This is the Hangover. This is where I get drunk on the NBA as I recap last night’s action as well as a few things going on around the league. Here’s your word vomit.
12/02/2016
THE GAMES
ORL 105 (8-12) @ PHI 88 (4-15)
SAC 92 (7-12) @ BOS 97 (11-8)
LAL 80 (10-11) @ TOR 113 (13-6)
MIN 114 (5-14) @ NY 118 (10-9)
CLE 105 (13-5) @ CHI 111 (11-7)
LAC 114 (16-5) @ NO 96 (7-13)
DET 121 (11-10) @ ATL 85 (10-10)
WAS 105 (6-12) @ SA 107 (16-4)
HOU 128 (13-7) @ DEN 110 (7-12)
(PHOTO CREDIT: Nam Y. Huh/AP.)
NO LONGER A CHAMPIONSHIP HANGOVER
So LeBron James said that the honeymoon stage is done for the Cavs after they got their third straight loss.
I mean, he’s not wrong. Three straight losses is concerning, no matter what. But I don’t think the Cavs have been exactly acting like they’ve been messing around, either.
After all, they did start out 6-0 and then 13-2. Their losses in the streak were to the Bucks, Clippers, and the Bulls. But they also beat some good teams like the Raptors (twice), Hornets, and the Celtics.
But yes, there is always some sort of honeymoon stage or championship hangover after winning the ring. And every team goes through some sort of swoon. The teams that are going for it all, though, hope that their losing streaks are in the beginning of the campaign, not the end.
I applaud James for trying to wake his team up but you all have to feel they’re going to be all right. This team is experienced now; they went to the Finals twice in a row. Heck, LeBron’s been to the Finals SIX STRAIGHT TIMES.
Also, I found it hilarious that he’s saying that after he wore a Cubs outfit to pay off that bet with good friend Dwyane Wade. I respect James for all he’s done and that pep talk in the media for his team but the timing WAS pretty funny.
THE REST OF THE LEAGUE
What is UP with the Hawks? They’ve lost eight of nine games after an excellent 9-2 start. Since November 17 (before their first loss in that stretch), they are LAST in offensive rating and 13th in defensive rating (their usual calling card).
I always thought that the Pistons were going to be all right without Reggie Jackson. I’m sure 11-10 is all right. Reggie Jackson could be back in their next game. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is becoming more dependable on the offensive end (he already was defensively). The addition of Tobias Harris from last season continues to pay dividends. Jackson being back could only help on the offense as Detroit does need his scoring. But, at least, their offensive rating has risen to 16th after toiling at the bottom earlier this season.
Aaaaaand… the Clippers are back. Right?
Also, I’m just afraid for Anthony Davis. He just can’t seem to play a complete game without getting hurt. Hopefully, he can play a full season later in his career. Remember when we were scared about Stephen Curry‘s ankle problems? Suddenly, he seems healthy and has become the Most Valuable Player for two years running. Maybe the Brow can do that down the line.
LINE CROSSER
(PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images.)
Hey! Remember this guy? Rajon Rondo went for a triple-double in a big win over the Cavs.
15 points, 11 rebounds, 12 assists, 3 steals.
Once in a while, we are reminded how good Rondo is.
WATCH THIS PLAY
(VIDEO CREDIT: NBA.)
Kawhi Leonard hits this jumper and he looked as excited as someone ringing up an order of french fries behind the counter.
Follow Rey-Rey on Twitter at @TheNoLookPass for all tweets about the NBA and terrible pop music. Also, check out his podcast, Rey-Rey Is Fundamental.
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