Michael Shearer</a> (<a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/bballispoetry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@bballispoetry</a>): The Phoenix Suns. Count me as one of the haters who expected them to come back down to earth this season, but they’ve conclusively proven me wrong. The core is playing better than ever, <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoop-social.com/javale-mcgees-wild-winding-path/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Javale McGee has been a great addition</a>, and they’ve managed to do it all despite numerous off-court distractions. Honorable mention goes to the weirdly good Magic starting lineup.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/author/cjeter/">Chris Jeter</a> (<a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/cjet91" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@cjet91</a>): Cleveland Cavaliers. If you predicted that the Cavs would have a winning record at this point of the season, congratulations for being able to see the future, because that’s the only way anyone could feel safe making that pick. Even wilder, their Pythagorean record shows that they should have a slightly better record than they have. Between Darius Garland taking that next step and a top-five defense that disallows threes, there are plenty of reasons to get excited about this Cleveland team.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/author/crausch/">Corey Rausch</a> (<a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/PolitoedHoops" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@PolitoedHoops</a>): The Washington Wizards. Coming into the season with expectations of battling for the play-in, to be just a game and a half out of the top seed at the one-quarter mark is surprising. Bradley Beal is averaging just 22.7 points per game and shooting 26.9 percent from distance and it does not matter. Montrezl Harrell has been a force. Wes Unseld Jr. may be the coach of the year. Everything about this is surprising.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/author/zharris/">Zane Harris</a> (<a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/ZaneHarris20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@ZaneHarris20</a>): The team that has been the best surprise for me this season so far is the Chicago Bulls. As we have seen across the league, when big stars come to teams there is typically a period of time in which they learn to mesh and play together. However, this has not been the case for the Bulls, who have looked great right off the bat. The re-emergence of DeMar DeRozan and getting to see Alex Caruso play a bigger role has been great to see so far this season.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/author/bmarcus/">Brandon Marcus</a> (<a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JumpBallBrandon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@JumpBallBrandon</a>): Honestly, I am most surprised by the Phoenix Suns. I don’t know why I’m surprised since they made it to the Finals last year, but I suppose I didn’t expect them to be doing THIS well. Even with one of the most competitive and talented leagues we’ve seen in some time, the Suns seem to be downright unbeatable right now. The only question is if it’ll last.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/author/pokeefe/">Peter O’Keefe</a> (<a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/POK252" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@POK252</a>): I had the Washington Wizards as the eighth seed at the beginning of the season, a mark they’re far surpassing to this point in the year. Although there’s a question mark next to the top-end talent on the roster outside Bradley Beal, there’s no doubt that the Russell Westbrook trade improved their overall depth, a move important in stacking regular-season wins. Wes Unseld Jr. is doing a fantastic job in his debut season as coach, and a top-four seed is not out of the realm of possibility given Rui Hachimura and Thomas Bryant are yet to be seen.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/author/jsimone/">Jack Simone</a> (<a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JackSimoneNBA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@JackSimoneNBA</a>): I am absolutely loving the progression of Miles Bridges. I cover the Hornets as well and watching him explode off the canvas every night has been a joy. Bridges looks like an All-Star, and the Hornets are going to have to match a big-time contract when he becomes an RFA this summer. Cole Anthony has been a very, very close second.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Biggest Disappointments </a>
</div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div id="attachment_439069" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
<img class="wp-image-439069 size-full" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2005,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F1356405490.jpeg" alt="NBA Predictions and Reactions: Hoops Habit's Quarter NBA One Survey" width="3200" height="2005" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1356405490.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1356405490-768x481.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – NOVEMBER 24: LeBron James #6 of the Los Angeles Lakersl against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on November 24, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana, NBA Predictions. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement, NBA Predictions and Reactions: Hoops Habit’s First Quarter NBA Survey. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)</p>
</div>
</div>
