NFL
By: Joe Cardoso
Today is the start of a new NBA season and with that new players and teams to watch. You have 2 types of fans the ones that only check highlights and watch the game that comes on local nation or TNT/ESPN. And then you have the real hoop junkies who fork over $149 for League Pass so you get all the action. We all have our favorite team(s) and if you are a league pass vet you have those teams that are just exciting to watch, they don’t win a lot of games but damn if it is not fun to watch them try. Most times it is a young team on a. rebuild and you enjoy being along for the journey or it is the style of play that makes you want to tune in and see what will happen any given night. This will mark my return to league pass after not having it for a few years, and with all the movement this offseason a lot of teams have a shot at being a solid league pass crush in no particular order here are my 5 that will be on my screens all season.
Detriot Pistions:
What is not to like? They have all the things I like in a young and up-and-coming team talented players who are hungry to get shine. Add in a solid head coach like Monty Williams and this should be a nice leap year for the team from the D. Names like Jayden Ivey, Isiah Stewart, and Jalen Duren. But the man who needs to become “The Man” is without question Cade Cunningham who is healthy and ready to get rolling. Like other young teams around the league, it is time to figure out who stays and who goes. There will be turnovers and horrible shooting nights but I am here for it. And if anything Ausar Thompson is worth the time to see him adjust to the league.
Oklahoma City Thunder:
Can OKC learn from past mistakes? We remember that core of KD, Russ, and Harden. Thinking it was the start of something magical and in a flash, it was gone. We were left with the PG-13 and Russ duo which had its moments but Dame sent them packing in classic fashion. So why did they make my list? Have you seen this roster? The return of the OG unicorn Chet Holmgren in addition to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Josh Giddy. Jalen Williams gives them a potent top 4 and the bench is full of legit NBA role players. I’m not sure if there is a fan base that should be more excited for what’s to come. I will be Thunder Up for 82 games.
Sacramento Kings:
What can they do for an encore is the question? The darlings of the NBA had a return to the playoffs and a catchphrase that didn’t quit. I love De’Aaron Fox dude is a blur and built for the big moments along with guys who love and know their roles. The west is deep, but seeing what Mike Brown’s boys can do will be must must-watch.
San Antonio Spurs:
One word Wemby…when have we ever seen this type of player step into the league? The answer is never, it is not just the size it is having guard-like traits at THAT height. As of today I can’t name one other Spur but give me a second and I will have some. We are about to witness a new wave and I want in on the ride.
Orlando Magic:
After the Thunder this is my favorite young team in the league. With enough forwards for two teams and guards who can do a little bit of everything. Like the Pistons shooting and turnovers can sometimes make them hard to watch. But then you see Paolo Banchero yank someone’s ankles and punch a hole in the rim and stay for more. Franz Wagner is slept on and both are future All-Stars in my eyes. Sprinkle in Markelle Fultz and others and you have an AUU team at the pro level. Watching the growth and improvement will be fun.
So there you have it the 5 teams that will be locked in on my NBA League Pass this season and the reasons why. Who did I miss and what are your thoughts on the upcoming season? Hit me up on social @JoeCardoso301 and, catch Kevin Lucas, Melo Williams, and myself on The Hoop Heads Podcast. Let’s Ball Y’All, the NBA is back baby!
