Five NBA thoughts: Grizzlies surprise, Celtics impress, Wizards entertain

We’re about five games into the NBA season, which means it’s probably too early to draw any real conclusions. So naturally, let’s draw a few conclusions.

Five thoughts from around the league … 

5. I think the Hawks have a shot to be this year’s version of the 2025 Pacers. Actually, I think the Pacers do, too, provided Tyrese Haliburton stays on the floor.

Basically, both teams have a chance to surprise some people. After all, the Pacers already showed us how quickly a team can go from being overlooked to playing for a championship.

4. The Wizards are a high-flying bunch and tons of fun to watch. That alone is a win. They also could go places with good health from the stars.

Trae Young, Anthony Davis and No. 1 overall pick AJ Dybantsa give Washington something it hasn’t had in a long time. Namely, a reason to believe.

By the way, the Wizards haven’t won 50 games in a season since 1979. Maybe this group can finally change that.

3. The Warriors are 3-3 after six games. I suspect this is who they’ll be all year. So, 41-41. Also, Draymond Green needs to be in a broadcast booth soon. It’s time.

2. How about those Jayson Tatum–Paul George Celtics? So far, so pretty good. I wasn’t sure what to expect after they traded Jaylen Brown, but they’re 4-1 and looking like a team that could make another run.

And Joe Mazzulla got that coaching job almost by accident. Yet he may be the league’s very best. Funny how these things work.

1. Are the Grizzlies for real? I kinda think so. Every year, someone surprises everyone. The 2025 Pacers. The 2026 Pistons. Maybe this year it’s Memphis.

Cameron Boozer has been impressive, Ty Jerome is playing some terrific basketball and the Grizzlies are 5-0. I know it’s early, but I like what I’m seeing.

Anyway, yes, there’s a long way to go. Some of these opinions will probably look ridiculous by Thanksgiving. But that’s part of the fun of following the NBA.