<h2>NBA Predictions and Reactions: Which player or team has been the biggest disappointment so far?</h2>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/bballispoetry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shearer</a>: The Pelicans. The train wreck started right off the bat with the crazy stories about David Griffin, continued with their poor offseason choices, peaked with the ongoing Zion Williamson injury debacle, and sustained itself with the ugly play in his absence. This team was poised to be a fun, exciting squad just a few short months ago. They can’t admit this publicly, but it’s clear that they’re counting ping-pong balls and looking at new GM candidates.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/cjet91" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jeter</a>: Los Angeles Lakers. Yes, having LeBron James’ services for only 11 games has contributed to the Lakers’ slow start, but even when he’s played, this team hasn’t looked particularly impressive. The offense is repulsive and lacking in spacing, the defense is on autopilot far too often, and it all combines to create an unappealing final product. They still have LeBron, so they’ll probably be okay, but how they’ve looked so far shouldn’t inspire any confidence that they will.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/PolitoedHoops" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rausch</a>: Considering I picked the Los Angeles Lakers to make the NBA Finals before the season, watching them struggle to win games at all has been disconcerting. For years, simply betting on LeBron James to figure out even the most concerning roster constructures was safe. So far this season, that could not be further from the case.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/ZaneHarris20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Harris</a>: On the flip side of the previous question is a team that has not meshed well so far – the Los Angeles Lakers. It is looking like it may have been the wrong decision to trade for Russell Westbrook rather than another star, and it appears this may be another year of LeBron’s career down the drain.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JumpBallBrandon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marcus</a>: It’s really hard to not feel disappointed by my Los Angeles Lakers. While I don’t think they will be this bad all season, their track record so far is very disheartening considering the talent they have. This is a case of a team not gelling together very well right away. They still have time, but the clock is ticking away.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/POK252" target="_blank" rel="noopener">O’Keefe</a>: Although the Portland Trail Blazers 11-11 record isn’t surprising, the disappointment comes from the fact they’re not actually doing anything to change things. How is this at all appeasing Trail Blazers fans, or for that matter, superstar point guard Damian Lillard? <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/02/nba-teams-suck-excellence-mediocrity/" rel="">I recently wrote about how they’re stuck in the middle</a> and have been for a while, not competing for a deep playoff run nor bad enough to have access to top draft talent.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JackSimoneNBA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Simone</a>: The obvious answer is the Lakers, but I’ll go outside of the box for this one. Zion Williamson has been hurt, but the Pelicans have still been horrendously disappointing. They have enough talent to compete for a play-in spot, and they have been one of the worst teams in the NBA. That’s just rough. They need to turn things around.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Who's about to make a run? </a>
</div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div id="attachment_439070" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
<img class="wp-image-439070 size-full" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F1356511028.jpeg" alt="NBA Predictions and Reactions:" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1356511028.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1356511028-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 30: James Harden #13 of the Brooklyn Nets during game against the New York Knicks at Barclays Center on November 30, 2021 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City, NBA Predictions. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement, NBA Predictions and Reactions: Hoops Habit’s First Quarter NBA Survey. (Photo by Michelle Farsi/Getty Images)</p>
</div>
</div>
<h2>NBA Predictions and Reactions: Who’s primed to make a second-quarter run?</h2>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/bballispoetry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shearer</a>: James Harden. He’s been playing impressively these last two weeks already, and he looks like he’s figured out his foul-drawing issues. There still is this narrative that he’s had a bad season thus far when in fact he’s back to last season’s dominant level. Opposing teams are finding this out the hard way.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/cjet91" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jeter</a>: Nikola Vucevic. As impressive as the Chicago Bulls have looked to start the season, Vucevic struggled in his first few games, which is reflected in his 14.5 points per game and 48.1 true shooting percentage. That said, he’s too talented of a scorer for this to continue, and his recent game against the Hornets on November 29 (30 points, 14 rebounds) is hopefully a sign of what’s to come.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/PolitoedHoops" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rausch</a>: The Milwaukee Bucks were something of a sleeping giant for most of the first quarter of the season. They have currently won eight in a row and seem to be right on track to reclaiming the top seed in the conference yet again. Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton missed time due to injuries, but with them back in the lineup, the champs look like the team from last year again.