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Early Season NBA Breakout Players and Improvements? | Game Theory Podcast w/ Sam Vecenie
Harden and Embiid on Display
The Philadelphia 76ers have made a huge splash in the early going thanks to the performances of James Harden and Joel Embiid. Harden is averaging 22.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 11.5 assists per game, while Embiid is averaging 33.6 points and 10.0 rebounds per game. The two have formed one of the most dynamic duos in the league and have led the 76ers to a 6-2 start.
One of the most impressive things about Harden's start is his efficiency. He is shooting 50.0% from the field and 40.7% from three-point range. He is also getting to the free throw line at a high rate, averaging 8.9 attempts per game.
Embiid has been his usual dominant self, but he has also shown some improvement in his passing game. He is averaging 3.4 assists per game, which is up from 2.8 last season. This improvement has helped the 76ers offense flow more smoothly and has made them more difficult to guard.
Other Early Season Breakouts
In addition to Harden and Embiid, there have been a number of other players who have made a strong impression in the early going. Here are a few of the most notable:
* Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers: Davis is averaging 25.0 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game. He has been a force on both ends of the floor and has helped the Lakers get off to a 5-2 start.
* Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers: Haliburton is averaging 20.4 points, 10.3 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game. He has been a revelation for the Pacers and has helped them get off to a surprising 4-3 start.
* Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz: Markkanen is averaging 23.6 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. He has been a key piece for the Jazz and has helped them get off to a 5-2 start.
These are just a few of the players who have made a strong impression in the early going. It will be interesting to see if they can continue to play at a high level throughout the season.