3 teams that will exceed expectations in the 2023 NBA Playoffs

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 16: Mikal Bridges #1 of the Brooklyn Nets dribbles as Keegan Murray #13 of the Sacramento Kings defends during the second half at Barclays Center on March 16, 2023 in New York City. The Kings won 101-96. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /

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Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets – Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Brooklyn Nets

If you tuned out from the Brooklyn Nets after they dealt away Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, that would be understandable. Not only were the (high-performing) stars gone, but so was the drama that has followed the franchise around from the minute the two stars joined forces.

While the results haven’t always been there, the Nets have a pesky, young vibe about them. They’re going to really bother some teams who overlook them this postseason.

Getting away from the Phoenix Suns has unlocked the offensive potential of budding star Mikal Bridges. Since the trade, the wing is averaging 25.8 points per game, taking on the role of alpha scorer. For comparison, he averaged 17.2 points per game this season in the desert.

There’s also a clear chemistry and camaraderie to this team, whose members clearly have a dogged determination to prove they weren’t reliant on Durant and Irving to succeed. That chemistry hasn’t looked as strong as it did with the initial jolt after the deadline, but Jacque Vaughn could push the right button to bring it back.

Brooklyn seemed to be firmly in the playoff field, but its recent slide has sent it back towards play-in tournament status. A single-elimination tournament may not be the best situation for this sewed together roster.

But there are some players left dealing with the stink of last year’s sweep, plus everything that came before and afterwards. The Nets have a chip and they have some strong shooters, including Bridges, Cam Johnson, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Joe Harris. There’s enough there to give some higher-seeded opponents some grief.

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