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/ZaneHarris20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Harris</a>: Damian Lillard is going to finally make the necessary adjustments and shake off a rough early start. If he can go on a tear in the second quarter of the season, he very well could end up being a dark horse MVP candidate, if players like Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant begin to cool off.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JumpBallBrandon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marcus</a>: Speaking of the Lakers, I think they have the best chance at turning things around. In fact, they have recently shown moments of greatness. Russell Westbrook seems to be getting better and they are tending to their third-quarter woes while fostering some great young players. Will they achieve an 18-win-run like the Suns? Unlikely, but there are still surprises up their sleeves.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/POK252" target="_blank" rel="noopener">O’Keefe</a>: Having begun the season at 6-8, the reigning champion Milwaukee Bucks have rattled off eight straight wins to move to fourth in the eastern conference. They’ve got the key trio of Antetokounmpo, Holiday, and Middleton up and running, having not lost a game yet when those three play together. I thought they’d be a 60-win team again, and despite the slow start, I still have faith they’ll rise to the top of the East by the midway point.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JackSimoneNBA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Simone</a>: It’s already started a bit, but I have a sneaky suspicion that Darius Garland is about to burst onto the scene. With the players he has around him, he could legitimately average a double-double one day, and this next quarter of basketball should be a big one for him. Watch out for the national media jumping on the Garland bandwagon.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Which hot start will fade? </a>
</div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div id="attachment_439071" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
<img class="wp-image-439071 size-full" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2134,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F1356713642.jpeg" alt="NBA Predictions and Reactions:" width="3200" height="2134" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1356713642.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1356713642-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 01: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards dribbles the ball in front of Josh Okogie #20 of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the fourth quarter at Capital One Arena on December 01, 2021 in Washington, DC, , NBA Predictions. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement, NBA Predictions and Reactions: Hoops Habit’s First Quarter NBA Survey. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)</p>
</div>
</div>
<h2>NBA Predictions and Reactions: Which hot start will fade?</h2>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/bballispoetry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shearer</a>: Warriors. It’s all relative, of course, and they should still be one of the best teams in the league., but re-integrating two pieces like Klay Thompson and James Wiseman is difficult, and there will be growing pains as both players get back up to speed. It’s not that brave to predict a team will slow down from their 18-3 pace.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/cjet91" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jeter</a>: Washington Wizards. The regression to the mean has already begun, as the Wizards have gone 4-5 after starting 10-3, and their once top-five defense has cratered to the middle of the pack. Washington is far from the worst team in the league, and they’ll probably make the playoffs again (either outright or via the play-in), but their offensive and defensive deficiencies will inhibit any sort of consistency.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/PolitoedHoops" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rausch</a>: Considered one of the more dangerous teams in the league, the Miami Heat look like they are about to hit a lull. The injury to Bam Adebayo is crippling, as the big man is the fulcrum of the defensive identity that this team prides itself on. Plus, Duncan Robinson has not been the player who earned a monster payday in the offseason. The Heat may be in trouble over the next few weeks.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/ZaneHarris20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Harris</a>: While they are only the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference, I see teams around the league figuring out how to handle the Cavs’ giant lineup that has been throwing teams off, and they will once again finish the season as a mid-to-high lottery team.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JumpBallBrandon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marcus</a>: There are multiple teams in the east that are going to have trouble maintaining their impressive records. The Chicago Bulls come to mind for me. They started off great and will remain competitive, but there are other, more experienced teams in their conference that are starting to figure them out.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/POK252" target="_blank" rel="noopener">O’Keefe</a>: DeMar DeRozan has begun the season on fire, even discussed by some as a potential MVP candidate. For a couple of reasons, I just don’t think his 25.9 points per game will sustain across the entire season. Firstly, Nikola Vucevic has just returned to the Bulls lineup, adding another offensive threat that Billy Donovan will need to find shots for. Second, and more importantly, I truly believe Zach Lavine needs to be the out-and-out number one player for the Bulls to achieve playoff success. Right now, he and DeRozan are like a two-headed monster. Personally, I’d like to see Lavine take another step into being the Bulls’ undoubted best player.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JackSimoneNBA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Simone</a>: It’s sad to say, and not necessarily a knock on the player himself, but Nikola Jokic’s numbers will probably start to fall soon. With essentially his entire team on the injury report, teams will be able to focus on him more. On top of that, his assist numbers are probably going to dwindle. Again, it’s not his fault, but that’s just my guess.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Bold Predictions </a>
