Every new NBA season is an opportunity for players, especially young ones, to expand their game, shore up their weaknesses and prove that they’re better players than they previously were.
These two men, at least so far, are doing just that, and they have looked pretty impressive.
1. Lauri Markkanen – Utah Jazz
Last season, as a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Lauri Markkanen put up a decent 14.8 points and 5.7 rebounds per game while shooting 44.5 percent from the field and 35.8 percent from 3-point range.
But he has been the biggest surprise of this season, as he has improved those numbers to 21.3 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, and he is hitting on 52.3 percent of his shots overall.
After a red-hot start, the Jazz have cooled off, as they have lost three games in a row, but the tall forward has continued to put up solid numbers.
If he continues to play like this, and especially if the Jazz remain near the top of the standings, an All-Star berth could be headed Markkanen’s way in a few months.
2. Desmond Bane – Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies had a fantastic season last year, winning 56 games and putting up a fight in the Western Conference semifinals versus the eventual champion Golden State Warriors.
But for them to get to the next level, they needed to find Ja Morant a legitimate second star or superstar.
Perhaps Desmond Bane is that man.
Last season, he was a solid player who put up 18.2 points and 2.7 assists a game, but in 12 contests this year, he has upped those numbers to 24.7 and 4.8, respectively.
BANEGOOOOOOOO!!@DBane0625 | #BigMemphis pic.twitter.com/8b3SqEMjal
— Bally Sports: Grizzlies (@GrizzOnBally) October 28, 2022
Bane sprained his toe on Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves and will miss up to three weeks, and as if to show his importance, the Grizzlies have lost their last two games without him.
Their 9-6 record is solid enough, but with him (he also missed a game on October 31), they’re 9-3, which is outstanding.
NEXT: Is It Time To Call James Wiseman A Bust?