The NBA’s longest active win streak came to an end on Tuesday night, as the Boston Celtics fell to the Orlando Magic 126-120. The Celtics had won their previous six games, but they were unable to overcome a strong performance by the Magic, who were led by Paolo Banchero’s 31 points.
The Celtics’ win streak had been one of the most impressive in the NBA this season. They had won their six previous games by an average of 16.0 points, and they had looked like one of the most dominant teams in the league.
However, the Magic were able to slow down the Celtics’ offense on Tuesday night. The Celtics shot just 42.9% from the field, and they were unable to hit a three-pointer in the fourth quarter. The Magic also dominated the rebounding battle, outrebounding the Celtics 53-37.
The Celtics’ loss is a reminder that no team is invincible. Even the best teams in the NBA can be beaten on any given night. The Celtics will need to bounce back quickly from this loss if they want to maintain their status as one of the top teams in the league.
The NBA offseason is a time for teams to make moves that they hope will improve their chances of winning a championship. Some teams make big splashes, while others make more modest moves. Here are five offseason moves that could make or break the season for their respective teams:
The Suns made a blockbuster trade this offseason to acquire Kevin Durant from the Brooklyn Nets. Durant is one of the best players in the NBA, and he gives the Suns a legitimate chance to win a championship. However, Durant is also 34 years old, and he has a history of injuries. If Durant can stay healthy, the Suns will be one of the favorites to win the title. However, if he gets injured, the Suns’ chances of winning a championship will take a major hit.
The Mavericks made a big splash this offseason by signing Kyrie Irving. Irving is a talented player, but he is also a bit of a risk. Irving has a history of being difficult to deal with, and he has clashed with teammates in the past. If Irving can put his personal issues aside and focus on basketball, the Mavericks could be a contender in the Western Conference. However, if Irving becomes a distraction, the Mavericks could be in trouble.
The Hawks made a smart move this offseason by trading for Dejounte Murray. Murray is a young, talented point guard who can do it all on the court. He can score, rebound, and defend. Murray gives the Hawks a much-needed playmaker, and he should help them take a step forward this season.
The Knicks made a big splash this offseason by signing Jalen Brunson. Brunson is a talented young point guard who had a breakout season with the Dallas Mavericks last year. Brunson is a good scorer and passer, and he should help the Knicks improve their offense. However, Brunson is not a great defender, and he may have trouble adjusting to the bright lights of New York City.
The Timberwolves made a big trade this offseason to acquire Rudy Gobert from the Utah Jazz. Gobert is one of the best defenders in the NBA, and he should help the Timberwolves improve their defense. However, Gobert is not a great scorer, and he may struggle to fit in with the Timberwolves’ young, talented roster.
These are just five of the many offseason moves that could make or break the season for their respective teams. Only time will tell which moves will be successful and which moves will backfire.
The NBA season is a long and unpredictable one. There are many factors that can affect a team’s success, including injuries, trades, and free agent signings. The five offseason moves that we graded above could have a major impact on the 2023-24 season. Only time will tell which moves will be successful and which moves will backfire.