</div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div id="attachment_439072" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
<img class="wp-image-439072 size-full" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1065,w_1600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F1356081379.jpeg" alt="NBA Predictions and Reactions:" width="1600" height="1065" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1356081379.jpeg 1600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1356081379-768x511.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – NOVEMBER 28: Desmond Bane #22 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks to pass against Buddy Hield #24 of the Sacramento Kings and De’Aaron Fox #5 of the Sacramento Kings during the first half at FedExForum on November 28, 2021 in Memphis, Tennessee, , NBA Predictions. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement, NBA Predictions and Reactions: Hoops Habit’s First Quarter NBA Survey. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)</p>
</div>
</div>
<h2>NBA Predictions and Reactions: What’s one bold prediction for the second quarter?</h2>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/bballispoetry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shearer</a>: The Spurs will rally to get Greg Popovich the all-time wins record. They need to go 20-43 in their remaining 63 games, about the same as their current 6-13 pace, but they’ve faced one of the easier schedules in the league and have had reasonably good health to date, so it’ll get harder from here. I have to imagine that Popovich is going to reach into his Mary Poppins’ bag of tricks to eke out every last win so he can finally enjoy an offseason.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/cjet91" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jeter</a>: The Cavs will remain in the playoff picture: Yes, it’s the Cavs without LeBron, so it’s always a gamble to expect any sort of recent success as sustainable, but if Darius Garland continues to play at the level that he is and the defense holds up, we could see Cleveland return to the postseason in 2022. That is, assuming everyone stays relatively healthy.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/PolitoedHoops" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rausch</a>: De’Aaron Fox is going to get traded. There is too much smoke around the Sacramento Kings, and after taking point guards in consecutive first rounds, the writing is on the wall. A change of scenery would do wonders for Fox, and would further shine the spotlight on how disastrous the Ranadive-era has been for the Kings.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/ZaneHarris20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Harris</a>: There will be new teams in first place for both the Eastern and Western Conferences. While the Nets and Suns are both talented teams, the toll of the season will begin to set in and their stars will begin missing more and more games.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JumpBallBrandon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marcus</a>: I think we will see a slew of major trades and coach firings in the second half of the season.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/POK252" target="_blank" rel="noopener">O’Keefe</a>: The Golden State Warriors slow down a little, moving from 18-3 at the quarter-point to somewhere around 29-12 at the halfway mark. Prior to the season, many saw this team as just trying to hold the fort till Klay Thompson and, to a lesser extent, James Wiseman came back. What we’ve seen has been anything but so far, although Thompson’s return may present some short-term issues. How will they re-integrate him and how does it affect the likes of Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins? However, by later in the season, they’ll be an even scarier proposition than they are now.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JackSimoneNBA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Simone</a>: My somewhat bold prediction is that the Minnesota Timberwolves continue to thrive. I think they have a legitimate chance to be a top-six seed in the West. <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/2021/11/29/5-underrated-nba-players/4/">Adding Jarred Vanderbilt into the starting lineup</a> has given them a huge boost, and with how weak the middle of the West is this season, they could make some serious noise.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Favorite Moments </a>
</div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div id="attachment_439085" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
<a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/imagn-images/2017/07/17266819.jpeg">
