NBA MAILBAG: IMPRESSIONS FROM FIRST WEEK

Cam Thomas was the biggest surprise of opening week for me. I knew he could score. But it’s like it’s automatic

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now every single time he plays substantial minutes. That’s really impressive to stay ready at all times.

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The Pelicans. If Zion is healthy the whole season, then they’re a team that could make some serious noise.

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If they both continue to grow and continue to stay driven, then they’ll be two of the players who push the game forward.

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It’s similar to when there was Kevin Garnett and Dirk Nowitzki. Then LeBron came along, then Durant.

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Now the international MVPs like Jokic, Giannis and Embiid. Both Wemby and Chet look capable of joining that lineage and igniting a new era.

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He resembles a player you create in 2K with the best skills and then you stretch them out to 7-foot-4. He’s in a class of his own.

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The West has gotten stronger. In addition to the defending champs and all the other elite contenders, you also have teams like the Clippers

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and Pelicans who could reach new levels if they can stay healthy. The West is power-packed right now.

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