Thinking Basketball #349: Thunder dominance, Jokic's efficiency + Power Rankings!
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Nov 19, 2025 The Oklahoma City Thunder are emerging as serious title contenders, showcasing Chet Holmgren’s impressive offensive growth. Nikola Jokic is on a scoring surge, displaying historic efficiency that elevates the Nuggets' playoff aspirations. The Rockets show promise with a strong offense, though concerns linger about their half-court game. The Cavaliers are highlighted as potential Eastern Conference leaders, while discussions encompass the Knicks' uncertain future and the Spurs’ youthful upside. Plus, debates spark around Derek White's efficiency.
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Rockets: Transition Power, Playoff Question
- The Houston Rockets are elite in transition and second-chance scoring but their half-court offense may struggle against playoff defenses.
- Ben Taylor wants to see Houston's offense tested against stronger defenses before labeling them an inner-circle contender.
Value Quality Opponents Over Raw Record
- When evaluating teams early, weight performance against quality opponents more than raw net rating.
- Avoid overvaluing impressive records compiled mostly versus bottom-tier teams.
Weird Distribution Skews Early Records
- Early-season records are skewed by an unusual distribution: many top teams mostly beat bottom teams.
- That lopsided schedule makes early scouting and rankings noisier than usual.