O’Keefe</a>: Most diehard Warriors fans will remember the annihilation they were dealt on opening night in Brooklyn last season. Golden State’s win against the Nets, just over a fortnight ago, reconciled some of the nightmares from that night. More importantly, it signified the team’s return to a potential championship contender. There’s also a joy and amazement in watching Stephen Curry play basketball, a pleasure to watch on that night like so many this season.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JackSimoneNBA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Simone</a>: I’m a big Celtics guy, so opening night vs. the Knicks was my favorite moment so far. I know the C’s didn’t win, but that game was too amazing not to pick. Marcus Smart hitting the three at the end of regulation, the intensity of double-overtime, and everything in between. It was the perfect way to start the NBA season.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Finals Predictions </a>
</div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div id="attachment_439084" class="wp-caption aligncenter">
<img class="size-full wp-image-439084" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2017%2F07%2F1305882604.jpeg" alt="NBA Predictions and Reactions" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1305882604.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1305882604-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">ATLANTA, GEORGIA – MARCH 07: Stephen Curry #30 and Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of Team LeBron look on prior to the 70th NBA All-Star Game at State Farm Arena on March 07, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia, NBA Predictions and Reactions: Hoops Habit’s First Quarter NBA Survey. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)</p>
</div>
</div>
<h2>NBA Predictions and Reactions: What’s your NBA Finals prediction?</h2>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/bballispoetry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shearer</a>: Suns-Bucks. As I mentioned earlier, I am worried that people are expecting way too much from Klay Thompson and James Wiseman’s return to the Warriors. Those additions have as much of a chance of hurting the Warriors as helping them, given Thompson’s incredibly lengthy layoff and Wiseman’s rookie struggles. The Suns have the continuity advantage and no real weaknesses. I still think the Nets are a major threat, and people are sleeping on Utah, but right now the Suns and Bucks have the edge.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/cjet91" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jeter</a>: Bucks vs. Warriors. It’s still too early for this, but it looks like Milwaukee is starting to reassert themselves in the East. Of course, it always helps to have the best two-way player in the league on your team, but overall, the Bucks have looked like the best team in the conference, as most expected. In the West, the Warriors appear to be back, and aside from the Suns, it’s difficult to envision any team beating them in a seven-game series.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/PolitoedHoops" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rausch</a>: Golden State Warriors and Milwaukee Bucks. Despite losing to the Phoenix Suns in their meeting this week, the Warriors have been the most dominant team in the league this year, and with the presumptive MVP leading them, another Finals run is in the cards. The Bucks may not be the flashiest team in the Eastern Conference, but with a new variant of COVID-19 pushing off any sort of Kyrie Irving return, it is hard to pick against the defending champions.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/ZaneHarris20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Harris</a>: While this Finals matchup very well may not end up happening, especially this season, the matchup that I want to see is the Los Angeles Lakers vs the Brooklyn Nets. On paper, if the Lakers can keep up with the elite offense of the Nets, it could be one of the most electric NBA Finals we have seen since 2016.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JumpBallBrandon" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marcus</a>: Right now I am going with the Nets and the Warriors. A lot can change between now and then, but that’s the safest bet as of now. Although the Warriors need to be very fearful of the Suns. If it is the Nets and Warriors in the Finals, then you can bet the ratings will be through the roof.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/POK252" target="_blank" rel="noopener">O’Keefe</a>: With Kyrie Irving and Ben Simmons (or any potential replacement) still unknowns, it’s hard to see Brooklyn, Philadelphia, or any other team surpassing the Bucks in the East. As for the West, no team screams Finals contender outside the Suns and Warriors at this point. Despite their loss to Phoenix on Tuesday, and an obvious weakness on the interior, I think Golden State can emerge from the West, should Thompson surge to 80-90% of his prime come playoff time.</p>
<p><a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://twitter.com/JackSimoneNBA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Simone</a>: Based on what we’ve seen so far, I’m picking the Warriors to come out of the West and the Bucks to come out of the East. The Nets and Suns are great, but those are my picks. The Bucks, when fully healthy, have been an unstoppable force, and Stephen Curry just looks amazing. Plus, when Klay Thompson returns, it could add a whole new element to the Warriors’ game.</p>
<div class="fs-shortcode" data-type="StoryLink" data-theme="dark" data-text="NBA Power Rankings Week 6" data-url="https://hoopshabit.com/2021/11/29/nba-power-rankings-week-6-2/" data-call-to-action="Next"> <div class="story-link-next"> <a class="story-link-next-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="story-link-next-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2021/12/03/nba-predictions-reactions-survey/2/"https://hoopshabit.com/2021/11/29/nba-power-rankings-week-6-2/"> <span class="call_to_action">Next:</span> NBA Power Rankings Week 6 </a> </div>
</div><!—pageview_candidate—>">