The NBA season is still young, but some players who switched teams in the offseason have already made an impact on their new squads. Here are 11 players who changed jerseys and how they are performing so far.
Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks
The biggest offseason addition, at least in name, has been pretty much as expected. Lillard is giving the Bucks a supernova scorer, and his “Dame Time” quality has traveled with him. He’s also giving up buckets at the other end. If you’re into defensive ratings and such, Lillard is living up, or rather down, to the reputation he had in Portland. And it’s enhanced because the Bucks surrendered Jrue Holiday. The pick-and-roll relationship with Giannis Antetokounmpo remains a work in progress. Yet, Lillard is Milwaukee’s most reliable outside shooter, right from a smashing opening night.
Kristaps Porzingis, Boston Celtics
He’s healthy. He hasn’t missed a game with an injury. Therefore, the biggest fear has been negated (at least for now). As for performance? Solid. He’s fitting right in with Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown and making the Celtics look like a strong favorite. Porzingis is averaging 20.9 points and 6.7 rebounds per game and supplying rim protection (1.6 blocks per game). In perhaps an early playoff preview against the Sixers, no one on the Celtics played better than Porzingis. He missed a potential game-tying shot in the loss, but it’s clear coach Joe Mazulla has faith in the Celtics’ new addition.
Jrue Holiday, Portland Trail Blazers
He’s averaging his fewest points and assists per game since his rookie season. And none of that matters. Holiday is in a different role, with multiple scorers and playmakers, and therefore handles the ball less. Portland wanted him for defense, and he’s doing that. The Blazers rank No. 3 defensively and Holiday once again is getting the tough assignments. Anyway, how he’s performing now is moot. He was an acquisition for the postseason. November has nothing on May and June basketball.
Jordan Poole, Washington Wizards
Oh, look — Poole is putting up decent offensive numbers. But then again, he’s doing it on a losing team, where somebody has to score. Therefore, Poole’s production is minimized. Besides, he’s been streaky for the Wizards, leading them in turnovers and, unofficially, head-scratching decisions and plays. Getting shots is making him happy. It’s not doing wonders for the Wizards.
Marcus Smart, Memphis Grizzlies
He was placed in a situation where he couldn’t win — keeping the seat warm for Ja Morant. With a rocky start to the season for the Grizzlies, Smart’s true value is anticipated to emerge once Morant re-enters the play, and Smart’s adaptability will be tested.
Dennis Schroder, Toronto Raptors
Dennis Schroder has found rejuvenation with the Toronto Raptors, stepping in to fill the void left by Fred VanVleet’s departure. His performance has been commendable, providing scoring and playmaking prowess that has brought stability to the Raptors’ lineup.
Chris Paul, Golden State Warriors
Chris Paul’s tenure with the Golden State Warriors marks a harmonious union, showcasing remarkable control over the ball and a significant influence on the team’s younger contingent. His mentorship is proving invaluable, especially in high-pressure situations.
Dillon Brooks, Houston Rockets
Now with the Houston Rockets, Dillon Brooks continues to be a formidable force, showcasing an improved shooting percentage and robust defense. He’s averaging 18.4 points per game and shooting 46.2% from the field and 40.5% from three-point range. He’s also leading the Rockets in steals per game with 1.9.
Lonzo Ball, Chicago Bulls
Lonzo Ball has been a key piece in the Bulls’ resurgence, forming a dynamic backcourt with Zach LaVine. Ball is averaging career-highs in points (14.6), rebounds (5.9), and three-point percentage (42.9%). He’s also dishing out 5.1 assists per game and playing solid defense. Ball has helped the Bulls to a 6-2 record, good for third place in the Eastern Conference.
Kyle Lowry, Miami Heat
Kyle Lowry has brought his championship experience and leadership to the Miami Heat, who are off to a 6-1 start. Lowry is averaging 12.1 points, 7.6 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game, while also providing toughness and defense. He’s meshing well with Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Tyler Herro, forming a formidable core for the Heat.
Kemba Walker, New York Knicks
Kemba Walker has returned to his hometown to join the New York Knicks, who are looking to build on their surprising playoff appearance last season. Walker is averaging 13.3 points and 4.1 assists per game while shooting 40.7% from three-point range. He’s also providing clutch scoring and leadership for the Knicks, who are 5-3 and fourth in the Eastern Conference.
