganglani | Photo from NBA.com
After one of the most exciting off-seasons, the upcoming NBA season has never been this hyped. This is by far the best title race in recent memory and this year’s Media Day gave us all some clues on what to expect. From the dynamic duos ready to take over the league, to Los Angeles becoming the center of the basketball universe, here are the best moments in this year’s NBA Media Day:
The Best Clippers Team in History
The days when the Clippers are known as the other team in LA are officially over. Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and the rest of the squad led by head coach Doc Rivers are touted as the most talented team in the season. What’s even more exciting is that this season could be the time when they not only become the kings of Los Angeles but also of the NBA.
LeBron now has Company
Last season, LeBron James’s eight consecutive finals appearance was snapped after the Lakers flunked to the bottom of the standings. This season, the three-time champion is on a mission to lead the Lakers back to the playoffs and prove that he is indeed still the best player in the league—and he’s with good company to do just that. Here’s a glimpse of James and his new partner Anthony Davis ready to bring pride back to the purple and gold.
KD and Kyrie Building in Brooklyn
There is no timetable yet for Kevin Durant’s return but the Brooklyn Nets are ready to welcome a bright new chapter this season. The peak of Brooklyn basketball is officially here.
Here Come the Sixers
The new-look Sixers are considered as contenders and the second best team in the Eastern Conference. With Ben Simmons leading the floor for Philadelphia, an exciting season is in store for the Sixers fans. Despite the departure of Jimmy Butler, they re-signed Tobias Harris, Al Horford, and recruited Josh Richardson.
BBQ Party in Houston
The Beard and the Brodie are on the same team once again. This time, the two most ball-dominant superstars are even better than they were in 2009—and to think that they’re going to be sharing the same ball now will be exciting to watch. The sight of these two together already screams trouble for the league.
Fear the Deer
The NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) Giannis Antetokunmpo is on a mission to bring his team to the finals this season. This year, Kawhi Leonard won’t be in the Eastern Conference to kick them out of the playoffs. Will the Bucks be able to overcome the Sixers (or even the Nets) to lead the league standings once again?
The Euro Connection in Dallas
Now that Kristaps Porzingis is playing alongside Luka Doncic, the two could be one of the best one-two punches in the league. The young Euro stars will be joined by Serbian Boban Marjanovic, Puerto Rican guard JJ Barea, and Seth Curry.
Don’t Count the Warriors Out
They may have lost the title last year but it seems like the Warriors era isn’t over just yet. With Klay Thompon sidelined for a while, expect Steph Curry to explode and make more shots than he ever has in his career. The Warriors have also welcomed D’angelo Russell—another all-star ready to prove himself once again this season.
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