Every team that has been invited to participate in the NBA’s resumption of play has been impacted by the season’s suspension. It’s time to dive into how each of them has been affected. Today, we take a closer look at the teams in the Atlantic Division.
How the Atlantic Division has been Affected by the NBA Suspension
Toronto Raptors
Veterans such as Kyle Lowry and Marc Gasol have benefitted by getting some rest, with the latter looking in much better shape heading into Orlando. The time off might’ve also rejuvenated Pascal Siakam, who cooled off during the course of the year after exploding out of the gate at the beginning of the season. The rest of the league definitely can’t take the Toronto Raptors lightly as the team tries to repeat as world champions.
Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics have had their fair share of injuries this season as well. Kemba Walker and Jaylen Brown were both hurt prior to the break but appear to be back to full strength. Unfortunately for the Celtics, the season’s suspension came during Jayson Tatum’s breakout and he could be rusty after play resumes. Boston will definitely need their young star to continue playing at an elite level to make a deep playoff run.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers have benefitted massively from the time off due to injuries to their two young stars. Ben Simmons was potentially out long term because of a scary nerve impingement in his back. The All-Star has had plenty of time to recover but coach Brett Brown still isn’t sure if he will be fully healthy when the season resumes. Thankfully, Joel Embiid seems to have fully healed from his shoulder injury that he suffered in late February. The Sixers will definitely hope for both players to be at 100% in order to help salvage a tumultuous season.
Brooklyn Nets
The Brooklyn Nets are a fascinating team due to off-court issues that have happened over the past few months. Spencer Dinwiddie first had a bizarre announcement saying that he’ll let fans choose which team he plays for next. Then, Kyrie Irving stated that he’s against the league’s resumption because he believes it could interfere with the ongoing social reform movement. Both of these events could cause potential chemistry issues within the team.
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