As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches the end of its adjustment phase, approximately one-fifth of the season has elapsed, allowing for a preliminary evaluation of how several key players are adapting to their new teams. High-profile athletes such as Paul George and Klay Thompson have transitioned to different franchises, prompting discussions about their impact on team dynamics and performance. Following the initial games, insights into roles and chemistry within these squads have started to emerge, marking a critical time for assessment, though these evaluations remain tentative rather than conclusive.
The Dallas Mavericks have not started the season as robustly as anticipated. Luka Dončić's shooting difficulties and lapses in transition defense have contributed to this slow start. Klay Thompson is experiencing one of the more challenging seasons of his career, with his three-point shooting average at 35.6 percent and scoring at just 13.6 points per game. These statistics raise concerns about his defensive agility, with his efforts to regain form resulting in forced shots. Despite these issues, the Mavericks maintain a superior offensive rating with Thompson on the court compared to when he is off, indicating that his presence contributes positively to the team's offense, albeit without the transformative impact expected from a player of his caliber.
Paul George's debut for the Philadelphia 76ers was delayed due to a hyperextended knee, and he has since missed additional games due to back-to-back constraints. Two areas of focus emerge: his performance when available and the overall expectations of his health as a 34-year-old player. George’s standout game came against the New York Knicks, where he scored 29 points, yet his average of 16.5 points with a true shooting percentage of 51.6 suggests he has not fully met the expectations that come with his salary. Despite health issues, he continues to make contributions in other areas, averaging 5.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 2.3 steals while maintaining solid defensive play. A more thorough evaluation will be awaited once he has more consistent playing time alongside fellow stars Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
In New York, Karl-Anthony Towns has made an impressive start, averaging 26.4 points per game with a shooting percentage of 54.2 percent overall and 50.0 percent from three-point range. His scoring and efficiency have been noteworthy, although there are calls for increased shooting volume compared to last season. Towns showcases versatility by not only scoring efficiently but also successfully attacking the basket with a significant jump in his field goal percentage on drives. While he remains a defensive concern, his offensive contributions have positively impacted the Knicks’ performance.
DeMar DeRozan's acquisition via a sign-and-trade to the Sacramento Kings appears to be paying off, given the minimal assets sacrificed for his services. DeRozan is averaging 22.9 points per game while achieving shooting splits of 52.6 percent from the field, 40.0 percent from three, and 85.9 percent from the free-throw line. Notably, his ability to perform under pressure has come to light, as he ranks among the league leaders in clutch points this season. The Kings benefit from DeRozan’s scoring consistency, although they still face challenges due to a roster that heavily leans toward offensive players.
Mikal Bridges has not yet met the expectations set by the New York Knicks following the hefty trade that brought him to New York. Despite being a three-and-D player, Bridges is struggling with his shooting form from long distance, managing only 32.6 percent from beyond the arc. His offensive contributions have been varied, averaging 16.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. While these numbers indicate his role as a starter, they fall short of what the Knicks anticipated when acquiring him. There remains ample time for Bridges to adjust and return to previous shooting efficiencies, but his current performance reflects the challenges of adapting to a new system.
